This paper presents an assessment approach to fostering socioeconomic re-development and resilience in Iraqi regions emerging from the destruction and instability, in the aftermath of the war conflict in Iraq. Focusing on the intricate interplay of logistics infrastructure and economic recovery, the present study proposes a novel framework that integrates general resilience insights, data analytics, infrastructure systems, and decision support from Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). We draw inspiration also from historical cases on “creative destruction” or “Blessing in Disguise” (BiD) phenomena, like the post-WWII reconstruction of Rotterdam, so as to develop the notion of stepwise or cascadic prosilience, analyzing how innovative logistics systems may in various stages contribute to economic rejuvenation. Our approach recognizes the multifaceted nature of regional resilience capacity, encompassing both static (conserving resources, rerouting, etc.) and dynamic (accelerating recovery through innovative strategies) dimensions. The logistics aspect spans both the supply side (new infrastructure, ICT facilities) and the demand side (changing transportation flows and product demands), culminating in an integrated perspective for sustainable growth of Iraqi regions. In our study, we explore several forward-looking strategic future options (scenarios) for recovery and reconstruction policy factors in the context of regional development in Iraq, regarding them as crucial strategic elements for effective post-conflict rebuilding and regeneration. Given that such assets and infrastructures typically extend beyond a single city or area, their geographic scope is broader, calling for a multi-region approach. By leveraging the extended DEA approach by an incorporation of a super-efficiency (SE) DEA approach so as to better discriminate among efficient Decision-Making Units (DMUs)—in this case, regions in Iraq—our research aims to present actionable and effective insights for infrastructure investment strategies at regional-governorate scale in Iraq, that optimize efficiency, sustainability and resilience. This approach may ultimately foster prosperous and stable post-conflict regional economies that display—by means of a cascadic change—a new balanced prosilient future.

This study examined socio-economic factors affecting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) e-commerce adoption, focusing on gender, income, and education. Using the 2022 National Socio-Economic Survey (Susenas) data, a logistic regression model was employed to analyze key determinants of e-commerce utilization. Additionally, an online survey of 550 MSMEs across 29 provinces was conducted to assess the impact of digitalization on business performance. In comparison, an offline study of 42 MSMEs with low digital adoption provided insights into the barriers hindering digital transformation. A natural experiment was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of behavioral interventions in promoting the adoption of e-payments and e-commerce. The main contribution of this study lies in integrating large-scale national survey data with experimental approaches to provide a deeper understanding of digital adoption among MSMEs. Unlike previous studies focusing solely on socio-economic determinants, this research incorporated a digital nudging experiment to examine how targeted incentives influenced e-commerce participation. The findings revealed that digital transformation significantly enhanced MSME performance, particularly in turnover, product volume, customer base, and worker productivity. Socio-economic factors such as gender, household head status, and social media access significantly influenced digital adoption decisions. Behavioral nudging proved effective in increasing MSME participation in e-commerce. Although this study was limited to Susenas 2022 data and survey responses, it bridges a critical research gap by linking socio-economic factors with behavioral interventions in MSME digitalization. The findings offer key insights for policymakers in formulating evidence-based strategies to drive MSME digital transformation and e-commerce growth in Indonesia.

This study analyzes the potential of making Uzbekistan’s taxation system more inclusive by introducing a tax incentive policy related to zakat (obligatory Islamic alms for the wealthy). Additionally, it explores the establishment of relevant institutions to facilitate zakat collection and distribution. The study employs the method of comparative legal research, combined with exploratory research techniques, to examine taxation and zakat systems in different countries. The study’s findings indicate that incorporating zakat incentives, either in the form of tax credits or deductions, into Uzbekistan’s taxation system can enhance the role of zakat institutions in the country’s economy and reduce tax evasion to some extent. Moreover, it proposes a preliminary model of zakat management for Uzbekistan based on conclusions of the comparative study of various countries and analysis of the national legislation. Finally, the research highlights the necessity of a systematic approach to educate the public about zakat obligations, which is crucial for operation of proposed zakat management model and improving compliance. The study provides essential policy recommendations, including the implementation of zakat tax incentives, enhancing public zakat literacy, and ensuring the efficient operation of zakat institutions. By adopting these measures, the government of Uzbekistan can foster a more equitable and effective taxation system, contributing to socioeconomic development and poverty alleviation.

This review paper delves into the intricate landscape of the digital economy, focusing on the multifaceted interplay between innovation, competition, and consumer dynamics. It investigates the transformative impact of digital technologies on market structures and consumer behaviors, spanning areas such as e-commerce, online publishing, taxation, and big data challenges. By analyzing network effects, market concentration, and the influence of key players like Google and Amazon, this study draws on insights from previous research. Furthermore, it examines evolving regulations with an emphasis on consumer protection, competition law, and privacy concerns. Through a comprehensive exploration of the digital ecosystem, this paper offers a nuanced understanding of how businesses, consumers, and policymakers navigate the complexities of the digital marketplace.

The female labor force participation holds significant implications for various aspects of society, the economy, and individual lives. Understanding its significance involves recognizing the multifaceted impact of women’s participation in the workforce. In this context, the current study investigates the factors influencing the female labor force participation rate in Saudi Arabia while using a set of independent variables such as GDP growth, employment-to-population ratio, inflation, urban population growth, tertiary school enrollment, labor force with advanced education, fertility rate, and age dependency ratio, covering a period from 2000 to 2022. The results reveal that the employment-to-population ratio, inflation rate, urbanization, and age dependency ratio have positive and statistically significant impacts on the female labor force participation rate. This research offers valuable insights for formulating policies to foster female empowerment and overcome the obstacles that hinder their economic participation.