Abstract: As the reliability and validity of forensic evidence, particularly in feature comparison disciplines, confront on-going scrutiny, forensic practitioners must ensure their processes, whether for investigative, intelligence or evidential purposes are robust, scientifically grounded, and validated. In forensic facial identification, morphological analysis is internationally recognized as the preferred method for facial image comparison, and is applied during the analysis and comparison steps of the Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, Verification (ACE-V) process, commonly applied in feature comparison. While several international proficiency tests have assessed forensic facial examiners’ accuracy in comparing mated and non-mated pairs (black box tests), fewer opportunities have focused on evaluating inter-laboratory procedures and methods. To address this gap, members of a small border and immigration focused expert working group participated in an inter-laboratory collaborative exercise designed to analyse and harmonize best practices across member laboratories. There are limited published validation studies of facial image comparison methods. This paper presents the results of a collaborative exercise that compares the methodologies of three different agencies, highlighting key similarities and differences in examiner process and decision making, and provides a foundation for the development of similar future initiatives.

Abstract: This paper conducts a rigorous comparative analysis of U.S. and Chinese strategic frameworks for AI literacy and adoption, with specialized focus on agentic AI systems capable of autonomous reasoning and execution. We systematically examine national policies, educational integration, governance structures, and technological roadmaps, employing both qualitative review and quantitative modeling. Mathematical formulations include multi-dimensional literacy scoring, Bass diffusion models for adoption dynamics, risk assessment functions, regulatory effectiveness indices, competitiveness metrics, and optimization frameworks for resource allocation. Our analysis reveals divergent strategic paradigms: the U.S. favors decentralized, innovation-driven approaches with emphasis on interoperability and public-private collaboration; China pursues centralized, state-led strategies with comprehensive content labeling and rapid systemic integration. We propose a hybrid governance architecture that synthesizes strengths from both models, supported by algorithmic implementations and sensitivity analyses. Drawing from recent publications (2021-2025), we identify critical trends, challenges, and strategic implications. The paper concludes with evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, educators, and industry stakeholders navigating the complex landscape of global AI competition. The paper concludes with actionable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders engaged in the global AI race.

Abstract: This article advances EcoTechnoPolitics as a transformational conceptual and policy rec-ommendation framework for hybridizing digital–green twin transitions under conditions of planetary polycrises. It responds to growing concerns that dominant policy approaches by supranational institutions—including the EU, UN, OECD, World Bank Group, WEF, and G20—remain institutionally siloed, technologically reductionist, and insufficiently attentive to ecological constraints. Moving beyond the prevailing digital–green twin transitions paradigm, the article coins EcoTechnoPolitics around three hypotheses: the need for planetary thinking grounded in (i) anticipatory governance, (ii) hybridization, and (iii) a transformational agenda beyond cosmetic digital–green alignment. The research question asks how EcoTechnoPolitics can enable planetary thinking beyond digital–green twin transitions under ecological and technological constraints. Methodologically, the study triangulates (i) an interdisciplinary literature review with (ii) a place-based analysis of two socially cohesive city-regions—the Basque Country and Portland (Oregon)—and (iii) a macro-level policy analysis of supranational digital and green governance frameworks. The results show that, despite planetary rhetoric around sustainability and digitalization, prevailing policy architectures largely externalize ecological costs and consolidate technological power. Building on this analysis, the discussion formulates transformational policy recommendations. The conclusion argues that governing plan-etary-scale ecotechnopolitical systems requires embedding ecological responsibility within technological governance.

Abstract: This paper proposes the Computable Structure of National Narrative (CSNN) framework, treating state-level political texts as engineering-oriented governance systems. Using President Xi Jinping's 2026 New Year Address as a case study, it constructs a multi-level variable and causal pathway model encompassing ‘governance input—transformation mechanism—governance output’. The research integrates computational content analysis, sentiment analysis, and semantic network analysis to transform the text into a reproducible variable system: independent variables encompass development/innovation, people's livelihoods, culture, discipline, and external governance narratives; mediating variables include policy perceptibility, emotional resonance, and governance credibility; dependent variables are governance legitimacy and social cohesion; external uncertainty is introduced as a moderating factor. Results reveal: national narratives exhibit stable functional paragraph sequencing; sentiment is not an end-stage effect of communication but a key mediator in generating governance legitimacy; governance legitimacy displays structural output characteristics, dependent on the convergence of multiple mediating pathways. This study contributes a computable, interpretable, and transferable toolchain for political narrative research, providing a reproducible empirical framework for cross-year, cross-national, and multimodal expansion.

Abstract: In most poor and developing countries, the authorities largely pursue different objectives, which naturally end up diverging in different directions. This divergence arises from the outset due to the inability of these same governments to effectively align these objectives with what they actually want in the short, medium and long term in particular. In this particular approach, I analyse some implications related to the objectives pursued by policy makers in most poor countries. Evidence shows that governments that pursue targeted objectives, such as those related to spending on education, research and development, have been the countries that have managed to break the vicious circles. On the other hand, other factors also contribute to this growth in particular. For example, countries that pursue a non-exclusive democracy aligned with the objectives of the majority tend to differ significantly from governments that pursue democracies aligned with the objectives of a small group. However, in some countries where democracies are in fact at the service of vicious circles, there tends to be strong resistance to how these vicious circles should be broken. democracies are at the service of vicious circles, they tend to show strong resistance to how they should break the vicious circles.

Abstract:

In this study, in particular. I analyse social protection in some poor Countries. The Study shows how some Countries have for example more inefficiency that are promoted from Fiscal Policy in general and from many weaknesses of institutions, politics and government. In general the government actions normally yours fail Contributed to accelerate the Stagnation and make high fail of social system, the Poverty in these Countries have your source from these inefficiency that not converge to development and not converge to Created the Wealth. In some Countries, the Wealth generated not are satisfied to make good contributions in majors societies, these evidences are relatively about the missing the high Transformation, first, second because not exist some important purpose that normally guarantee high and good Wealth Share for many vulnerable People. The Stagnation, os the main reason that the government are responsable, it's that relatively about missing the good and high discipline that are responsible for good and important ways that normally can give to this good Budgetary Policy. The approach shows that, Countries can have high levels of social Protection, when these Countries establish good ways that your's government spend Public money generated from Fiscal Policy, that need be more relevance and more efficiency, that Will be enough efficiency and convergence to accelerate social development in general.

Abstract:

This study conducts a multi-dimensional evaluation of Energy Performance Contracts (EPCs) applied to solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in public institutions, emphasizing their technical efficiency, governance structure, and policy accountability. Within the broader context of solar resource utilization and sustainable energy transition, EPCs are increasingly recognized as strategic mechanisms to enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions without imposing immediate fiscal burdens on public budgets. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative assessments of photovoltaic system performance—based on SCADA-verified production data and CO₂ mitigation outcomes—with qualitative evaluations of contract design, stakeholder coordination, and institutional transparency. The case of a 1710.72 kWp university-based PV installation in Türkiye demonstrates that EPCs can effectively deliver high operational reliability (performance ratio: 83%) and substantial environmental benefits (1168.64 tons of CO₂ avoided annually). However, the study also reveals that EPC success is critically shaped by the coherence of regulatory frameworks, administrative capacity, and accountability mechanisms. Institutional fragmentation, limited data integration, and insufficient governance oversight remain significant barriers to scaling EPC adoption in the public sector. The research concludes by proposing an integrated policy framework that aligns technical performance monitoring with transparent governance and policy coherence. This approach supports real-time performance tracking, multi-level coordination, and enhanced institutional accountability—key enablers for accelerating the solar energy transition through scalable and financially sustainable EPC models in public infrastructure.

Abstract: This comprehensive analysis examines the American AI Exports Program through a multi-dimensional framework encompassing technical architecture, governance structures, market strategy, and policy implementation. We synthesize insights from technology providers, content industries, security experts, and policy analysts to develop a holistic understanding of AI export challenges in the global competitive landscape. The paper presents a multi-layer framework architecture with strategic, governance, technical, and market layers, supported by detailed visualizations including architectural diagrams, decision matrices, risk assessment frameworks, and implementation roadmaps. We analyze the Federal Register requirements for full-stack AI technology packages and industry-led consortia, addressing tensions between export promotion, national security, intellectual property protection, and competitive fairness. Technical implementation considerations include modular architectures, automated compliance systems, and security frameworks, while governance aspects focus on consortium structures and regulatory compliance architectures. Market strategy components cover segmentation, prioritization matrices, deployment models, and capacity building programs. The paper provides phased implementation recommendations with immediate, medium-term, and long-term initiatives, supported by performance metrics and decision support tools. This integrated approach contributes to AI policy literature by offering actionable guidance for balancing innovation acceleration with risk mitigation in the context of strategic competition, particularly with state-subsidized alternatives.

Abstract: Uzbekistan's transition from a state-regulated to a market economy represents a policy outcome aimed at balancing growth, stability, and equity. Gradual changes observed during the former President Karimov’s term maintained macroeconomic stability but entrenched structural and regional inequality, with rural provinces relying on low-productivity agriculture and labor emigration. This paper aims to assess the policy of the former president post-2016 and the changes introduced by Mirziyoyev, including currency deregulation, trade openness, and privatization, which have transformed regional development, income distribution, and migration flows. Focusing on qualitative research of government papers, international organizations, and academic articles, the study traces historical legacies, the development of the financial sector, and reform stages as drivers of inequality. The results show how an urbanized core and networked regions have benefited disproportionately from liberalization, while rural provinces lag, increasing spatial imbalances. Yet labor migration and remittances act as a hidden equalizer, reducing household poverty but leaving uneven regional outcomes and a heavy reliance on external labor markets. The paper concludes with the argument that while reform in Uzbekistan accelerates growth and modern development, inclusive development is constrained and requires targeted responses to address rural underdevelopment, labor market imperfections, and uneven rewards from migration flows.

Abstract: Ecuador is currently experiencing an unprecedented deterioration in public safety, with homicide rates rising drastically in recent years; however, national-level analyses often obscure the specific local dynamics of violence. This study analyzes the relationship between adverse socioeconomic indicators, specifically poverty and inequality, and homicide rates at a highly disaggregated territorial level: the administrative "circuits" (micro-territories) of Zone 8, which includes Guayaquil, Durán, and Samborondón. An exploratory ecological study was conducted across 67 of these micro-territories, utilizing administrative homicide records (2014–2024) and socioeconomic census data. The methodology involved Pearson correlation analyses and the classification of territories into prioritization quadrants to guide policy. Results reveal significant territorial heterogeneity and a strong positive correlation between homicide rates and both the poverty rate (r=0.785) and the Gini coefficient (r=0.768). Crucially, priority intervention quadrants were identified where high social exclusion and lethal violence converge. These findings demonstrate a structural link between socioeconomic precariousness and interpersonal violence in the coastal region. Consequently, the study concludes that effective security strategies must transcend exclusive reliance on police control to integrate targeted environmental, educational, and economic interventions, fostering a multisectoral social dialogue essential for recovering the social fabric.

Abstract: This paper examines how county-level government in China formulates and implements solar photovoltaic (PV) policies through an adaptive-governance lens, using Lin’an District (Hangzhou) as a case study. Drawing on multi-level policy document analysis and 30 semi-structured interviews with government officials, developers, grid actors and experts, we identify three stages of local PV development (rooftop diffusion; rapid utility-scale expansion; and market-oriented regulatory adjustment). Key governance innovations include a district PV task force, an industry alliance, and a dual acceptance safety mechanism that together accelerated deployment while managing technical and political risks. We show how adaptive governance operates within an authoritarian, hierarchical system by combining top-down targets with bottom-up development and stakeholder coordination. The findings illuminate practical trade-offs between market liberalization and regulatory control, and provide transferable lessons for other developing countries pursuing decentralized renewable energy transitions.

Abstract: This article examines the transformative role of artificial intelligence–based Decision-Support Systems in public governance. It aims to analyze how Decision-Support Systems reshape decision-making and accountability across domains such as recruitment, finance, healthcare, social administration, and judicial practice. The study employs legal, institutional, and comparative analysis to investigate key mechanisms of automation bias and the attribution gap, which redistribute responsibility between humans and algorithms. Academic literature, case studies, and regulatory frameworks are systematically reviewed to assess implications for justice, trust, and democratic legitimacy. The results demonstrate that Decision-Support Systems are not neutral tools but socio-technical actors that redistribute autonomy, restructure institutional practices, and challenge traditional models of accountability and transparency. The study argues for strategies that integrate explainable AI, establish traceable accountability, and safeguard meaningful human control to balance efficiency with ethical and democratic values. By highlighting both the opportunities and risks of Decision-Support Systems, the article contributes to global debates on responsible AI governance and, through the example of Kazakhstan, provides guidance for policymakers seeking to align Decision-Support Systems with principles of accountability, fairness, and human agency.

Abstract: Tourism plays an important role in promoting local sustainable development, particularly in regions with strong cultural identity and significant natural heritage. In Wakatobi, Indonesia, efforts to advance tourism as a driver of decent work and inclusive economic growth in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8 have encountered challenges, including top‐down policy structures, informal and insecure labor conditions, and limited institutional coordination. This study aims to examine how regional tourism governance can better contribute to decent job creation and sustainable economic outcomes through strengthened institutional evaluation and local community participation. A qualitative case study approach was used, drawing on semi-structured interviews with 25 stakeholders, analysis of policy documents and local news, and field observations. Thematic analysis using NVivo 12 Plus identified key issues such as the dominance of concerns related to labor rights and safety (11.53%), minimal attention to youth employment (3.23%), weak policy implementation (5.6%), and a persistent imbalance between economic productivity narratives and social protection efforts. These findings suggest that tourism governance mechanisms require more contextual, participatory, and community-centered approaches. Strengthening institutional capacity and deepening local engagement are crucial to ensuring that tourism transformation meaningfully supports the achievement of SDG 8 and contributes to equitable and sustainable local development.

Abstract: This article analyzes the effectiveness of Poland's central government administration in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, addressing the context of high-level strategic declarations versus actual policy outcomes. The study employs a qualitative critical document analysis, conducted as comprehensive desk research. This method involves a comparative analysis of official strategic and policy documents (e.g., "Strategy for Responsible Development") against the empirical findings of external audits from the Supreme Audit Office (NIK), supplemented by national (GUS) and international statistical data. The analysis reveals a fundamental "implementation gap." While Poland has successfully created a robust strategic and institutional framework, reflected in high international SDG rankings, this success masks deep deficits and stagnation in key areas, particularly in the environmental dimension. Audits consistently confirm systemic problems with inter-ministerial coordination, ensuring adequate financing, and the lack of reliable evaluation for key programs, such as "Clean Air" or the circular economy roadmap. In light of these findings, the study concludes that operational effectiveness does not match strategic declarations. The analysis identifies systemic weaknesses and recommends urgent, targeted strategic actions to bridge the gap between policy and practice, particularly by strengthening coordination and evaluation mechanisms.

Abstract: Through longitudinal comparisons of the same country or political regime under different systems, as well as horizontal comparisons of the same ethnic group (sharing common roots) under different political regimes, this study reveals the inherent connection between the balance of the people’s demands for self-interest and fairness (B=f[S,F]) and a nation’s fate. This inherent connection constitutes a universal historical and social phenomenon, thereby further verifying the objectivity of the role of the "Underlying Protocol".

Abstract: The perplexing Chinese "cyclical pattern" is neither an exception nor a superficial phenomenon, but a typical manifestation of deviating from the Underlying Protocol (B=f[S,F]) that transcends individual will and class positions. The existence of extreme "power self-interest" leads to irreversible corruption, which in turn results in irreversible cyclical collapse. While contemporary patrimonial bureaucracy is rare, there are numerous irrational bureaucratic authoritarian states in the post-patrimonial era. Revealing the inherent characteristics of this "cyclical pattern" carries practical and broad warning significance: ignoring social injustice and the polarization between the rich and the poor, even if a temporary "golden age" is achieved, it will only be a golden age for "the nobility and high officials", not for the people.

Abstract: This paper analyzes the trajectory of public sector reforms presenting an extensive historical and critical analysis of administrative or governmental management reforms in Bangladesh from 1971 to 2021. It categorizes reform efforts focusing on how various political regimes and institutional actors have approached the challenge of improving management in government. The analysis reveals that despite a multitude of reform commissions and policy interventions over the decades, actual improvements in the quality of governance and service delivery have been limited. The work highlights systemic challenges and failures in implementation. A central argument is that reforms in Bangladesh have largely been top-down, fragmented, and disconnected from the realities of administrative practice and citizen service. The paper emphasizes that these reform efforts often lacked continuity, political ownership, and a citizen-centric focus. It also highlights the need for a shift from externally driven, prescriptive models to citizen-centric, context-specific strategies grounded in management principles. The recent reforms of post 2024 revolution is out of scope for the current paper and are subject to further research.

Abstract: The advancement of technologies and the enormous volume of available data have made Data Science (DS) indispensable for addressing complex social issues. In the public sector, Evidence-Based Public Policies (EBPP) seek to support decisions through data analysis, increasing transparency and governmental effectiveness. However, the adoption of Data Science in public policy faces obstacles such as data quality, the need for collaboration between different areas, and institutional resistance. This article proposes the BEPP-DS methodology, which structures the entire process—from problem identification to policy evaluation—with a focus on transparency, reproducibility, and scalability. The model serves as a reference for governments wishing to use data science to build more effective policies, promoting the use of artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, and citizen engagement in data governance.

Abstract: The rapid emergence of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) systems represents a paradigm shift in military operations, demanding fundamental transformation of US military education. This paper presents a comprehensive framework for reskilling and redesigning military education to address critical workforce readiness gaps in the era of autonomous AI systems. Through analysis of current AI adoption trends, quantitative workforce assessments, and educational limitations, we identify that only 10-15% of military personnel feel adequately trained for agentic AI integration despite significant investments exceeding $600-900 million in next-generation AI capabilities. Our proposed solution features a multi-tiered educational architecture with progressive competency levels, a continuous curriculum development pipeline, and layered technology integration. The framework addresses identified skills gaps through foundational AI literacy for all personnel, operational competence for mid-career leaders, and strategic AI leadership development. Implementation strategies include phased rollout over 24-36 months, multi-stakeholder engagement models, and comprehensive assessment mechanisms. Findings demonstrate that successful agentic AI integration requires not only technical upskilling but also fundamental changes in pedagogical approaches, institutional culture, and resource allocation—with optimal distribution of 30-40% to technology infrastructure, 20-25% to faculty development, 15-20% to curriculum design, and 10-15% to program evaluation. This research provides actionable recommendations for military education institutions to prepare personnel for human-AI teaming, autonomous system oversight, and ethical AI application in complex operational environments. All results and proposals are from cited literature.

Abstract: Escalating U.S. net-interest payments now rival flagship budget lines and are projected to surpass 4 percent of GDP within a decade, while unfunded Social Security and Medicare liabilities exceed $70 trillion. In parallel, over-the-counter derivatives outstanding approach $700–800 trillion in notional value, embedding opaque leverage that could transmit shocks globally. Purpose: This study probes how the confluence of sovereign debt strain, entitlement promises, and derivatives exposure can destabilize the dollar’s reserve-currency privilege and maps reforms capable of forestalling a debt-driven systemic rupture. Methods: An integrative review of Congressional Budget Office forecasts, BIS derivatives statistics, and peer-reviewed network-risk models is synthesized through a tri-theoretical lens that combines Modern Monetary Theory, Minsky’s Financial Instability Hypothesis, and network-based systemic-risk science. Results: Vector-error-correction analysis reveals that a one-point rise in the U.S. debt-to-GDP ratio lifts global derivatives gross-market value by 0.7 percent within two quarters, indicating tight macro-financial coupling. Stress scenarios show that breaching a 120 percent debt-to-GDP threshold alongside derivatives GMV above 10 percent of GDP elevates one-notch downgrade odds to 50 percent within two years. These dynamics threaten confidence in dollar assets, erode the “exorbitant privilege,” and could precipitate non-linear contagion through shadow-banking channels. Conclusions: A coordinated package—gradual entitlement reform, primary-balance fiscal rules, maturity-extension of Treasuries, reinforced CCP cover-two capital, and expanded bilateral central-bank swap lines—can realign fiscal sustainability with financial-network resilience. Infusing policy with a biblical stewardship ethic (“the borrower is servant to the lender,” Prov 22:7) underscores the moral imperative to curb excessive leverage. Timely adoption would safeguard global liquidity, buttress U.S. monetary sovereignty, and preserve the dollar’s hegemonic role.