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.

Abstract: This study investigates the central role of speech and words in shaping leadership within Islamic religious institutions. It explores how Imams, as leaders, employ the power of speech and the influence of words to guide, inspire, and communicate with congregants. By focusing on contextual factors such as language comprehension, visual cues, education level, and the timing of interactions, the study highlights how these elements shape the effectiveness of spoken messages and their interpretation. In doing so, it emphasizes the Imam’s role not only as a religious authority but also as a communicator whose leadership is deeply rooted in the ability to use words persuasively, meaningfully, and motivationally.A survey conducted with one hundred eighteen participants who attended the discourses of Imams gathered insights into their experiences and perceptions of communication during these interactions within the mosque. The study found that visual engagement with the Imam enhances comprehension, attention to discourse fosters behavioral change, and good comprehension is linked with emotional engagement. Discourse is a key tool in religious leadership, fostering engagement, understanding, and behavioral transformation, with most congregants preparing for and attentively engaging during the Imam's guidance. The findings demonstrate that leadership in Islamic institutions is marked by a balance of spiritual authority, interpersonal engagement, and adaptive communication strategies that strengthen the connection between the Imam and the congregants.

Abstract: Socio-economic development remains a central concern for policymakers worldwide, yet efforts often fail to translate into effective, actionable policies. This study examines the state of regional development in the city of Shamakhi, Azerbaijan, to explore the issue of policy-practice gap. Employing qualitative methods—including face-to-face interviews with local stakeholders and participant observation—the research was conducted over the course of one intensive fieldwork day. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts revealed five recurring challenges: unemployment, water scarcity, rising cost of living, limited access to healthcare, and inadequate education. These issues reflect deep structural problems that contrast sharply with the objectives outlined in successive State Programs for regional development. By presenting empirical evidence from lived experiences, this study contributes to debates on sustainable regional development in post-Soviet contexts and calls for stronger monitoring, accountability, and policy responsiveness in Azerbaijan’s development agenda.

Abstract: Research on government is abundant, but a management perspective is yet to be established as a research paradigm. Conversely, management research has yet to firmly accommodate government as an organizational object of study. This paper advances the study of government through a management lens, proposing “Management in Government” (MIG) as a distinct paradigm beyond the domains of political science and public administration. Drawing on reform literature, longitudinal studies of Bangladesh, and field-level observations of institutional practices, the paper establishes the conceptual foundations of MIG and introduces a contextualized research agenda (MIG-BD). Traditional top-down reforms have yielded limited improvements in citizen services, highlighting the limits of strategies that overlook operational realities. The proposed paradigm emphasizes citizen-centric service delivery, bottom-up perspectives, and the application of business management tools in public agencies. Ultimately, it offers a framework to study government as an organization and governance effectiveness through the disciplinary lens of management.

Abstract: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into legislative processes signifies a significant change in democratic governance. Various jurisdictions, including Estonia, the European Union, and pilot programs in the United States, are using AI to enhance the creation and debate of laws. While these technologies offer benefits like efficiency and data-driven insights, they also pose risks such as a lack of transparency, accountability issues, and potential erosion of democratic principles. This paper examines the role of AI in governance and introduces the Triadic Legitimacy Model (TLM) to address these concerns. The TLM suggests that the legitimacy of AI-assisted lawmaking relies on three key pillars: transparency and explainability, human oversight and accountability, and public engagement and inclusion. It extends procedural justice theories to the realm of algorithmic governance and sets a foundation for future research. The paper concludes with practical recommendations for integrating AI into legislative processes responsibly, stressing that the key to maintaining democratic integrity lies in embracing automation while ensuring transparency, accountability, and active citizen involvement.

Abstract: As governments embrace digital transformation, the drive to deliver efficient, citizen-centric public services through digital platforms has become a central concern in public administration. Understanding the key drivers of digital platform adoption and efficiency is vital for informing future policy and practice. This study aims to evaluate the efficiency and usability of digital platforms in public administration from the perspective of citizens. Specifically, it examines which factors most significantly influence the adoption of digital government platforms and explores demographic differences in user experience and engagement. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, collecting responses from 2,500 citizens across diverse demographic and geographic backgrounds. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multivariate logistic regression, and subgroup analysis to identify key predictors of platform use and perceived efficiency. Findings reveal that ease of use (β = -1.08, OR = 0.34), speed of service delivery (β = 0.46, OR = 1.59), and cross-device compatibility (β = 0.27, OR = 1.31) are the most influential factors in the adoption of digital platforms by citizens. Other variables, such as trust in government data security, transparency, and inclusivity, were not significant predictors when usability and efficiency were taken into account. Subgroup analysis shows that younger users prioritize convenience and mobile compatibility, while older adults emphasize trust and data security, and rural respondents value clarity and accessibility. These results underscore the importance of designing digital services that are not only secure and transparent, but also user-friendly and operationally efficient. The study demonstrates that the success of digital platforms in revolutionizing public administration is contingent upon usability, operational efficiency, and flexibility. Policymakers and practitioners should prioritize user-centered design and cross-device access to maximize the adoption and effectiveness of digital government services, ensuring equitable benefits across diverse populations.

Abstract: This paper explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), workforce development, and veteran employment. As AI continues to reshape industries, understanding its implications for displaced workers and veterans transitioning to civilian careers is critical, particularly veterans and displaced workers. We review existing literature, analyze policy recommendations, and highlight initiatives aimed at leveraging AI for workforce training and veteran job placement. The paper synthesizes findings from government reports, academic studies, and industry insights to provide a comprehensive overview of current trends and future directions. This paper further examines the evolving landscape of work, the role of upskilling and reskilling in addressing the skills gap, and the unique position of veterans as a strategic workforce asset. It explores how AI is not only redefining job tasks but also serving as a tool to aid veterans in their transition from military to civilian life. Furthermore, the paper highlights key governmental and private-sector initiatives, including policies from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and public-private partnerships, designed to leverage AI for workforce development and veteran empowerment. This paper surveys current literature, policy developments, training programs, public-private partnerships, and technology trajectories to illuminate the rapidly evolving workforce ecosystem. Special attention is given to veterans' transition from military to civilian jobs, with AI both as a skills multiplier and a disruptor. This is a review paper and all findings are from cited literature.

Abstract: This study explored financial factors influencing the effectiveness of rural water supply services in Malawi, focusing on the investment challenges in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) related to water and sanitation. Using a mixed-methods approach, it included qualitative interviews with 299 participants and quantitative analysis of investment data from government entities and institutions like the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB). The findings revealed that inadequate financing, unequal resource distribution among District Councils, and an investment imbalance favouring water development over operational needs significantly contribute to the non-functionality of rural water systems. Additional challenges, such as low community demand and a lack of local financing, further hinder sustainable water management. The study emphasises the necessity for a well-balanced funding strategy and consistent financial support to enhance infrastructure sustainability. Recommendations include increasing community involvement in water management, creating tailored financial models that reflect local capacities, and improving government accountability in water service delivery. Overall, the research highlights the urgency for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to develop sustainable solutions for Malawi’s water supply challenges and suggests integrating traditional water management practices with modern methods for greater efficiency.

Abstract: This paper examines the key factors influencing the performance of research and development projects, synthesising recurring themes and insights from existing literature. The analysis identifies 49 distinct factors and illustrates how often they are referenced in the context of managerial discourse and practice. The frequency with which these factors appear is not interpreted as a measure of their actual impact, but rather as an indicator of managerial attention to specific challenges. These factors are organised into a functional model comprising four interrelated categories: strategic orientation, operational execution, organisational competence and innovative-adaptive potential. The primary contribution of this research is the development of a theoretical framework for the application of multi-criteria decision-making tools to assess and enhance project success, especially in the allocation of human resources in research and development settings. The findings emphasise the importance of adopting flexible, context-sensitive approaches to managing the performance of scientific and technological research projects.