ABSTRACT Social technology is based around three axes: community, environmental protection and economic solidarity. The páramo itself is a vital ecosystem for water regulation as it is the source of water supplies for human consumption and performance of economic activities. This article intends to identify the limitations to apply social technology to the protection of the páramo in the central highlands of Ecuador, where processes of self-management, empowerment, participation, agreement-making, cooperation and pursuit for collective welfare have been observed. The methodology is quantitative within the framework of discourse analysis. The results show that, in order to reach a large agreement for the protection and recovery of the páramo, involving all of the communities settled in the area, it is necessary to overcome limitations mostly related to the lacking attention by the government in regards to basic utilities, management plans for conservation areas and studies for economic alternatives allowing communities to subsist in the lower zones, compromising not to extend their agricultural borders further into the highlands. This information helps strengthen natural resource management from a new perspective.

RESUMEN La tecnología social se fundamenta en tres ejes: la comunidad, el cuidado ambiental y la solidaridad económica. Por su parte, el páramo es un ecosistema vital en la regulación hídrica porque sustenta el suministro de agua para consumo humano y el desarrollo de actividades económicas. Este artículo se centra en identificar las limitaciones para aplicar los fundamentos de la tecnología social en la protección del páramo, ubicado en la Sierra central del Ecuador, lugar donde se observan procesos de autogestión, empoderamiento, participación, logro de acuerdos, cooperación y búsqueda del bienestar colectivo. La metodología es cualitativa, en el marco del análisis del discurso. Los resultados muestran que, para que exista un gran acuerdo de protección y recuperación del páramo, entre todas las comunidades asentadas en esta zona, es necesario vencer limitaciones relacionadas, principalmente, con la falta de atención por parte del gobierno en temas de servicios básicos, planes de manejo para áreas de conservación y estudio de alternativas económicas que permitan a las comunidades subsistir en las zonas bajas y comprometerse a no ampliar la frontera agrícola hacia zonas altas. Esta información contribuye a fortalecer la gestión de recursos naturales desde una nueva perspectiva.

RESUMO A tecnologia social baseia-se em três eixos: a comunidade, o cuidado ambiental e a solidariedade econômica. O páramo é um ecossistema vital para a regulação hídrica pois ele fornece agua para o consumo humano e a realização de atividades económicas. Esse artigo focou-se na identificação das limitações para aplicar os fundamentos da tecnologia social para a proteção do páramo, situado na Sierra central de Equador, sítio onde pode-se observar processos de autogestão, empoeiramento, participação, efetuação de acordos, cooperação e procuração de um bem-estar coletivo. A metodologia é qualitativa, dentro do contexto da análise do discurso. Os resultados mostram que, para ter um acordo grande para a proteção e recuperação do páramo, com todas as comunidades estabelecidas na zona, é necessário vencer limitações relacionadas principalmente à falta de atenção do governo em relação à serviços básicos, planes de gestão de áreas de conservação e estudo de alternativas económicas que permitam que as comunidades possam subsistir nas zonas baixas, e comprometer-se a não estender a fronteira agrícola em direção às zonas altas. Essa informação contribui a fortalecer a gestão de recursos naturais com uma nova perspectiva.

Abstract: Using critical theory and qualitative documentary methodology, through the concepts of authoritarian neoliberalism and accumulation by legitimization, this essay analyzes the energy reform materialized in the government of Enrique Peña Nieto in Mexico through the Pact for Mexico, signed between the main political parties and the federal government. The evidence reflects an imposition of such reform without consulting the population with the purpose of privatizing the country’s energy resources, which was paved by a media legitimization where the government channeled large economic resources to the country’s main media. It is concluded that the energy reform takes place in an authoritarian neoliberal context, of imposition for the reinforcement of the prevailing economic model, where the State renounces the possibility of negotiating with the different sectors of the population and seeks legitimization through the molding of public opinion.

Resumen: Utilizando la teoría crítica y metodología cualitativa documental, a través de los conceptos de neoliberalismo autoritario y acumulación por legitimación, en el presente ensayo se analiza la reforma energética materializada en el gobierno de Enrique Peña Nieto en México a partir del Pacto por México, signado entre los principales partidos políticos y el gobierno federal. Las evidencias reflejan una imposición de dicha reforma sin consultar a la población con el fin de privatizar los recursos energéticos del país, la cual fue allanada por una legitimación mediática donde el gobierno canalizó grandes recursos económicos a los principales medios de comunicación del país. Se concluye que la reforma energética se da en un contexto neoliberal autoritario, de imposición para el reforzamiento del modelo económico imperante, donde el Estado renuncia a la posibilidad de negociar con los diversos sectores de la población y buscando la legitimación a través de moldear la opinión pública.

Abstract The General Directorate of Civil Registration, Identification, and Issuance of Identity Cards (DIGERCIC) exhibited ineffi- cient registration performance, as reflected in the proposed indicators, which did not meet the institutional objectives. Therefore, starting in 2015, the implementation of new government strategies based on ethics was undertaken. This allowed the institution to undergo a process of registration transformation, achieving efficient management results. For this purpose, the applied methodology involved experimentation with data collection instruments: Document analysis of the Code of Ethics (qualitative); Surveys applied to external and internal users; and Quantitative document analysis of the indicator compliance report, 2015-2019 (quantitative). The results demonstrated how the implementa- tion of ethics-based strategies significantly contributed to performance improvement, as evidenced by the difference between the pre-test and post-test of the experimentation. This led to indicator results that exceeded annual targets, fulfilling the institutional objectives. Thus, the implementation with ethical criteria has contributed to the improvement of services, serving as a governmental example of ethical and optimal management of public resources.

Resumen La Dirección General de Registro Civil, Identificación y Cedulación (DIGERCIC) tuvo un desempeño registral in- eficiente que se vio reflejado en los indicadores propuestos, puesto que no respondieron al cumplimiento de los objetivos institucionales; por ello se llevó a cabo desde el año 2015 la implementación de nuevas estrategias gubernamentales basadas en la ética, con la cuales la institución entró en un proceso de transformación regis- tral, que le permitieron obtener resultados de gestión eficiente; para el efecto, en la metodología aplicada se ha realizado la experimentación con instrumentos de recolección de datos: Análisis documental del Código de Ética (cualitativos); y Encuestas aplicadas al usuario externo e interno y el Análisis documental cuantitativo del reporte de cumplimiento de indicadores, 2015-2019 (cuantitativos). Los resultados evidenciaron cómo la implementación de estrategias basadas en la ética contribuyó significativamente al mejoramiento del desempeño debido a que hay diferencia entre el pretest y el post test de experimentación, que permitieron obtener resultados de indicadores que sobrepasaron las metas anuales, dando cumplimiento a los objetivos institucionales; así la implementación con criterio de ética ha contribuido al mejoramiento de los servicios, que ha servido de ejemplo gubernamental de manejo ético y óptimo de los recursos públicos.

ABSTRACT This article proposes a comprehensive methodology for the evaluation of internal controls in public institutions in Mexico, in order to strengthen management and transparency in the use of resources, to collect and analyze data from various public institutions. The findings reveal critical areas that require immediate attention and offer comparisons with international standards. The correct implementation of a methodology for evaluating internal controls in public institutions is essential to ensure transparency in accountability and avoid possible cases of fraud. These internal controls make it possible to identify risks and detect irregularities, which contributes to protecting public resources and ensuring the welfare of society through their efficient management. It is important to note that the focus on continuous improvement and promotion of an ethical culture in senior management are essential for effective public administration and compliance with legal regulations. In this way, it is possible to optimize processes, increase efficiency and properly fulfill government responsibilities.

RESUMEN El presente artículo propone una metodología integral para la evaluación de controles internos en instituciones públicas en México, con el fin de fortalecer la gestión y la transparencia en el uso de recursos, para recoger y analizar datos de diversas instituciones públicas. Los hallazgos revelan áreas críticas que requieren atención inmediata y ofrecen comparativas con estándares internacionales. La correcta implementación de una metodología de evaluación de controles internos en instituciones públicas es fundamental para asegurar la transparencia en la rendición de cuentas y evitar posibles casos de fraude. Estos controles internos permiten identificar riesgos y detectar irregularidades, lo que contribuye a proteger los recursos públicos y garantizar el bienestar de la sociedad a través de una gestión eficiente de los mismos. Es importante destacar que el enfoque en la mejora continua y la promoción de una cultura ética en la alta dirección son aspectos esenciales para una administración pública efectiva y el cumplimiento de las normativas legales. De esta manera se logra optimizar los procesos, aumentar la eficiencia y cumplir adecuadamente con las responsabilidades gubernamentales.

ABSTRACT In 2024, most of the population does not have behaviors in favor of caring for the environment, which reduces the possibility of achieving sustainable development, which is mainly characterized by implementing actions that contribute to the rational use of natural resources and minimize the effects of pollution, among others. The objective of the study was to determine the influence of regional environmental management on citizen ecological behavior in the department of Tacna. A sample of 384 citizens was considered, aged between 15 and 64 years who reside in the department of Tacna, using a stratified non-probabilistic sampling, distributed by province as follows: Tacna (357), Jorge Basadre (9), Candarave (10) and Tarata (8). The survey technique was used, through the application of two questionnaires: regional environmental management (16 items) and ecological citizen behavior (24 items). The findings of this research indicate that the ecological behavior of populationis impacted by the implementation of activities that make up the environmental management promoted by the Regional Government of Tacna, in addition to each of the dimensions (regional plans and policies, regional system environmental, regional environmental policy and regional environmental commissions) have influence on the variable ecological citizen behavior.

RESUMEN En el 2024, la mayor parte de la población peruana no cuenta con conductas a favor del cuidado del medioambiente, lo que disminuye la posibilidad de lograr un desarrollo sostenible, el cual se caracteriza principalmente por implementar acciones que contribuyan al uso racional de los recursos naturales y minimizar los efectos de la contaminación, entre otros. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la influencia de la gestión ambiental regional en la conducta ecológica ciudadana en el departamento de Tacna. Se consideró una muestra de 384 ciudadanos, con edades entre 15 y 64 años que residen en el departamento de Tacna, empleando un muestreo no probabilístico estratificado, distribuidos por provincia, de la siguiente manera: Tacna (357), Jorge Basadre (9), Candarave (10) y Tarata (8). Se utilizó la técnica de la encuesta, a través de la aplicación de dos cuestionarios: gestión ambiental regional (16 ítems) y conducta ecológica ciudadana (24 ítems). Los hallazgos de la presente investigación indican que la conducta ecológica de la población se ve impactada por la implementación de actividades que conforman la gestión ambiental impulsada por el Gobierno Regional de Tacna. Además, cada una de las dimensiones (planes y políticas regionales, sistema regional ambiental, política regional ambiental y comisiones ambientales regionales) tiene influencia sobre la variable conducta ecológica ciudadana.

Resumen Este trabajo tiene por objetivo analizar el proceso de exploración de hidrocarburos en las islas Malvinas llevado adelante por el Reino Unido de 1995 a 2022. En relación con esto, la cuestión de las islas Malvinas refiere a una controversia entre el Gobierno argentino y el británico por la soberanía sobre las islas Malvinas e islas del Atlántico Sur, los espacios marinos circundantes, que incluyó también, el petróleo y el gas. En este sentido, dichos recursos, alojados en la plataforma submarina de las islas, constituyeron foco de interés de larga data. En los años noventa el Gobierno británico autorizó la llegada de empresas transnacionales para realizar actividades de exploración y, posible explotación, en un área aún bajo disputa internacional. En este contexto, el Estado argentino reconoció a estos espacios insulares y marítimos como parte integrante de su territorio nacional y, en consecuencia, rechazó la presencia de estas compañías y declaró sus actividades ilegales.

Abstract This paper aims to analyze the hydrocarbon exploration process in the Malvinas Islands carried out by the United Kingdom from 1995 to 2022. In relation to this, the question of the Malvinas Islands refers to a dispute between the Argentine and British governments over sovereignty over the Malvinas Islands and islands of the South Atlantic, the surrounding marine spaces, which also includes oil and gas. In this sense, these resources hosted on the islands’ submarine shelf were a long-standing focus of interest. In the 1990s, the British government authorized the arrival of transnational companies to carry out exploration activities and possible exploitation in an area that is still under international dispute. In this context, the Argentine State recognized these insular and maritime areas as an integral part of its national territory and, consequently, rejected the presence of these companies and declared their activities illegal.

RESUMO. Objetivo/contexto: O recrutamento partidário é instrumento crucial de governança nas democracias contemporâneas. Os chefes de governo presidenciais e parlamentares distribuem pastas ministeriais aos membros dos partidos em troca de recursos políticos essenciais, como o apoio legislativo. Neste artigo, é explorada a relação entre a formação do governo e os partidos políticos, com partidos pouco institucionalizados. Em particular, ele procura examinar até que ponto os argumentos existentes sobre a formação de gabinetes presidenciais se sustentam quando o nível hierárquico dos ministros do partido é considerado. Metodología: Este é um estudo estatístico que utiliza modelo linear generalizado (GLM), com distribuição binomial e função de ligação logit com erros-padrão robustos. O objetivo é realizar uma exploração de causalidade para testar os indicadores originais das variáveis dependentes propostas. Conclusões: A hierarquia e o poder partidário são fatores relevantes para complementar as explicações existentes sobre as estratégias de recrutamento ministerial. Originalidade: A pesquisa comparativa sobre a formação de governos e sua conexão com os partidos políticos fez progressos significativos, concentrando-se na distinção entre ministros filiados a partidos e não filiados a partidos. Essa abordagem dicotômica negligencia a consideração da posição hierárquica dentro da estrutura partidária, aspecto fundamental do modelo de governo de partido subjacente nas democracias parlamentares. Este artigo apresenta uma medida tricotômica, que considera o nível hierárquico dos ministros.

ABSTRACT: Objective/context: Party recruitment is a crucial governance tool in contemporary democracies. Presidential and parliamentary heads of government distribute ministerial portfolios to party members in exchange for essential political resources, such as legislative support. This article explores the relationship between government formation and political parties, with parties that are not very institutionalized. In particular, it examines the extent to which arguments about presidential cabinet formation hold up when the hierarchical level of party ministers is considered. Methodology: This statistical study uses a generalized linear model (GLM) with a binomial distribution and a logit link function with robust standard errors. It aims to carry out causality exploration to test the original indicators of the proposed dependent variables. Conclusions: Hierarchy and partisan powers are relevant factors to complement existing explanations of ministerial recruitment strategies. Originality: Comparative research on government formation and its connection to political parties has made significant progress, focusing on the distinction between ministers affiliated and not affiliated with a party. However, this dichotomous approach neglects consideration of the hierarchical position within the party structure, a fundamental aspect of the governing party model underlying parliamentary democracies. This article presents a trichotomous measure that considers the hierarchical level of ministers.

RESUMEN: Objetivo/contexto: El reclutamiento partidario constituye un instrumento de gobernanza crucial en las democracias contemporáneas. Los jefes de gobierno, presidencialistas y parlamentarios, distribuyen carteras ministeriales entre miembros de partidos, a cambio de recursos políticos esenciales, como el soporte legislativo. Este artículo explora la relación entre la formación de los Gobiernos y los partidos políticos, con partidos poco institucionalizados. En particular, se busca examinar en qué medida se sostienen las argumentaciones existentes sobre la formación de gabinetes presidenciales cuando se considera el nivel jerárquico de los ministros partidarios. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio estadístico que utiliza un modelo lineal generalizado (GLM), con una distribución binomial y una función de enlace tipo logit con errores estándar robustos. El objetivo es realizar una exploración de causalidad para testear los indicadores originales de las variables dependientes propuestas. Conclusiones: La jerarquía y los poderes partidarios son factores relevantes para complementar las explicaciones existentes sobre las estrategias de reclutamiento ministerial. Originalidad: La investigación comparativa sobre la formación de los Gobiernos y su conexión con los partidos políticos ha experimentado un avance significativo centrándose en la distinción entre ministros afiliados y no afiliados a un partido. Este enfoque dicotómico descuida la consideración de la posición jerárquica dentro de la estructura partidaria, un aspecto fundamental del modelo de gobierno de partido subyacente en las democracias parlamentarias. Este artículo presenta una medida tricotómica que considera el nivel jerárquico de los ministros.

Heelwat navorsing is al gedoen in 'n poging om 'n greep op aspekte van goeie en slegte plaaslike regering te kry. 'n Kernvraag wat steeds onbeantwoord bly is die volgende: Wat is "plaaslike regering", en hoe kan die werklikheid waarna die begrip verwys, verstaan en herken word? 'n Begripsraamwerk van "plaaslike regering" is onlangs ontwikkel bestaande uit die herkenbare eienskappe van die begrip om dit te identifiseer. Gepaardgaande daarmee is 'n sosiale ontologie van sorg vir "plaaslike regering" ontwikkel. Die veronderstelling is dat plaaslike regerings in Suid-Afrika en ander lande aan die hand van daardie eienskappe herken sal word. Binne die Suid-Afrikaanse konteks is daar egter 'n moontlike nietipiese voorbeeld van plaaslike regering, naamlik Orania, 'n bestaande dorp binne die geografiese gebied van die Thembelihle Plaaslike Munisipaliteit in die Noord-Kaapprovinsie. Orania is nie 'n muni-sipaliteit ingevolge die Suid-Afrikaanse grondwet en wetlike raamwerk nie. Die vraag is gevolglik of Orania wel as 'n "plaaslike regering" beskou kan word. In antwoord op die vraag gee hierdie artikel 'n ontiese¹ beskrywing van Orania aan die hand van die gekose begripsraamwerk en sosiale ontologie van sorg. Dit blyk uit die beskrywing en ontleding daarvan dat Orania wel aan die institusionele, funksionele en territoriale eienskappe van die begrip "plaaslike regering" voldoen en op 'n outentieke wyse as plaaslike regering funksioneer. Die gevallestudie wys dat 'n outentieke plaaslike regering een is wat 'n integrerende deel uitmaak van sy plaaslike gemeenskap en omsluitende wêrelde, wat voortdurende ongemak met die hede beleef en met sorg, besorgdheid en sorgsaamheid daarop reageer.

Much research has been conducted to grasp aspects of good and bad local governance. A central question that remains unanswered is: What constitutes "local government" and how can the reality to which this concept refers be understood and recognised? Recently, a conceptual framework was developed by identifying recognisable characteristics of this concept's reference. The assumption is that local governments in South Africa and other countries will be recognised based on these characteristics. Alongside this, a social ontology of care for "local government" was established. However, within the South African context, a potentially atypical example of local government is found, namely Orania, an existing town situated within the geographical area of the Thembelihle Local Municipality in the Northern Cape province. Orania is not a municipality in terms of the South African constitution and legal framework. The question thus arises whether Orania can indeed be considered a "local government". In response to this query, this article provides a description of Orania using the chosen conceptual framework and social ontology of care as part of a case study design. The analysis and ontological description ofOrania, by means of the conceptual framework, reveal that the phenomenon of Orania does indeed possess a territorial jurisdictional sphere (the Orania Overlay Zone), a democratically elected representative council (the OVR), and a Town Council and its administration that performs a range of local functions and responsibilities. While the territory of a municipality is generally determined by authorising measures or decisions by other jurisdictions (such as province, state, and national government), the territorial area known as the Orania Overlay Zone results from the purchase and cultivation of land by members of a homogeneous cultural community. Therefore, the territory is not only a demarcation of jurisdiction, but the place to which this community is connected. The institutional aspect of local government is likely a universal feature. The nature and scope of the institutional structure of local governments are often also the result of standardised external authorising measures or decisions by other jurisdictions. Consequently, the structures may not necessarily resonate with the needs and resources of the sometimes diverse society that constitutes the inhabitants of such an area. In the case of Orania, the institutional structure of local government (the OVR and the Town Council) is directly determined by the community, as represented by various land entities, based on the community's specific needs and available resources. The performance of a limited range of local functions can also be considered a universal feature of local government. In this particular case, the functions of the relevant local government are determined by its decision-making bodies, such as the Town Council, in consultation with the community as represented by the various land entities. Consequently, typical local government functions are performed according to the community's needs and available resources. Non-typical local government functions, such as residence rights, are performed within the general scope of the 1996 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and other national legislation. The analysis confirmed that Orania meets the characteristics consistent with the concept of "local government" as outlined in the conceptual framework. Additionally, viewing Orania through the theoretical lens of social ontology of care highlights that it is a human construct, making objective observation and description challenging. Orania is a network of interconnected individuals and social institutions situated within overlapping human, spiritual, natural, territorial, and political worlds. The authenticity of this existence lies in its concern for the affairs of the world in which it is situated and the conscientiousness with which it carries out its functions in conjunction with others. The case study shows that an authentic local government is one that forms an integral part of its local community and surrounding worlds, continually experiencing discomfort (anxiety) with the present, and responding to that anxiety with care, concern, and nurturing for society and its things.

Resumo Os dispositivos estatais para o governo das águas no Brasil vêm sendo fortemente influenciados pelo discurso do desenvolvimento, tendo como principal instituição multilateral promotora o Banco Mundial, cujas diretrizes convergem para o afastamento das instituições estatais do papel de provedoras dos serviços de água e promovem a perda do controle sobre as águas por populações locais. Neste artigo, analiso a trajetória das políticas governamentais para a gestão das águas no Brasil a partir da instituição da Política Nacional de Recursos Hídricos (PNRH) à luz da literatura antropológica sobre grandes projetos de desenvolvimento, administração pública e o campo autodenominado de antropologia da água, observando o processo de criação e implementação de dispositivos institucionais que abrem caminho para a transformação da água em uma commodity. A pesquisa foi realizada por meio de observação participante em avaliação oficial da PNRH e análise de relatórios de projetos do Banco Mundial. desenvolvimento Mundial locais artigo (PNRH commodity

Abstract State devices for water governance in Brazil have been strongly influenced by the development discourse, with the World Bank as the main multilateral institution that promotes it, whose guidelines converge towards the removal of state institutions from the role of providers of water services and promote the loss control over water by local populations. In this article, I analyze the trajectory of government policies for water management in Brazil from the institution of the National Water Resources Policy (NWRP) under the light of anthropological literature on large development projects, public administration and the self-declared field of anthropology of water, observing the process of creation and implementation of institutional devices that pave the way for the transformation of water into a commodity. The research was carried out through participant observation in an official evaluation of the NWRP and analysis of project reports from the World Bank. discourse it populations article (NWRP projects selfdeclared self declared commodity

Abstract The institutionalization of digital governments initially depended on the political will of states and economic forecasts to have the necessary resources in communications, currently one of the pivotal elements at national and international levels, and improve the quality of services and functions. Now, it lies in the sphere of inclusion: the capacity for social penetration, trust building among users, governance incentives, and civil empowerment in virtual environments. This work acknowledges that although progress has been made in Latin American countries in the creation of a social, political, and legal framework for following the digital agenda, the computerization of processes, and the search for solutions from an intergovernmental perspective, there are still considerable doubts around the notion of accessibility, which demands the development of instruments to measure the strengths and weaknesses of public policies, especially their application.

Resumen En un principio, la institucionalización de los gobiernos digitales dependió de la voluntad política de los Estados y de previsiones económicas tendientes a disponer de los recursos necesarios en el campo de las comunicaciones. Hoy, uno de sus ejes, no solo nacional sino también internacional, aparte del mejoramiento de la calidad de los servicios y funciones, pertenece a la esfera de la inclusión, es decir, a la capacidad de penetración social, la generación de confianza entre los usuarios, los incentivos a favor de la gobernanza y el empoderamiento civil en ambientes virtuales. Este trabajo reconoce que, si bien en los países latinoamericanos se ha avanzado en la creación de un marco social, político y jurídico para el cumplimiento de la agenda digital, en la informatización de procesos y en la búsqueda de soluciones desde una perspectiva intergubernamental, todavía existen dudas en torno a la noción de accesibilidad, que demandan la construcción de instrumentos para medir la fortalezas y debilidades de las políticas públicas y, en especial, de su aplicación.

Resumen Ecuador es un pequeño país andino ubicado en el hemisferio occidental de América del Sur. El país cuenta con 361.747 hm 3 anuales de recursos hídricos superficiales. Como resultado, Ecuador, en los últimos quince años (2005 a 2020), ha estado desarrollando proyectos hidroeléctricos para triplicar la producción en esta fuente renovable. Hubo ocho nuevas centrales hidroeléctricas construidas en Ecuador entre 2007 y 2015, en donde se invirtieron cerca de USD 6 mil millones en los proyectos, lo que incrementó la respuesta energética con renovables; por ejemplo, en 1985 el país produjo 4 TWh, en 2005 registró 7 TWh y hasta 2020, 24 TWh. Según la Corporación de Electricidad del Ecuador en 2020 informó que generó alrededor del 80% de toda la electricidad a través de hidroelectricidad. Así, el artículo tiene como objetivo analizar críticamente el desarrollo de la energía hidroeléctrica en Ecuador en los últimos años y establecer proyecciones energéticas generales al 2030 para ampliar los campos de conocimiento y perspectivas. La metodología del trabajo es cuantitativa, de acuerdo con fuentes editoriales científicas, artículos, documentos de investigación, y recolecta datos de agencias gubernamentales que regulan el desarrollo energético en Ecuador. Se concluye que, mediante un cálculo de proyecciones, Ecuador necesitará para el año 2030 alrededor de 43 TWh, 47 TWh o 52 TWh para abastecer la red energética, según los escenarios propuestos (bajo, medio, alto). Si bien la energía hidroeléctrica será fundamental para contribuir a este requerimiento, el país tiene una barrera porque la energía hidroeléctrica es muy sensible a factores externos de diversa índole, generando un futuro incierto directamente asociado a los efectos climáticos.

Abstract Ecuador is a small Andean country located in the western hemisphere of South America. The country has 361,747hm 3 annual superficial water resources; As a result, Ecuador, in the last fifteen years (2005 to 2020), has been rapidly developing hydropower projects to triple the production in this renewable source. There were eight new hydroelectric plants constructed in Ecuador among 2007 and 2015 invested close to USD 6 billion the projects. Increased the energy response with renewables; for example, in 1985, the country produced 4 TWh, in 2005-registered 7 TWh, and to 2020, 24 TWh. According to the Electricity Corporation of Ecuador in 2020 reported that generated around 80% of all electricity through hydropower; thus, the article aims to critically analyze the development of hydropower in Ecuador in recent years and establish general energy projections to 2030 to expand the fields of knowledge and perspectives. The paper methodology is quantitative, according to scientific editorial sources, articles, investigative documents, and collects data from government agencies that regulate energy development in Ecuador. It is conclusive between a projection’s calculation, Ecuador will need for the year 2030 around 43 TWh, 47 TWh, or 52 TWh to supply the energy grid, according to the scenarios proposed (low, medium, high). Although hydropower will be essential to contribute to this requirement, the country has a barrier because hydropower is very sensitive to external factors of diverse nature, generating an uncertainly future directly associated with climatic effects.

Resumen Este artículo analiza, a través de la simulación, dos sistemas de desarrollo regional en dos regiones de Chile (Antofagasta y Coquimbo), para contrastar su potencial para promover el desarrollo endógeno. Los modelos se elaboraron con la plataforma de simulación Social SocLab, la cual se basa en la teoría de los sistemas de acción organizada. El modelo se nutre de información proveniente de entrevistas con las partes interesadas, estrechamente relacionadas con la toma de decisiones en la asignación de fondos públicos para la innovación y el desarrollo productivo. Comparando los modelos con un enfoque cualitativo, los resultados muestran que el modelo descentralizado de Antofagasta tiene mayor potencia para promover el desarrollo endógeno, al permitir un alto grado de influencia y coordinación entre los actores locales y presentar un mejor estado de recursos críticos para este propósito, mientras que el modelo centralizado de Coquimbo presenta un gran dominio y autonomía de un solo actor (gobierno central) sobre otros actores locales, que de esta manera corren el riesgo de desvincularse del interés regional. Este documento es original y es pionero porque aplica con éxito una plataforma de simulación basada en una teoría social bien conocida (sistema de acción organizado) para modelar y simular dos sistemas de actores responsables del desarrollo endógeno regional, a fin de comprenderlos mejor, compararlos a la luz de algunos atributos para el desarrollo endógeno y luego elaborar algunas políticas de mejora en este sentido.

Abstract This paper analyses, through simulations, two regional development models to contrast their potential to promote endogenous development in two Chilean regions (Antofagasta and Coquimbo). The models were developed with the SocLab social simulation platform, which is based on the theory of Organized Action Systems. The models' input was generated by interviews with stakeholders closely involved in the allocation of public funds for innovation and productive development. The results show that Antofagasta's decentralised model promotes endogenous development by permitting a high degree of influence and coordination among local actors, while presenting a better state of critical resources for this purpose. For the Coquimbo region, the centralised model presents greater dominance and autonomy of a single actor (central government) over other actors who should respond to the local interest. The models were compared by using a qualitative approach. The novelty of the paper relies on the application of a simulation platform based on the Organized Action System theory to model and simulate two systems of actors responsible for regional endogenous development. The proposed approach helps to better understand and compare different development models which contribute to policy making.

RESUMEN El establecimiento de nuevas Áreas Protegidas (AP) representa un paso inicial crucial para contrarrestar la pérdida y fragmentación de hábitats naturales, con el fin de conservar ecosistemas de vital importancia para la biodiversidad y preservar las culturas tradicionales. La gestión efectiva de una AP puede generar beneficios significativos tanto para la diversidad biológica que la habita como para la sociedad en general, asegurando la continuidad de los ecosistemas productivos. Este estudio se propone describir de manera exhaustiva las políticas nacionales relacionadas con las AP en Ecuador y las estrategias clave para la conservación de la biodiversidad. Se llevó a cabo una revisión bibliográfica de enfoque descriptivo, cualitativo y exploratorio, que incluyó la consulta de artículos científicos, libros, informes técnicos y documentos gubernamentales pertinentes. Los resultados resaltan el papel fundamental de las AP como refugios esenciales para la vida silvestre, así como su función protectora ante los efectos del cambio climático, permitiendo la evolución de la diversidad genética en respuesta a las presiones de la selección natural. Las principales amenazas a la biodiversidad comprenden cambios en el uso de la tierra debido a la agricultura y la urbanización, la propagación de especies invasoras, la explotación excesiva de recursos y la contaminación ambiental.

ABSTRACT The establishment of new Protected Areas (PAs) represents a crucial initial step to counteract the loss and fragmentation of natural habitats, in order to conserve ecosystems of vital importance for biodiversity and preserve traditional cultures. The effective management of a PA can generate significant benefits for both the biological diversity that inhabits it and for society in general, ensuring the continuity of productive ecosystems. This study aims to comprehensively describe national policies related to PAs in Ecuador and key strategies for biodiversity conservation. A descriptive, qualitative and exploratory literature review was carried out, including consultation of scientific articles, books, technical reports and relevant government documents. The results highlight the fundamental role of PAs as essential refuges for wildlife, as well as their protective function in the face of the effects of climate change, allowing the evolution of genetic diversity in response to the pressures of natural selection. The main threats to biodiversity include changes in land use due to agriculture and urbanization, the spread of invasive species, overexploitation of resources, and environmental pollution.

Climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk reduction (DRR) agendas converge in their priorities to reduce social vulnerability and enhance resilience in the face of climate change. However, they are often treated separately in practice and in local government plans. In South Africa, while municipalities are legally mandated to develop Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) and Disaster Management Plans (DMPs), this is not the case for CCA. In this study, we assessed the engagement with, and linkages between, CCA and DRR in 20 local municipalities from contrasting socio-economic contexts in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa by conducting an analysis of their IDPs, DMPs and any plans or strategies pertaining to CCA. Our results show that none of the municipalities had separate CCA strategies, with only two municipalities complying with the mandate to have DMPs. While municipalities mostly included CCA- and DRR-related activities in their IDPs, there were no explicit linkages made between the two approaches. Apparent was the prioritisation of bolstering infrastructure with little attention towards addressing social vulnerability and building resilience. Overall, little has been done to prioritise or link CCA and DRR at the local government level, especially in the context of addressing social vulnerability and building resilience. These findings suggest the need for South Africa to implement and promulgate legal instruments, policies and resources to capacitate local municipalities in mainstreaming and integrating CCA and DRR. SIGNIFICANCE: • This study highlights that, while CCA and DRR converge in theoretical frameworks and international and national policies, little has been done to link the two at the local government level in South Africa. • Overall, findings indicate that social vulnerability reduction and resilience building are still not recognised as important aspects of CCA and DRR. • Local municipalities prioritise technical solutions and infrastructure maintenance, with little attention to development and structural causes of vulnerability. • Support, in terms of resources, is needed to capacitate local municipalities in (1) linking CCA and DRR and (2) reducing social vulnerability and building resilience.

The social and political history of South Africa yielded massive transformation in the higher education landscape, including access to education and the merger of universities. Despite the many successes of transformation, it brought with it challenges such as increasing participation, student retention, throughput, and graduation rates; changes in government funding models; declining student subsidies and providing quality education with limited resources. The South African higher education sector is multi-faceted, and students have a wide range of higher education options. This study explored factors influencing decision-making of first-year students when selecting a university. Data was collected from first-year students and employees at a University of Technology. Through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the researchers analysed the complex factors that guide students' decision-making when selecting a university. The findings revealed that factors significantly influencing decision-making on university selection are, the reputation and quality of university programmes offered, response time and support provided by staff; location; and infrastructure and facilities. This research is significant in that it will assist higher education institutions, particularly marketing and communications departments to be more responsive to students' needs by shifting toward active engagement in its marketing and recruitment approaches to attract, retain, and satisfy students.