Search

This article explores the integration of Circular Economy (CE) principles into Romania's national policy, mainly through its Revised 2023 Action Plan. It begins by setting the stage for the importance of sustainable development, which necessitates innovative policies that prioritize both environmental conservation and economic resilience. Romania's embrace of CE principles, aiming to redefine resource utilization, minimize waste, and bolster environmental preservation, serves as the focal point of this study. Key findings reveal significant advancements in waste management and infrastructural enhancements that foster CE adoption despite facing challenges in policy implementation. The Revised 2023 Action Plan marks a critical step in Romania's journey towards sustainable development, showcasing the potential for increased employment, resource efficiency, and environmental stewardship. This article makes a vital contribution to the field by charting Romania's progress towards its circularity ambitions and suggesting avenues for policy refinement.

This article analyzes the relationship between geopolitical factors and the strategic significance of the Chinese state´s territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The study examines this relationship through the influence of geopolitical factors on the configuration of Chinese national strategy. To do so, it turns to neoclassical realism, addressing the interactions between external pressures and intervening variables at the unit level. In doing so, it analyzes how geopolitical factors shaped Chinese leaders' perceptions of reality and their impact on their interpretation of certain events, such as the 1995 Taiwan Strait Crisis and the entry into force of the unclos. The study argues that these events were perceived as threats to China and helped shape national strategy in maritime terms. As a result, China developed its naval power to control the South China Sea and establish its sphere of influence in order to become the hegemonic regional power. All of this meant the increase of its presence and assertiveness in the region, which proves the importance of its territorial disputes in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Digital transformation is taking place across all levels of governance, from small businesses to governments. If the seed of digital transformation is data, then reliable connectivity is the nourishing soil that data need to prosper. With digital transformation, billions of connections require more broadband. In response to this need, some countries are preparing national 5G strategies, as 5G technology has been identified as a significant driver of the digital economy. In this study, 16 national 5G strategies have been systematically and comprehensively analyzed, and a checklist has been developed to formulate national 5G strategies and policies. The checklist can be used by policymakers, especially in developing countries, to guide the preparation of national 5G strategies and policies. Of course, each country's national strategy will differ regarding resources, culture, etc. It is hoped that this checklist may speed up the preparation process by providing a baseline during the strategy formulation phase and make the process more efficient by incorporating lessons learned, especially for developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Purpose] This article analyzes the Colombian Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and seeks to answer the formulation process of Colombia’s digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence strategy. [Methodology/approach/design] The study utilizes a case study analysis approach to explore factors that may have influenced the Colombian AI policy formulation process. We conducted an elite interview and documentary research on public policy documents. [Findings]. This study identifies the inherent challenges of the national strategy for artificial intelligence. The implementation of the Colombian AI Strategy is guided by a market-oriented state model that promotes self-regulation regarding AI. [Practical implications] National strategies are an increasingly important theme of scholarly debate in AI policy. This article aims to contribute to analyzing such strategies, including the challenges inherent in their design and implementation. [Originality/value] This article examines how Latin America’s third most populous country, Colombia, shapes AI governance strategies. The uniqueness of this study lies in its proposition to outline the model of AI governance based on a detailed analysis of public policies.

Purpose The aim of this study is to, in the Swedish media debate, explore the discursive constructions of challenges in human rights and freedoms following the national spatial strategy for health and survival during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The study, inspired by a critical discourse analytic approach, focused particularly on the issues addressed, subject positions, relations and rhetoric. Seventeen opinion articles published in Swedish national newspapers December 2019 - February 2022 were analysed. Results The main contents were threats to democracy, threats to the freedom and rights of specific groups, and threats to the debate itself. Contents were expressed through three discourse dichotomies: contribution vs interjection, documented vs alarmistic, and active on the stage vs commenting from the balcony. Conclusions Striking about the results is the absence of dialogue, the one-way communication, and the absent politicians. It seems that the analysed debate on the challenges of the Swedish COVID-19 pandemic strategy, based on its impact on overall freedoms and rights, has not been the focus of decision-makers during the pandemic. They have neither addressed the threats highlighted in the articles, nor contributed to the discourse. This is worrying for the long-term maintenance and development of a healthy democracy.

In Bulgaria, financial literacy is still not integrated into primary school education. The purpose of the present study is to examine the international experience in the integration of financial literacy into primary education programs through analyzes of policies and approaches, results and the effectiveness of this knowledge in providing it to young students, as well as the possibility of integration in the curriculum of primary education. This study will support the Ministry of Finance in the implementation of the developed national strategy for financial literacy and Action Plan, in which among the four main priority groups are the teachers from the primary and junior high school stages of the basic educational level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen has emerged as one of the focal points of international interest on decarbonization. Many countries formulated strategies for the hydrogen economy. South Korea established its hydrogen policy framework in 2005, which outlined specific visions, objectives, tactics, and expected outcomes. However, following fourteen years of modest advancement, the government adopted a revised policy direction, culminating in the " 2019 Hydrogen Economy Roadmap." This new roadmap adjusted goals and strategies to better align with contemporary demands. With this compelling case, we aim to analyze the evolution of South Korea's hydrogen policy over this period, highlighting the key drivers behind the renewed emphasis on hydrogen, utilizing the multi-level perspective framework. The outcomes of this comparative study are poised to contribute in understanding of energy transition efforts for traditional industries. [Display omitted] • South Korea's two national strategies for hydrogen economy in 2005 and 2019 are compared from the multi-level perspective. • The '05 and '19 strategies show a discontinuous evolution. • There found persisted and shared visions such as sustainability, economic perspectives, and energy security. • The '19 Roadmap is more realistic and concrete, due to technological maturity and industrial readiness, which lacked in 2005. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Purpose] This article analyzes the Colombian Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and seeks to answer the formulation process of Colombia's digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence strategy. [Methodology/approach/design] The study utilizes a case study analysis approach to explore factors that may have influenced the Colombian AI policy formulation process. We conducted an elite interview and documentary research on public policy documents. [Findings]. This study identifies the inherent challenges of the national strategy for artificial intelligence. The implementation of the Colombian AI Strategy is guided by a market-oriented state model that promotes self-regulation regarding AI. [Practical implications] National strategies are an increasingly important theme of scholarly debate in AI policy. This article aims to contribute to analyzing such strategies, including the challenges inherent in their design and implementation. [Originality/value] This article examines how Latin America's third most populous country, Colombia, shapes AI governance strategies. The uniqueness of this study lies in its proposition to outline the model of AI governance based on a detailed analysis of public policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expanding information and communication technology landscape has led to complex security challenges, marked by dynamic and evolving cyber threats including hacking, malware, phishing, data theft, fraud, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS). Notably, the United States has faced the highest incidence of cybercrime cases from 2017 to 2021, affecting 2.9 billion victims and resulting in a cumulative material loss of US$18.7 billion during this period. This research centers on the United States, acknowledged as the primary target for global cybercriminals, comprising 38% of cybercrime targets. This research aims to find out the strategic efforts of the United States in overcoming cybercrime that befell its country so that it becomes the best country in cases of alleviating and controlling cases of cyberattacks even though it is also the country with the highest cases of cyberattacks in the world. Utilizing a qualitative research method, the study demonstrates that the United States collaborates systematically and synergistically with state governments, employing a centralized approach to delegate specific tasks and authorities. The study concludes that the United States has implemented the National Cybersecurity Strategy (NCS) 2023 program, aiming to establish a strategic environment and ecosystem by maintaining vital infrastructure and centralized integration.

Objective: The modern world is witnessing a remarkable surge in the adoption of machine learning (ML) techniques, driven by advancements in computational power and data availability. The aim of this article is to develop a conceptual model for transforming the economy of the Republic of Moldova into a green economy, using artificial intelligence (AI). This model aims to provide recommendations for the implementation of the National Development Strategy "European Moldova 2030" and the Energy Strategy of the Republic of Moldova until 2030 policies. In order to achieve the set goal, the following specific objectives are proposed: - Define machine learning (ML) algorithms to support the achievement of the objectives of the National Development Strategy "European Moldova 2030" and the Energy Strategy of the Republic of Moldova until 2030; - To exemplify how to apply the identified algorithms in order to facilitate the achievement of the strategic objectives in the following directions: energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management and smart transportation. Method: The techniques employed in this article include: logical-deductive reasoning, observation, analogy, comparative analysis, graphical and tabular methods, historical analysis, synthesis, modelling. Results: The result of the research entails the development of a conceptual model to facilitate the Republic of Moldova's transition to a green economy. It highlights opportunities for leveraging machine learning in pivotal domains, including energy, agriculture, waste, and transportation, in alignment with national development strategies. Originality: Our study presents an original approach to the integration of machine learning techniques in the context of the green economy of Moldova. While the application of machine learning in green economy initiatives has been explored in various contexts, our research focuses on its potential and relevance specifically in the Republic of Moldova. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the integration of Circular Economy (CE) principles into Romania's national policy, mainly through its Revised 2023 Action Plan. It begins by setting the stage for the importance of sustainable development, which necessitates innovative policies that prioritize both environmental conservation and economic resilience. Romania's embrace of CE principles, aiming to redefine resource utilization, minimize waste, and bolster environmental preservation, serves as the focal point of this study. Key findings reveal significant advancements in waste management and infrastructural enhancements that foster CE adoption despite facing challenges in policy implementation. The Revised 2023 Action Plan marks a critical step in Romania's journey towards sustainable development, showcasing the potential for increased employment, resource efficiency, and environmental stewardship. This article makes a vital contribution to the field by charting Romania's progress towards its circularity ambitions and suggesting avenues for policy refinement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intellectual property (IP), as a form of property that includes the products of the human mind, is an integral part of the economic criteria that the European Commission examines when screening local legislation. The decision of the European Council in 2020 to open accession negotiations with the Republic of North Macedonia, meant that the analytical examination of the acquis (screening) would begin, which happened in 2022. The finding made in the report is that no progress was made on intellectual property law. It also emphasizes the imperative need for progress to be achieved in the coming years in order for North Macedonia to meet the European Union's requirements which would lead to the harmonization of internal legislation with that of the European Union (EU). Aware of the unsatisfactory condition of legal regulation and activity in the field of intellectual property rights, the Government of North Macedonia, one year before the start of the screening process, approved the National Strategy for Intellectual Property for the next six-year period (2022- 2026). This Strategy not only provides an overview of the real situation, but also defines the goals to be achieved, as well as the means and methods for achieving the respective goals. The author, through analysis and synthesis in this empirical study, provides a clear overview of the current state of legislation and the practice of implementing intellectual property rights in the light of the latest European Commission Report on North Macedonia published in November 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Rare disease registries (RDRs) facilitate monitoring of rare diseases by pooling small datasets to increase clinical and epidemiological knowledge of rare diseases and promote patient centred best practice. The aim of this study was to understand the current state of RDRs in Australia, data captured, impact on patient outcomes, funding models, and barriers and enablers regarding their establishment and maintenance. Methods An exploratory sequential mixed methods study design was adopted. First, a list of Australian RDRs, primary contacts and data custodians was generated through online and consumer group (Rare Voices Australia (RVA)) contacts. A cross-sectional, anonymous online survey was distributed to registry custodians, managers, or principal investigators of 74 identified Australian RDRs, 88 RVA Partners, 17 pharmaceutical organizations and 12 RVA Scientific and Medical Advisory Committee members. Next, managers and coordinators of RDRs and databases who participated in the survey were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using basic descriptive statistics and content analysis, respectively. Results Forty RDRs responded to the survey; nine were national, five were based in Australia and New Zealand, and the remaining were global. Of the 40 survey respondents, eight were interviewed. Most of the RDRs captured similar information regarding patient characteristics, comorbidities and clinical features, diagnosis, family history, genetic testing, procedures or treatment types, response to treatments and complications of treatments. Better treatment outcomes, changes in process of care and changes in quality of care were the most frequently reported benefits of the RDRs. The main challenges proved to be cost/funding of data collection, data completeness, and patient consent. When asked, the participants identified opportunities and challenges regarding potential options to streamline RDRs in Australia in the future. Conclusion Findings from this study highlighted significant dataset heterogeneity based on the individual disease, and current lack of interoperability and coordination between different existing RDRs in Australia. Nevertheless, a nationally coordinated approach to RDRs should be investigated given the particular benefits RDRs offer, such as access to research and the monitoring of new disease-modifying treatments.

The Internet and digital technology are transforming our lives, every day with the paces in a dimension of a real revolution. These fast and deep transformations are now being considered worldwide, as the second most important revolution behind the industrial one. Regardless of these technological developments, the digital transformation of companies has had a slow but steady progress over the years. Business expectations and perception towards the need for digital transformation of services and the use of e- commerce are valued at high levels, receiving the main impetus during the two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, where online markets had an important role enabling the continuation of economic life despite social distancing restrictions. Referring the above, Albania has adhered to the European Union Directives related to electronic commerce, Directive 2000/31/EC on Electronic Commerce3 and Directive 1999/93/EC4,as well as other related directives, making possible the approximation of a high level of our legislation, in the light of these directives. In the present paper, through a legal assessment, special attention has been paid to the National Digital Agenda for the period 2022-2026 and legal rules on e-commerce in the Albanian legislation, aiming to analyze the legal provisions, which regulate it in this regard. Also, an important objective of this paper is also the fact that it may serve as an important basis for further studies in this field. The analysis of the e-commerce legal regulation in Albania is based on the qualitative method, which contains also the research, analytical, descriptive, interpretive methods. The results of this paper, which treats an innovative topic, will stimulates debate in the academic level and contribute to the legal doctrine in Albania that lacks such.

Digital transformation is taking place across all levels of governance, from small businesses to governments. If the seed of digital transformation is data, then reliable connectivity is the nourishing soil that data need to prosper. With digital transformation, billions of connections require more broadband. In response to this need, some countries are preparing national 5G strategies, as 5G technology has been identified as a significant driver of the digital economy. In this study, 16 national 5G strategies have been systematically and comprehensively analyzed, and a checklist has been developed to formulate national 5G strategies and policies. The checklist can be used by policymakers, especially in developing countries, to guide the preparation of national 5G strategies and policies. Of course, each country’s national strategy will differ regarding resources, culture, etc. It is hoped that this checklist may speed up the preparation process by providing a baseline during the strategy formulation phase and make the process more efficient by incorporating lessons learned, especially for developing countries.

The increasing access to cyberspace and its resources is having a significant impact on our societies and our daily lives, profoundly transforming the way we live, work and interact. The importance of cyber security converts into the need to keep information, data and devices private and secure. Cyber-security is an essential element for the flat functioning of all critical information infrastructures. In this context, the treatment of cyber-security in this paper is concrete, taking into account the cyberattack that our country went through, which was aimed at destroying critical structures and testing the capacities of Albania. It is worth noting that a secure cyber environment cannot function without giving it the opportunity to have the relevant mechanisms. Specifically, increasing cyber resilience in critical information infrastructures are flexible cyber security measures, which focus on the flat functioning of online public services keeping in focus the real threats and the risk management plan. Furthermore, within the framework of commitments as a candidate country of the European Union, Albania is meticulously implementing all European acts and international standards for the drafting of a consolidated and stable legal framework. In the present paper, through a legal assessment, special attention has been paid to the National Strategy for the period 2021-2023 and legal rules on cyber-security in the Albanian legislation, aiming to analyze the legal provisions, which regulate it in this regard. Also, an important objective of this paper is also the fact that it may serve as an important basis for further studies in this field. The analysis of the cyber-security legal regulation in Albania is based on the qualitative method, which contains also the research, analytical, descriptive, interpretive methods. The results of this paper, which treats an innovative topic, will stimulates debate in the academic level and contribute to the legal doctrine in Albania that lacks such.

The research aimed to identify the degree of rural people’s knowledge of the National Climate Change Strategy 2050 and there axes. The research was based on the social survey method on a random sample of 202 respondents In the villages of Al-Munajat AlSughra in Al-Husseiniyah Center, and Al-Saadia in the Belbeis Center in Sharkia Governorate, The data was collected through a personal interview questionnaire from the beginning of August until the end of septamber 2023. The data were analyzed by using frequencies, percentages, weighted average, Pearson correlation coefficient, and ascending multiple stepwise regression coefficient. The research reached several results, the most important of which are: The most important reasons leading to the phenomenon of climate change from the point of view of the respondents are: Excessive use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers with a weighted average of 91 degrees, The burning of agricultural and domestic waste had a weighted average of 89.2 degrees, and automobile exhaust with a weighted average of 85.8 degrees. While the most important effects of the phenomenon of climate change from the point of view of the respondents were: Changing the planting dates for agricultural crops (advance - delay) with a weighted average of 97.5 degrees, A decrease in agricultural crop productivity with a weighted average of 97 degrees, and an increase in the rates and intensity of extreme waves (hot and cold) with a weighted average of 96 degrees. The research results also indicate that 42.1% of the total respondents had a high overall degree of knowledge of the axes of the national climate change strategy. The results of the research also showed the presence of four independent variables that contributed significantly to explaining the total variation in the total degree of knowledge of the respondents about the axes of the national climate change strategy, at a rate of (77.2%). These variables are: Degree of knowledge and general culture (62.1%), number of years of education (9.1%), monthly family income (4.4%), and finally age (1.6%). The effects of these variables were all positive, except for the age variable, which had a negative effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rare disease registries (RDRs) facilitate monitoring of rare diseases by pooling small datasets to increase clinical and epidemiological knowledge of rare diseases and promote patient centred best practice. The aim of this study was to understand the current state of RDRs in Australia, data captured, impact on patient outcomes, funding models, and barriers and enablers regarding their establishment and maintenance. Methods: An exploratory sequential mixed methods study design was adopted. First, a list of Australian RDRs, primary contacts and data custodians was generated through online and consumer group (Rare Voices Australia (RVA)) contacts. A cross-sectional, anonymous online survey was distributed to registry custodians, managers, or principal investigators of 74 identified Australian RDRs, 88 RVA Partners, 17 pharmaceutical organizations and 12 RVA Scientific and Medical Advisory Committee members. Next, managers and coordinators of RDRs and databases who participated in the survey were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using basic descriptive statistics and content analysis, respectively. Results: Forty RDRs responded to the survey; nine were national, five were based in Australia and New Zealand, and the remaining were global. Of the 40 survey respondents, eight were interviewed. Most of the RDRs captured similar information regarding patient characteristics, comorbidities and clinical features, diagnosis, family history, genetic testing, procedures or treatment types, response to treatments and complications of treatments. Better treatment outcomes, changes in process of care and changes in quality of care were the most frequently reported benefits of the RDRs. The main challenges proved to be cost/funding of data collection, data completeness, and patient consent. When asked, the participants identified opportunities and challenges regarding potential options to streamline RDRs in Australia in the future. Conclusion: Findings from this study highlighted significant dataset heterogeneity based on the individual disease, and current lack of interoperability and coordination between different existing RDRs in Australia. Nevertheless, a nationally coordinated approach to RDRs should be investigated given the particular benefits RDRs offer, such as access to research and the monitoring of new disease-modifying treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Internet and digital technology are transforming our lives, every day with the paces in a dimension of a real revolution. These fast and deep transformations are now being considered worldwide, as the second most important revolution behind the industrial one. Regardless of these technological developments, the digital transformation of companies has had a slow but steady progress over the years. Business expectations and perception towards the need for digital transformation of services and the use of ecommerce are valued at high levels, receiving the main impetus during the two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, where online markets had an important role enabling the continuation of economic life despite social distancing restrictions. Referring the above, Albania has adhered to the European Union Directives related to electronic commerce, Directive 2000/31/EC on Electronic Commerce3 and Directive 1999/93/EC4, as well as other related directives, making possible the approximation of a high level of our legislation, in the light of these directives. In the present paper, through a legal assessment, special attention has been paid to the National Digital Agenda for the period 2022-2026 and legal rules on e-commerce in the Albanian legislation, aiming to analyze the legal provisions, which regulate it in this regard. Also, an important objective of this paper is also the fact that it may serve as an important basis for further studies in this field. The analysis of the e-commerce legal regulation in Albania is based on the qualitative method, which contains also the research, analytical, descriptive, interpretive methods. The results of this paper, which treats an innovative topic, will stimulates debate in the academic level and contribute to the legal doctrine in Albania that lacks such. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refractories, indispensable supporting materials for high temperature technology, are widely used in steel, nonferrous metals, environmental protection, aerospace and other fields. Based on the important fundamental raw material industry and strategic emerging industries, the requirements of China's high-quality development, green and dual carbon target, and defense and security strategies for advanced refractories were analyzed, and the status of refractories was summarized. The opportunities and challenges of the refractories industry were discussed in the light of its own high-quality, green and low-carbon development. In the end, combined with the implementation of the China's development strategy, the future development directions of advanced refractories were proposed digitization and intelligence of research and development, reduction and structural functionalization, advanced refractories for green and low-carbon new technologies, and key technologies and standards for refractories green-low-carbonization and digital manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, I investigate what common discourses National AI Strategies (NAISs) share and how they have unfolded differently in diverging national contexts. For this purpose, I compare the South Korean and French cases by relying on the notions of sociotechnical imaginary and future essentialism. I analyze (1) the emergence of the common discourses, which I call AI‐essentialism, over the past decade; (2) the development of imaginaries around IT in Korea and France in the twentieth century, namely technological developmentalism and the American challenge, respectively; and (3) the integration of the traveling AI‐essentialism and nationally embedded imaginaries of IT into each country's NAISs. The analysis indicates that: (1) AI‐essentialism incorporated discursive strategies, enabling political and industrial leaders to naturalize AI development, hence justifying increased investments in the field; (2) two countries' imaginaries of IT diverged due to the successes and failures throughout the second half of the twentieth century; and (3) while two countries' NAISs share AI‐essentialism's discursive instruments, their specific measures and unfolding have varied in relation to each case's existing imaginaries of IT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The policy agenda is currently being established for artificial intelligence (AI), a domain marked by complex and sweeping implications for economic transformation tempered by concerns about social and ethical risks. This article reviews the United States national AI policy strategy through extensive qualitative and quantitative content analysis of 63 strategic AI policy documents curated by the federal government between 2016 and 2020. Drawing on a prominent theory of agenda setting, the Multiple Streams Framework, and in light of competing paradigms of technology policy, this article reviews how the U.S. government understands the key policy problems, solutions, and issue frames associated with AI. Findings indicate minimal attention to focusing events or problem indicators emphasizing social and ethical concerns, as opposed to economic and geopolitical ones. Further, broad statements noting ethical dimensions of AI often fail to translate into specific policy solutions, which may be explained by a lack of technical feasibility or value acceptability of ethics‐related policy solutions, along with institutional constraints for agencies in specific policy sectors. Finally, despite widespread calls for increased public participation, proposed solutions remain expert dominated. Overall, while the emerging U.S. AI policy agenda reflects a striking level of attention to ethics—a promising development for policy stakeholders invested in AI ethics and more socially oriented approaches to technology governance—this success is only partial and is ultimately layered into a traditional strategic approach to innovation policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Herald of Social Sciences is the property of National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The new IPBES work programme "assessment of transformative change" aims to identify factors in human society—behavioural, social, cultural dimensions, among others—that may be leveraged to bring about transformative change. In this context and based on its scientific recommendations, the third French National Strategy for Biodiversity for 2030 (SNB3), published in 2022, aims to contribute to the implementation of France's international commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the EU's Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. We carried out a critical assessment of the capacity of the first version of SNB3 to initiate transformative change. Firstly, we describe a two-step assessment methodology for determining the leverage potential of the strategy's measures, based on a robust and replicable independent scientific audit and a multi-criteria analysis. Secondly, we present the main results of the assessment using the SNB3 as a case example. We confirm the scientific and practical relevance of this type of exercise for policy makers, for establishing strategies that are part of a transition process allowing for real transformative change in society. By analysing the measures and ranking them from most to least efficient, this study reveals the strengths and weaknesses of the strategy by anticipating what should have and may not have an impact, while highlighting what needs to be improved as a priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cahiers d'Études Africaines is the property of Editions EHESS and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

“Sport is a growing social and economic phenomenon with a significant contribution to the European Union's (EU) strategic objectives of solidarity and well-being.” This is stated in the White Paper on Sport, created by the European Commission in 2007. The year coincides with Bulgaria's accession as a member state of the Union, which marks a new stage for our country in the management of policies for the development of physical education, sport for excellence, social responsibility and public health, education, social inclusion, etc. In this period, as a result of significant changes in the development of institutions in the field of sport in Bulgaria, as well as changes brought about by external and internal factors, the system of physical education has fallen into a crisis, from which in the following years began to gradually emerge. The practice of sport among children, adolescents and adults is becoming increasingly restricted. Socially disadvantaged people rarely engage in physical activities, the performance of elite athletes in international events brings unsatisfactory results. All this comes as a regularity from the political, economic and social changes in society. This publication traces the institutionalization in the field of sport, which began as early as 1945, when the Department of Physical Culture and Sport was established under the Ministry of Public Health. It traces the development of sport institutions in Bulgaria over the years. It focuses on the period 2012 – 2023, the policy pursued and the strategic documents adopted in the field. Through a comparative analysis of the National Strategy for the Development of Physical Education and Sport in the Republic of Bulgaria 2012 – 2022 and the National Strategy for the Development of Physical Activity, Physical Education, Sport and Sports and Tourism 2023 – 2034, which has been publicly discussed, as well as accompanying documents, the main priorities, problems, objectives and their implementation are analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article analyzes national strategies in contemporary policy on Australian housing and homelessness. It discusses problems with home ownership, private rental housing, social housing, residential tenancy law, residential building quality, accessibility and environmental performance, housing development and land use planning. It takes a look at reform directions in policy for First Nations, the National Disability Strategy 2010-2020, and multi-level governance and institutional support.

The increasing access to cyberspace and its resources is having a significant impact on our societies and our daily lives, profoundly transforming the way we live, work and interact. The importance of cyber security converts into the need to keep information, data and devices private and secure. Cyber-security is an essential element for the flat functioning of all critical information infrastructures. In this context, the treatment of cyber-security in this paper is concrete, taking into account the cyberattack that our country went through, which was aimed at destroying critical structures and testing the capacities of Albania. It is worth noting that a secure cyber environment cannot function without giving it the opportunity to have the relevant mechanisms. Specifically, increasing cyber resilience in critical information infrastructures are flexible cyber security measures, which focus on the flat functioning of online public services keeping in focus the real threats and the risk management plan. Furthermore, within the framework of commitments as a candidate country of the European Union, Albania is meticulously implementing all European acts and international standards for the drafting of a consolidated and stable legal framework. In the present paper, through a legal assessment, special attention has been paid to the National Strategy for the period 2021-2023 and legal rules on cyber-security in the Albanian legislation, aiming to analyze the legal provisions, which regulate it in this regard. Also, an important objective of this paper is also the fact that it may serve as an important basis for further studies in this field. The analysis of the cyber-security legal regulation in Albania is based on the qualitative method, which contains also the research, analytical, descriptive, interpretive methods. The results of this paper, which treats an innovative topic, will stimulates debate in the academic level and contribute to the legal doctrine in Albania that lacks such. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are a wide range of issues that need to be addressed globally with regard to the agriculture, forestry, fisheries and food sectors, including climate change and the associated increase in large-scale disasters. Japan's agriculture, forestry and fisheries industries are facing a shortage of labor due to the ageing of the population. In order to address these issues, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries launched the Strategy for Sustainable Food Systems on 12 May 2021 to ensure a sustainable food system. In this lecture, the key points of the strategy are explained from the standpoint of the person responsible for promoting the strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Swiss Medical Association FMH drew up the strategy "Planetary health – Strategy on the courses of action on climate change for the medical profession in Switzerland" in collaboration with the Swiss Institute for Medical Education SIME, the umbrella organisations and students. On 7 October 2021, the strategy was approved by the Swiss Medical Chamber with a budget of over CHF 380,000 (approx € 365,000). The first step in implementation involved setting up an advisory group which will tackle the concrete implementation of the strategy. This article provides an insight into the current state of work on the project with a focus on the measures in the areas of postgraduate medical training and continuing medical education. It is a work in progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes the implications of forest management and golden walks, which are forest policies that have stood out in North Korea since Chairman Kim Jong‐un took power. North Korea strategically uses the term golden mountain to mean "forest restoration that contributes to economic development and improvement of the living standards of its people." This study emphasizes that the concept of forest use has changed with the introduction and implementation of forest management in North Korea. This study presupposes that since 2019, the Golden Mountain Strategy has evolved into a concept that encompasses not only economic development and improvement of the national standard of living but also forest restoration, that is, protection of the ecological environment. In addition, this strategy is not limited to forest use policies but also encompasses aspects of national development. It combines "sustainable development" with strategies to protect the ecological environment, develop local economies, and strengthen national status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germany has integrated biosphere reserves into the national strategy of sustainable development, and has built an outstanding biosphere reserve system nationwide, which has played a key role in maintaining the stability of ecosystem, exploring sustainable use of natural resources, innovating social development models, prospering local economies and providing an important platform to carry out comprehensive research on human and nature relationship. The experience of Germany includes: long and solid accumulation in the development of protected areas; deep understanding from authorities and the folk of the concept of Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) and the value of biosphere reserves, and more attention to their dissemination and popularization; strong support from federal and local governments in areas of politics, legislation, scientific research and international cooperation; full reflection of the demonstration value of biosphere reserves; innovative in the nomination and periodic review of biosphere reserves. Based on Germany's experience, suggestions to China authorities include: enhancing awareness of the public about MAB and biosphere reserves; strengthening national support and promoting the creation of the "Chinese model" in the area of biosphere reserves; incorporating biosphere reserves into the legislation of protected area system underway; establishing national norms for the nomination and periodic review; strengthening international exchanges and cooperation, and jointly creating differentiated models of biosphere reserves development, so as to help pave a way for further development of MAB, and enable to establish a community of shared future for mankind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recently released National Drug Control Strategy (2022) from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) lays out a comprehensive plan to, not only enhance access to treatment and increase harm reduction strategies, but also increase implementation of evidence-based prevention programming at the community level. Furthermore, the Strategy provides a framework for enhancing our national data systems to inform policy and to evaluate all components of the plan. However, not only are there several missing components to the Strategy that would assure its success, but there is a lack of structure to support a national comprehensive service delivery system that is informed by epidemiological data, and trains and credentials those delivering evidence-based prevention, treatment, and harm reduction/public health interventions within community settings. This paper provides recommendations for the establishment of such a structure with an emphasis on prevention. Systematically addressing conditions known to increase liability for behavioral problems among vulnerable populations and building supportive environments are strategies consistently found to avert trajectories away from substance use in general and substance use disorders (SUD) in particular. Investments in this approach are expected to result in significantly lower rates of SUD in current and subsequent generations of youth and, therefore, will reduce the burden on our communities in terms of lowered social and health systems involvement, treatment needs, and productivity. A national strategy, based on strong scientific evidence, is presented to implement public health policies and prevention services. These strategies work by improving child development, supporting families, enhancing school experiences, and cultivating positive environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sports in Romania is experiencing a surge of popularity and desire to improve in all areas, after years of decline in which the statics have raised concerns. Enabling this industry with a clear plan and raising the standards is paramount for the future development of the sports scene. In this context, the present paper aims to explore the National Sports Strategy of Romania (NSS23), with the objective of identifying key success factors related to marketing and communication and determining whether they can be measured against future success. A content analysis of the NNS23 was conducted. Compliant items include clear objectives and methods, a statement of ownership and responsibility, and the beneficiaries. The analysis revealed that the document is missing some data, such as limitations, terms of quality and resources, which must be included to measure the success of the strategy. Additionally, it was found that in its current form, the NSS23 cannot be accurately measured against future success due to the lack of financial and capacity resources related to marketing and communication. Suggested amendments can help to ensure that the strategy is complete and can be properly assessed against future success. Future research directions are proposed to explore the NSS23. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case report is a reflective narrative, documenting the methods used to develop a policy framework for a National Strategy on Climate, Health and Well-being for Australia. The report aims to guide advocates, communities of practice, and governments in developing a comprehensive policy response to climate change and its health impacts.

Sustainable development links environmental, social and economic policies in a coherent framework, thus contributing to the implementation of environmental legislation and policies. The concept of Sustainable Development designates all the forms and methods of socioeconomic development that focus primarily on ensuring a balance between social, economic and ecological aspects and the elements of natural capital. Sustainable development seeks and tries to find a stable theoretical framework for decisionmaking in any situation where there is a human-environment relationship, be it the surrounding, economic or social environment. Although initially sustainable development was intended to be a solution to the ecological crisis determined by the intense industrial exploitation of resources and the continuous degradation of the environment, and therefore primarily sought to preserve the quality of the surrounding environment, nowadays the concept has expanded to the quality of life in its complexity, and under economic and social aspect. The object of sustainable development is now also the concern for justice and equity between states, not only between generations. The energy sector has a major contribution to Romania's development, with a particular influence on economic growth, quality of life and the environment. To meet the long-term expectations of the population, the energy sector must become cleaner, more economically stable and more technologically modern. Romania's energy strategy for 2016-2030 with a time horizon of 2050 represents a national strategic approach that was approved and operates based on Government Decision no. 1069/2007. The main objective of the research is the analysis of Romania's national sustainable development strategy and the objectives aimed at increasing the quality of life. The research methodology used to achieve the above-mentioned objectives includes qualitative methods (meta-analysis of specialized literature) and quantitative methods (econometric methods - regression and correlation analysis, comparative analysis and correspondence analysis). The current focus has shifted to environmental management, which uses a broad combination of coercive and incentive measures to achieve sustainable improvements. This implies the definition of environmental policies in terms of the pursued objectives; the consideration and explicit mention of priorities; more pronounced decentralization, especially in terms of policy implementation; promoting better performance and managerial methods instead of simple emission control measures; adopting cost-effective strategies instead of adopting specific pollution control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shelter park responsive strategy used by the County of Kaua'i during the pandemic to keep the houseless safe was effective. There were no significant outbreaks in the parks and no deaths from COVID-19. During the year or more that the houseless population spent in the shelter parks, the residents developed social capital and a sense of community. The houseless population in the parks was reticent and was negatively impacted when the parks were demobilized. The houseless were forced to separate and return to living in encampments in bushes around the island. The county of Kaua'i and the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources began regular sweeps of these encampments as the houseless are not allowed to stay on government land. There is no designated place for the houseless to stay on the island. Houselessness is a wicked problem and is rife with complexities on Kaua'i. The complexities challenge the county's ability to address the houseless population's needs effectively. The houseless population is increasingly vulnerable based on dispersion, diminishment of social networks, decreased connection to providers, and greater mental and physical health destabilization. Developing and fostering resilience in this population is within emergency management's purview. To best meet the needs identified in this study and to navigate the complex system in which they are exacerbated, solutions will ideally come from a layered complement of federal-level and private-sector partnerships empowered under a national strategy led by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. These solutions must focus on developing key elements of resilience within a houseless community structure that provides varying levels of transition, wraparound services, focused attention to health and well-being, development of life skills, and solidification of social and information networks, all framed within an operational mantra of dignity, respect, and trust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entrepreneurship has proven a factor of great importance in fostering economic growth and development worldwide. The Republic of North Macedonia, being one of the youngest national economies in the old continent is and should not be an exemption. Having this in mind, during the last decade the country has undertaken serious steps in building a functional system for the support of entrepreneurial activity is a functional ecosystem for entrepreneurial growth. The purpose of this paper is to make a comprehensive view of the progress made and the support of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial activity, through the analysis of the relevant documents at the national level covering policies, legislation, and national strategies for competitiveness, sustainable development, and support of small and medium enterprises. Namely, an overview of the state institutions of the Republic of North Macedonia, which have a role in the ecosystem for supporting entrepreneurship, will be provided throughout the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The forests are continuously facing the pressure of changing environment (climate) and human interventions. The 100+ years rotation of the large majority of Romanian forests lead to the necessity of a national network of long-time experimental plots. In the same time, the presence in Romania of the largest areas with natural forests in Europe is a merit of the generations of silviculturists who protected them for centuries. Some examples of interesting 60+ years experimental forests are given in the present paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]