Governance Research Articles

A Cross-cultural Comparison of ELT Curricula of Senior Secondary Schools in Mainland China and Hong Kong

English holds significant importance as a foreign language in Mainland China and Hong Kong, where ongoing curriculum revisions are shaped by economic and sociocultural advancements. Previous research on English Language Teaching (ELT) curriculum comparisons in Asia has frequently overlooked the exploration of underlying sociocultural and socio-political factors that contribute to the observed similarities and differences. Adopting a governmentality Perspective informed by Dean's analytics of government theory, this cross-cultural comparative study investigates the ELT curricula in senior secondary schools in Mainland China and Hong Kong. Through this analysis, the study explores how sociocultural and socio-political factors interact to influence the educational landscapes. By examining the dimensions of problematizations, rationalities, techne, and teleology within the curricula, the research uncovers common challenges, rationales, approaches, and objectives, as well as distinctions arising from the unique sociocultural, political, and economic contexts of Mainland China and Hong Kong. This examination underscores the profound impact of these contextual factors on ELT curriculum design, contributing valuable insights to the cross-cultural discourse. Furthermore, the findings lay the groundwork for future research and policy development in the realm of ELT curricula, emphasizing the need for additional studies employing diverse methods and focusing on the implemented and experienced curriculum in senior secondary schools to provide a comprehensive understanding of English language education in both Mainland China and Hong Kong.

Інноваційні аспекти багатосуб’єктного управління програмами соціального захисту

The article is devoted to the search for innovative ways of updating the management mechanisms of social protection programs. The theoretical basis for substantiating the management model as a whole is an interdisciplinary theoretical-methodological basis, founded on the fundamental tenets of the concepts of social protection, social justice, social involvement, as well as high-level management theories (governance theories). The hypothesis of the research, which became the reason for writing this article, was the assumption that the complexity and multidimensionality of the social sphere needs to be provided by an appropriate multidimensional model of management. It is this kind of multidimensional (or multi-subject) management, using modern innovative approaches, that seems to give advantages and increase the effectiveness of social programs. The purpose of this article is to develop methodological principles for building an innovative model of social program implementation, based on the principles of multi-subject management, aimed at achieving a balanced distribution of powers and responsibilities of interested subjects of various levels and their inclusive interaction. To substantiate the main theses and conclusions of the article, a complex of analytical methods was used, including synthesis and analysis of available sources of information, logical framework analysis of problems and their possible solutions, the method of comparisons and analogies for adapting existing experience to real conditions in Ukraine. As examples of successful implementation of social programs and projects based on multi-subject management, the experience of implementation of EU programs, as well as the relevant experience of some countries of North and South America, was used. The article offers the author’s interpretation of the essence of multi-subject management in the field of social protection and develops its basic three-dimensional model. The analysis of many sources of information made it possible to propose general innovative mechanisms for implementing the principles of multi-level management, namely those related to the information support of the management process. Based on the assessment of the current situation on the labor market of Ukraine, the prospects for its development, a set of expected problems that will need to be solved is formulated and a list of specific measures and mechanisms is proposed that will ensure the effective interaction of various management entities in the process of implementing support programs for the unemployed and individuals who are looking for work. Particular emphasis is placed on the aspects of inclusive management, and in this regard, proposals regarding the mechanism of involving the unemployed and employers in the management process are considered in more detail.

Konsep Dan Teori Good Corporate Governance Pada PT. Bank Syariah Indonesia

This research discusses the concepts and theories of good corporate governance applied at PT. Indonesian Sharia Bank. This article reviews the importance of implementing the principles of good corporate governance in the sharia banking industry, with a focus on PT. Indonesian Sharia Bank. In this article, the author explains the concepts and theories of good corporate governance and their relevance to PT. Indonesian Sharia Bank. The author also discusses how PT. Bank Syariah Indonesia applies the principles of good corporate governance in its operations. This article also reviews the benefits obtained by PT. Bank Syariah Indonesia through the implementation of good corporate governance. In this research, the author used a descriptive-analytical method by collecting data through literature studies and analysis of PT's corporate governance policies and practices. Indonesian Sharia Bank. The research results show that the implementation of good corporate governance at PT. Bank Syariah Indonesia has had a positive impact on company performance and the trust of shareholders and customers. The conclusion of this article discusses the concepts and theories of good corporate governance and their application at PT. Indonesian Sharia Bank.Implementation of good corporate governance at PT. Bank Syariah Indonesia provides benefits in improving company performance and shareholder and customer trust.

Collaborative Governance in Local Economic Development: the Case in East Java, Indonesia

Purpose: The aims of this study is to analyze the local economic development in Sumenep Regency with a collaborative governance perspective. We employed qualitative research techniques that focused on describing and understanding the subject. Methods: Our analysis of the data involved interactive methods. We conducted in-depth interviews with 30 individuals who represented various stakeholders in local economic development, including the government, private sector, community, media, and universities. Research is focused on context systems, collaboration drivers, collaboration dynamics and collaborative action. In this study, the weak collaboration context system is caused by weak network ties and low stakeholder interaction frequency. Meanwhile the leadership factor has an important role in building and strengthening stakeholder networks and interactions as a driving force for collaboration. Finding: The findings of this study construct the theory of collaborative governance put forward by Emerson and Nabatchi (2015) by adding elements of social capital, forming collaborative institutions (Koperasi or BUMDes) and strengthening collaborative institutional capacities. Contribution/Originality: The research uncovers the significance of collaborative institution formation (Koperasi or BUMDes) and the role of social capital in successful collaborative governance for local economic development. These research suggests a collaborative governance model based on Emerson and Nabatchi's regime combined with collaborative institution formation. Emphasizes the importance of strengthening social capital and collaborative institutions for achieving successful collaborative goals in local economic development.

Collaborative Governance Dalam Pemberdayaan UMKM

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a role in stabilizing the economy, because they have the potential to create jobs and reduce unemployment and poverty rates in a country. Rungkut Lor Village, Surabaya City is a forum for MSME groups engaged in the culinary sector, especially traditional snacks. However, there are still obstacles in its development that require collaboration with other sectors. The aim of this research is to find out and describe Collaborative governance in Empowering MSMEs in Kampung Kue, Rungkut Lor, Surabaya City using the Collaborative governance theory quoted by Emerson and Nabatchi Perdana et al., (2021), namely the dynamics of collaboration, action in collaboration and its impacts and adaptations are the result of collaborative action. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques through observation, interviews, documentation and literature study. The research results show that collaboration between stakeholders to empower MSMEs in Kampung Kue is already underway. However, in the process there has been no agreement or MoU between sectors responsible for empowerment.

Banks and ESG pillars score: Does cybersecurity policy matter?

This paper investigates the relationship between cybersecurity policy and the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) pillar scores in banks, considering the geographical area (European and non-European), the size (total assets), and the profitability (pre-tax return on assets) from 2017 to 2022 by incorporating and building on previous studies. The results show that the data are both significant and non-significant in terms of using a one-way ANOVA approach. Specifically, a significant relationship was found between cyber policy and the governance (GOV) and social (SOC) component indicators, except for major banks. The cyber policy may be responsible for an increase in the environmental (ENV) pillar scores in the European subsample.

«Переосмысление» как новый научный подход для технического управления: взгляд из Китая после пандемии

Technical governance refers to governing activities in which scientific and technological advances are systematically applied for a more efficient functioning of society, especially in the political and economic spheres. Technical governance models are shaped by the cultural, political and social aspects of regions and countries. The national response to COVID-19 has highlighted differences between these models. For China, the theory of technical governance was of great importance in the modernization of society. It is a specific field of study in contemporary China and part of the philosophy of technology. This paper presents a way to rethink the contradictions between scientism and anti-scientism. Scientism claims that scientific and technological progress has reasonable foundations and strengthens the position of science. Anti-scientism criticizes science and technology and sees them as a threat to the modern world. The so-called “reconsideration approach” is not about finding a compromise, but about critically integrating these opposing views in order to build a theory of technical governance. Reconsideration approach is a deliberative, historical and concrete scientific study. In this context, the word “deliberative” means a multilateral view when addressing issues of science and technology policy. The term “historical” rejects the only true definition of technology and indicates that it changes over time. The word “specific” refers to an assessment of technical issues that should be considered in a specific context, taking into account differences between countries, regions, groups and participants. Through the reconsideration approach, technical governance can respond to the challenges created by emerging technologies. A good technology governance model should not only describe the mechanism for integrating new technologies into society but also correctly combine human and technical factors, taking into account the national context of the country. Thus, the reconsideration approach for technical governance is a dynamic theory that responds to new technological challenges.

A needs theory of governance: taking transaction cost theory back to humanistic economics and self-actualisation

Abstract In this paper we seek to integrate human needs and self-actualisation into the design of organisational governance. We problematise the assumptions that guide established justifications for governance, thus providing an opportunity for this type of theoretical approach. Drawing on Maslow's human psychology, we consider the potentially regressive features of the prescriptions of transaction cost theory (TCT), particularly the new institutionalist approach, and suggest inclusiveness as a mode of coordination that firms may wish to pursue to enhance self-actualisation. The main value added of this contribution is to highlight the need to discern among modes of governance design, using criteria of welfare maximisation by enabling opportunities for self-actualisation within the firm, different from the TCT focus on internal efficiency.

Tumačenje neoliberalizma sa Fukoom i Lakanom - fantazam, depresija i preduzetnička subjektivnost

The article is dedicated to the construction of a unique theoretical framework aimed at understanding the phenomenon of neoliberalism. In this regard, we primarily rely on the conceptual framework of the governmentality theory, which originates from the work of Michel Foucault. For a better understanding of how neoliberalism interpellates individuals, we will complement the conceptual framework with Lacanian psychoanalysis. We will demonstrate how such a synthesis allows for overcoming the conceptual gap that exists in the governmentality theory between the rationality of governmental regimes and the subjectivity of individuals. We will apply the theoretical synthesis of the governmentality theory and Lacanian psychoanalysis to understand how the neoliberal regime mobilizes subjects into appropriate forms of action, inducing them to adopt the model of subjectivity that Foucault calls homo economicus. Finally, we will examine the phenomenon of depression and show how our theoretical framework can establish a connection between neoliberalism, neoliberal subjectivity, and depression as a mental disorder.

Administrative Decentralization by Devolution in Local Government at Ward Level: A Case of Choma District, Southern Province

The study sought to analyze administrative decentralization by devolution in Local Government at ward level in Choma District, Southern Province using a qualitative approach in order to obtain in- depth explanation of the phenomenon. The study was informed by the public participation in governance theory. The study’s population consisted of officers from the Local Authority and Ward Development Committees. The sample size consisted of a total number of twelve participants and two focus group discussions (FGDs) from Wards Development committees (WDCs) which constituted of six members from each WDC in Choma Central Constituency. This study employed a non-probability sampling technique such as purposive sampling technique to select the respondents to participate in the study. Interview guides and focus group discussions were used to collect data. The study established the roles of WDCs; and that WDC members had little or no knowledge of the roles of WDCs. A number of challenges faced by WDCs affecting decentralisation were established such as lack of motivation for WDC members; inadequate provision of stationery, lack of transport for movements. Furthermore, the study established that WDCs had the capability of driving decentralization. The study concluded that WDCs are capable of driving decentralization. However, there is need to enhance decentralization through capacity building WDCs and equipping WDCs for an effective and efficient service delivery through dealing with challenges that are affecting the pace of driving decentralization.

Indoor Air Temperature in the Cultivation Facility Following an Emergency Heating System Shutdown

Creating favorable climatic conditions for plant cultivation in growing facilities is directly linked to the stable operation of the heating system, especially during the winter months. Consequently, predicting the thermal regime of a space in the event of an emergency heating system shutdown is an extremely important task for the agricultural sector. Research object: cultivation facilities designed for year-round plant growth. Research subject: patterns of internal air temperature changes (both dimensional and dimensionless) during an emergency heating system shutdown. Research objective: to predict the thermal regime of the cultivation facility following an emergency shutdown of the heating system. Research methods: theory of regular thermal regimes, according to which the temperature field at all points of the cooled body (in this case, the heating system) changes uniformly, following an exponential law; computer-based software calculations. Research results: the internal air temperature in the industrial greenhouse will reach its critical value of 8 ℃ approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes after the heating system is turned off. The duration of the internal air temperature decrease from its initial value to the conditionally critical value of 8 ℃ is minimally affected by the total thermal losses and, on average, increases by approximately 0.2 hours for every 0.1 m²⋅K/W of the thermal resistance of the enclosure. Thus, the cultivation facility, as a construction object with relatively low levels of thermal protection, should be equipped with a heating system that meets higher reliability standards.

Analysis of the Thermal Regime of a Residential Building Premises after an Emergency Shutdown of the Heating System

Maintaining favorable microclimatic conditions in a residential dwelling is directly related to the stable operation of the heating system. An emergency shutdown of the heating system, especially in the winter season, can lead to serious negative consequences: disruption of thermal comfort for people in the residential building, rupture of pipelines and heating devices, flooding of adjacent premises, etc. Thus, the issue of predicting the thermal regime of a residential dwelling after the termination of heat supply is of practical relevance. The object of study: Residential premises in buildings. Subject of study: Patterns of change in the temperature of the indoor air (in dimensional and dimensionless forms), the rate of temperature drop, and the loss of thermal energy during an emergency shutdown of the heating system. Objective of the study: To forecast the thermal regime of a room in a residential building after an emergency shutdown of the heating system. Research methods: Classical theory of thermal stability of building enclosures; theory of regular thermal regime, according to which the temperature field at all points of the cooled body (in this case, the heating system) changes in the same way, obeying the exponential law; software computer calculations. Research results: In a room of a residential building, the indoor air temperature will reach the dew point (12.5 ℃) within 8 hours 42 minutes after an emergency shutdown of the heating system and zero value - after 23 hours 42 minutes. Based on the conducted scientific research, it can be stated that the thermal storage capacity of external enclosures, due to their design features, plays a primary role in preserving the thermal regime of a residential dwelling after the heating system is turned off.

Расширение БРИКС: последствия для арктического сотрудничества в сфере логистики

The article analyzes the prospects for Russia’s interaction with non-Arctic BRICS states in the Arctic. The purpose of the study is to determine how common the interests of the BRICS countries are in the field of logistics in the Arctic region and how likely cooperation is between them in this area, as well as what is the potential of the new BRICS member countries (United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Iran) in this direction. It is shown that for Russia, China and India as the founding BRICS members, the spheres of logistics, development of transport links routes, routes, port infrastructure and cargo shipping are the most promising for circumpolar cooperation, as evidenced by the orientation of the regional strategies of China and India mainly on comercial and economic issues and problems of rational use of resources. At the same time, the analysis of the emerging polar agendas of Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE also demonstrates their interest in developing cooperation in the field of logistics and cargo shipping, especially in the area of the Northern Sea Route (NSR) and the international transport corridor (ITC) ‘North–South’, which in the future may lead to the formation of a common interregional transport system within the framework of BRICS and may become a basis for the formation of the BRICS polar agenda in the future. The study was conducted using the theoretical and methodological framework of the theory of international regimes, which assumes the possibility of cooperation in certain areas in accordance with the interests of states, which can be observed in the case of the Arctic agenda between members of the same association.

"Sultanistički režim" u vladavini Nikolaja Čaušeskua (1974-1989)

The paper analyzes the rule of Nicolae Ceausescu (Nicolae Ceaușescu), based on the theory of the sultanate regime. Observing his rule, a thesis is put forward about the Gravity center of the regime in which the mentioned president ruled before his overthrow. The cessation of this form of government, that is, its end, is often on the line of confrontation between the outbreak of a revolution and violent overthrow. Such a scenario was seen in Romania in 1989, and the common denominator of numerous analyses of Ceausescu's fall is the characterization of his regime as an extreme form of patrimonialism called sultanism. Based on the significant research of the theoretical approach to the sultanist regime, the author tries to indicate the presence of totalitarian elements in Ceausescu's system of government, including the circumstances of the transformation of such a regime into sultanism, resistant to all sorts of nonviolent abandonment, except repression. Taking into account the broader theory that the end of some regimes can produce a certain type of political outcome, we are inclined to conclude that certain types of regimes, such as sultanist ones, can generate situations suitable for the outbreak of revolution, which forms the basis of this paper.

Family business governance: An integrated approach using agency, stewardship, and social capital theories

The governance of family businesses has been a subject of great interest and research in recent years. As these enterprises contribute significantly to global economies, understanding their governance becomes crucial. Indeed, managing the governance of these organizations presents a unique challenge due to a variety of factors. One prominent aspect is their intricate and enduring stakeholder framework, which encompasses family members, senior executives, and controlling boards (Moufdi & Manosuri, 2021). This contribution, which is theoretical in scope, aims to open a debate on the theoretical approaches of corporate governance that researchers must mobilize while highlighting their main strengths and limitations when it comes to understanding the “family business” phenomenon. The results obtained show that the analysis of their governance requires a combination of the contractual view (agency theory being the dominant theory of this current) and the relational view (encompassing stewardship theory and social capital theory) of corporate governance. We believe that the theoretical framework thus adopted provides a multidimensional understanding of family business governance and provides comprehensive insight and significant relevance in understanding the intricacies of this organization’s governance, offering valuable perspectives for researchers interested in this field of investigation.

Corporate Ethos and Justice as Fairness

This paper explores the integration of John Rawls’s (1921–2002) theory of “justice as fairness” into corporate social responsibility (CSR). It accentuates the shift from solely focusing on profit maximization to a model that prioritizes ethical governance and sustainable development. The paper reinterprets Rawls’s theory for corporate ethics and governance, asserting that businesses have a moral obligation to uphold fairness and equity beyond mere compliance or public perception. It acknowledges the role of the government in this integration. It recognizes the challenges in aligning Rawlsian principles with corporate objectives while balancing economic and societal obligations. The fusion of CSR with Rawlsian ideas can potentially bring transformative impacts to businesses, paving the way for a more equitable form of capitalism that combines economic goals with a strong commitment to social justice and ethical practices.

Enhancing Cooperation to Counter Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Kenya

The threat posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Kenya necessitates robust and coordinated countermeasures. This study investigates collaborative approaches to countering IEDs, focusing on opportunities for enhanced cooperation among stakeholders. The primary objective is to assess the impact of multi-agency collaboration on improving the effectiveness of IED countermeasures and to provide policy recommendations for strengthening these efforts. The study is grounded in the theory of collaborative governance, which emphasizes the importance of interconnectedness and cooperative strategies among various agencies to address complex security challenges. Data were collected from a target population comprising security professionals, government officials, and international partners through a mixed-methods approach. This included a survey with 95 respondents and semi-structured interviews with 15 key informants. Findings from the study indicate a high level of engagement in collaborative efforts to counter IEDs. Survey results reveal that 69.8% of respondents agree or strongly agree that multi-agency collaboration is crucial for addressing IED threats, with a mean rating of 3.59. Similarly, 66.8% acknowledge the significant contributions of international partnerships, with a mean rating of 3.73. Despite these positive perceptions, challenges such as poor coordination and transparency issues in international collaborations were frequently cited. Interviews corroborated these findings, highlighting the need for improved communication channels and trust-building measures. Data analysis involved both quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to summarize the level of agreement on various aspects of collaboration, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and insights. Key recommendations include the establishment of structured frameworks for information sharing, enhancing leadership capacities, and prioritizing transparency in international partnerships. Continuous engagement and knowledge-sharing initiatives are also vital for fostering innovation and effectively refining strategies to counter IED threats. In conclusion, this study underscores the critical importance of enhanced cooperation among stakeholders in mitigating the impact of IEDs in Kenya. By addressing identified challenges and leveraging collaborative opportunities, policymakers and practitioners can develop more effective strategies to improve security outcomes and protect public safety.

Meta-Analysis of Good Governance in the University System

Objective: The theory of good governance is among the newest topics in development in the contemporary world, and the university system, like other political systems, requires a deep and extensive understanding of the factors, components, and characteristics that make it more efficient and effective. The main goal of this research is to present a model of good governance within the university system. Methodology: Using a meta-synthesis tool with the seven-step Sandelowski and Barroso method, a systematic evaluation and analysis of 317 instances from past research findings were conducted, which, after the monitoring phases, were narrowed down to 50 relevant articles. At the end, the opinions of 11 experts and university managers were collected through a questionnaire method, and the impact coefficient of the identified factors was determined using Shannon's entropy method based on the content analysis approach. Findings: According to this research, five main dimensions were identified, including adherence to the law, government performance, participation, leadership, and vision. The adherence to the law dimension includes components (corruption control, transparency, political stability, quality of laws, and justice); the government performance dimension from components (accountability, effectiveness and efficiency, planning); the participation dimension from the component (public participation in decision-making); the leadership dimension from components (empowerment and innovative development, leadership duties, and responsibility); and the vision dimension from the component (determining political and economic goals and ideals). Results showed that the transparency component had the most significant impact among the research components. Conclusion: Good governance must, in the first place, enact very fair and progressive laws, and all country's institutions and organizations must follow the law and provide the necessary support for adherence to it, and create the necessary conditions for public participation in governance and utilize experts and opinion leaders for vision designing

Comparative Analysis of Economic Governance Models for Street Vendors Across Urban Scales —— A Case Study of Suzhou, Jiaxing, and Taicang

With the rapid advancement of urbanization, the street vendor economy, as an important component of the informal sector in cities, plays an indispensable role in promoting employment, activating markets, and meeting diverse consumer needs. However, the unregulated expansion of the street vendor economy has posed urban management challenges, including issues related to environmental hygiene, traffic order, and urban safety. This study explores and compares the patterns and differences in the economic governance of street vendors across cities of varying scales, offering a theoretical basis and practical guidance for urban management. By integrating urban governance theory with desktop research, we define the concept and attributes of the street vendor economy. Following this, we select representative cities of various scales as research objects. Subsequently, we conduct a comparative analysis of the impacts and challenges posed by different urban governance models. Furthermore, we discuss the economic, social, cultural, and policy factors that lead to these differences. Lastly, this study provides strategic suggestions for the economic governance of street vendors in cities of different scales, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between social inclusiveness and economic development.

The Ostroms on self-governance: the importance of cybernetics

AbstractThis paper reveals a novel and perhaps surprising ingredient in the mix of influences that inspired and informed the work of Elinor and Vincent Ostrom on self-governance: cybernetics, understood as a theory of control via feedback mechanisms. Based on this crucial insight, the paper portrays self-governance as involving an architecture of multiple levels of so-called ‘second order’ feedback mechanisms. Such compounded systems of organization are the key to understanding any self-governance process and the paper argues that their intrinsic logic provides a critical link between the work of the Ostroms and the public choice and constitutional political economy perspectives on institutional order. The paper thereby offers both a fresh perspective on the Ostromian view of self-governance and also of also of governance theory in general.