Issue #1 (Volume 23 2025)

This study aimed to identify current research trends and future directions in the field of emotional intelligence and job performance through bibliometric and thematic analysis. Data were collected from 327 documents published between 2000 and 2024 in the Scopus database. Using descriptive statistics, bibliometric analysis, and thematic analysis with VOSViewer software, the findings indicate that the relationship between emotional intelligence and job performance has been a longstanding research focus and continues to grow, especially in fields like business and management, with concentrated research efforts in leading developed nations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Thematic analysis identified five primary research directions and confirmed the strong relationship between emotional intelligence and job performance. Particularly in critical fields like education, healthcare, information technology, banking, and hospitality, this topic has received considerable attention and is expected to continue producing notable research in the future. Additionally, the study’s findings suggest that the rapid advancement of science and technology, multicultural business environments, and the increasing complexity of workplace crises and conflict resolution underscore the necessity for continued exploration of emotional intelligence and its connection to job performance. Future research in this area is anticipated to diversify and expand across various industries and organizational types, adapting to the evolving demands of modern business settings.

Acknowledgment
This study is a product of the doctoral dissertation project carried out under decision No. 4740/QD-ĐHDT dated October 18, 2023, from Duy Tan University, Vietnam.

Information technologies (IT) have become a fundamental pillar for contemporary organizations, driving not only operational efficiency and automation, but also improving decision-making processes. The objective of this study was to measure the influence of the three dimensions of IT (devices, functionalities, and potentialities) on the two dimensions of productivity (service performance and performance of business processes) in service sector companies in Ecuador. Primary data were collected from 375 Ecuadorian companies at a single moment in the service sector, a sector chosen for being the one that contributes the most to the country’s economy, using a non-experimental research design. Data analysis was performed using SPSS statistical software, with binary logistic regressions and the Nagelkerke pseudo-R² test to evaluate the explanatory power of the variables. The results indicate that IT, evaluated through its three dimensions (devices, functionalities, and potentialities), positively influences service performance by 44.80%. Similarly, these three dimensions positively influence 39.15% of the performance of business processes, empirically demonstrating that implementing IT allows achieving higher productivity levels in service companies in developing countries.

In contemporary managerial aspects, corporate social responsibility (CSR) plays an important role in the societal commitment of businesses. The objective of this study is to clarify the level of influence of corporate social responsibility management on the configuration of management control systems. In this perspective, a quantitative empirical study was conducted with 77 Moroccan companies recognized for their CSR practices by the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises, demonstrating their commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire survey, offering significant insights into the effect of CSR management on management control systems. The results showed that certain aspects of CSR management significantly influence the configuration of management control, while others have no notable impact. Governance (β = 0.178, p < 0.05), consumer protection (β = 0.244, p < 0.05), and community development (β = 0.107, p < 0.05) have a positive effect, as does the CSR strategy (β = 0.393, p < 0.05), which has the greatest impact. This indicates that companies integrating CSR into their strategy generally adopt a more structured management system. On the other hand, working conditions and relationships (β = –0.019, p > 0.05) and environmental issues (β = –0.012, p > 0.05) did not show a significant effect, suggesting a limited integration of these aspects into corporate management.

The war against Ukraine has led to a substantial influx of Ukrainian migrants into many countries, including the Czech Republic. As these migrants navigate the integration process, a key aspect of their journey is often their entry into the Czech labor market. The paper aims to identify and analyze selected socio-economic aspects associated with the integration of Ukrainian immigrants, with a specific focus on their Czech language fluency, length of stay in the Czech Republic, and the underlying reasons for their migration. This quantitative research was conducted using a self-designed questionnaire. Data collection took place in the first half of 2023. The sample consisted of 158 Ukrainian immigrants. The results showed statistically significant connections between the subjective assessment of how the respondents communicate in the Czech language with the field in which they work (p < 0.05), the perception of economic status (p < 0.001), the subjective assessment of the difficulty of finding a job (p < 0.001), satisfaction with work (p < 0.005), and intention to change jobs (p < 0.005). Additionally, there are correlations between length of stay and use of original qualification (p < 0.01), reasons for migration and difficulty finding work (p < 0.05), and between subjective evaluation of the difficulty of finding a job in the Czech Republic in relation to coming to the Czech Republic (p < 0.01). The results can be used by counseling centers for foreigners and potential employers to improve Ukrainian employment opportunities in the Czech labor market.

Acknowledgments
This study is supported by the project GA JU 101/2022/S “Selected aspects of integrating foreigners living in the Czech Republic from the perspective of society and the labor market.”

The rapid digital transformation of public systems has improved interactions between governments and citizens. In Morocco, while efforts to digitalize public administration continue, the integration of artificial intelligence presents new challenges due to structural and technical limitations. This study explores the openness of Moroccan civil servants to adopting artificial intelligence solutions and examines the role of change management in facilitating this process. A quantitative approach was employed, with 129 civil servants from key ministries – Education, Finance, and Health – completing an online questionnaire. These ministries were selected due to their critical importance in the public system and their frequent interactions with citizens. Furthermore, they played a central role in the National Administrative Reform Plan (2018–2022), which emphasized digital transformation as a key pillar in advancing e-government. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS, enabling a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing AI adoption. The findings reveal that while younger civil servants are more open to AI, over 40% of respondents pointed to insufficient digital skills as a major barrier to artificial intelligence integration. The study underscores the importance of effective change management strategies, highlighting that strong leadership and clear communication are essential in promoting artificial intelligence receptiveness and ensuring seamless integration within Morocco’s public sector.

The study aims to analyze the moderating role of eco-digital learning for the impact of the Internet of Things, blockchain, and artificial intelligence on the green supply chain to support SME internationalization. Questionnaires were distributed among 159 SME owners in Kediri, East Java, Indonesia. Hypotheses were tested using PLS-SEM. The results indicate that the adoption of the Internet of Things demonstrates a significant positive effect (p = 0.0000, T-statistic = 4.6695), improving real-time monitoring and operational efficiency. Blockchain also positively affects SME internationalization (p-value = 0.0085, T-statistic = 2.6427), enhancing supply chain transparency and ensuring compliance with international standards. In contrast, the influence of artificial intelligence is marginally significant (p = 0.0799, T-statistic = 1.7548), constrained by financial limitations and lack of expertise. The moderating effects of eco-digital learning show mixed results. It significantly moderates the relationship between the Internet of Things and internationalization in a negative direction (coefficient = –0.0651, p = 0.0475), suggesting that increased eco-digital learning may add complexity, potentially delaying the benefits of the Internet of Things. For blockchain, eco-digital learning enhances its positive impact (p = 0.0277, T-statistic = 2.2085) by strengthening the organization’s ability to leverage transparency and sustainability. However, no significant moderating effect is observed for artificial intelligence (p = 0.2066, T-statistic = 1.2646), indicating limited integration due to resource constraints. These findings highlight the importance of technological readiness, resource allocation, and alignment of digital learning to fully capitalize on the benefits of these technologies in the global market expansion of SMEs.

Acknowledgments
Deepest gratitude is extended to the Ministry of Education and Culture, Directorate of Research, Technology, and Community Service (DRTPM), for the financial support provided through the National Competitive Research Program under the “Regular Fundamental Research” scheme for the 2024 fiscal year. This support was instrumental in enabling the successful completion of this research.

This study aimed to analyze the adaptation of workers in industrial parks in Vietnam post-COVID-19 through fluctuations in their income. Data were collected from a survey of 438 workers working in industrial parks and in-depth interviews with five workers in different positions in industrial parks. The study utilized the ordinary least squares (OLS) method to quantify the factors influencing workers’ income. Additionally, the difference test method was applied to assess the income variations among workers based on their professional qualifications and occupational skills. The most significant factor identified is the experience of workers (unstandardized coefficient = 0.271), followed by the education level of workers (unstandardized coefficient = 0.128). Additionally, the study reveals that differences in professional qualifications lead to an income disparity of 1.898 million VND per month, while the variations in complementary skills contribute to an income difference of 0.592 million VND per month. Furthermore, the adaptation of workers in Vietnam’s industrial parks post-COVID-19 is at a relatively good level. From there, the study suggests several solutions to enhance workers’ income to adapt to new post-COVID-19 conditions.

One of the main challenges in higher education management is the complexity of resource optimization and increasing volumes of data, which limits the efficiency and accuracy of decision-making. The application of artificial intelligence can address these issues.
The present study aims to identify the key trends, knowledge gaps, and opportunities for further research into the economic effects of using artificial intelligence and ChatGPT tools in higher education. For this purpose, a systematic literature review was conducted to identify and screen the scientific articles related to the topic of this study indexed in Web of Science and Scopus from 1986 to 2024. A total of 234 articles were selected, all demonstrating positive growth both in scholarly output and citation count. The study identified the key contributors to scientific research on this topic by region (the United States, China, and India). It concluded that the relevant research centers are still at an early stage of their development. Based on bibliometric clusters formed by co-occurrence relations, three main areas of research were defined: 1) artificial intelligence in education for decision-making; 2) process automation and digital transformation in educational institutions; 3) artificial intelligence technologies and their application in education.
The study highlights the main areas of economic effects of artificial intelligence and ChatGPT tools in higher education, including reducing administrative costs, saving time for teachers and students, and improving the quality and accessibility of educational process.

Acknowledgments
The publication is part of the research topic “Economic Basics of Technology Diffusion into the National Economy of Ukraine Considering Best International Practices” (№0124U003482).

As global conflicts and hostilities become more prevalent, it is essential to investigate the conditions necessary for the operation and growth of innovative enterprises considering post-war recovery. The paper aims to determine crucial favorable conditions for activating innovative entrepreneurship and startups in the post-war period in Ukraine. The analysis is based on inductive, qualitative data from 24 interviews with the respondents from Ukraine and the Netherlands (eight scientists, ten startup founders and entrepreneurs, two government officials, and four entrepreneurs) to identify a range of favorable factors by utilizing qualitative analysis. The paper used individual, in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The study identified eight constraining aggregate themes (the consequences of war, policy and regulatory system, market and investment, the ecosystem, passive universities, education and skills, internationalization, and culture) and three enabling aggregate themes (the consequences of war, active universities, and the ecosystem) through the grouping of factors from the second-order code. The most significant constraining factor from aggregate themes “the consequences of war” is brain drain (40.63%). Among the eight constraining aggregate themes, 32.55% identified the policy and regulatory system as the main obstacle due to the absence of an effective strategy, ineffective legislation, passive municipalities, and bureaucracy. Moreover, the lack of funds is a critical issue in addressing the consequences of the war, financing startup projects, and creating favorable conditions. The results emphasize constraining and enabling conditions for activating innovative entrepreneurship and startups. Such results are helpful for policymakers to improve the conditions for startup development by overcoming the immediate identified obstacles.

Acknowledgment
The publication was prepared in the framework of the MSCA4Ukraine postdoctoral fellowship (Oksana Khymych Ref.№ UKR 1233171), which is funded by the European Union that provides support and funding for the Ukrainian researchers displaced by the war, while the Consortium (a consortium comprised of Scholars at Risk Europe hosted at Maynooth University, Ireland (project coordinator), the German Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH) and the European University Association (EUA)) is a collaborative network of institutions managing and implementing this initiative. The views and opinions expressed in this report are solely those of the authors and do not reflect the views of the European Union or the MSCA4Ukraine Consortium. Neither the European Union, the MSCA4Ukraine Consortium, nor any individual member institutions of the Consortium can be held responsible for these views and opinions. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the colleagues at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam for their invaluable support in conducting the research and for fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence and innovation.

The objective of this study is to explore factors influencing the readiness to enter smart retail businesses. This paper employed a quantitative approach. The sample consisted of 323 retail entrepreneurs in Thailand. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to verify whether the model constructed in this analysis is consistent, coherent, and suitable for practical application. The influencing factors are as follows: 1) The acceptance and use of technology by entrepreneurs (β = 0.63, p < 0.05), 2) The resource base of entrepreneurs (β = 0.52, p < 0.05), 3) The aspect of business networking by entrepreneurs (β = 0.48, p < 0.05), and 4) The competencies of entrepreneurs (β = 0.40, p < 0.05). These factors significantly affect the readiness to enter the retail market, aligning with empirical data. The structural equation model analysis examines the factors influencing the readiness of small and medium enterprise operators to enter the retail trade. The model meets the specified criteria, as indicated by the following compliance indices: CMIN/df = 2.841, CFI = 0.945, IFI = 0.942, and RMR = 0.036.

Acknowledgment
Gratitude is expressed to all the faculty members of the Doctor of Philosophy Program in Technopreneurship and Innovation Management at Chulalongkorn University for imparting valuable knowledge and experience, as well as for their support and encouragement.

This study addresses the relevance of export market orientation in enhancing the market performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), specifically examining the moderating role of government policy and the mediating effect of information access. The paper aims to provide insights into how these factors collectively impact SME performance. Data were collected from members of the Malang Regency SME Communication Forum, chosen for their relevance as active players in one of Indonesia’s regions with the highest SME concentration. An online questionnaire was used to gather insights directly from the business owners and managers, yielding 448 valid responses that provide a representative perspective on SME market dynamics. The collected data were then analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques. The findings demonstrate that export market orientation significantly boosts SME market performance (path coefficient = 0.512, p < 0.001), highlighting its critical role in fostering customer-oriented practices and adaptive marketing strategies. Additionally, export market orientation positively influenced information access (path coefficient = 0.359, p < 0.001), facilitating timely market insights that support decision-making. However, the mediating effect of information access on the relationship between export market orientation and market performance was not statistically significant (path coefficient = 0.242, p = 0.072). Furthermore, the strengthening effects of government policy on both export market orientation and market performance and on export market orientation and information access were also insignificant (path coefficients = –0.103 and 0.053, p = 0.053 and 0.132, respectively).

Acknowledgment
We thank the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia for funding this investigation through a decentralized grant for the Higher Education Fundamental Research scheme for the 2024 fiscal year.

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of knowledge-based assets, namely the ability to integrate knowledge and intellectual capital, on organizational performance. This study uses a survey approach with a sample of 313 LPDs (village financial institutions) in the province of Bali, represented by the heads of LPDs. The heads of LPDs were chosen because they are operational executors of LPD and are responsible for the development of LPD management. Data were collected using questionnaires distributed directly to LPD heads. The results of this study indicate that organizational performance is substantially and positively influenced by human capital and relational capital. Spiritual capital does not have a substantial influence on organizational performance, whereas structural capital has a negative effect. Further analysis revealed that knowledge integration capability can mediate the influence of human capital, structural capital, and relational capital. However, it cannot mediate the influence of spiritual capital on organizational performance. The research results strengthen the intellectual capital theory that intellectual capital can increase organizational performance if integrated with ability or dynamic knowledge.

This study aims to identify and prioritize the barriers and strategies to improve halal certification accessibility for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Indonesia. The paper utilized the analytic network process (ANP) to model interrelationships among barriers and strategies. Data were collected through structured interviews and surveys involving representatives from halal certification bodies (e.g., BPJPH), government agencies (e.g., DKUM Depok), and experts from academia specializing in halal certification and MSE development. The findings highlight three major barriers: financial constraints, regulatory complexities, and limited awareness among MSE owners. Financial constraints include high certification fees and costs associated with compliance. Regulatory complexities stem from the intricate procedures and bureaucratic inefficiencies in the certification process, which deter small businesses from participating. Additionally, limited awareness and understanding of halal certification’s importance and procedures exacerbate the problem, particularly among MSEs in rural or underdeveloped regions. Financial support, regulatory reforms, and educational programs emerged as the most critical strategies for overcoming these barriers. Specifically, reducing certification fees and simplifying regulatory procedures were deemed essential to increase the uptake of halal certification among MSEs. By integrating actionable insights, this study provides a roadmap for policymakers to foster a supportive ecosystem for MSEs in the halal economy. The recommendations emphasize a balanced approach that combines financial assistance, regulatory reforms, and educational initiatives to address the multifaceted barriers. This analysis contributes to the broader discourse on enhancing MSE participation in the halal market, offering implications for both local and international stakeholders seeking to optimize the halal certification process.

Acknowledgment
The authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemendikbudristek RI) for providing financial support for this investigation. This study would not have been possible without their generous funding and commitment to advancing research in Indonesia. We also extend our appreciation to all the respondents and participants who contributed valuable insights and data for this study, as well as to the institutions involved for their support and collaboration.

This study aims to analyze the role of sustainable social responsibility in enhancing business sustainability, with entrepreneurial culture serving as a mediating variable. Focusing on Bisha University in Saudi Arabia, it demonstrates how the university’s socially responsible practices foster an entrepreneurial culture that, in turn, drives sustainable business outcomes within the local community. A descriptive-analytical approach was adopted, with data collected through a structured survey distributed to 200 faculty members of University of Bisha, yielding 190 valid responses. Hypotheses were tested using simple linear regression and path analysis to explore both direct and indirect relationships among the study variables.
The findings reveal that sustainable social responsibility significantly impacts business sustainability, explaining 49.1% of its variability. Additionally, entrepreneurial culture mediates this relationship, contributing an indirect effect of 0.446 and amplifying the total impact of social responsibility on business sustainability to 70.1%. Sustainable social responsibility also explains 46.5% of the variability in entrepreneurial culture. Model fit indices confirm the robustness of the relationships, with strong statistical significance across all paths. These results underscore the strategic importance of universities in integrating social responsibility into their operations to foster entrepreneurial culture and achieve sustainable outcomes. This study provides valuable insights for higher education institutions aiming to align their academic and operational practices with sustainability goals, contributing to broader initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030.

Acknowledgments
The authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

Employee innovative work behavior plays a vital role in innovation management in private companies, especially in an emerging market like Vietnam. This study investigates the influence of individual factors (including employee creativity and innovative self-efficacy) and organizational factors (constituting innovation climate and organizational support) on innovative work behavior and the impact of innovative work behavior on employee job performance. To test the hypotheses quantitatively, the study uses a two-stage second-order partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method and a questionnaire-based study with 706 employees from private businesses in Vietnam. The findings indicate that individual factors substantially impact workers’ innovative work behavior (scoring 0.491) compared to organizational factors (scoring 0.395). In addition, all factors, including employee creativity, innovative self-efficacy, innovation climate, and organizational support, positively impact workers’ innovative work behavior. Specifically, innovative self-efficacy exerts the most significant influence on innovative work behavior (with a score of 0.360), followed by organizational support (scoring 0.272) and employee creativity (scoring 0.157). Simultaneously, the innovation climate exerts a minor influence on innovative work behavior, with a score of 0.142. Finally, innovative work behavior directly and positively affects employee job performance, scoring 0.641.

Artificial intelligence in public administration is critical for the modernization of the public sector and adaptation to the challenges of modern society. The paper analyzes studies dedicated to the impact of artificial intelligence on the efficiency, innovation, and transparency of management processes in the public sector using meta- and bibliometric analysis. The goal is to identify the main areas and keywords that highlight theoretical and practical aspects of artificial intelligence in public administration. In total, 879 scientific articles were analyzed, of which 598 works are devoted to artificial intelligence. Dynamic time analysis revealed a significant surge in scientific interest in artificial intelligence in public administration: from 2010 to 2019, 135 publications were devoted to this issue, and from 2020 to 2024, 421. Bibliographic maps of keywords and publication maps showed the main thematic areas of research on artificial intelligence: the application of AI in public administration and the public sector, decision-making in public administration, data management and digital technologies in public administration, and the strategic use of AI to forecast socio-economic trends.
The obtained data became the basis for expanding the scientific and practical potential of using artificial intelligence in public administration. The main areas of future research will concern the regulation of ethical issues to ensure the trust of citizens, the development of a regulatory framework and standards, increasing the efficiency of public services, the integration of artificial intelligence into strategic planning, and the use of artificial intelligence to achieve sustainable development goals.

Acknowledgment
The analysis was carried out within the framework of the implementation of the perspective plan for the development of the scientific area “Social Sciences” of Sumy State University, number d/r 0121U112685.

This study explores the dynamics of career anchors shaped by organizational, individual, and societal determinants in relation to women’s access to leadership positions in Moroccan sports federations. In a historically male-dominated setting, understanding these dynamics is essential for promoting more equitable and sustainable career progression. Between January and June 2024, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 female leaders from 12 federations, employing a qualitative interpretive approach and thematic analysis using NVivo 14. The findings highlight two anchors specific to the Moroccan socio-cultural context (family and social support and religious and cultural beliefs), which reveal the impact of cultural pressures and familial responsibilities that may hinder women’s advancement. Additionally, six other career anchors prevail in sports: emotional and professional security, managerial competencies, resilient challenge, technical skills, transformative commitment, and global outlook. The interplay of individual, organizational, and societal factors, along with these career anchors, shows that older women seek to make a lasting impact, while younger women prioritize challenges. Family and cultural support helps balance personal life and ambitions, while the development of managerial skills and a supportive work environment proves crucial. Moreover, the economic context, religious beliefs, cultural norms, and international legal frameworks heavily influence women’s career choices, prompting them to pursue stability, ethical alignment, and global opportunities. This study provides decision-makers with a clear understanding of the factors shaping women’s career trajectories and suggests tangible actions (fostering inclusive governance, advancing gender equality, and shifting mindsets) that can enhance the overall performance of the Moroccan sports sector.

Supervisor performance is a highly interesting topic to study and research in state-owned enterprises, considering its critical role in improving the performance of state-owned companies in Indonesia. However, supervisor performance is hindered by job insecurity, which they experience as long as they do not have job assurance from the company. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the relationship between locus of control and supervisor performance while also examining the moderating role of job insecurity in this relationship within the national electricity company. This study uses an explanatory method with a quantitative approach. The purposive sampling technique was applied to survey 137 respondents, all of whom are supervisors with at least one year of experience in planning, operations, and electrical evaluation at the State Electricity Company in West Java, Indonesia. The data analysis technique is moderated regression analysis, assisted by SPSS version 27 software. The results show that locus of control has a positive and significant effect on supervisor performance (Coef = 0.529, p < 0.05), and job insecurity weakens the relationship between locus of control and supervisor performance (Coef = –0.108, p < 0.05). This study emphasizes the importance of organizations providing job security to supervisors to enhance the performance of state-owned enterprises. Jobs that the organization does not guarantee can reduce the sensitivity of supervisors in developing the organization.

Batik SMEs, especially in Solo Raya, Indonesia, face challenges in business sustainability. Considering that batik is one of Indonesia’s cultural heritages, maintaining the sustainability of batik SMEs means contributing to the preservation of batik culture. Therefore, the study aimed to analyze the influence of entrepreneurial leadership, social capital, and digital literacy on the sustainability of batik SMEs mediated by business performance and moderated by government support and the role of business associations. The quantitative method is used with SEM-PLS analysis. The population included 273 owners and managers of batik SMEs in Solo Raya, Central Java, Indonesia; 155 were used as the research sample. Data were collected through questionnaires conducted online through Google Forms and offline face-to-face. This study found that entrepreneurial leadership and social capital positively and significantly affect performance. Entrepreneurial leadership and business performance have a positive and significant effect on sustainability. Performance mediates the impact of entrepreneurial leadership and social capital on sustainability. In contrast, government support weakens the impact of entrepreneurial leadership on sustainability in its moderating role. This study confirms the ability of batik SMEs in Solo Raya to sustain their business by referring to the resource-based view, survival-based, social capital, and sustainability theories.

Acknowledgment
The authors would like to acknowledge Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana [Satya Wacana Christian University] for providing the opportunity to conduct this analysis. Batik business associates are acknowledged for their willingness to be respondents and facilitate this investigation. Additionally, the support of the SME department is recognized in granting permission and assisting in facilitating this analysis.

Diversity management encompasses dimensions such as gender and sexual orientation, age, disabilities, nationality, ethnicity, religion, and socio-economic status (SES) and is fundamental to sustainable development, enabling higher education institutions (HEIs) to foster inclusive, equitable, and resilient academic environments. This study examines diversity management practices in seven Czech and five Ukrainian HEIs recognized as leaders in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. Data were obtained from university websites, SDG reports, or annual reports focusing on SDG 1, SDG 2, SDG 4, SDG 5, SDG 8, SDG 10, and SDG 16. The analysis shows that Czech universities demonstrate structured policies and stable resources, enabling them to offer comprehensive support for professional growth, gender equality, and inclusivity. Examples include sabbatical opportunities, gender-balanced organizational policies, and adaptive measures for individuals with disabilities. Conversely, Ukrainian universities exhibit remarkable resilience and adaptability, addressing challenges posed by the ongoing war. Key initiatives include supporting displaced students and veterans, restoring damaged infrastructure, and integrating inclusive education practices under wartime constraints. Despite differing contexts, both countries emphasize financial aid and scholarships as critical tools for ensuring equitable access to education. The findings underscore the importance of leveraging diversity dimensions to develop effective strategies for achieving SDGs while adapting to regional and institutional specificities.

Acknowledgment
This publication is based upon work from 24-PKVV-UM-002, ‘Strengthening the Resilience of Universities: Czech-Ukrainian Partnership for Digital Education, Research Cooperation, and Diversity Management,’ supported by the Czech Development Agency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the initiative ‘Capacity Building of Public Universities in Ukraine 2024’.

This study analyzes the effect of gender diversity, board size, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosures on firm performance and risk management in the consumer goods sector in Indonesia, targeting companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2020 to 2022. Based on 273 cases and using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), this paper tests eight direct and moderating hypotheses. The results reveal that both gender diversity and board size positively impact firm value, while board size successfully reduces firm risk. However, gender diversity does not mitigate risks. The findings indicate that increasing board gender diversity and size are positively related to performance, while only board size contributes effectively to risk reduction. ESG disclosures play a moderating role, enhancing the synergy between gender diversity and performance but showing mixed effects on risk reduction. Overall, the study highlights the importance of integrating gender diversity and strong ESG practices to achieve better performance outcomes, improve transparency, and develop a more competitive corporate strategy.

Acknowledgment
The author would like to thank the Higher Education Service Institute of Region VII of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology and the Directorate of Research, Technology and Community Service, Directorate General of Higher Education, Research and Technology for funding this research with research contract number 076/SP2H/PT/LL7/2024.

The importance of environmental performance has gained significant attention in recent years, as it is increasingly recognized as a critical component of sustainable development and corporate success. Environmental performance refers to how well an organization manages its environmental responsibilities, which can significantly influence its overall sustainability and competitive advantage. This study aims to investigate the role of green job design and top management support in enhancing employee ecological behavior through green social capital as a mediating variable. The paper employed a purposive sampling technique to select 442 samples of paramedics and non-paramedics from various public hospitals in Indonesia. Data were analyzed using the structural equation modeling-partial least squares technique with SmartPLS 3.0. The results indicated that green job design (t = 3.80, p = 0.000) exhibits statistically significant positive direct effects on employee ecological behavior. Surprisingly, top management support (t = 0.86, p > 0.05) exhibits statistically insignificant direct effects on employee ecological behavior. Additionally, green social capital was found to have a statistically significant direct effect on employee ecological behavior (t = 2.73, p <0.05). Green job design, top management support, and green social capital play crucial roles in the adoption of employee ecological behavior in the Indonesian healthcare industry. Achieving employee ecological behavior necessitates integrating these job designs with management support.

Acknowledgment
This study was funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, Indonesia (Contract. 351/G164/U.LPPM/K/B.07/VI/2024).

One of the primary responsibilities of managers is to make informed decisions that promote company progress and enhance performance. Unfortunately, not all managers adhere to appropriate decision-making standards. Some managers may resort to subjective criteria instead of relying on objective performance metrics. The purpose of this study is to investigate employees’ perceptions of cronyism and how organizational cronyism influences decision-making in pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Jordan. A quantitative approach was employed, using a structured questionnaire to gather employee responses. The questionnaires were collected from employees of the top five pharmaceutical companies, which are considered the most dynamic and competitive in the Jordanian market. A total of 452 usable questionnaires were included in the analysis. The results indicate that all three dimensions of organizational cronyism, including paternal cronyism (β = 0.295, t = 5.382, p > 0.000), in-group bias (β = 0.277, t = 3.514, p > 0.000), and reciprocal exchange of favor (β = 0.321, t = 3.866, p > 0.000), have a significant impact on decision-making. Regarding the moderating impact of ethical organizational culture, the results reveal a weak impact on the relationship between the dimensions of organizational cronyism and organizational culture. Unprejudiced decision-making can be a crucial factor in fostering an ethical culture and reducing organizational cronyism.

Small and medium-sized enterprises account for more than 98.2% of total enterprises in Hanoi and contribute significantly to the city’s employment, innovation, and GDP. This study aims to analyze and evaluate the influence of corporate social responsibility and green marketing on the competitive advantage of small and medium-sized enterprises in Hanoi, Vietnam. With 292 valid survey responses, data analysis was conducted through PLS-SEM. The study results show that corporate social responsibility and green marketing are critical to the competitiveness of small and medium-sized firms in Hanoi. Corporate social responsibility positively influences green marketing (β = 0.812, p < 0.01) and corporate reputation (β = 0.458, p < 0.01). Similarly, green marketing strongly impacts corporate reputation (β = 0.440, p < 0.01), while corporate reputation contributes substantially to competitive advantage (β = 0.794, p < 0.01). Indirect effects were also observed. Accordingly, corporate social responsibility and green marketing enhance competitive advantage through corporate reputation, with indirect path coefficients of 0.364 and 0.350, respectively. Additionally, corporate social responsibility indirectly affects corporate reputation via green marketing (β = 0.358, p < 0.01). The findings show that integrating corporate social responsibility and green marketing strategies improves enterprises’ reputation, which in turn improves competitive advantages.

This study highlights the complexity of the relationship between sustainability performance, environment, social and governance (ESG) reporting, and tax aggressiveness, which is a critical concern amidst the increasing demands for corporate social accountability. Companies in Indonesia and Malaysia, especially those in the non-financial sector, face increasing regulatory pressure to meet ESG standards. This study uses 263 Indonesian and 311 Malaysian companies as samples because both countries are prominent emerging markets in Southeast Asia with fast-growing economies, diverse industries, and abundant natural resources. However, aggressive tax avoidance remains a common strategy to maintain financial flexibility. This study aims to examine whether companies with high ESG performance tend to reduce tax avoidance practices or use it as a strategy to cover ESG costs. Through 2SLS regression analysis on 2012–2021 data, the results show that ESG performance has a significant positive effect on tax aggressiveness, where companies with high ESG performance also tend to engage in tax avoidance to cover ESG costs. Conversely, tax aggressiveness positively affects ESG performance because companies increase ESG engagement to reduce reputational risks from aggressive tax practices. The simultaneous test found a reciprocal relationship between the two variables with an R² value of 29.4% for tax aggressiveness and 63.1% for ESG performance. This study suggests stricter regulations to reduce tax avoidance in companies with high ESG performance and provides insights for policymakers in Southeast Asia.

This study examines Ukrainian entrepreneurs’ commitment to social and environmental sustainability during the ongoing war and how their actions align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It assesses the impact of economic, social, and infrastructural challenges on sustainability practices during the war, emphasizing the relationship between crisis management and long-term sustainability strategies. The study is based on the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Adult Population Survey (APS) 2023 in Ukraine. This dataset was collected as part of the GEM Ukraine project and reflects the authors’ contributions and leadership role in the initiative. Importantly, these results were not included in the GEM Global Report or other publications, which emphasizes the originality and importance of this study. A regression model examines the relationship between the Index of War Impact (IWI) and corporate attitudes toward sustainability, focusing on social and environmental contributions, awareness of the SDGs, and the visibility of socially oriented companies. The results show that economic hardships significantly drive entrepreneurs to prioritize sustainability efforts, while awareness of the SDGs plays a central role in decision-making. In contrast, the social and infrastructural impacts of war have no significant influence on contributions to sustainability. Entrepreneurs in economically challenged regions show a stronger alignment with sustainability goals, indicating adaptive strategies under crisis conditions. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to promote resilient and sustainable entrepreneurship in war-affected areas. It contributes to the academic discussion on entrepreneurship, sustainability, and resilience in times of crisis.

The study aims to examine the impact of international trade on the sustainability of regional ecosystems in Ukraine, particularly amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The paper applies econometric modeling, factor analysis, cluster analysis, and geographic information systems (GIS) for spatial analysis. Sustainability indicators include environmental resilience indicators (carbon emissions, water quality), economic stability metrics (GDP per capita, investment in green technologies), and social sustainability factors (employment rate, access to education and healthcare). Results indicate that a 1% increase in exports enhances sustainability indicators by 0.9%, while a 1% rise in imports or demographic density reduces these indices by 0.94% and 0.75%, respectively. Cluster analysis identifies five groups of regions with varying ecological resilience, revealing critical vulnerabilities in southern and eastern Ukraine where resilience indices are below 0.5. War actions exacerbate these issues, causing infrastructure destruction, soil and water degradation, and pollutant emissions ranging from 152.5 to 16,311.4 thousand tons. Recommendations include scaling up environmental protection investments by 20% (from the current 5,965–165,228 thousand UAH) and integrating sustainability standards into international trade policies to harmonize economic activities with environmental management in crisis and post-war recovery contexts.

With millennials comprising 79% of Indonesia’s regional development banks (BPDs) workforce, understanding factors affecting their work engagement is crucial for organizational performance. This study examines how personal resources (grit and self-efficacy) and transformational leadership influence job crafting and work engagement among millennial employees in BPDs. Using a cross-sectional design, 477 millennial employees (aged 25-35) from six BPDs in Java, Indonesia, were surveyed. Data analysis using partial least squares structural equation modeling revealed that self-efficacy had the strongest direct effect on both job crafting (β = 0.303, p < 0.001) and work engagement (β = 0.276, p < 0.001), followed by grit’s impact on job crafting (β = 0.244, p < 0.001) and work engagement (β = 0.181, p < 0.001). Job crafting significantly influenced work engagement (β = 0.285, p < 0.001) and partially mediated the relationships between personal resources and work engagement. While transformational leadership did not moderate the relationship between job crafting and work engagement (β = –0.010, p > 0.05), it showed significant direct effects on both variables (β = 0.257 and β = 0.344, respectively). These findings demonstrate the importance of developing employees’ personal resources and leadership capabilities to enhance work engagement in Indonesia’s banking sector.

Acknowledgment
Open access funding was provided by journal publishing cost assistance from Universitas Padjadjaran. Regional Development Banks Association (ASBANDA) in Indonesia and regional development banks in Java Island (Bank BJB, Bank Jatim, Bank DIY, Bank Jateng, Bank DKI, and Bank Banten) are acknowledged for their contributions.

Analyzing the connection between military expenditure and economic growth is interesting due to its policy implications, particularly in geopolitically strategic regions. In the case of Azerbaijan, where defense spending accounts for a significant share of the national budget, this relationship is especially relevant. The present study explores the long-term equilibrium between military expenditure, expressed as a percentage of GDP, over a three-decade period marked by consistent economic growth and substantial defense investments. To investigate this relationship, the study applies the Johansen cointegration method to check for a stable long-term relationship. It employs the Granger causality test to determine the causal direction between the variables. The findings show cointegrating relationships, indicating a long-term equilibrium between military expenditure and economic growth. Furthermore, the Granger causality analysis indicates a bidirectional causal link, implying that changes in military expenditure influence GDP per capita growth and vice versa. Specifically, the results show that military expenditure Granger causes GDP per capita at a lag of 3 (p-value = 0.012). Similarly, GDP per capita Granger causes military expenditure at the same lag (p-value = 0.0001). The findings reveal the dual impact of military spending on economic development, providing insights for Azerbaijani policymakers to balance defense needs with economic growth.

Employee satisfaction has become indispensable in the immensely competitive business world for the sustainability of entities embracing sound human resource planning, human resource development, and an adequate performance appraisal system, as these factors foster employee satisfaction. Thus, this study aims to evaluate how human resource practices affect the level of satisfaction among the workforce in Nepalese commercial banks. The paper employed descriptive and explanatory research designs to test the hypotheses and to address the objectives. Structured survey questionnaires were disseminated among 700 employees working in commercial banks; only 389 (55.57 percent) questionnaires were successfully retrieved. This study employed descriptive statistics along with frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation to study the general characteristics of respondents’ background information. Next, correlation and linear regression were adopted to assess the association between predictors and outcome variables, along with a test of effects. The finding revealed a positive and significant association between human resource planning and employee satisfaction (p < 0.05). Similarly, human resource development had a positive effect on employee satisfaction (p < 0.05). Performance appraisal showed a positive correlation with employee satisfaction (p < 0.05). The implications suggest endorsing effective human resource practices as a strategic path for organizations to foster employee satisfaction.

The study investigates the effect of Islamic work ethics on task performance. Further, it examines the mediating role of affective commitment on the relationship between Islamic work ethics and task performance. The study employed a random sampling method. Data were gathered via questionnaires distributed among 370 medical staff in the public healthcare facilities in the Kingdom of Bahrain, namely doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. The survey gathered demographic data from participants and assessed their perspectives on the relationship between Islamic work ethics and task performance and the mediation effect of affective commitment on that relationship. Data analysis using SPSS and SmartPLS4 software revealed a highly significant relationship between Islamic work ethics and task performance. Further, the results found that affective commitment significantly mediated the relationship between Islamic work ethics and task performance. The direct effect of Islamic work ethics on task performance is more substantial than an indirect impact of affective commitment. Therefore, Islamic work ethics play a useful role as an independent factor in increasing employee task performance among medical staff. The findings contribute to all stakeholders and policymakers who strive to strengthen the performance of employees in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The aim of this study is to analyze the legal framework governing partnerships between micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and large businesses in Indonesia, as stipulated by Law Number 20 of 2008. Specifically, it investigates the Law’s alignment with the principles of substantive and formal justice and legal certainty enshrined in Law No. 10/2004. Utilizing a normative juridical approach and qualitative analysis of legal documents, the study identifies a critical imbalance in the legal framework governing MSME partnerships with large businesses. While Indonesian MSMEs Law aims to empower MSMEs, it lacks provisions outlining their specific rights and obligations within partnerships and omits sanctions for their contractual violations. This starkly contrasts the detailed prohibitions and sanctions imposed on large businesses, creating an environment of legal uncertainty and potential injustice. This imbalance could have detrimental consequences, discouraging investment, hindering MSME growth, and ultimately impeding economic development. By allowing MSMEs to operate with limited accountability within partnerships, the Law may inadvertently harm the entities it seeks to protect. This study makes a novel contribution by highlighting this disparity and its potential implications for the Indonesian economy. It argues that the absence of clear sanctions for MSMEs undermines the principles of justice and legal certainty, potentially jeopardizing the sustainability of MSME partnerships. The study recommends a revision of Indonesian MSMEs Law to incorporate explicit sanctions for MSME violations, thereby fostering a balanced legal framework that promotes mutually beneficial partnerships and contributes to robust economic growth in Indonesia.

Acknowledgment
The authors acknowledge the Universitas Sumatera Utara’s Doctor of Law program, the Faculty of Law, the Research Institute, and other parties who have contributed to and assisted in this analysis.

Applying effective management methods for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) is a crucial commitment to compete in the market. Total quality management (TQM) is a well-known systematic method that increases business competitiveness and improves performance. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to examine the gap between current SMEs’ management quality in relation to the management standards recommended by TQM. This quantitative research was conducted with representatives of 76 relevant SMEs out of 370 contacted through the official platform for business registration. Firstly, 12 relevant critical success factors (CSFs) have been identified and validated with Cronbach’s alpha and item statistics and further applied to measure SMEs’ performance. One sample statistic is applied for CSF indexing, and one sample t-test is used to test the raised hypothesis. According to the research findings, human resource management performs with an average score of 3.95 out of 5, information management 3.89 out of 5, and continuous improvement 3.77 out of 5, while customer focus performs with a low score of 3.32 out of 5, and training and education with 3.14 out of 5. The raised hypothesis confirms that SMEs are not at the level of TQM standards, and this is supported by a reliability value of alpha (p = 0). This paper contributes to the literature by providing insights into current SMEs’ management quality and offers a validated model, which can be applied to measure SMEs’ managerial quality.

In recent times, macroeconomic factors have become a central focus of interest in international trade research. The economic environment in international trade directly affects trade performance and the global market. The study analyzes the export performance of Indian textile exports and the macroeconomic factors influencing them from the perspective of export destinations. The study incorporates the key macroeconomic variables, including exchange rate, interest rate, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, the inflation rates of export destination countries, and crude oil prices. The study includes secondary data gathered on a monthly basis, employing the vector auto-regressive (VAR) model and the Granger causality test to analyze the dynamic linkages and causal relationships between the variables in the study. The Granger causality test results revealed that Japan’s and South Africa’s GDP (p < 0.05) impacts India’s textile exports to these countries. Additionally, the inflation in Japan (p < 0.05) affects the performance of Indian textile exports. The VAR model further revealed that the USA’s and China’s interest rate, Japan’s exchange rate, GDP, and interest rate, as well as South Africa’s GDP, significantly influence the export performance of Indian textiles.

Entrepreneurship is essential in fostering sustainable development since it deals with the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. This study aims to explore the influence of entrepreneurship on sustainable development and the mediation role of digital innovation in Jordanian universities. A quantitative empirical research design was adopted, collecting primary data via a survey questionnaire from a sample of 322 administrative employees selected because of their centrality in the implementation of institutional strategies and fostering entrepreneurial initiatives consistent with sustainability objectives. Data analysis was performed using Smart PLS 4 software to test the proposed relationships. The results have determined that entrepreneurship significantly influences sustainable development (β = 0.48, p ≤ 0.05) and strongly predicts digital innovation (β = 0.70, p ≤ 0.01). Moreover, digital innovation is positively related to sustainable development (β = 0.55, p ≤ 0.01). Additionally, digital innovation mediates the relationship between entrepreneurship and sustainable development since the mediated effect is significant (β = 0.60, p ≤ 0.01). These findings underline the strategic importance of digital innovation in increasing the impact of entrepreneurship on sustainability and offer lessons that university leaders and policymakers can use to integrate entrepreneurship and digital innovation into institutional strategies relevant to accomplishing sustainable development goals.

Work-life balance is crucial in fostering a sense of ownership and achieving company success. When employees can achieve a good balance between work and personal lives, they are more satisfied and have higher organizational commitment. This study aims to determine the mediation role of organizational commitment and job satisfaction in the effect of work work-life balance on employee performance targeting five-star hotels in Bali, Indonesia. This quantitative analysis surveyed 157 employees using purposive sampling. The data analysis is done via a partial least squares approach. The results show that organizational commitment mediates the influence of work-life balance on employee performance. This is indicated by the t-statistic coefficient of 1.972 > t-table 1.96, and the significance value is 0.049 < 0.05. Job satisfaction mediates the effect of work-life balance on employee performance with a t-statistic value of 3.291 > t-table 1.96 and a significance value of 0.001 < 0.05. It means job satisfaction mediates the influence of work-life balance on employee performance. This paper implies that the model can be used to develop policies that encourage work-life balance. For instance, ensuring a balanced workload among team members can prevent fatigue and provide employees with sufficient time for rest and leisure activities. Additionally, implementing family support programs can enhance organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and performance.

This study aims to investigate the impact of job crafting on work-life balance and employee achievement, specifically in-role performance and work-related procrastination, as positive and negative outcomes, respectively. A survey questionnaire was administered to 1,032 employees from micro, small, and medium enterprises in Indonesia. Factor analysis and internal consistency testing were used to assess the measuring instruments. The relationship model was tested using structural equation modeling with a two-step approach. The paper found a relationship among the three dimensions of job crafting and their correlation with work-life balance, procrastination, and in-role performance. Work-life balance and in-role performance exhibited a significant negative relationship with procrastination. These results show that the approach aspect of job crafting can enhance both work-life balance and in-role performance. The model fit to the data is very good (CFI (0.996 > 0.95), NFI (0.985 > 0.90), SRMR (0.004 < 0.08), GFI (0.996 > 0.95), TLI (0.954 > 0.90), AGFI (0.919 > 0.90) with a small normed chi-square (χ2/df = 11.973). The influence of job crafting dimensions on procrastination varied. The findings further strengthen the notion that the proactive element of job crafting positively influences behavior through offering feedback, setting high targets for employees, and expanding the scope of work to enhance their complexity. However, the avoidance aspect of job crafting remains inconsistent and requires further research. The practice of job crafting should be encouraged in the workplace.

Acknowledgment
Heartfelt gratitude is extended to the employees of MSMEs actively engaged in this research.

Understanding the role of government policy in advancing sustainable development goals and food sovereignty is key to building food security and food system resilience. This study leverages bibliometric analysis of Scopus data using tools like Biblioshiny to explore global research trends on the interrelationship between government policies in the agrarian sector and food security. The methodology involves structured data collection, cleaning, and analysis of metadata and keywords, revealing growth in publications since the 1980s, with significant increases post-2000 due to heightened global food security concerns. The peak of publication in 2023 is connected to the war in Ukraine, the disruptions it caused to global food security, and the functioning of the grain corridor agreements. From 1922 to 2000, studies focused on broad themes like agricultural policy and food security. Between 2001 and 2010, attention shifted to food markets, sovereignty, grain production, and the Common Agricultural Policy. From 2011 to 2025, research expanded to climate-smart agriculture, dietary diversity, foreign investment, and technological advancements like data analysis and remote sensing, highlighting technology’s growing role in food security. The core themes such as “agricultural policy,” “food security,” “climate change,” and “sustainable agriculture” emerged as dominant areas of focus. Advanced topics like “machine learning,” “remote sensing,” and “climate-smart agriculture” highlight a shift toward data-driven, technologically integrated solutions for food security. China and the USA were identified as leading contributors, producing the most publications and participating in the highest number of international collaborations.

Corruption is one of the major challenges facing both developed and developing countries, which seriously undermines governance and economic stability. This is specifically true for civil servants, whose vulnerability to corruption is greatly increased by the particular pressures and opportunities arising in their work. This study aims to explore perceived corruption among civil servants in Semarang, Indonesia, using the fraud triangle and attribution theories that point to psychological and organizational factors in corruption. The sample consisted of 99 civil servants convicted of corruption. This study used multiple linear regression to analyze data on how perceived pressure, opportunity, and rationalization contribute to unethical behavior. From the results, perceived pressure, especially financial stress, and the opportunity for corruption due to weak organizational controls were significant driving factors for corrupt actions. Financial pressure emerged as the most influential factor, followed by the opportunity for unethical behavior in weak organizational environments. The study emphasizes the need to address both psychological factors, such as personal values and ethical leadership, and organizational factors, like strengthening internal controls and reducing opportunities for misconduct. These findings provide valuable messages for policymakers in designing comprehensive anti-corruption strategies that could reduce both internal motivations and external opportunities that foster corruption among civil servants.

The implementation of environmental management systems is increasingly recognized as essential for advancing sustainability in healthcare, particularly in resource-constrained contexts such as Iraq. This study evaluates the compliance of Iraqi public and private hospitals with ISO 14001:2015 standards, revealing significant discrepancies between the two sectors. Utilizing a quantitative descriptive approach, data were collected through field surveys, structured interviews, and document analysis to assess environmental management systems practices. Private hospitals demonstrated a compliance rate of 75%, while public hospitals achieved a compliance rate of only 50%. Key deficiencies in public hospitals were identified in operation (78% gap) and improvement (73% gap), indicating systemic weaknesses. Although private hospitals performed better, they still exhibited notable gaps, particularly in leadership and performance evaluation, both at 29%. Challenges common to both sectors included insufficient resource allocation, limited environmental awareness, and inadequate leadership involvement. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to address barriers to adoption of environmental management systems. Strategies such as fostering stronger leadership commitment, optimizing resource allocation, incorporating advanced environmental technologies, and implementing ongoing staff training are recommended to bridge the compliance gap. This study provides critical insights into enhancing environmental performance and promoting sustainable healthcare practices in Iraq. Furthermore, it serves as a reference for addressing similar challenges in developing countries, emphasizing the importance of aligning healthcare operations with international environmental management standards.

Acknowledgment
The authors wish to convey their sincere appreciation to the two selected hospitals for their cooperation and willingness to participate in this study. The provision of necessary documentation and the allocation of time by these institutions have been invaluable in facilitating the completion of the research.

As a traditional Indonesian craft, batik holds immense cultural significance and economic potential. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a significant decline in the growth of batik micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. This study aims to investigate the role of sustainable orientation and government support in encouraging sustainable entrepreneurship within this sector. The data were obtained using purposive sampling of 32 MSMEs and 89 respondents, including owners, managers, and senior employees. Data analysis was done using the Structural Equation Modeling – Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) method. The results reveal that economic factors have the greatest influence on the development of sustainable entrepreneurial businesses. While social and environmental considerations also play a role, they are secondary to economic issues. In addition, the study reveals that a strong sustainability orientation, characterized by a balanced emphasis on economic, social, and environmental dimensions, as well as supportive government policies, significantly encourages sustainable entrepreneurship. This orientation motivates businesses to adopt long-term perspectives, prioritize sustainable resource use, and consider the social impact of their operations. It also highlights practical strategies for policymakers and entrepreneurs to integrate sustainability into traditional industries. Therefore, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable entrepreneurship, which offers insights into harnessing cultural heritage for economic advantage globally post-pandemic.

Acknowledgment
The author gratefully acknowledges the financial support provided by the Directorate of Research, Technology, and Community Service under the auspices of the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research, and Technology, Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia. This article was funded through the Higher Education Excellence Applied Research Program under contract number 009/SP2H/PT-L/LL7/2023.

This study examines the key factors influencing managerial employees’ intention to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) in the manufacturing sector of Saudi Arabia. The paper assesses the impact of business innovation, entrepreneurial orientation, and technology orientation on AI adoption intention while also exploring the moderating role of leadership in these relationships. The study surveyed 314 managerial employees from 18 manufacturing companies in Saudi Arabia, representing sectors such as industrial equipment, consumer goods, and automotive production. Managerial-level participants were chosen for their direct involvement in AI adoption decisions. A cross-sectional design was used with an online survey, and convenience sampling was applied for its efficiency in gathering relevant insights from key decision-makers. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS version 4.0. The findings indicate that business innovation (β = 0.351, p = 0.001), entrepreneurial orientation (β = 0.264, p = 0.00), and technology orientation (β = 0.435, p = 0.023) significantly enhance the intention to adopt AI. Furthermore, leadership was found to moderate these relationships positively, strengthening the effects of business innovation (β = 0.212, p = 0.00), entrepreneurial orientation (β = 0.371, p = 0.004), and technology orientation (β = 0.251, p = 0.031) on AI adoption. These results underscore the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, enhancing technological readiness, and developing effective leadership strategies to promote AI integration in the manufacturing sector.

As an upper-middle-income country, Armenia should develop and implement targeted policies, such as increased R&D investments, education reforms, and industry-academia collaboration, to enhance its innovation performance. Strengthening these areas is expected to contribute to higher Global Innovation Index (GII) rankings, reflecting improved national innovation capacity.
This study aims to estimate the impact of various GII components (including pillars, sub-indices, and sub-pillars) on the overall GII and pillar scores for upper-middle-income countries. Based on these findings, the study seeks to identify Armenia’s key policy priorities and provide targeted recommendations for enhancing its innovation performance. This study employs a cross-sectional regression to analyze the factors influencing GII scores in upper-middle-income countries, assessing the impact of sub-indices, pillars, and sub-pillars. The analysis reveals that market sophistication and creative outputs strongly influence GII scores among upper-middle-income countries, contributing significantly to national innovation performance. Additionally, knowledge and technology outputs, human capital and research, and infrastructure pillars show a statistically significant impact at the 5% level. Notably, even minor improvements in innovation output sub-index scores account for substantial variations in GII rankings. These findings suggest that Armenia should prioritize targeted education reforms, increase R&D investment, and strengthen university-industry linkages to enhance its innovation ecosystem and improve its global competitiveness.

Acknowledgment
The research was supported by the Science Committee of the Republic of Armenia within the framework of the project No. 21T-5B234.

Organizational citizenship behavior describes employees’ voluntary behaviors that enhance organizational efficiency and productivity. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships between employee engagement, organizational justice, organizational citizenship behavior, and perceived organizational support. The population comprised employees from 11 public hospitals in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia. This quantitative analysis employed a Likert scale questionnaire to collect the data from nurses in public hospitals. The sample consisted of 175 nurses with at least one year of work experience. The data were then analyzed using SEM-PLS and SmartPLS 4.0. A substantial correlation was found between perceived organizational support and organizational citizenship behavior (p < 0.05) and employee engagement (p < 0.05). A strong correlation existed between organizational justice and organizational citizenship behavior (p < 0.05) and employee engagement (p < 0.05). Furthermore, employee engagement notably affects organizational citizenship behavior (p < 0.05). Employee engagement serves as a mediator between organizational justice and organizational citizenship behavior (p < 0.05) and between perceived organizational support and organizational citizenship behavior (p < 0.05).

The study aims to analyze the transport and logistics sector development in Azerbaijan compared with International Transport Forum (ITF) countries and assess investment impact on it. The research base consists of OECD and World Bank data for the sample of 41 ITF countries for 2010–2022 regarding 19 indicators that characterize the level of transport and logistics sector’s development, investment, and maintenance spending. Based on Ward’s clustering, Sturges rule, and normalization, sample countries were divided into six clusters depending on the transport and logistics sector development in 2010, 2015, and 2022 (using STATA and Statgraphics Centurion). In 2022, Azerbaijan remained part of Cluster 1 (mostly European countries), just as in 2015 and 2010. Pearson correlations were applied to prove the relationships between 19 indicators in this field. Arellano–Bond dynamic panel-data estimation was made for Cluster 1, including Azerbaijan (32 countries for 2010–2022). Based on the constructed dynamic regression models for panel data, it was confirmed that with every 1% increase in road/rail investment, the length of roads/rail tracks/electrified rail tracks will increase by 0.03% with 2-year lag, 0.03% with a 1-year lag, and 0.06% with a 1-year lag. A 1% increase in value added by machinery and transport equipment will lead to a 0.03% increase in the length of electrified rail tracks with 2-year lag and an increase in rail investment by an average of 0.1% without lag.

Recent scholarly works in the field of organizational behavior highlight the critical importance of understanding the variables that contribute to employee flourishing. However, these variables are still under-researched while this information can contribute to the improvement of management practices. The purpose of this study was to explore the role of psychological capital as a moderator between personality traits and flourishing. The sample consisted of employees (n = 155) working full-time in various Lithuanian private organizations. The data were collected online through professional networks. Participants completed measures assessing the Big Five personality traits (BFI-2), psychological capital (self-efficacy, hope, optimism, resilience) (PCQ-24), and flourishing (FS). Correlation, multiple regression, and moderation analyses were conducted. Results demonstrated that extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness were positively associated with flourishing, whereas neuroticism was negatively associated. Together, these traits explained 68.5% of the variance in flourishing. Examining psychological capital, extraversion, agreeableness, and openness emerged as positive predictors, while neuroticism was a negative predictor, accounting for 47.9% of the variance. Within psychological capital, optimism, hope, and self-efficacy significantly predicted flourishing, explaining 59.4% of its variance; resilience, while correlated, was not a significant predictor. Notably, psychological capital moderated the relationship between extraversion and flourishing: individuals high in extraversion and psychological capital reported enhanced flourishing. From a management perspective, interventions that strengthen psychological capital may be especially beneficial for employees high in extraversion, potentially fostering greater well-being, work efficiency, and productivity.

Innovation is vital in the modern economic environment, as it aims to improve the operational efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability of enterprises. The study aimed to examine the innovation activity of Hungarian small and medium-sized enterprises and the most important factors influencing their innovation. The paper employed a questionnaire survey in the spring of 2024. During the survey, a total of 253 companies were interviewed about their innovation factors. Based on the results, the innovation activity of the Hungarian SME sector shows a developing tendency. A positive attitude toward innovation is increasingly present among SMEs. More than half of the respondents (53%) believe that innovation plays a key role in maintaining competitiveness. However, in practice, almost two-thirds (58%) of managers do not involve their employees in innovation processes, or only partially, suggesting that companies’ decision-making processes remain centralized. Statistical analyses showed that neither the companies’ size nor age showed a significant correlation with innovation. However, the research results showed a close relationship between innovation and the use of knowledge transfer. This result shows that knowledge management plays a decisive role in the innovation processes of Hungarian small and medium-sized enterprises.

Acknowledgments
This study is funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Grant “Strategy of structural and technological modernization of the basic sectors of the economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan based on ESG: criteria, mechanisms and forecast scenario” No. BR24993089).

Higher education institutions are vital for preparing future professionals and integrating education with the job market. Nevertheless, the limited opportunities for career-orientated education in Nepal continue to pose a significant challenge to the employability of youths. This study examines the impact of the higher education institutional environment and career development learnings on the employability of Nepalese youth. It also examines how career development learning influences the connection between the higher education environment and employment preparedness. The study employs a descriptive and causal methodology, using data from a survey of 411 respondents aged 21–35 actively pursuing work and engaging in career-preparatory courses in Nepal. It employed structural equation modeling to analyze the data and assess the proposed hypotheses. The results suggest that the higher education institution environment does not significantly improve employability (β = 0.038, p > 0.05). Career development learning influences this association (β = 0.803, p < 0.05), underscoring its essential function in converting educational experiences into competencies and preparedness for the job market. The paper stresses the importance of self-determination theory, illustrating how autonomy, competence, and interpersonal interactions contribute to personal development and motivation. Despite the specific cultural and economic context, the outcomes highlight the importance of higher education institutions in fostering career-oriented learning opportunities, advancing employability, and promoting broader developmental goals.

This study aims to investigate the relationship between environmental sustainability, social development, and governance within Kazakhstan’s agro-industrial complex. The paper applies econometric modeling and statistical analysis to assess these relationships and provide strategic recommendations for sustainable development. A dataset from 2013 to 2023, sourced from the Bureau of National Statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was utilized to assess the influence of transit routes and agriculture on ESG performance. Principal component analysis (PCA) and regression modeling identified three key components – environmental (84.3%), social (98.4%), and governance (88.33%) – as significant contributors to ESG variability. The results demonstrate that transit flows positively affect environmental and governance indicators (β = 0.266, p = 0.050), while agro-industrial activity has mixed effects: improved social sustainability but increased environmental pressure. The combined impact of transit corridors and the agro-industrial complex provides a more comprehensive explanation of ESG variability (R² = 0.998), reinforcing the need for integrated policy approaches. The findings highlight the strategic importance of aligning transit infrastructure and agro-industrial development with ESG frameworks. This paper contributes to the discourse on sustainable development by offering practical insights for policymakers on optimizing logistics and agricultural strategies to promote ESG adoption, particularly in agriculture-dependent economies.

Acknowledgments
This study is funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Grant “Strategy of structural and technological modernization of the basic sectors of the economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan based on ESG: criteria, mechanisms and forecast scenarios” BR24993089).

The rapidly changing business environment and fierce competition necessitate startups to innovate continuously. External stimuli such as market trends, technological advancements, and competition are critical in influencing a startup’s ability to innovate and enhance performance. This study aims to explore the role of these external stimuli, along with management control systems, specifically diagnostic and interactive systems, in promoting radical innovations and improving startup performance. A quantitative approach using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was applied to data collected from 250 startup managers in Indonesia. The results show that external stimuli significantly influence diagnostic (p < 0.001, t = 3.647) and interactive control systems (p < 0.001, t = 5.452). Diagnostic and interactive systems positively affect radical innovation (p < 0.001, t = 3.362). Radical innovation significantly enhances performance (p < 0.001, t = 3.453). Such evidence shows that external stimuli and control systems should be aligned to facilitate radical innovation and increase startup performance. The study offers valuable information for managers on how to achieve operational control but retain strategic flexibility in rapidly changing situations. The findings present both theoretical and practical contributions to strategic management and innovation processes in startup companies.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of information management strategies on decision-making effectiveness in Jordanian private hospitals. It examines how data accuracy, accessibility, technology adoption, and information system integration influence decision-making effectiveness while considering the critical mediation role of organizational culture. A quantitative approach was employed; structured questionnaires were used to collect data from healthcare professionals in selected Jordanian private hospitals, which included hospital administrators, IT staff, and clinical managers. The total sample consisted of 357 out of 400 sent questionnaires. The study utilized partial least squares (PLS) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to assess the relationships between the variables. Based on β and R2 values, the results indicated that information management strategies significantly affect decision-making effectiveness, in addition to a vital role of organizational culture. The results indicate that data accuracy, accessibility, technology adoption, and information system integration influence decision-making effectiveness. Additionally, it stresses that organizational culture significantly influences the relationship between information management strategies and decision-making effectiveness in private hospitals in Jordan.

This paper examines the influence of marketing expenses and total assets on the technical efficiency of big Ukrainian pharmaceutical producers during the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The data were collected from the nine leading pharmaceutical firms for six years, covering 2018–2023. Input-oriented data envelopment analysis was used, with revenue serving as the output and raw materials, sales, and general and administrative expenses as the inputs. The study found that the COVID-19 pandemic and the onset of the full-scale invasion of Russia in Ukraine caused a decline in efficiency, although not statistically significant. The analysis showed that around 70% of pharmaceutical firms need to increase the scale of operations to achieve efficiency. Additionally, smaller and older firms were found to have better efficiency. The research findings show that marketing productivity is positively associated with pure efficiency, while marketing expenses have the opposite impact with coefficients 0.064 and –0.05, respectively. Finally, a substantial increase in slacks during the COVID-19 pandemic propelled managers to find ways to cut sales and general and administrative costs. The results underscore the importance of cost optimization policies, along with asset and business-scale management in maintaining the efficiency of Ukrainian pharmaceutical firms.

The advancement of digital technologies has facilitated rapid operational procedures, improved efficiency, and minimized expenses of companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, which has been explored in this study. Behavior, particularly the use of information on successful digital accountant personality traits, significantly influences the process of choosing information in the context of digital transformation. This study focuses on the behavior in successfully using accounting information related to the accountant’s personality. The data were collected by using a questionnaire from 124 firms registered on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, utilizing quantitative methods. Furthermore, this study employs regression analysis to process the data. The findings reveal that the use of integrated accounting information for sharing impacts the ability of accountants to adapt to change (b = 0.397), work well under pressure (b = 0.341), and make sound decisions (b = 0.335). Additionally, the formality of accounting information was found to positively influence ethical behavior (b = 0.358). The results highlight the importance of fostering information sharing across departments, particularly in accounting, to enhance adaptability, decision-making, and ethical behavior. Ultimately, this study underscores the crucial role of integrated information systems in supporting accountants’ success in the digital transformation process, enabling firms to achieve their objectives and navigate evolving business environments.

Employee turnover has emerged as a growing and complex challenge, particularly among young workers with higher expectations and a greater propensity to change jobs. Certainly, leadership plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. Accordingly, this study aims to examine the effects of transformational and laissez-faire leadership styles on job satisfaction, turnover intention, and employee performance within public educational organizations in Chile. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed, utilizing a sample of 221 teachers from Antofagasta, Chile. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using R Studio for descriptive statistics and SmartPLS software for hypotheses testing. For a sample of teachers, composed primarily of females (66%) and millennials (59%), the results show that teachers recognize more attributes of transformational (3.9 on a scale of 1 to 5) than laissez-faire leadership (2.1 on a scale of 1 to 5) in their principals. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between transformational leadership and job satisfaction (β = 0.774, p < 0.001), with job satisfaction playing a key role in reducing teachers’ turnover intention (β = –0.451, p < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant negative association was identified between teachers’ age and turnover intention. Likewise, a positive relationship was found between teachers’ age and job satisfaction. In contrast, laissez-faire leadership was significantly and positively associated with turnover intention (β = 0.233, p < 0.05).

The study aims to explore the direct and indirect effects of artificial intelligence on resilience and performance in a modern supply chain evolution environment. The email survey reached 208 companies from Jordan registered with the Jordanian Industry and Commerce, and results were collected using structural equation modeling analysis. The results show the impact of artificial intelligence on overall supply chain performance. However, similar output is only achievable using its equipage capability to return data to promote the resilience of supply and performance. This paper provides additional standpoints on how to use artificial intelligence to ensure supply chain performance; however, longitudinal research offers deeper insights. Furthermore, this analysis addresses the existing gap in the literature regarding synthetic intelligence. While this study has taken critical measures throughout the research process to ensure safety, it is necessary to note that it is still susceptible to some common boundaries found in survey designs. A longitudinal study might expand the research to examine further aspects of the phenomenon.

Organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) can improve organizational effectiveness. Individual altruism and commitment to the organization are at the core of OCB. This study aimed to examine the impact of organizational commitment and demographic factors on OCB in the Malaysian financial sector. The cross-sectional study targeted 280 employees from diverse backgrounds and positions across banking and non-banking financial institutions following conventional as well as Islamic Sharia principles in Malaysia. The respondents include individuals from management levels (upper management, middle management, non-management) and divisions (finance, operations, retail/corporate banking, and others). Data analysis included multiple regression analysis and ANOVA. The findings reveal a complex interaction where organizational and normative commitment do not significantly predict OCB, while affective commitment shows a significant positive correlation with OCB. The study revealed that employees with higher emotional attachment to their organization exhibit more OCB (r = 0.155, p < 0.009). In addition, demographic factors, such as education (r = 0.025, p < 0.067), age (r = 0017, p < 0.003), tenure (r = 0.107, p < 0.003), and management level (r = 0.17, p < 0.004) emerge as positive influencers of OCB. Thus, higher education levels, older employees, longer tenure, and managerial positions are linked to higher levels of OCB. At the same time, no significant gender-based differences are observed in employees’ OCB. The findings imply that organizations should emphasize building emotional connections with employees through supportive leadership and a positive work environment to enhance organizational effectiveness.

This paper examines communication dynamics within the food industry to identify key factors enhancing organizational cohesion and efficiency. A structured survey was conducted among 152 employees drawn from a broader pool of 240 executives working in food-related enterprises (Thessaly, Greece). This study has unearthed 12 critical communication drivers that significantly influence workplace interactions. These include support and recognition, open and digital communication, trust and information exchange, information flow and benchmarking, effective communication, motivation and openness, positive updates, information and digital communication, transparency and conflict resolution, technology and information use, barriers and support, and communication in emergencies. The survey included 46 items, with 39 focusing on communication variables, and ensured data reliability with a Cronbach’s Alpha score of 0.883. Statistical methods such as principal component analysis and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for analysis.
Findings reveal significant challenges in internal communication, such as tensions between emotional and rational approaches, insufficient information sharing, and person-centered management practices, leading to employee frustration. Despite applying total quality management (TQM) principles, employees reported dissatisfaction with recognition and lack of two-way communication. External communication efforts, particularly transparency and marketing, engaged stakeholders but failed to fully build trust due to limited adherence to transparency principles. However, adopting professional standards and continuous feedback mechanisms has improved internal communication, leading to higher employee satisfaction and operational efficiency. The findings emphasize the need for tailored communication strategies that foster trust, collaboration, and align organizational goals with employee engagement, especially in industries with a localized, person-centered culture.

Acknowledgments
This study was funded by Special Account Grants of University of West Attica.