Role Of Public Policy Research Articles

The evolution of civil society in the post-communist Republic of Moldova

Civil society in the Republic of Moldova has undergone significant development since the country gained independence in 1991. From its initial stages of being dominated by a small group of NGOs, Moldovan civil society has grown to encompass a diverse range of organizations working on a wide array of issues. In the early 1990s, civil society in Moldova was nascent and largely focused on humanitarian assistance and human rights issues. The country's transition to a market economy and democracy created a need for independent organizations to provide social services and advocate for the rights of citizens. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Moldovan civil society experienced rapid growth and diversification. New organizations emerged to address a variety of issues, including environmental protection, education, healthcare, and anti-corruption. These organizations played an increasingly important role in shaping public policy and holding the government accountable. In recent years, Moldovan civil society has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing political and social landscape. The country's European Union accession process has brought new challenges and opportunities for civil society organizations. While the EU has provided significant funding and support for civil society development, there have also been concerns about the influence of foreign donors and the increasing politicization of civil society. Despite the progress made in recent decades, Moldovan civil society still faces a number of challenges, including limited funding, weak institutional capacity, and limited public participation. Civil society organizations often struggle to engage the public and build broad support for their work. Despite these challenges, Moldovan civil society has a bright future. The country's young and increasingly educated population is increasingly engaged in civic life. Civil society organizations are playing a critical role in advocating for democratic reforms, promoting human rights, and protecting the environment. Our writing is synthetic and multidisciplinary in its nature. We will try to outline the development curve of the Moldovan civil sphere formed after gaining state independence, showing how this path was formed and what factors had an impact on it, both positive and negative.

Civil services: It’s role in Indian public policy and good governance

Civil services: It’s role in Indian public policy and good governance

Healthy aging: the role of public policies

O envelhecimento da população é atualmente uma realidade em Portugal, sendo o desenvolvimento de políticas públicas que promovam o envelhecimento saudável imprescindíveis. Foi realizada uma revisão narrativa onde se identificaram na literatura quais os principais desafios e as principais oportunidades para o desenvolvimento de políticas públicas orientadas para o envelhecimento saudável e prevenção do idadismo. Esta revisão baseou-se no levantamento bibliográfico de artigos científicos publicados nas principais bases de dados. Alguns dos principais desafios identificados passam pela necessidade crescente de combater o preconceito relacionado com a idade; permitir o acesso a serviços e recursos primordiais de forma a existir equidade intergeracional; recolha de dados e monitorização em relação ao envelhecimento saudável. É possível criar a oportunidade para, por um lado manter estes indivíduos a sentirem-se parte integrante da sociedade, e por outro, acrescentarem valor a esta.

Reframing the value proposition for sugar brands: Policy, regulation, and consumer behavior in the Spanish Retail Market

The objective of this research paper is to investigate potential avenues for value creation in the refined sugar market for domestic use, a market currently facing a critical juncture. The growing concerns about the health impacts of sugar have resulted in a notable decline in demand. Furthermore, changes in European Union regulations have introduced additional operators into the Spanish market, increasing competition and amplifying the need for innovation. This study examines how brands can respond to these challenges by enhancing their value proposition through market segmentation, targeted marketing strategies, and adaptive packaging solutions. To achieve this objective, we have conducted market research, which involved an in-depth interview, and a questionnaire distributed to 402 individuals responsible for household purchases. The findings suggest potential approaches for addressing the needs of consumers with a focus on health and well-being, while simultaneously enhancing the durability of products, thus facilitating greater brand differentiation. Furthermore, the study underscores the pivotal role of public policies and regulatory frameworks in influencing consumer behavior and market dynamics. Policies promoting sugar alternatives, labelling requirements, and packaging innovations have been demonstrated to impact brand strategies and consumer preferences. By aligning with these policy-driven shifts, companies can enhance their positioning in a mature and competitive market. This research contributes to the existing literature on brand value in commodity markets by integrating insights into the impact of regulation and consumer segmentation. Our recommendations emphasize the importance of marketing strategies that are informed by an understanding of the policy context, which not only enhances brand equity but also promotes sustainable growth in the retail sugar industry.

EDUCATION AND SOCIAL INEQUALITY

This article analyzes the relationship between education and social inequality, highlighting how socioeconomic disparities impact access, retention, and educational success. Considering the classroom as a reflection of broader social dynamics, the study examines how inequalities manifest in this environment and how teaching methods can contribute to either reproducing or mitigating these disparities. A literature analysis is conducted, based on the contributions of authors such as Bourdieu (1998), Freire (1996), Saviani (2013), Santana (2010), and Skliar (2014). The research identifies that inclusive teaching practices, involving active student participation, are essential for reducing educational inequalities. By adopting methods that recognize the diverse needs of students, these practices have the potential to transform the classroom into an equitable space. The analysis suggests that overcoming social inequalities in education requires adopting a pedagogical approach that values diversity and promotes inclusion, as well as empowering educators to address the specific needs of each student. The study also emphasizes the crucial role of public policies in promoting inclusive education and equitable access to quality education. Well-implemented policies can have a significant impact on creating conditions for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background, to have equal learning opportunities. The research highlights the importance of ensuring that educational policies are truly effective, with proper allocation of resources and support for teacher training. Finally, the article concludes that inclusive education cannot be achieved without collaborative efforts from different societal agents, including governments, schools, families, and the community. The implementation of public policies focused on equity, combined with pedagogical practices that respect and value differences, is essential for promoting a more just and accessible education. Continuous research is also recommended to assess the impact of these practices and policies, with the goal of strengthening strategies that combat social inequalities in the educational system.

Analyzing public policy effectiveness in enhancing accountability and transparency in service quality

Public policy serves as a framework to address public needs and interests, including the regulation of community services. Recognizing the critical importance of public services, governments are motivated to improve service quality through effective public policy implementation. This study aims to analyze the role of public policies in enhancing specific aspects of service quality, such as transparency, accountability, and professionalism. Using qualitative research methods, this study employs a literature study approach with a systematic selection of relevant sources, including peer-reviewed journals, government reports, and policy documents. Data analysis follows three stages: data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject. The findings indicate that public policies are instrumental in setting minimum service standards, promoting accountability and transparency, empowering communities, enhancing the professionalism of service apparatus, integrating technology into services, and enforcing compliance through penalties for providers failing to meet standards. These measures collectively contribute to significant improvements in service delivery. This research highlights the importance of policy design and implementation in fostering a responsive and efficient public service system. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers to optimize public service frameworks and ensure community satisfaction.

The Third Sector’s contribution to the implementation of adult education policies

The European Union’s policies on lifelong learning, initiated in the 1990s, have significantly influenced the development of Italy’s legislative framework in this area. This paper presents the key findings from a series of collaborative research projects conducted between Roma Tre University and the National Forum of the Third Sector. Undertaken between 2016 and 2023, these participatory studies focused on experiential learning among individuals employed within these organisations, as well as methodologies for competence recognition. The research on experiential learning has elucidated that all human activities can serve as learning opportunities, provided individuals engage in reflective practices to derive meaning from them. Within the contexts of lifelong and lifewide learning, the validation of non-formal and informal learning offers significant benefits for adults, fostering personal, social, civic, and occupational development, while reducing barriers to re-entry into formal education systems. For initiatives within non-profit organisations aimed at facilitating validation processes, a deeper understanding of the competences cultivated through such experiences is essential. The presence of recognised standards is deemed a crucial formal prerequisite for validation. The frameworks emerging from the presented studies demonstrate that activities within the Third Sector primarily promote the development of transferable competences, crucial for both enhancing technical–professional skills and fostering conscientious and proficient conduct in social and civic engagement. In this context, engagement in the Third Sector emerges as a catalyst for nurturing citizenship competences vital for navigating national and international transitions, promoting social cohesion, and advancing democracy. Through the findings of these studies, the Italian Third Sector has played a significant role in shaping public policies concerning lifelong learning and the validation of experientially acquired competences, notably regarding the incorporation of transferable competences into the National Repertoire. Additionally, some lines of action for influencing the implementation of validation policies at the European level will be discussed.

Symbols of National Importance, Article 6ter Paris Convention and Public Policy and Morality: Ukraine’s State Border Guard Service Before the General Court in T-82/24 ‒ RUSSIAN WARSHIP

Abstract 24 February 2022, the day that Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, caught many by surprise and prompted an unprecedented use of the Ukrainian flag and other national symbols by public authorities and private entities across the globe. Public attention also led to a spike in applications for trademark registrations of such symbols, including at the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). One of these applications, notably made on behalf of Ukraine’s State Border Guard Service, reached the General Court. The application does not concern a state emblem communicated under Art. 6ter Paris Convention but it certainly does involve a symbol of national importance. While, nearly a hundred years after the adoption of Art. 6ter in 1925, the issue of use and trademark registration of various symbols of national importance is not an exclusive domain of public authorities, it is of interest to society at large, as the public reaction to (over)use of such symbols demonstrates. The article discusses the T-82/24 – RUSSIAN WARSHIP case in light of the cross-border treatment of symbols of national importance under trademark law and the ongoing discussions in Ukraine and at the WIPO. It deals with the prohibition of trademark registration of state symbols and the role of public policy and morality, including in the EUIPO examination of applications made in connection with Russia’s full-scale invasion. The article also reflects more broadly on the treatment of symbols of national importance and the implications of the cross-border use of such symbols for examinations at the EUIPO.

An Ecosystem of Social Innovation? Analysis of the Role of the Actors Who Make Up 4h in the Aveiro Region, Portugal

Objective: Understand the functioning of the Social Innovation Ecosystem (SIE) in the Intermunicipal Community of the Aveiro Region (ICAR) regarding the role of public policies from the University of Aveiro (UA) of social entrepreneurs and their typology. Theoretical Framework: Social Innovations (SI) are innovations that are social in their ends and means. Due to the positive social results, they enhance the capacity of civil society to act. This mobilization of individuals is present in the Quadruple Helix Innovation System Framework. This model is related to the concept of EIS, which includes social entrepreneurs, investors, beneficiaries, and public policy. Method: A literature review of national, regional, and local strategic documents. It relies on the results of a national study on the EIS, Sled by the UA, in partnership with the Portugal Social Innovation Mission Structure (PSIMS). Results and Discussion: Combining the analysis of SI projects supported by PSIMS with the initiatives promoted by regional and local policy and with support from the UA allowed us to obtain the profile of the SIE actors in ICAR and their contribution to the success of the SIE. Research Implications: This exploratory study is the initial stage of a more in-depth investigation into the role of actors in SIE. It is expected that this mapping will help to build regional and local strategies that facilitate the success of SI initiatives. Originality/Value: Contributes to the evolution of knowledge within the scope of the functioning of regional SIE in Portugal. Its recommendations and discoveries hope to be integrated into the promotion of improvements to its operation.

The Emigration of Highly Qualified Students from Morocco: An Analysis Using Panel Data

The emigration of highly qualified students from Morocco poses a significant challenge to the country’s economic and social development, contributing to a troubling "brain drain" that impacts not only the fields of medicine and engineering but also various other critical sectors in need of innovation and expertise. This study investigates the specific factors driving these students to leave Morocco, utilizing a sample of 31 countries and employing a fixed-effects econometric model for the period 2016-2018. Our analysis identifies several key determinants of emigration, including GDP per capita, public spending on education, the unemployment rate, and the quality of higher education. The results highlight the critical role of effective public policies in talent retention and suggest that targeted interventions are necessary to mitigate this outflow of skilled individuals. This research contributes to the understanding of brain drain dynamics and offers actionable insights for policymakers seeking to address this pressing issue.

Navigating Transdisciplinary Communication: A Graduate Student's Perspective

This paper presents the perspective of a graduate student newly introduced to Transdisciplinary Communication (TDC) and explores its practical applications. It addresses the core question: How can TDC be recognized, valued, and applied effectively to tackle complex challenges? TDC integrates diverse disciplinary insights, encourages collaboration, and improves research outcomes by fostering an inclusive environment that acknowledges all stakeholders. The paper is framed through a Constructivist lens, focusing on three main aspects of TDC: (i) the co-construction of knowledge through shared language, which enhances the integration of cross-disciplinary expertise; (ii) the role of social interaction, collaborative tools, and goal alignment in promoting effective teamwork; and (iii) TDC as a dynamic, non-linear process that encourages innovation and knowledge synthesis. Together, these elements demonstrate how TDC enriches STEM research by fostering diverse perspectives and addressing complex issues holistically. The discussion begins by highlighting the significance of TDC in contemporary research, followed by insights from the graduate student's evolving understanding of the approach. It then transitions into practical tools and strategies for applying TDC effectively, including structured methodologies and collaborative platforms. A detailed case example of co-design illustrates how engaging stakeholders early leads to impactful, integrated solutions. The paper concludes with reflections on the broader impacts of TDC beyond STEM, emphasizing its role in arts, humanities, and public policy and inviting participants to contribute their own experiences.

Structural heart disease in the tropics: A comprehensive review.

Structural heart disease (SHD) remains a significant global health challenge, disproportionately impacting populations in tropical regions where the burden of infectious diseases, limited healthcare infrastructure, and socio-economic disparities exacerbate the issue. The tropics are uniquely affected by conditions such as rheumatic heart disease (RHD), endomyocardial fibrosis, tropical cardiomyopathies, and pericardial diseases, often resulting from or complicated by endemic infections like malaria, dengue, tuberculosis, and parasitic diseases. Moreover, Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Cardiac Disease (HIVAC) represents an emerging concern in regions with high HIV prevalence, adding complexity to the interplay between infectious and structural cardiac conditions. Despite the significant morbidity and mortality associated with SHD in these areas, research and clinical focus have often been inadequate, underscoring the need for a comprehensive synthesis of available evidence to guide future efforts. This review aims to provide a detailed examination of SHD in the tropics, with a focus on valvular, myocardial, and pericardial diseases linked to tropical infections and conditions. It highlights the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical presentation of key diseases, including RHD, endocarditis, Chagas disease, and HIVAC, as well as other less commonly recognized tropical cardiomyopathies and pericardial disorders. The review also explores diagnostic challenges, advances in imaging and molecular tools, and the role of public health interventions and policy in addressing these conditions. By synthesizing current knowledge and identifying gaps, this review aims to inform research priorities, improve clinical care, and support the development of tailored prevention and management strategies for SHD in resource-constrained tropical settings.

Public Initiatives to Combat Health Disinformation in Argentina and Spain: A Gender, Social, and Environmental Analysis

Introduction: Public health disinformation is a significant problem as demonstrated by the recent scientific literature on the COVID-19 pandemic. However, further studies that analyse disinformation in public health initiatives within specific contexts and which contains a multidimensional approach (gender, social and environmental) are required. Evidence shows that disinformation, information overload, misinformation or fake news on health issues are also influenced by these issues. Objective: To analyse health disinformation in national public initiatives implemented by the governments of Argentina and Spain before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, this paper incorporated a gender-based approach and social and environmental determinants in order to identify the limitations of these initiatives and offer certain recommendations. We conducted a descriptive, qualitative and quantitative study, as well as content analysis. We focused on documents from the websites of the national health ministries of Argentina and Spain, and digital repositories of regulations at the national level. Various strategies for systematic searches on government websites were designed and implemented. This included manual searches on Google. The first step involved a general analysis of all documents found by the searches, followed by a qualitative analysis of the documents that were related to health issues. Based on this work, a comprehensive and flexible framework of (pre-established and emerging) dimensions and categories of health disinformation and infodemics was generated. Results. The work was based on a total of 202 documents (both downloadable information and information included in websites); 117 for Argentina and 85 for Spain. Of the total, 60.9% were published during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the second stage of the analysis, 55 texts were selected for Argentina and 47 for Spain. In both countries, the central communications approach used was disinformation and/or infodemics (although definitions such as fake news were also used). They were mainly linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, but other emerging health problems were also detected to a lesser degree. However, disinformation (or a related concept) was prominently present in only 17 documents in Argentina and 3 documents in Spain. In terms of document type, working materials were foremost in Argentina (44.4%) and Spain (37.6%), with little presence of policy, regulatory and evaluation documents (only 5). Gender binary language was predominantly used in these texts. Vulnerable groups and social determinants were poorly included. Environmental determinants were mentioned in conjunction with health disinformation in only one paper on the use of plastics and its impact on human health in Argentina, and in another paper from the Global Summit on Climate and Health in Spain. Conclusions: Based on the document analysis, the inclusion of health disinformation within public actions in both countries before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, was detected. However, different limitations were observed: it was clear that the problem was strongly linked to the health emergency and did not extend much beyond that. Health disinformation was secondary and did not play a key role in public policy nor did it have greater institutional importance. Limitations were also detected in terms of gender perspectives, vulnerable groups and social and environmental determinants linked to health disinformation, displaying a reductionist approach. Based on these results, this paper makes certain policy recommendations.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination: Progress, Challenges, and Future Directions in Global Immunization Strategies.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread viral pathogen, responsible for a significant burden of cervical and other cancers worldwide. Over the past decades, the development and widespread adoption of prophylactic HPV vaccines have dramatically reduced the incidence of HPV-related diseases. However, despite the efficacy of these vaccines, global immunization efforts still face several obstacles, including low vaccination coverage in low- and middle-income countries, vaccine hesitancy, and disparities in access to healthcare. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of HPV vaccines, including their mechanisms of action, safety profiles, and real-world efficacy. We will explore the impact of HPV vaccines on cancer prevention, examine the challenges related to vaccine distribution and uptake, and assess the role of public health policies in improving global vaccination rates. Additionally, the review will highlight the latest advancements in therapeutic HPV vaccines, ongoing research into next-generation vaccines, and the potential of HPV vaccination strategies in the context of personalized medicine. By examining these factors, we aim to provide insights into the future directions of HPV vaccination and its role in global public health.

Immigration speeding social landscape transformations: the case of Portugal

This article presents the significant and rapid transformation that Portuguese society is currently undergoing. A high level of immigration has been registered over the last several years. This is a significant wave that has never been experienced in the country before and represents an opportunity to meet labour force needs in different economic sectors and a chance to improve demographic sustainability. Traditionally known as a welcoming society, with a favourable integration approach, this is a test moment to confirm this perception of Portugal. The article examines the main data and trends of this transformation, discusses citizens’ perception of immigration compared with the situation of other European societies, and highlights difficulties that are already emerging. The article also discusses the role of public policies on the topic.

O CRESCIMENTO DAS MULHERES EM CARGOS DE LIDERANÇA NA ÚLTIMA DÉCADA EM PERNAMBUCO

The article discusses the growth of female leadership in Pernambuco in recent years, driven by public policies and business initiatives. From projects like #TáComElas, which train women for leadership positions, to the inclusion of women in executive roles in large companies, there is a positive movement towards gender equality. However, wage disparity persists, with women earning on average 78% of men's salaries in similar positions. The theoretical foundation explores the historical and cultural context of women's integration into the workforce, the role of public policies and private initiatives promoting female leadership, and the challenges women still face, such as cultural biases and difficulties balancing personal and professional life. Studies indicate that women's participation in leadership roles is on the rise, but challenges remain. Practical examples, such as those of Laís Xavier and Taciana Medeiros, highlight the relevance and impact of female leadership in the state. The methodology includes exploratory research based on journalistic reports and interviews with women in leadership positions. The interviewees share their career paths, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and the constant pursuit of growth. Lastly, the case study presents the experiences of two businesswomen from Pernambuco, Elaine Ferreira and Juliana Werner, who discuss their success stories and the challenges they face in their respective fields.

Education and Welfare: The Role of Public Policy in Equalizing Educational Opportunities for the South Papua Generation

This research aims to identify public policies that increase access to education in South Papua, analyze their impact on educational equality, and evaluate the factors that influence the effectiveness of these policies, including the social, economic, and cultural challenges faced by local communities. This research uses qualitative methods and a case study approach to investigate the role of public policy in improving access and quality of education in Merauke Regency, especially Waan District. Through a purposive sampling approach, this research selected a representative sample to explore challenges and solutions in education in the region. The research instrument includes indicators such as access to education, quality of education, community involvement, and the impact of education policies, which will be analyzed comprehensively using a qualitative approach. The research results show that public policy has increased access to education in South Papua through infrastructure, scholarship programs, and improving the quality of teachers and curriculum. The development of educational infrastructure, including school buildings and learning facilities, has a positive impact on the accessibility and quality of education in the region. The scholarship program needs to be updated to reach the right targets and be effective for the people who need it. Improving teacher quality and adjusting the curriculum supports education standards in South Papua, but needs to be further encouraged through continuous training. Social factors such as economic inequality, gender inequality, and traditional culture influence access to education, requiring a holistic approach to education policy. Keywords: education, well-being, public policy, educational opportunities, South Papuan Generation

Peran Politik Islam Dalam Dinamika Pemerintahan Perspektif Dalam Negeri dan Luar Negeri

This study discusses the role of Islamic politics in government dynamics, with a focus on domestic and foreign perspectives. Islamic politics is a key factor influencing political policies and processes in many countries with a majority Muslim population. The aim of this research is to analyze how political Islam plays an important role in shaping government systems and public policies, both domestically and at the international level. This research uses a qualitative approach by combining literature analysis and case studies from several countries that represent differences within the country and abroad. The analysis was carried out by considering aspects such as Islamic political participation, the influence of Islamic politics on policy changes, and the impact of Islamic politics in international relations. The research results show that Islamic politics has a significant role in the dynamics of government in the country. Islamic political participation, through Islamic-based political parties or social movements, can influence the policy-making process and change the political orientation of the country. Factors such as religious identity, social justice, and the aspirations of Muslims often form the basis of Islamic politics in taking positions in government. At the international level, political Islam also plays an important role. Countries with a majority Muslim population often use Islamic politics as a tool to maintain their sovereignty and fight for their interests in the international arena. This can be seen in relations between Muslim countries and Western countries and in issues such as Palestine and the role of Islam in global affairs.

The Role of Public Spending Policies in Boosting GDP in Iraq

Purpose: The research seeks to show the role of public spending policies in promoting GDP by stating the role of spending policy indicators in GDP during the research period. Theoretical Framework: The research deals with many concepts related to the subject of the study, which are public spending and its policies, in addition to concepts related to public expenditure policy indicators. Also, the definition of GDP and its trends in the Iraqi economy. Design/Methodology/Approach: Use the financial statements for the period (2004-2021) to knowing the trends of public spending in the Iraqi economy and to knowing the role played by analyzing the spending policies used by the government in directing public spending. In addition to analyzing GDP data and the role of public spending policies in promoting them Findings: The results lead to knowing the role played by public spending in the GDP during the research period, as the researcher tries to reach a statement of the result of the direct relationship between public spending policies and GDP. Research Implications: The results emphasize the increasing importance of integrating the current research variables in the formulation of expenditure policies that suit the Iraqi economy in line with strengthening the GDP in the future by directing spending to the productive sectors, which leads to increasing their contribution to the GDP. Originality/Value: This study works to enhance awareness of the importance of directing public spending efficiently and effectively to ensure the achievement of its future goals, the most important of which is to enhance the gross domestic product.

Social Aspects of Food and Nutrition: An Overview

This article explores the multifaceted social aspects of food and nutrition, examining how cultural, economic, and social factors influence dietary habits and health outcomes. It discusses sociological perspectives, including structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism, highlighting their relevance to food and nutrition. The article also addresses food as a social problem, focusing on issues such as food safety, biotechnology, and dietary disorders, and the role of public health policies in managing these concerns. Cultural influences on food and nutrition are analyzed with examples from various societies, illustrating how traditional foods, religious beliefs, and globalization shape dietary practices. Social influences on eating behavior, including family, peer, and societal norms, are explored, emphasizing their implications for nutritional interventions. The article delves into socio-economic inequalities in nutrition, discussing barriers to healthy eating faced by low-income populations and proposing strategies to address these disparities. Finally, the emerging field of nutritional epigenetics is examined, considering its social and biological implications for long-term health outcomes.