Vol. 5 No. 1 (2024): (April 2024)

This issue has been available online since 30th April 2024 as part of the regular April 2024 edition. It features six articles authored by twenty-two scholars from Germany, Italy, Hungary, Zambia, and Indonesia—representing Global South contexts—and provides focused insights into governance and policy challenges in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The issue opens with an exploration of urban transport policies aimed at promoting sustainable mobility (SDG 11, Target 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all). Another article examines collaborative efforts to enhance social inclusion for persons with disabilities through the Penta Helix model (SDG 10, Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all). A further contribution presents a case study on decentralised climate governance in Zambia (SDG 13, Target 13.b: Promote mechanisms for capacity-building in climate change planning and management), drawing lessons from Itezhi-Tezhi and the Kafue Wetlands.

Additional articles investigate the relationship between regional fiscal capacity and inclusive economic development (SDG 8, Target 8.1: Sustain per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances), as well as the investment climate for sustainable palm oil in Indonesia (SDG 12, Target 12.b: Develop and implement tools to monitor sustainable development impacts for sustainable tourism and agriculture).

The issue also explores the role of digital transformation in public administration through an analysis of how e-government initiatives are catalysing agile governance reform (SDG 16, Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels), highlighting the intersection between technological advancement and institutional performance.

By addressing key themes such as transport accessibility, social inclusion, environmental governance, digital transformation, and economic sustainability, this issue contributes valuable scholarly perspectives on policy innovation rooted in local realities. It serves as a timely academic resource for promoting inclusive and sustainable governance across the Global South.