Financial Sustainability Research Articles

COMMUNITY POLICING AND CRIME PREVENTION IN NIGERIA

Community policing has emerged as a promising strategy for crime prevention and enhancing public safety around the world and in Nigeria. This is due to the difficult task of conventional policing, especially where the community is not actively involved in crime prevention. It has been realized that safety in any given community requires an investment not only of money, but also time and talent, and that sometimes the best solutions are found in understanding the underlying causes of crime and disorder. Nigeria is one of the countries in the world that has embraced the idea of community policing with great enthusiasm for about two decades ago. Consequently, Nigeria, has introduced several policy measures with the main aim of encouraging the community to take up some responsibility for their safety and security of their environment. Drawing on empirical research and case studies, this paper examines the key principles, approaches and challenges of implementing community policing initiatives, to highlight the significance and impact of collaboration between local communities and law enforcement agencies on crime prevention, trust-building and social cohesion in Nigerian communities. The paper also emphasizes the importance of capacity building, sustainable funding, and institutional support in strengthening the effectiveness of community policing in Nigeria.

Auswirkungen der Neuregelung zur nachgelagerten Besteuerung

Abstract In 2021, the Federal Fiscal Court pointed out to the legislator that future pensioners could be affected by potential double taxation due to deferred taxation. The Growth Opportunities Act passed in April 2024 now implements a flat-rate solution to avoid double taxation, extending the transition period until 2058. The results show, based on generational accounting, that this flat-rate solution has little impact on the sustainability of public finances. However, it leads to a considerable intergenerational redistribution at the expense of future generations.

Complex Systems and Sustainable Leadership: Enhancing Resilience and Sustainability of Community-Based Social Enterprises in Soweto, South Africa

In urban South Africa, community-based social enterprises (CBSEs) face challenges at the intersection of financial and environmental sustainability and social purpose. These enterprises address social exclusion and community development within complex institutional environments. Despite increasing governmental support, CBSEs struggle with historical inequalities, resource limitations, high poverty levels, inadequate infrastructure, and complex social dynamics. These challenges contribute to a high failure rate among SMMEs, including CBSEs, which represent approximately 71% of community-level businesses. This study examines how complex system dynamics in marginalized South African suburbs impact the sustainable leadership and resilience of CBSEs. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the study conducted 15 in-depth semi-structured interviews with CBSE leaders. The findings revealed that effective leadership in CBSEs requires extraordinary abilities to traverse complexity, adapt to changes, and engage in dynamic organizational change. The key themes identified included adaptive and flexible leadership, interdependencies and network collaboration, community engagement and co-creation, continuous learning and feedback loops, policy influence and response, and resource utilization and constraints. By applying complex systems leadership theory (CSLT) and sustainable leadership principles, the research offers insights into the mechanisms enabling CBSEs to thrive in challenging environments. These findings contribute to Social Enterprise Management and Leadership Studies, providing practical implications for policymakers and practitioners to support CBSE development and sustainability in marginalized urban communities.

Sterile Draping of Operative Microscopes in Breast Free Flaps and Surgical Site Infections.

Operative microscopes are traditionally draped in single-use plastic to prevent infection theoretically. The necessity of this routine in breast free flap surgery is unclear. Alternatively, sterile wrapping of microscope handles would reduce operating room waste and provide a more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable approach to sterility. This study aimed to determine whether the draping technique used during abdominally based free flaps (Ab-FF) influenced the rate of surgical site infections. We conducted a retrospective review of Ab-FF performed consecutively between March 2017 and August 2022. Patient demographics, comorbidities, perioperative data, and postoperative complications were collected. The primary outcomes included postoperative surgical site infections and environmental impact. Of the 281 identified breasts reconstructed with Ab-FF, operating microscopes were sterilely covered with microscope drapes (n = 215) or handle covers (n = 66) composed of polyethylene-based plastic. Overall, postoperative infections occurred in 9.3% of cases (n = 26) in either the recipient breast (n = 11, 3.9%) or abdominal donor site (n = 15, 5.3%), primarily due to S. aureus and Streptococcus species . The handle (n = 6, 9.1%) and drape (n = 20, 9.3%) cohorts had similar infection rates with no sequelae of operative complications. In multivariate analysis, radiation was the only independent predictor of postoperative infection, while bilateral reconstructions were independently protective. Replacing a microscope drape with a handle reduces carbon emissions by 1276 grams of CO 2 and direct costs by $7.84 per item. The principles of "Lean and Green" surgery prioritize reducing operating room generated waste to achieve financial and environmental sustainability. This cohort study of 281 breast free flaps demonstrates that switching from whole microscope draping to handle wrapping was not associated with an increased rate or odds of infection. Adopting a microscope handle wrapping protocol decreased the carbon footprint and operative costs. The results of this study offer evidence to support adoption and further exploration of pragmatic, cost-effective, and sustainable approaches to microsurgical breast reconstruction.

Pharmaceutical procurement profits and universal health coverage: Reform to a sustainable healthcare and financing system

BackgroundIn this study, using Taiwan's National Health Insurance (NHI) as an example of a single-payer system, we examined the extent of pharmaceutical procurement profits (PPP) and evaluated their impact on the financial performance of healthcare institutions. MethodsWe extracted data from financial statements and healthcare service declarations of NHI-contracted hospitals from 2015 to 2021. Financial data concerning PPP, health service profits (HSP), and total operating profits (TOP) from each hospital were analyzed. The impact of PPP on hospitals with positive and negative HSP was further investigated. ResultsThe total PPP across all hospitals studied gradually increased from NT$30.6 billion in 2015 to NT$47.0 billion in 2021. In 2021, 28.1% of all hospitals reported a deficit in HSP. PPP appeared to have a significantly positive impact on the financial performance of these hospitals. It not only enhanced positive profits, but also helped mitigate or completely offset the negative profits from HSP. The effect of PPP seems to be more pronounced for hospitals with larger HSP values, suggesting that larger hospitals benefit more from PPP in absolute terms. DiscussionAverage PPP increased during the study period, increasingly affecting hospitals’ financial stability across all strata. The gap between TOP and HSP in medical centers has gradually widened, suggesting an increase in non-health service profits. In this study, we propose a payment policy reform that fosters sustainability of the healthcare and financing system under universal health coverage and corrects the potential distortions caused by PPP.

The Influence Of Accounting On Fundraising In Civil Society Organizations: A Theoretical And Practical Approach

This article explores the influence of accounting on the fundraising process for civil society organizations (CSOs), emphasizing its strategic importance for financial sustainability. Through an in-depth analysis of literature and theoretical approaches, the study identifies the main challenges faced by CSOs in obtaining funding, including compliance with accounting standards, transparency in financial statements and communication of their social impacts. It highlights that robust accounting practices are essential for building funders' trust, boosting donations and maximizing efficiency in the use of resources. The article also examines emerging accounting strategies aimed at donors, who seek clear and reliable information on how their social investments are managed. We conclude that the application of improved accounting practices can significantly improve the credibility of CSOs, facilitating fundraising and building long-term partnerships. This research contributes to filling theoretical and practical gaps, providing guidelines for CSO managers and accountants seeking to strengthen their financial strategies and improve their relationships with donors and social investors

The Economic Burden of Childhood Ocular Morbidity in Bangladesh.

Childhood eye morbidity is a great public health problem, especially in low-income countries. This study aimed to determine the economic burden of childhood ocular morbidity on attending tertiary hospitals in Bangladesh. This study also assessed the catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) for childhood ocular morbidity in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional mixed method was used for this study from April to October 2023 at two tertiary hospitals in Bangladesh, one government-funded and one private. Face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured quantitative questionnaire with the caregivers/parents and in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted among the same respondents of these two hospitals, and a workshop was conducted with the stakeholders during the study period. This was the first study in Bangladesh to determine the cost of pediatric ocular morbidity. Among 335 patients, the total median direct cost at a single time was 3740 ± 18,285 BDT (34 ± 166.2 USD) at the government hospital and 7300 ± 40,630 BDT (66.36 ± 369.36 USD) at the private hospital. The disease-specific median overall cost from diagnosis of the disease was 65,000 BDT (591 USD) for squint, 50,000 BDT (454.54 USD) for cataract, and 30,000 BDT (272.72 USD) for eye injury. Almost 90% of the caregivers/parents faced CHE due to different pediatric ocular morbidity. These cost estimates can be used as an initial basis for financial decisions that aim to enhance access to care, management, and follow-up of children with ocular morbidity. These cost estimates also offer helpful information for organizational and financial sustainability initiatives. Policymakers can consider serious immediate interventions for securing ocular health services in Bangladesh and prevent families from CHE.

Wie kann die Sicherheitslage in Deutschland verbessert werden?

Abstract Since the “Zeitenwende” proclaimed in Spring 2022, there has been an increased focus on both internal and external security issues, such as the procurement of military goods and defense capabilities. The geopolitical dynamics towards more multipolarity are forcing Europe, and therefore Germany as well, to take greater control of its own destiny. Emancipation from former hegemons offers opportunities; at the same time, successful economic policy navigation requires the efficient use of scarce public funds. Fiscal policy and social debates are controversial. Just think of the budget proposals currently being discussed and the reintroduction of compulsory military service. This discussion explores the extent, direction and sustainable financing options for the necessary changes. What all contributions have in common is the recognition of the necessity and potential of effective coordination at the European level on the issue of military sovereignty.

SUSTAINABLE FINANCE AND USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN INVESTMENT DECISION MAKING

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is widely used across various industries to enhance efficiency, optimize decision-making, and create innovative solutions and it is now transforming the field of investment decision-making. As companies and investors place a greater emphasis on ethical and sustainable practices, sustainable finance-which incorporates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into financial activities - is gaining global traction. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a vital instrument in the sustainable finance, because of its ability to analyse enormous volumes of data and spot patterns that are beyond human comprehension. This research paper examines the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools like predictive analytics, machine learning, and natural language processing,in the financial decision-making. AI can quickly evaluate ESG aspects, predict long-term sustainability risks, and pinpoint high-impact investment opportunities that are in line with sustainability objectives by automating data gathering and analysis. Furthermore, AI-driven insights promote more ethical and knowledgeable financial decision-making by helping investors better manage risks related to social inequity, resource depletion, and climate change. Even though artificial intelligence (AI) has many benefits for sustainable finance, there are drawbacks as well, including data biases, opaque algorithms, and ethical issues. The article concludes that, artificial intelligence helps in creating more precise, effective, and socially conscious financial strategies.Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly important in sustainable finance decision-making due to its ability to handle complex, large-scale data, identify patterns, and optimize decision-making processes in ways that can advance sustainability goals. However, to fully realise AIs potential in forming a sustainable future for global finance, careful governance and ethical concerns are indispensable.

Analisis Efisiensi Operasional, Manajemen Risiko, dan Pengelolaan Sumber Daya terhadap Keberlanjutan Kinerja Keuangan Perusahaan di Indonesia

This study investigates the effects of Operational Efficiency, Risk Management, and Resource Management on the sustainability of corporate financial performance in Indonesian companies. A quantitative research approach was employed, using data from 170 companies across various industries. The data was analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). The findings reveal that all three variables have a significant positive impact on financial sustainability. Operational Efficiency emerged as the most influential factor, followed by Risk Management and Resource Management. These results highlight the importance of an integrated approach to corporate strategy, focusing on improving operational processes, mitigating risks, and optimizing resource allocation to achieve long-term financial stability. The study offers practical insights for managers and policymakers on how to enhance corporate financial sustainability in Indonesia.

Maintaining the Free Flow of Information. A Manifesto-like Intervention for Practice-Based Research in Academic Training Programs for Multimedia Journalism

With a changing media landscape in mind, this article takes a closer look at academic training standards for journalists. Focusing on multimedia production and innovative science, it analyses the impact on business models, resources and working conditions. As an interventionist appeal, it argues in favour of practice-based research and new training methods. Key demands include a greater awareness of the democratic role of journalism, ethical sensitivity and sustainable funding. By interweaving theory, practice and politics, this Manifesto-like paper aims to strengthen the profession of journalism and build a bridge between academia and practical training.

A Study on Strategies for Ensuring Stability and Sustainability in Higher Education Finance

A Study on Strategies for Ensuring Stability and Sustainability in Higher Education Finance

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS AND ARSENAL F.C.S FINANCIAL EVOLUTION

This research highlights Arsenal Football Clubs strategic use of corporate sponsorships to enhance financial stability and global brand visibility. Key deals, including the Emirates Stadium naming rights and partnerships with Nike, Puma, Adidas, and PRIME, have transformed Arsenal into a commercial powerhouse. The clubs adaptability in leveraging innovative sponsorships, like the PRIME and Sobha Realty agreements, underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in modern football. Arsenals approach serves as a model for financial success and sustainability in sports finance.

Synergy of Sustainable Financial Strategies and Sustainability Performance: A Case Study of PT Mitra Tani 27 (Top Leader of Agro-Industrial Companies in East Java)

This study aims to explore the sustainability strategies and how they impact the sustainability performance of PT Mitra Tani 27. This research is a type of qualitative research with a case study approach—the data collection for this research using in-depth interviews, documentation, and observations. In-depth interviews were established at different times by having personal interviews with the informant. The validity test of the data used the credibility testing approach and the transferability test. The study results show that the sustainable finance strategy includes six main principles: Trust, Competent, Harmonious, Loyal, Adaptive, and Collaborative. The company's economic performance illustrated increased sales intensity and volume, especially edamame production. The sales of edamame products have expanded to various countries, with a volume of 7,578 tons for the export market and 1,817 tons for the domestic market every year. The company's commitment to applying the 4R-based principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Replace) describes the primary environmental performance. The company's social performance reflects its commitment to providing consumers with high-quality products and services.

Міжнародні боргові метрики в контексті фінансування "зеленого" порядку денного

The article summarizes the public debt policy issues in the context of financing climate change measures, and suggests priorities and mechanisms of fiscal, debt and sectoral policies to ensure sufficient financing of the green agenda. Authors have emphasized the trilemma between achieving climate goals, maintaining fiscal sustainability, and ensuring political capacity. It has been found that even under favorable external financial conditions, climate-vulnerable countries face a constant premium to the cost of borrowing. As a result, developing countries with high levels of debt and climate vulnerability are caught in a vicious circle of growing investment needs for climate- sustainable structural transformation and significant dependence on increasingly expensive debt financing, which leads to a combination of deteriorating debt sustainability and insufficient funding for climate change challenges. Authors argue for a comprehensive multilateral policy aimed at reforming the international debt architecture and increasing the amount of available financing for climate change adaptation under a government-led framework. Achieving common goals requires a carefully calibrated combination of climate change mitigation instruments based on enhanced domestic revenue mobilization, in particular through carbon pricing, more efficient spending on transfers, green subsidies and investments, and regulatory measures. Authors propose a comprehensive approach to implementing climate change mitigation policies, including the implementation of a fiscal strategy, sectoral policies to prevent climate change, and stimulating private investment. Emphasized the importance of developing further tools for incorporating climate policy into debt sustainability analysis.

Assessing the Trade-off between Outreach and Financial Sustainability of the Microfinance Industry in the MENA Region

Assessing the Trade-off between Outreach and Financial Sustainability of the Microfinance Industry in the MENA Region

Desafios e perspectivas na judicialização da saúde na América Latina: considerações sobre o fenômeno no Brasil e na Colômbia

Objective: The present study aims to understand how the judicialization of health develops as a global phenomenon, with particular emphasis on Latin American contexts, considering Brazil, and Colombia. Methodology: A literature review methodology supported by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses tool was adopted. The research was conducted using specific descriptors, and search strategies were carried out in the PubMed, MEDLINE, Lilacs, SciELO, CRD, CDSR, BVS, and BIREME databases. Articles published between 2010 and 2024 that discuss the judicialization of health, considering Portuguese, Spanish, or English languages, were selected. Results: The search resulted in 455 articles, of which 18 met the inclusion criteria. The analysis of the selected articles reveals the need for balanced solutions that respect individual rights without compromising the accessibility and quality of collective healthcare. The challenges imposed by judicialization are highlighted, such as issues of equity, financial sustainability of health systems, and resource prioritization. Conclusion: It concludes by emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving legislative adjustments, improvements in health system management, health education, and the promotion of equitable public policies. Submission: 05/29/24| Review: 08/16/24| Approval: 08/16/24

Influence of Financial Intermediation on Sustainability of Youth Owned Enterprises in Western region, Kenya

Purpose: Despite the challenges besetting youth-owned enterprises in accessing funds from sources such as YEDF, county youth funds, Uwezo Fund, and Women Enterprise Fund, the financial sustainability of the enterprise remains an issue. This research investigates the influence of financial intermediation on sustainable youth-owned enterprises in Western Kenya. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research adapted a pragmatic approach and descriptive survey design based on the framed financial intermediation theory. It focused on chairpersons or owners of 443 registered youth-owned enterprises within Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, and Bungoma counties and used Taro Yamane’s proportional sampling formula to arrive at 210 respondents. Both structured and semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data, while financial data was obtained from secondary data sheets. Data analysis was done using SPSS (version 23) with descriptive and inferential statistics, and tables were used to present the results. Findings: The results of linear regression analysis revealed that financial intermediation (β = 0. 629) had a positive and significant (P≤0.001) relationship with sustainability. Implications/Originality/Value: Findings reveal that financial intermediation exerts a considerable influence on the survival of start-ups and businesses owned and operated by youth. This exploration appropriates financing policies, partnerships, financial training, risk management, planning services, networking, and capacities for enhancing sustainability.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON GROWTH OF BUSINESS ENTERPRISES IN MBINGA DISTRICT, TANZANIA

A robust financial management system forms the foundation for business growth and long-term survival. However, there is limited information on the financial management practices that contribute to business growth in the Mbinga district. This study examined financial management and working capital management practices. A semi quasi-experimental research design was employed, utilizing questionnaires distributed to a sample of 62 business owners. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using the SPSS package. The results indicated that 41.9% of business enterprises employed working capital management practices, while 24% used capital structure management practices. Financial management practices were found to enhance management efficiency with a mean score of 3.74, increase the availability of capital with a mean score of 3.61, and improve operational margins with a mean score of 3.56. The study concluded that financial management practices are crucial for business growth and recommended their implementation. The study also found that capital structure management practices were applied to a lesser extent, although businesses showed an understanding of balancing debt and equity for financial sustainability. These findings suggest that the effective implementation of financial management practices is crucial for the growth and performance of businesses in the district. The study concludes that the integration of sound financial management practices contributes to better financial decision-making, risk mitigation, and resource optimization, leading to business expansion and sustainability. From a policy perspective, the study recommends that regulators and stakeholders encourage firms to leverage debt financing due to its associated tax benefits and advantages for financial sustainability. Theoretically, the findings underscore the relevance of agency theory in understanding the dynamics between managers and shareholders, and the principle of optimal capital structure in maximizing firm value. These insights provide a foundation for future research and practical interventions aimed at improving financial management practices in similar contexts.

Post-project financial auditing as a continuous improvement tool for SMEs

Post-project financial auditing is a critical tool for ensuring transparency, accountability, and financial accuracy within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As SMEs navigate project-based operations, it is essential to assess the financial outcomes of completed projects to inform future decision-making and resource allocation. This review explores the role of post-project financial auditing as a continuous improvement tool in SMEs, highlighting its ability to enhance financial discipline, improve cost control, and promote long-term financial sustainability. By examining key aspects of project revenues, expenditures, and profitability, post-project financial audits provide insights into financial performance that are essential for strategic planning. These audits help identify budget deviations, resource misallocations, and cost inefficiencies, enabling SMEs to adjust future financial planning and project management practices. In doing so, audits contribute to refining budgeting processes, promoting data-driven decision-making, and reducing financial risks in subsequent projects. The review also emphasizes the benefits of post-project auditing in fostering a culture of financial responsibility within SMEs. Through the audit process, SMEs can strengthen internal controls, monitor compliance with financial regulations, and ensure that project outcomes align with organizational financial goals. Additionally, the integration of audit findings into future financial strategies enables SMEs to continuously improve their profitability, mitigate risks, and enhance overall financial stability. Despite the clear advantages, challenges such as resource constraints, data management issues, and limited audit expertise can hinder the adoption of post-project audits in SMEs. The review offers practical recommendations to address these challenges, advocating for the use of scalable audit frameworks, digital tools, and ongoing staff training to support effective auditing practices. Ultimately, post-project financial auditing represents a vital mechanism for driving continuous improvement and ensuring the financial resilience of SMEs in an increasingly competitive marketplace.