Limitless A Memoir About Theater free essay sample

It was the end of scene two, and I had been in the hair-and-makeup lounge for the past thirty minutes. Now, I was standing at the door waiting to begin my scene. We had been rehearsing for months. Although we had gone over the play a total of six times that day, only now did my heart attempt to escape from my body, pounding frantically and sending ripples of trembles through my body in every direction. It was fear, it was anticipation, and as soon as the door opened, it was gone. In those few steps from the door to the aisle between the audience, I had become Jacob Marley of Charles Dickens’ famous A Christmas Carol. As I took that ghostly walk down the aisle, the rattle of the chains wrapped around my body drew all eyes to me. Under any other circumstances, I would have dropped the chains and ran all the way home, but this was different. We will write a custom essay sample on Limitless: A Memoir About Theater or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I was no longer Lundyn; I was Jacob Marley there to warn Scrooge of his future. It was all just a practical joke until that moment. I had half-heartedly auditioned for the role of Ebenezer Scrooge and ended up being Jacob Marley. I attended every rehearsal and followed all the directors’ instructions, but none of it really struck me until that moment. It was terrifying, to have the doors open and have all eyes on me. But it was amazing to become an individual I was not and cherish the opportunity and moment. I was Jacob Marley, and I commanded the audience’s attention with every chain-rattling step I took. Prior to that moment, I had always been that quiet girl who was completely satisfied being trapped in her own miniscule and confined bubble of silence. Now, not only did I desire the attention, but I also fully embraced it. It was an everlasting moment that only the beauty of nature can ever define. As I spoke the words I had rehearsed countless times, I delivered them with precise diction and liberated them from my heart and soul. Appreciating this very moment, I observed as the audience glazed at me with the static eyes of a hawk. Unphased by my initial anxiety, the moment appeared infinite. The moment appeared in slow motion, and I wanted it to last. A rush of adrenaline provided me with renewed energy, diminishing my anxiety. I had felt limitlessly powerful, but no words can ever describe the wonderful feeling I experienced. In that very moment, although my character had been wrapped up in chains, I had come to realization that I was completely unrestrained.

Multi

Multi Besides international trade, FDI by multinational corporations is a great force that is driving globalization of â€Å"the world economy† (Eun Resnick, 2007).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Multi-National Corporations Definition specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More According to the report presented by the UN, there are more than six hundred thousand multinational corporations across the world with more than a half a million foreign affiliates (Eun Resnick, 2007). In the course of the 1990s, these corporations’ FDI increased at the rate of ten percent annually while international trade’s annual growth rate was 3.5 percent in the same period (Eun Resnick, 2007). Moreover, it is reported that the worldwide MNCs’ sales increased to eleven trillion dollars in the year 1998, â€Å"compared to about $7 trillion of world exports in the same year† (Eun Resnick, 2007, p.15). It is indicated that the multinational corporations are influencing the global economy. In this paper, there is going to be a discussion on MNCs and what motivates them to invest overseas. There is also going to be a discussion about different risks these corporations face and how they manage them. A multinational corporation can be defined as â€Å"a business firm incorporated in one country that has production and sales operations in several other countries† (Eun Resnick, 2007, p.15). This involves a situation where a firm acquires the sales operations and production from one national market and the financial capital from another; producing commodities â€Å"with labor and capital equipment in a third country, and selling the finished product in yet other national markets† (Eun Resnick, 2007, p.15).Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Certainly, among the MNCs, there are those that carry out business operations in various nations. They receive funding from the main money market centres across the globe in various currencies. It is pointed out that â€Å"global operations force the treasurer’s office to establish international banking relationships, place short-term funds in several currency dominations, and effectively manage foreign exchange risk† (Eun Resnick, 2007, p.15). The benefits that the MNCs can gain from investing overseas are the motivating factors for making such investments (Eun Resnick, 2007). They may gain from having a global presence in a number of ways. Firstly, they can gain from the economies of scale which may be realized though undertaking various activities. For instance, they may realize this by engaging in spreading expenditures of research and development and costs of advertising over sales made on the international market. Moreover, they can realize economies of scale by â€Å"pooling the global purc hasing power over suppliers† (Eun Resnick, 2007, p.17). They can also realize this by using the managerial and technological skills internationally, with very low extra costs. Another gain from investing overseas is that these corporations can utilize their worldwide presence to capitalize on the lower labor service prices that are found in particular developing nations, and in turn acquire â€Å"access to special RD capabilities residing in advanced foreign countries† (Eun Resnick, 2007, p.17). Without any doubt, the MNCs can engage in leveraging their worldwide presence in order to increase profit margins and also to realize value creation (Eun Resnick, 2007).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Multi-National Corporations Definition specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The emerging markets are quite attractive and present great opportunities for the MNCs to invest. However, these markets are greatly unpre dictable and may present various political risks. Under international finance, a political risk is said to exist in a situation where the political change can contribute towards having discontinuities within the business environment which are very hard to foresee. According to Thunnel (1977), there are two types of political risks; one of them is sovereign risk. This occurs in the host nations where a MNC can be affected by either social or government instability which may involve having revolutions and political strikes among others. The other type involves risks that occur between the host nation and the home country of the MNC, and this may involve having wars, trade frictions and â€Å"cross-currency control risks† (Liu Bjornson, 1998, p.362). The biggest risk that the multinational corporations face is â€Å"expropriation or nationalization of their investment, and forced withdrawal from the host country† (Liu Bjornson, 1998, p.362). Expropriation may involve a host nation engaging in appropriating the rents or profits of the multinational corporation by rising the levels of taxes imposed on direct foreign investment or otherwise, utilizing its authority to moderately expropriate (Liu Bjornson, 1998). The MNCs manage risks that they face through various ways. One of them is through insurance. Several developed nations engage in selling the political risk insurance in order to cover the domestic companies as well as foreign assets.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More For instance, in 1979, the United States government set up the â€Å"’Overseas Private Investment Corporation’ which provides insurance against expropriation, currency inconvertibility, political violence, and also loss of business income from interruptions to DFI operations† (Liu Bjornson, 1998, p.363). In 1988, MIGA or â€Å"Multinational Investment Guarantee Agency† was set up in order to boost â€Å"investment for economic development by insuring foreign investment against currency transfer restrictions, expropriation, war, civil disturbances, and breach of contract† (Liu Bjornson, 1998, p.363). The MNCs also manage the risk exposure by negotiating the environment. They do this by making concession agreements with the government of the host country before investing. They define the responsibilities as well as the rights of these two parties. These may include having tax breaks, constructing the infrastructure and having property rights that a re defined in a clear manner. The â€Å"negotiating environment† approach was used in the case that involved China as a host country and McDonald’s in 1994, to deal with the issue of property rights (Liu Bjornson, 1998). The other effective approach is to restructure the investment. Basing on this approach, the multinational corporations seek to bring down the level of their exposure to risks by â€Å"increasing the host country’s cost of interference with company operations† (Liu Bjornson, 1998, 363). Among the strategies of this nature is vertical integration which â€Å"keeps the local affiliate dependent on external MNC subsidiaries for inputs or market† (Liu Bjornson, 1998, 363). In conclusion, it has been established in the discussion that the multinational corporations are motivated to invest in foreign countries by the potential benefits that such investments bring. By investing overseas, they can gain from the economies of scale and may also be able to take advantage of the lower labor costs that are found mostly in developing nations. However, the MNCs also face political risks such as revolutions, political strikes, wars, trade frictions and â€Å"cross-currency control risks† among others. The MNC have been managing these risks by using such approaches as taking insurance cover, negotiating the environment and restructuring the investment among others. References Eun, C.S. Resnick, B.G. (2007). International Financial Management. (4th ed.)New York, NY: McGraw-Hill. Liu, Y. Bjornson, B. (1998). Managing exposure of direct foreign investment to political risk: The case of food businesses in China. International Food and Agribusiness Management Review, 1(3), 359 – 372. Thunnel, H. L. (1977). Political risk in international business: Investment behaviour of multinational corporations. New York, NY: Prager Publishers. Multi Introduction A project can be defined as a set of planned activities that are used to come up with clear and specific objectives within a given timeline and budget. The activities of a project are generally involving and painstaking, beginning with the identification of resource mobilization team and task force that helps to develop the necessary resource allocations and core operational lending to fund the project.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More A full participatory approach that entails a multi-disciplinary/multi-sectored approach is necessary to expedite the project cycle activities. The design phase of a project cycle is very crucial because it is the design process that determines the most feasible way through which the problem can be tackled, or objectives can be met. The involvement of a multi-disciplinary approach in participation ensur es that the project is successful and sustainable. However, as a development practitioner, one experiences various challenges while conducting a multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis hence affecting the actual outcome of the project. This paper aims at discussing the challenges/problems that a development practitioner experiences while conducting the aforementioned analysis. Discussion Stakeholders/beneficiaries are people who have a direct, significant and particular interest in given natural resources hence, have the liberty to express their views in a proposed project. Primary and secondary stakeholders, who have personal interests in the proposed project that addresses the problems concerned, are identified through a stakeholder analysis. Stakeholder analysis is very important as it helps in the development of strategic views that can be applied to address the problem. Multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis entails the identification of the different kinds of stakeholders who will take part in project development. These stakeholders are very important at every stage of the project cycle because each stage is related to the needs of the stakeholders in one way or the other (Caldwell, 2002). Appendix 1 represents a table that could be used in multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis (Gawler, 2005).Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More There are primary/direct stakeholders and these are very essential with regard to conservation. They are directly affected by any outcome of the project based on action taken hence; they are a very critical component of the project design process because wrong action will not yield into the desired impact of the project. The development practitioner should ensure that he/she clearly identifies the primary stakeholders as they are very essential in ensuring sustainability of the project. Secondary stakeholders are tho se with an indirect interest in the project. They entail donors, national government officials, consumers and private enterprises. Despite the fact that they are not included in all stages of the project, their periodic contribution is required (Guijt Woodhill, 2002). Opposition stakeholders adversely affect outcome of the project as they have the power to influence and control resources. They are mainly political leaders and mainly also known as gate-keepers. As a development practitioner, it is very important to establish a very good rapport with these stakeholders. In addition, it is very important that the practitioner develops amicable strategies of handling such stakeholders because they usually have personal interests. These stakeholders are interested in gaining favor from the rest of the population hence will seek to have all the credit given to them irrespective of the fact that they did not contribute much (Howlett, et al., 2000). Marginalized stakeholders are suppressed and their voices not given the importance they deserve. Irrespective of their input to project design and management, they lack the capacity of getting equally involved in a participatory approach during project design, implementation and management. It is left to the development practitioner to ensure that the marginalized stakeholders gain the recognition they deserve during problem identification, formulation of objectives, establishing the relevant approaches to addressing the problem and evaluating the strategy selected to determine its relevance in achieving the formulated objectives (Dickinson, 2002; Parpart, 1999).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The development practitioner should determine the nature and limits of every stakeholder’s role in the project. This is important to avoid misunderstandings that may prevent successful implementation of the program. Some stakeholders can only play their roles to a certain point hence, the practitioner should know the limitations and the type of stake each stakeholder is willing to offer. Failure to identify what each stakeholder is willing to offer may lead to disagreements thereafter thus affecting the success of the project. Multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis is a very critical process that requires adequate time for the development practitioner to explore stakeholders’ views, values and perspectives and obtain their insight with regard to human and institutional landscape. The stakeholder’s insight determines whether collaboration is necessary (WWF Ecoregion Conservation Strategies Unit, 2000; Rahman, 1995). Multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis is very inherent to any participatory approach because it helps planners to confirm the effects of a certain activity, identify marginalized groups who will be affected by the project’s devel opment activities. In addition, it ensures cost-effectiveness of the project because different disciplines come together to identify a common ground for action. This way, each discipline contributes partly to the success of the project cycle rather than leaving the entire project burden and budget to one party. The involvement of various disciplines in a project prevents duplication of resources hence saves on resources and avoids wastage. However be affected by cultural values and beliefs of a people. Gender issues are a main I pediment to the success of projects. This is because, discrimination by gender excludes some stakeholders from the project cycle hence, the project address the problems of all stakeholders (Razavi, 1998; Lind, 1997). Multi-stakeholder analysis in project cycle involves various parties from national, international organizations, private sector and the civil society. The recent notion in project cycle development is that networking in an integrated way should be embraced so as to achieve the actual objectives of the project.Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More A participatory approach in project development is assumed involve each and every person with a stake, choice and voice in the project cycle development process. Unfortunately, this approach may be governed by gendered interests hence, not giving the least powerful the chance to voice in their views and opinions. A development practitioner experiences difficulties related to, equity and inclusion during multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis given the fact that participation discourse has shifted from mere beneficiary participation to involve questions related to rights, governance and citizenship (Gaventa, 2002; Becker, 2001). The involvement of stakeholders in a project participation discourse in most occasions, boils down to a situation whereby only the few vocal voices are raised and heard. Women have been seen to lose out where their presence and views are marginalized in the so called ‘participatory processes.’ In such a case, it becomes very difficult for a deve lopment practitioner to foster full participation in projects. Gender and full participation with regard to development is considered to be rather fraught and is associated with tensions and contradictions that are too much for a development practitioner to handle. Gender and development assumes a top-down approach since the views of both genders are not adequately considered due to prevailing frames of references and lack of wide participation in setting agenda and implementing proposed ideas (Guijt, 1994; Razavi Miller, 1995.). Every beneficiary has a right to his/her voice in development while integrating various disciplines to help alleviate poverty and injustice in the society. It would be important to entail political, organizing, practical and creative factors to help in addressing poverty and injustice, where the political factor would play a great role in ensuring that legal frameworks defend and advance the rights of the poor and marginalized. Organization focuses on ensu ring that people organize themselves in a proper way for collective struggle (Fals-Borda Rahman, 1991). In a culture where gender discrimination is evident, it becomes difficult for the development practitioner to fight against cultural values and ways despite the fact that full participation is achieved without discrimination of any sort. Women, just like men, have important roles to carry out in project management and design. Women and children are the most vulnerable in society and therefore, involving women just the same way as men would enhance the success of the project. Gender mainstreaming, where the development practitioner creates an environment in which both men and women have an equal role to play and voice in their views unanimously, should be developed. This way, varied responses encompassing all genders are incorporated into the project. However, gender mainstreaming in an environment where gender discrimination is evident would not easy to achieve as a development p ractitioner (The Netherlands, ITAD Ltd, 1999; McPhail Jacobs, 1995). The involved stakeholders are the key parties that identify problems and issues that need to be addressed. In developing countries, a participatory rural appraisal (PRA) has been used to foster participation in prevailing projects. PRA entails the use of semi-structured but highly participatory activities that draw on the local communities’ knowledge and skills, while assisting them to assess their environment and resources. This approach is bent on the fact that solutions should derived from the local community (Pratt, 2001; Leach, Mearns Scoones, 1997). Multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis helps to establish a rapport between the facilitator and the stakeholders, which is very essential for the success of a project. It is the first step in any project cycle because conducting a multi-stakeholder analysis is important for developing the required task force necessary to ensure that every stage of the pr oject cycle is successful, addressing the relevant issues affecting the stakeholders. However, it is very important that the facilitator suitably identifies the relevant stakeholders A multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis helps to formulate SMART objectives. In addition, this analysis helps to identify the locally available resources that can be included while addressing the problem at hand. The analysis also helps to identify conflicts of interests among the stakeholders hence; it will be easy to manage the stakeholders. Unfortunately, the conflicts can be very overwhelming for the facilitator such that it could lead to derailment of the project. The development practitioner should use the multi-stakeholder analysis process to develop appropriate strategies that will ensure that stakeholders’ conflicts of interests do not interfere with the success of the project (Insight Partnership, 1995). The analytical importance of gender as a vital element is obscured by the narrow focus on gender relations. When a project fails to address gender related issues at the start of the project, then it becomes difficult to incorporate them in the subsequent stages of the project cycle. A project that does not include the varying needs of men and women in social, linguistic, economic and cultural contexts is likely to be ineffective, unsustainable and inefficient. The development practitioner, who is mainly the facilitator/chairperson, may have a difficult time trying to identify the relevant stakeholders so they can take part in needs assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of the project. This is because; individuals with personal interests may mislead the practitioner and he/she ends up identifying the wrong program and as a result, the project will not achieve intended objectives due to poor targeting (Rahman, 1995). A project may fail if the development practitioner does not adequately factor in the interests and groups of the different stakeholders in the area where a project is to be implemented. In such a case, stakeholders who feel that their interests are not adequately taken into account may use their power to prevent attainment of objectives. Therefore, it is very important that a development practitioner ensures that the interests of all the involved stakeholders are factored in during throughout the project cycle (Robb, 1999). Stakeholders may not be willing to accept the project. Such a case happens when the project was done while using a top-down approach hence, it may not be relevant to the stakeholders. Assuming the case of Australia’s aid program, environmental management system is developed and executed with the aim of achieving sound environmental performance. It establishes a structure through which environmental issues are addressed by allocation of resources, assignment of responsibilities and evaluation of practices, procedures and processes useful during the development, implementation, achievement, review and maintenance of policy and legal setting (Standards Australia/ Standards New Zealand, 1996 cited in Commonwealth of Australia, 2003). The EMS undergoes five steps to successfully develop a project/program that will ensure that environmental objectives in Australia are met. The first step entails comprehending policy and legal setting under which the desired useful activities will be implemented. Different stakeholders, that is, the AusAID staff, contractors, NGOs and associated development partners are required to fully understand the legal obligations related to AusAID’s activities to successfully carry out the assessment and properly manage the associated activities. The AusAID is involved with poverty reduction and environmental growth, stability and prosperity. The involvement of the relevant stakeholders helps to establish essential links that greatly fosters the effectiveness of the program in as far as poverty reduction was concerned (Commonwealth of Austral ia, 2003; Rademacher Patel, 2002). Multi-disciplinary approach of the AusAID is important as the Minister for Environment and Heritage is required to give advice before executing a project. Involving the Minister is very important because he/she is well aware of the objectives that the nation seeks to attain hence, will be in a position to give his/her opinion regarding the feasibility of the project with regard to the desired program effects. This example clearly indicates that the AusAID program identifies the desired stakeholders by conducting a training to create awareness. In this example, it is evident that the stakeholders involved are staff, contractors, NGOs and related parties involved in the implementation of the program’s activities. This example shows that while conducting a project, relevant stakeholders should be included in the project. This fosters the success and ability of the project to achieve its objectives. In addition, this network of stakeholders doe s not specify a certain gender or group of social group of people. The main focus is the ability to perform and objectives of the project. Depending on the role of each stakeholder, all will work collectively to carry on with assessment, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, and review. Assuming that a different group of stakeholders were selected, that which did not have knowledge about AusAID, its objectives and policies, the successful execution of the project would be jeopardized (Commonwealth of Australia, 2003). A development practitioner encounters a hard time trying to involve all the relevant stakeholders within a location into the project. This is because; some of the stakeholders are overwhelmed with responsibilities thus present themselves as secondary stakeholders. The AusAID example shows this. Therefore, a practitioner is not able to create a mainstream environment that allows for multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis because some of the stakeholders are tied u p in other events or responsibilities. In such a case, the practitioner is obliged to continuously update other stakeholders, who are not able to frequently avail themselves. The development practitioner is faced with the responsibility of making the stakeholders aware of the fact that power is not a priority at the time. The most crucial thing during multi-disciplinary analysis is to ensure that various aspects of the society integrate with one another for the good of everyone and not for only those to whom power has been bestowed upon. Different stakeholders may discriminate against one another yet, when selected applying the recommended protocol, all the stakeholders are very important for the success and effectiveness of the project (Howlett, et al., 2000). When multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis is done correctly, the stakeholders’ interests are met and they gain capacity development, which is very important for project sustainability and ownership. In addition, the stakeholders are able to integrate the locally available resources to ensure the sustainability of the project. Sustainability is successful when a full participatory approach is achieved involving a mainstreamed environment. Some stakeholders would want to use their power to govern the use and control of the project yet, the project is meant to benefit everyone regardless of their status. It is difficult for the facilitator to ensure that the project maintains an impartial approach that does not favor anyone due to their individual power or position. Every stakeholder involved in the design and management of the project has an equal right to the project (The Unit for Social and Environmental Research at Chang Mai University (USER), 2004.). Conclusion Multi-disciplinary stakeholder analysis is the initial and critical process of any project cycle. It is the determinant factor with regard to the success of the project. Understanding the views and opinions of the different stakeholde rs helps in designing a project that is relevant to the stakeholders. Identifying the ideal and relevant stakeholders to take part in the project management and design process is not easy but it should be carefully carried out. The stakeholders identified are a representative of the rest of the population hence; it is assumed that the needs of the stakeholders are a representation of the entire population within a particular society. If the stakeholder analysis is not carried out correctly, then the project ends up not addressing the desired society needs. Gender discrimination therefore, should be avoided and a full participatory approach encouraged. Reference List Becker, H. A., 2001. Social impact assessment. European Journal of Operational Research, 128, 311–21. Caldwell, R., 2002. Project Design Handbook (Working Draft Full Version 1.0 July 2002). Atlanta: CARE International. Commonwealth of Australia, 2003. Environmental Management Guide for Australia’s Aid Progr am 2003: AusAID. Canberra: AusAID. Dickinson, P., 2002. Preparing monitoring plans for the TDPs. Gland, Switzerland: WWF International. Gaventa, J., 2002. Introduction: exploring citizenship, participation and accountability. IDS Bulletin, 33, 1–11. Gawler, M., 2005. Project Design in the Context of Project Cycle Management. Prà ©vessin-Moà «ns: Artemis Services. Guijt, I., 1994. Making a difference: integrating gender analysis into PRA. PRA Notes, 19, 49–55. Guijt, I., Woodhill, J., 2002. Managing for Impact in Rural Development: A Guide for Project M E. Wageningen, The Netherlands: Office of Evaluation and Studies. Fals-Borda, O., Rahman, M. A., 1991. Action and knowledge: Breaking the monopoly with Participatory Action Research. New York: Apex Press. Howlett, D., et al. 2000. Stakeholder Analysis and Local Identification of Indicators of the Success and Sustainability of Farming Based Livelihood Systems. Sustainability Indicators for Natural Resource Policy, Wo rking Paper No. 5, Department for International Development (UK) Insight Partnership, 1995. Goal Oriented Project Planning Facilitator Training: Individual Procedures. The Netherlands: Little van der Geer. Leach, M., Mearns, R., Scoones, I. Eds. 1997. Community based sustainable development: consensus or conflict. IDS Bulletin, 28 (4), 12. Lind, A., 1997. Gender, development and urban social change: women’s community action in global cities. World Development, 25, 1205–1223. McPhail, K. Jacobs, S., 1995. Social Assessment. Washington D.C: The World Bank. Parpart, J., 1999. Rethinking participation, empowerment and development from a gender perspective. In J. Freedman (Ed.), Transforming development. Toronto: University of Toronto Press. Pratt, G., 2001. Practitioners! Critical reflections on PRA and participation in Nepal. IDS Working Paper no. 122. Brighton: Institute of Development Studies. Pretty, J., 1995. Participatory learning for sustainable agriculture. Worl d Development, 23, 1247–1263. Rademacher, A., Patel, R., 2002. Retelling worlds of poverty: reflections on transforming participatory research for a global narrative. In Brock, K., McGee, R. Eds. Knowing poverty: Critical reflections on participatory research and policy. London: Earth scans Publications. Rahman, M., 1995. People’s self-development: Perspectives on Participatory Action Research. London: Zed Books. Razavi, S., 1998. Gendered poverty and social change. Discussion Paper DP. 94, Geneva: UNRISD. Razavi, S., Miller, C., 1995. From WID to GAD: Conceptual shifts in the women and development discourse. Occasional Paper no. 1, Geneva: UNRISD. Robb, C., 1999. Can the poor influence policy? Participation in the World Bank’s poverty assessments. Washington, DC: World Bank. The Netherlands, ITAD Ltd, 1999. Project Cycle Management Training Handbook. EC, Brussels: ITAD. The Unit for Social and Environmental Research at Chang Mai University (USER), 2004. Sust ainable Production-Consumption Systems. Thailand: Chiang Mai.  https://www.hks.harvard.edu/centers/cid WWF Ecoregion Conservation Strategies Unit, 2000. Stakeholder Collaboration: Building Bridges for Conservation. Washington, DC: WWF US. Appendix

Adolesent Drug Abuse Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Adolesent Drug Abuse - Essay Example This is because the two aspects are majorly social and should be successfully and affordably manageable through social initiatives. Controlling risk factors while promoting counter control measures should have, contrary to the current situation, led to minimal level of adolescent drug abuse cases. However, successful initiatives have not been achieved with respect to these useful tools of preventing and controlling substance abuse among the teens. Risk factors such as environmental change and aggressiveness as well as tools and avenues such as â€Å"family relationships, peer relationships, school environment, and community environment† have been identified for their potential role in controlling teen substance abuse and its eventual adverse effects (Physician, 2002, p. 16). However, persistent trend shows that the structures, family, society and school, have failed to utilize their leadership potential to help the adolescents out of drug abuse (Physician, 2002). The most interesting aspect of adolescent drug abuse is therefore the fact that in spite of its social, readily available, and affordable risk factors and control measures, successful efforts have not been made to identify with social structures’ commitment controlling adolescents’ drug

Music Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 4

Music - Essay Example There were actually 18 songs from his setlist and three encore songs to the delight of the frantic audience who seem not to get enough. Starting his concert with the crowd’s favorite, Devil Without a Cause, the audience has long started to dance and prance and literally get crazy. His songs were a mix of rap and rock with a lot of metal and shrill screams in between. Most of the songs have regular pattern on the upbeat. The audience could actually appreciate them more were it not for the consistent barrage of loud noises, not only from the amplifiers and sounds on stage; but more so from the audiences’ screaming, shouting, jumping and dancing. By the time that Kid Rock sung his last encore song, Born Free, the audiences were all high from adrenaline just having been part of the spectacularly live, highly energetic and electrifying concert. Honestly, one is not a solid rock fan; therefore, attending the concert was more of a way to experience something new. One realized that other songs have good melodies and rhythm (Midnight Train to Memphis, Born Free, All Summer Long) with still the backdrop for shrill voice, liberating message, carefree spirit and the embodiment of democratic ideals. The only setback to the concert was the noise, especially of the screaming, shouting fans and audience, who were frantic and hyper most of the time. Seen to be a mix of hardcore rock fanatics, to the young generation, the crowd was virtually ecstatic constantly singing along, dancing with their hands up, as if in apparent awe and magnetized to Kid Rock’s singing. The playing of the instruments was really loud which was preferred by the general audience. As a spectator, one could only marvel at the pace by which the fans patronized this group and actually adored his every song and performance. Attending the concert has been a different but moving experience. Although one was not an avid rock fan, the impact that Kid

Write a summary of chapter 13 and 14 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Write a summary of chapter 13 and 14 - Essay Example This ensures its effectivity as it creates a sense of ownership and responsibility within the members of the committee and transferred to the entire organization. Committee management does not only mean chairing meetings but also following up on the action items that have been closed within meetings. Another aspect of aviation safety that is important in ensuring safety within the organization is inspection. Though pretty unpopular as it is viewed as fault-finding, inspection is crucial in order to determine if the organization is working towards the goal of the management, and that is to promote and guarantee safety within the organization. There are different types of inspection which leads to varying results. These are formal inspection, informal or daily inspections and spot inspections. Making sure that this is done regularly establishes the importance of meeting expectations and standards of safety. Also, this will enable the organization to gather additional information on how the organization is keeping its house. The inspection does not end in the inspection itself but in a follow up which focuses on areas that are needed to be improved. The FAA’s inspection program serves as part of an early warning system to identify possible hazardous incidents and to prevent these situations from happening. However, there are some loopholes in their program. It did not have adequate guidance in classifying problems and determining whether these problems have been addressed or resolved. The problem lies in the information management from the inspection program. Inspectors were not provided with adequate definitions of comment codes. And this results to a difficulty in classifying the recorded problems. Thus, it is suggested that a clear and distinctive definition of these codes must be provided in order to clearly identify the category it belongs to. This is important in forming resolutions

The Rural Development And Agritourisms

The Rural Development And Agritourisms As per the evidence in the chapter 2, it is clear that tourism is an important sector and it has the ability to contribute for national development of many countries in developed and also in developing world. In this chapter, relationship between agritourism; a form of rural tourism and rural development is going to be studied to understand the level of contribution of agritourism for the rural development using existing literature especially in developing countries. Therefore, this chapter establishes the vital theoretical background for this research. This chapter is consisted of three main sections. In the first section, information related to rural development including definitions, different sectors of rural development, a new paradigm of rural tourism and barriers of rural development in developing countries. The second section provides information related to agritourism such as the concept, definitions, theoretical basis of agritourism, activities of agritourism, factors affecting for successful agritourism, advantages and disadvantages of agritourism, impact of agritourism for local residents, important policies related to agritourism development and current situation and development of agritourism in the world and in Asia. In the last section, relationship between agritourism and rural development has been discussed in detail. 3.1 Concept of rural development Before understand what rural development is, it is important to look at what rural areas are. In general, rural areas are geographical areas that are located outside the towns or cities. Hamlets, villages, towns, and other small settlements are in or surrounded by rural areas. Rural areas are open swath of lands that has few homes or other buildings, and not very many people. In rural areas, population density is lower than urban areas. Still 70 percent of the worlds poor is living in rural areas (World Bank, 2010) and agriculture is the main source of income and employment. Agriculture and forestry represent activities which occupy many fields of land and play a primary role in the managing of the rich natural resources and in the formation of the landscape in the rural regions, where they constitute an essential part of the natural environment and cultural heritage. Wildlife is more frequently found in rural areas. Rural development generally refers to the process of improving the quality of life and economic wellbeing of people living in relatively isolated and sparsely populated rural areas. It aims at the improvement of welfare of rural populations through the sustained growth of the rural economy. As a concept, it connotes overall development of rural areas with a view to improve the quality of life rural people. As a phenomenon, it is the result of various physical, technological, economic, socio-cultural and institutional factors. As a discipline, it is multi-disciplinary in nature representing an intersection of agricultural, social, behavioral and management of sciences (Fotiadis, 2009.). Rural development is not simply an economic proposition; it has social, psychological and cultural dimensions as well. It is a multi-dimensional as well as multi-directional concept. Thus, rural development is a program designed to improve the socio-economic living conditions of the rural poor. It aims at raising their cultural level and reorienting their rich traditions. It seeks to achieve increase rural production and productivity, greater socio-economic equity and a higher standard of living for the rural poor. It is partly ameliorative and partly development-oriented (..). Development is interlinked with motivation, innovation and the active participation of the beneficiaries. Rural development recognizes the importance of improved food supplies and nutrition, as well as the importance of basic services such as health, housing, education and expanded communications, which will go a long way in enhancing the productivity of the rural poor. Moreover, it aims at providing gainful e mployment, so that the rural people too may contribute their mite to the national product. Rural development implies a fuller development of existing resources, including the construction of infrastructure, such as roads and irrigation works, the introduction of new production technology, the revival of traditional arts and crafts, and the creation of new types of institutions and organizations (Desai, 2005). Not like traditional rural development approach that was based on modernization theory, the contemporary rural development is a new rural development approach, representing a policy model that seeks to focus less on the production of primary commodities and more on innovation and diversification (Ploeg et al., 2000). The model claims to encourage more democratic and effective rural development on the basis that different local stakeholders are involved as decision makers in the development process, and that the emergent development outcome is more innovative and integrated as a result. (Macken-Walsh, 2009). 3.1.1 Definitions of Rural Development There is no universally accepted definition of rural development. The term is used in different ways in vastly divergent contexts. Rural development can be defined as the development of regions excluding the urban areas such as the towns and cities. Smaller settlements such as villages, farmsteads, and market towns are normally included within the concept of rural, while most of the land area is expected to be used as agricultural land, forest or in its natural state (Apostolides. 2001?). According to Robert Chambers, rural development is a strategy to enable a specific group of people, poor rural women and men, to gain for themselves, and their children more of what they want and need. It involves helping the poorest among those who seek a livelihood in the rural areas to demand and control more of the benefits of rural development. The group includes small-scale farmers, tenants and the landless. Rural development may be defined as overall development of rural areas to improve the quality of life of rural people. It is an integrated process, which includes social, economical, political and spiritual development of the poorer sections of the society. Social or economic activities or initiatives designed to improve the standard of living in areas far away from large towns or cities. Thus, the term rural development may be used to imply any one of the above-mentioned connotations. The avoid ineffective floundering among the myriad definitions, it can be defined as a process leading to sustainable improvement in the quality of life of rural people, especially the poor 3.1.2 Barriers for rural development In many countries several problems can be identified against the rural development. They act as barriers to reach rural development. Most of them are common to number of countries. Some main barriers prevailing in developing countries can be summarized as follows. Depleting natural resources, resulting in insecurity of food and employment, compelling over majority of the rural population to live in poverty. Pollution of the environment and climate change, causing shortage of clean drinking water and adverse impact on agricultural production. Lack of employment opportunities, forcing the landless and small farmers to migrate to urban areas reducing young labour for the activities of rural areas. Poor access to education, resulting in low literacy and unemployment of the youth. Particularly among women having adverse effect on their skills development, employment productivity, family welfare and education of their children. Poor health status due to lack of clean drinking water, hygiene, sanitation and drainage facilities; Inadequate health care facilities, leading to high child mortality and morbidity; loss of labour productivity, economic loss, indebtedness and poor quality of life. Poor infrastructure for receiving timely information on development opportunities, market demand and prices for agricultural commodities, new technologies, forward and backward linkages, credit facilities and development policies of the government and Lack of technological skills to conduct processing and value addition to agricultural and other local products available in rural areas. Lack of peoples organizations and participation for supporting various socio-economic development activities and governing themselves (Hegde, 2010; Walsh, 2009; Commission on Sustainable Development, 2007). If we can overcome these problems, significant level of rural development can be obtained. It is the responsibility of the government to create a suitable environment for rural people to engage in rural development activities to gain sustainable development. 3.1. 3 New rural development paradigm As explained earlier, the traditional rural development approaches mainly based on industrial sector and modernization path. Decline in number of farms and a sharp drop in employment opportunities were seen as inevitable outcomes of this model. In addition, regional disparities increased and tensions grew between farming on the one hand and landscape, nature, environment and product on the other (Knickel 1990; Meyer 1996; Roep 2000). Until the early 1990s, due to scale-enlargement, intensification, specialization, within other sectors, a strong trend towards internalization was the parameters that circumscribed developments in the agricultural sector. With the understanding of these issues, present rural development means a new developmental model for the agricultural sector. This model entails societys expectations of agriculture and with the interests, prospect and perspectives of increasing segments of the agrarian community. In brief, new rural development can be seen as the sear ch for a new agricultural development model which is targeting to use rural resources in an effective manner to distribute benefits for the majority of the community. It is impossible and undesirable to refer to rural development as a new blueprint, but understanding of what elements should comprise in this new model are emerging fast. (Mannion 1996; Saraceno 1996) Agritourism, an alternative for diversification of agriculture is one of the main elements of it. 3.2 Concept of Agritourism Agritourism can be explained as a farm enterprise operated for the enjoyment and education of the public that may also generate additional income for the farmer by promoting farm products and experiences and giving many opportunities to local community to enhance their living standards (Wilson, Thilmany, Sullins, 2006). The concept is gaining popularity and its providing a great escape for people in urban environment from their high-paced, strenuous and many times monotonous lifestyle. At the same time its helping the new generation to get first-hand experience of the rural life, which otherwise is limited only to the books for them. Spending time on the farms, interacting with the local people and farmers to get an insight into their day-to-day work and their traditions, participating in the local fairs and festivals, doing the actual work on the farm, milking the cow, riding a bullock cart, are some of the activities that can be enjoyed on an agritourism outing. 3.2.1 Theoretical basis of agritourism Agritourism is multifunctional and cooperative strategy (Sidali, Spiller and Schulze, 2011; Wilson, 2007; Essex, et. al., 2005; Schmitt, 2010; Mason, 2000). The post-productivits agricultural system is the new approach in agricultural development. It is very complicated than subsistence and productivits agriculture systems (Topcu, 2007). Post-productivits agriculture system is a broad concept and the five main tasks of it are qualitative priorities in food production, alternative income sources for farmers and sustainability of agricultural lands, conservation of environment and new employment opportunities. Agritourism can easily link with these new aspects of agricultural development. Moreover, agritourism can be performed in five important sectors such as agricultural economic, socio-cultural, environmental and educational context in an effective manner. Further, since it is highly involved with the gender factor, agritourism as a gender approach is also having higher importance ( Topcu, 2007; Sidali, Spiller and Schulze; 2011; Wilson, 2007; Essex, et. al., 2005). 3.2.2 Definitions of agritourism Before 1990, only a little information has been published on agritourism. This lack of information was one of the reasons for the absence for the commonly accepted definition (Lack, 1997). However, after 1990, the research literature on agritourism has flourished and several number of definitions are available now (McGehee Kim, 2004). Some selected definitions of agritourism are as follows. Agritourism can be defined as the practice of engaging in activities, events and services that has been provided to consumers for recreational, entertainment, or educational purposes at a farm, ranch, or other agricultural, horticultural, or agribusiness operation in order to allow consumers to experience, learn about, and participate in various facets of agricultural industry, culinary pursuits, natural resources, and heritage (Colorado Agritourism Research Project, 2010). Tew (2010) cited The Agribusiness Development Division of the Missouri Department of Agriculture (2010) defines agritourism as, visiting a working farm or any agricultural, horticultural, or agribusiness operation for the purpose of appreciation, enjoyment, education, or recreational involvement with agricultural, natural or heritage resources Agritourism as an innovative agricultural activity related to tourism and agriculture both in which has capacity to create additional source of income and employment opportunities to the farmers and local communities (Maruti, 2009). Agritourism can be characterized as a business or activity that invites visitors to come on-farm or into a rural community to enjoy agriculture, its produce and the natural environment in which it exists. Agritourism is generally an additional enterprise added to the farm, integrating tourism into agri-business (Porcaro, 2009). An activity, enterprise or business which combines primary elements and characteristics of agriculture and tourism and provides an experience for visitors which stimulates economic activity and impacts both farm and community income (Bruch, 2008). Tourism on a working farm in which visitors can experience a direct connection with the host farm, rural life and/or the local environment. There is not a consistent definition of agritourism in the literature, and it has been used interchangeably with other terms. For example, some studies have previously been synonymously linked to rural tourism, farm tourism, agro-tourism, agricultural tourism and farm based vacation (Seong-woo and Sou-yeon, 2006; Ilbery, 1998; Ilbery, 1991). However, the main idea of all of these definitions is more or less similar. As a whole, agritourism can be explained as an interaction among agricultural producers, visitors, and local residents. Operators (mainly farmers) can earn extra income from the farm, visitors can get real knowledge and experience on farming and local residents can enhance their living slandered in several ways. 3.2.3 Working definition for agritourism in the study For the purpose of this study, agritourism is defined as tourism activities that conduct in working farm and surrounding, for enjoyment, education, recreation of visitors, hoping an additional income for the operator from farm resources in special and sustainable local development in general. This is the working definition for agritourism in this study that is suitable in Sri Lankan context. After having strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience in agritourism sector, this was developed, including considering the main purposes of agritourism visitors, motivation of agritourism operators and expectations of local residents for rural development. Economic, social, environmental dimensions have been included in this definition. 3.2.4 Activities involved in agritourism Normally, agritourism activities are the tourism activities take place in agricultural lands and surrounding rural environments. The number of agritourism activities mainly depends on the size of the farm and nature of the farming activities. These activities are important for the visitors to enjoy and learn agriculture. Blacka et al (2001) has divided agritourism activities in Virginia, into six categories as lodging and camping (bed breakfast, camp sites, youth camp, farm vacation, weddings, honeymoons), special events and festivals (music festivals, haunted house, holiday celebrations, harvest festivals) Off the farm (farmers markets, roadside produce stands), recreational activities and events (fee fishing, hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, skeet shooting), tourism related direct marketing (pick your own fruits/vegetables, sell processed food on the farm, sell herbal organic products) an youth and or adult education (Organized tours, agricultural educational programs, dem onstrations). Lack (1995) divided agritourism British Colombia, into three groups as retail sales/ direct marketing (goods produced on-site, customer harvested produce and goods produced off-site), Tours (tour of processing facilities, scenic tours and tours of production facilities) and activities (accommodation, cultural activities, recreation and educational or hands on experiences). It is important to include all the possible agritourism activities because it helps to increase the length of stay and satisfaction of the visitors. In European countries, in a farm there are activities for visitors even for several days. However, the number of agritourism activities is lower in Asian countries. Further, activities in agritourism and rural tourism havent clearly categorized yet and most of the time they are used interchangeably. Briefly, a successful agritourism operation should have three aspects. They are the need to have things for visitors to see (educational tours, historical recreations, festivals/special events, crop arts), things for visitors to do (educational activities, petting zoos, hay rides, pick your own) and things for visitors to buy (food drinks, farm products, souvenirs). Things to see and do are often offered free of charge. But, money can be earned by selling things to the visitors (Adam, 2001). Agritourism can be used as primary, supplementary or complementary enterprise. As a primary enterprise, agritourism would be the main activity in the farm. Agritourism could be a minor activity in supplementary enterprises and it would share equal footing in complementary enterprises (Blacka et al., 2001). Agritourism can consist of different alternatives such as temporary attraction or special event, part of a large agriculture-oriented destination, part of a large non-agriculture-oriented dest ination, and complete agritourism agritourism operation. Different forms agritourism business Farmers can incorporate agritourism activities to their farms in various ways according to the situation. Four possible ways are; as a supplementary, complementary or primary enterprise, farmer must be ready to think creatively and plan effectively in order to success the agritourism enterprise (Mnguni, 2010). Supplementary enterprise In a supplementary enterprise, agritourism could be a minor activity that would support the other products on the farm. For example, if the primary enterprise is crop production, educational and training programs can be introduced with marketing facility of value added crop products. Complementary enterprise In a complementary enterprise, agritourism activities have equal share with other enterprises in the farm product mix. For instance, if there is a grapes production enterprise on the farm, it the farmer wants to sell half of the grapes to a whole seller and the remainder to pick-your-own operations for visitors on the farm, then the two enterprises would be complementary enterprises. The primary enterprise In the primary enterprise, agritourism would be the major activity on the farm. For example, suppose that a farmer wants to open a winery on the farm and invite guests to spend the day or the weekend tasting wine. As a part of the wine tasting package, farmer may include overnight lodging in a cottage on your farm. You may produce grapes for the wine on your farm to supplement your wine tasting activities. Here agritourism is the main part of the farm product mix and it becomes the primary enterprise (Bernardo, Valentin and Leatherman, 2007; Blacka, et al, 2001). 3.2.5 Issues and challenges of agritourism development As agritourism is a business activity, lots of requirements are essential for the successfulness of it. However, as agritourism is conduct mainly in rural areas by farmers, presence of several issues and challenges is a common phenomenon. For example, a study by Lack (1995) in British Colombia, has discovered that, lack of training, marketing knowledge, quality control, finance, appropriate insurance, excessive regulations, personal challenges for farm families, conflict with primary agricultural production, distance from markets, infrastructure limitations and farm disease are the challenges of agritourism development in that country. Agritourism in Nova Scotia has some obstacles. Many agritourism operators face the problem of lack of assistance and the knowledge required to produce market-ready products as Nova Scotia Tourism and Culture is reluctant to include and to enhance agritourism in their marketing campaigns. This lack of support hinders the development of agritourism produ cts and services resulting poorly developed and marketed products by farmers. So, farmers could not develop many skills required to operate an effective tourism business (Colton and Bissix, 2005). A study in Haryana, India has reported that the Lack of funds for publicity and advertisement less number of visitors, Lack of technology to develop farm tourism, lack of motivation of farmers, inadequate price for farm products/activities as major constraints in establishing agritourism (Shehrawat, 2009). In Sri Lanka, issues and challenges in agritourism are small size farm lands, lack of required skills for the operators, poor level of processing of agricultural products, low level of publicity and promotion are the significant factors. Furthermore, lack of visitors, environmental pollution, poor condition on infrastructure, are the common problems for all the operators (Malkanthi and Routray, 2011b). Although there are few differences, most of the issues and challenges are common for many countries. As issues and challenges are negatively affect for the growth of the sector, finding solutions is utmost important. 3.2.6 Sustainability in agritourism operations Sustainable tourism development is supposed to meet the needs of present tourists and host regions while protecting and enhancing the opportunities for the future. It is envisaged as leading to management of all resources in such a way that economic, social and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled, while maintaining cultural integrity, essential ecological processes, biological diversity and life support systems (World Tourism Organization, 1999) Therefore, Sustainability principles refer to the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects of tourism development, and a suitable balance between these three dimensions to guarantee its long-term sustainability. Same as other tourism destinations, sustainability of agritourism destinations are very important in long run. Although most of the destinations that are feasible in short run, face difficulties in survival in long run. So, economic feasibility, social acceptability and environmental friendliness of tourism operations are equally applicable to agritourism as well. World Tourism Organization (2001), defines sustainable development as convene the requirement of present tourists and host regions as caring and improving opportunity for prospect. Its management of resources satisfies in way of economical, social and aesthetic needs satisfying while maintaining cultural integrity necessary for ecological processes, biological diversity and existence support system. Markandya, et.al., (2003) have reported that the three main linkages among tourism and sustainable development are economic, social and environmental. Tourism can kill itself if we mismanage the tourism activities and places (Yalcin Kuwan Perran Akan, 2001). Unspoiled natural environment is an asset of the industry. It will create the competitive advantage to the industry (Cater, 1993). The implementation and success of policies of sustainability, in employing tourism income to support social and cultural development and wild life conservation, require strategy framework which guides tourism development in a balanced and coherent way (Hall, 1998). Economic feasibility As one element of destinations economy, tourism must support a viable economic base. A healthy economy enables a country, region or city to pursue initiatives designed to enhance the quality of its residents (Ritchie Crouch, 2003). Traditional way of management of tourism destination was rather productive and resource-centered. But since there are limits in adapting to the market, the present strategy is combined supply and market let approach. In this context, management of demand is highly responsible for the sustainable tourism development (Kastenholz, 2004). So, instead of profit maximization of a destination by damaging the environment in short term, now the principle is to obtain the optimum profit. Economic benefits are positively related with the number of visitors. Further arrangement of traditional and cultural events is cost effective with this large number. However, as agritourism is a niche market, socio-culturally and environmentally sustainable, cooperation of cultural activities is very important. Socio-cultural feasibility It is widely accepted that local community participation is essential in sustainable tourism. Since agritourism is a service industry, goodwill and cooperation of host communities are the key factors of the success of the industry (Cole, 2006; Knowd, 2006). It is more important for the positive effects of tourism to the local community. It should be free from negative effects to the community. So, it is essential to test the social acceptability of tourism destinations (Gonzalez and Falcon, 2003). Convery, Dutson Scott (2006) found out the importance of stronger link between tourism and surrounding communities. The study also emphasizes the importance of social capital and social network in remote upland rural locations for the success of the operation. Most common measurement in tourism socio cultural force is the relation of visitors to the local population. Vital indicators are the stay-over time and average length of stay (Mcelroy, 2003). Sharpley (2002) said that socio-cultural growth includes population of remote areas, development and maintenance of public services, renewal of local craft, customs and cultural recognition. So it influences the chance for social control and exchange. Environmental feasibility Tourism destination should less damage to the surrounding environment; especially it should be free from serious environmental pollution activities. So, it should match with environmental rules and regulations and followed by Environment Impact Assessment (United Nations, 1999). However, the literature reveals that little evidence is there regarding environment being considered by farmers, planners and tourism professionals (Kline et al. 2007). Thus, sustainable agritourism should ensure viable, long-term economic operations, providing socio-economic benefits to all stakeholders that are fairly distributed, including stable employment and income-earning opportunities and social services to host communities, and contributing to poverty alleviation. Also, respect the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities, conserve their built and living cultural heritage and traditional values, and contribute to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance. It should make careful use of environmental resources that constitute a key element in tourism development, maintaining essential ecological processes and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity. Sustainable agritourism development requires the informed participation of all relevant stakeholders, as well as strong political leadership to ensure wide participation and consensus building. Achieving sustainable agritourism is a continuous process and it requires constant monitoring of impacts, introducing the necessary preventive and/or corrective measures whenever necessary. Furthermore, it should also maintain a high level of tourist satisfaction and ensure a meaningful experience to the tourists, raising their awareness about sustainability issues and promoting sustainable tourism practices amongst them. Although it is difficult and expensive, agritourism development should follow the sustainable tourism procedures to obtain the real benefits of it forever. However, most of the operators in many countries mainly emphasize only on short term economic advantages without social and environmental benefits. This is the reason for the breakdown of many tourism operations including agritourism, within a short time period. 3.2.7 Government policies in agritourism In general local government is the most important authority in establishing tourism development policies (Perce, 1989). However, the types and the content of its involvement vary from country to country based on the political, economic, and constitutional systems. In many European countries governments have supported the growth of the agritourism sector. There are national policies for the support and development of agritourism in a number of countries for a long time. For instance, in France, state financial aids to support the renovation of redundant farm buildings into accommodation facilities were introduced in 1954. Farms in Italy, Germany and Denmark also have long benefited from national support for the development of tourist facilities (Frater, 1983; Nilsson, 2002). In Britain, Scheme offering financial incentives and advices about diversification, together with partial relaxation of planning restrictions, have facilitated the development of farm-based tourism. The farm diversification Grant Scheme introduced by the ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in 1988, was one of the first measures offering grants to farmers to help them develop diversification schemes (Walford, 2001). According to Douglas Douglas, (2001); Fernando, Rebollo Biadal, (2003), it is important to develop policies in a proactive nature to lay the foundation and capture the development potential of tourism for rural communities. So, the national rural tourism strategy of a country must emphasis on infrastructure development, product development, accreditation and industrial standards, education and training, market analysis and the role of government authorities and industrial leaders in further developing the rural tourism product. Ritchie Crouch (2003) reported that policy is an important factor which ensures the success of tourism destination. It also creates a friendly environment among stakeholders. Therefore, the main objectives of agritourism policy are to minimize and alleviate negative environmental, s

Traditional Celebrations in Indonesia :: Essays Papers

Traditional Celebrations in Indonesia Introduction Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago. Archipelago is a large group of islands. Indonesia is composed of more than 17, 000 islands. West Indonesian Time zone, East Indonesian Time Zone, and East Indonesian Time Zone are the three climate zones in Indonesia. Indonesia is geographically located between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Its area is slightly less than three times the state of Texas. Indonesia borders East Timor, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. The climates in this country are tropical humid and tends to be more moderate in the highlands. Petroleum, natural gas, nickel, timber, bauxite, copper, fertile soil, gold, and silver are Indonesia’s natural resources. There are occasional floods, severe droughts, earthquakes, and volcanoes that occur every so often. Indonesia’s population is 205,000,000 people and 88% of the population is Muslim. Javanese is the main language. The capital of Indonesia is Jakarta. Indonesians have many brilliant wa ys of celebrating certain celebrations. I am going to be writing about celebrations in Indonesia such as: Indonesian’s Independence Day, a Traditional Wedding Ceremony, the Seventh Month of Pregnancy, and Ramadan. Independence Day August 17, 1945 is the date on which the Indonesians proclaimed their Independence. â€Å"The Indonesians fought and earned independence after more than 300 years under the Dutch occupation and followed by the Japanese occupation†(â€Å"Indonesian Independence Day† 1). Ever since this date, Indonesia celebrates their independence on the 17th day of August. This is just like the United States of America celebrating our independence on the Fourth of July of every year. Preparations for this holiday begin long before the actual celebration occurs. These preparations begin weeks before August 17th. Banners are hung all over. The banners consist of red and white colors. Red and white decorations are scattered all over and the words Long Live Indonesia can be seen almost everywhere. Indonesians use red and white for their banners because these are the colors of their flag. Indonesia’s flag has two horizontal stripes. The first stripe on the top is red. Red represents human blood and the white strip on the bottom symbolize the human spirit. Special activities are prepared for all of the neighborhood children. The schools also hold games and contests amongst the classes to see which class can decorate in the most patriotic manner. Musical selections are also held before and after Independence Day. A clean up day is usually held before the 17th to clean the streets, clean the gutters, and anything else that appears dirty.