In Australia, the proliferation of online dating platforms has revolutionised interpersonal relationships while simultaneously introducing risks to user safety (Filice et al., 2022; Gillett, 2023; Henry-Waring & Barraket, 2008; Stardust et al., 2023). As of 2024, over 323 million individuals worldwide engage with online dating applications (Gill, 2024), and this figure is projected to surpass 452 million by 2028 (Curry, 2024). Despite the growing emphasis on user safety, many online dating platforms remain inadequately regulated, neglecting the safety of women, young adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities; for this reason, and given that the Australian Government's National Plan recognised the urgent need to address technology-related safety and to End Violence Against Women and Children by 2022–2032, (Australian Government, 2022). We ask the following research questions: How does multilevel engagement among heterogeneous actors within the online dating ecosystem affect the safety of its users? How does safety impact users' experiences in online dating, and what are the outcomes for individuals and the online dating industry?

To answer these research questions and to develop a multilevel and multidisciplinary theoretical framework similar to Aguinis and Glavas (2012), we synthesise and integrate the literature at the institutional (macro), organisational and start-up (meso), and individual (micro) levels. The framework will include safety actions and policies and the outcomes of such actions and policies, which affect individuals and the online dating industry. Additionally, the framework will examine contingency effects through moderators related to user demographics, platform features, pricing structures, and profile characteristics, which help identify the conditions under which safety outcomes in online dating can vary.

Scope of the review

There is a notable imbalance in research focus; research often occurs in isolation at each (macro, meso or micro) level, and there is very little research adopting a multilevel approach. Although no review is entirely inclusive, our review relies on information extracted from Scopus as our primary search engine, given its broad coverage of articles in Business, Economics, Management, and Social Sciences (Mongeon & Paul-Hus, 2016; Martín-Martín et al., 2018). Scopus is widely recognised and accepted in academic research (e.g., Fahimniaet et al., 2019; Pournader et al., 2019; Wang, 2019). In addition to Scopus, we incorporated other significant databases, including Web of Science, EBSCO, and Google Scholar, to ensure comprehensive coverage of relevant studies. Our methodology involves developing and testing a set of keywords designed to capture the maximum number of pertinent papers across these databases.

In conclusion, understanding the diverse actors and their roles within the Australian online dating ecosystem is crucial for addressing systemic gaps and enhancing user safety across dating platforms. By providing a theoretical foundation for future research and a practical roadmap for practitioners, our approach underscores that safety is a collective responsibility. A comprehensive analysis of how different participants interact can lead to improved protective measures and contribute to creating a safer environment for all Australians.

Problem

The rapid growth of online dating platforms in Australia has transformed interpersonal relationships and created new connections while raising significant safety concerns (eSafety, 2024). With the global user base projected to surpass 452 million by 2028, many platforms remain inadequately regulated, putting vulnerable groups like women, young adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities at risk. Although the Australian Government's National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children (2022–2032) highlights the need for enhanced safety, current measures are inconsistent.

Research on online dating safety is often fragmented, focusing on isolated aspects at various levels. To address this, a comprehensive, multilevel analysis is needed to map actors and integrate perspectives from all macro-meso-micro levels of the ecosystem. This approach will enhance our understanding of safety risks and contribute to the development of more effective safety frameworks. Ultimately, it will help ensure a safer online dating experience for all users and may inform the systemic changes needed within Australia.
Outcomes
The proposed framework will advance theoretical knowledge by bridging gaps in existing research and offering a systematic approach to examining safety dynamics across different contexts. Considering user demographics and platform features, the framework will be highly applicable and relevant, making it a valuable tool for future research and policy development. Beyond enhancing academic understanding, the research will have practical implications for improving safety measures within the online dating industry. The study will provide valuable insights for platform developers, regulators, and investors by identifying practical safety actions and policies. These insights will guide the creation of more robust safety protocols and industry standards, ultimately leading to a safer online dating environment. The findings will also support the development of targeted interventions to address specific safety concerns, contributing to a more secure and inclusive experience for all users. This work may inform the systemic changes needed within Australia, setting a benchmark for global practices in online dating safety.

Abstract:

In recent years, concepts such as "social enterprise", "social entrepreneurship" and "social entrepreneur" have gained significant attention in Europe. Social enterprises (SEs) play a crucial role in addressing social and environmental challenges, particularly in rural regions where traditional resources are often scarce (Defourny & Nyssens, 2010; Doherty et al., 2014; Mair & Martí, 2006). However, these enterprises frequently encounter significant barriers, such as limited access to resources, knowledge, skills, and markets, hindering their ability to grow and make a sustainable impact (Doherty et al., 2014). The Shared Services model, pioneered by the Donegal Local Development Company (DLDC), offers an innovative solution by enabling SEs to collaborate and share essential resources, including staff, expertise, and facilities.

This collaborative approach aims to reduce operational costs, enhance efficiency, and strengthen the capacity of SEs to scale and measure their impact to fit the new phase in SEs Ireland. The Shared Services Pilot, where three different SEs—a community facility, a gym, and a youth hostel—shared the services of a bookkeeper, showcased the potential of this model. Each enterprise contributed to the bookkeeper's salary, with additional funding and support from DLDC. This arrangement allowed the CEOs to focus on other business areas while benefiting from professional bookkeeping services.

Despite its promise, there is a noticeable gap in comprehensive research evaluating the effectiveness and broader applicability of the Shared Services model, particularly in the context of rural SEs, where the impact could be transformative (Defourny & Nyssens, 2017). This study aims to fill this gap by examining the implementation, impact, and scalability of the Shared Services model within rural social enterprises and its role in promoting economic development.

Utilising a mixed-methods approach, this research will combine quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with SE leaders and stakeholders to assess the benefits, challenges, and broader applicability of the Shared Services model. The findings will provide insights into how shared resources can empower SEs, drive community development, and create a sustainable business environment in rural areas.

This research aims to inform both scholarly discourse and practical strategies in the field of social enterprise management and development, seeking innovative strategies to enhance the resilience and scalability of social enterprises in rural contexts. By leveraging the Shared Services model, rural communities can foster collaborative ecosystems that maximise limited resources, promote economic development, and create lasting social and environmental impact.

References:

1. Defourny, J., & Nyssens, M. (2010). Conceptions of social enterprise and social entrepreneurship in Europe and the United States: Convergences and divergences. Journal of Social Entrepreneurship, 1(1), 32-53.
2. Doherty, B., Haugh, H., & Lyon, F. (2014). Social enterprises as hybrid organisations: A review and research agenda. International Journal of Management Reviews, 16(4), 417-436.
3. Mair, J., & Martí, I. (2006). Social entrepreneurship research: A source of explanation, prediction, and delight. Journal of World Business, 41(1), 36-44.
4. Defourny, J., & Nyssens, M. (2017). Fundamentals for an international typology of social enterprise models. ICSEM Working Papers, 33, 1-33.
5. Teasdale, S., Lyon, F., & Baldock, R. (2013). Playing with numbers: A methodological critique of the social enterprise growth myth. Journal of Social Entrepreneurship, 4(2), 113-131.
6. Wilson, F., & Post, J. E. (2013). Business models for people, planet (& profits): Exploring the phenomena of social business, a market-based approach to social value creation. Small Business Economics, 40(3), 715-737.

Background/Context

Mount Royal University is a teaching focused undergraduate post secondary institution in Calgary, Alberta Canada with a vibrant applied research culture. Research connects knowledge advancement with community engagement and undergraduate student learning. To support those objectives the University’s Institutes, have a focus on community partnerships. In the summer of 2024 the Institute for Community Prosperity, under the leadership of its Associate Director, embarked on a unique and potentially highly impactful initiative to support refugee integration into the Alberta workforce. Project partners included the Government of Alberta, a private investment funder and four not for profit organizations. In this approach a procurement agreement, rather than grant, was structured with the government. This research idea is proposed as a process and ethnographic study of a multi-sectoral, multi-organizational collaboration with a common goal of moving refugees from social support to employment.

Sustainability research in recent years has tended to consider grand challenges and wicked problems. Often these studies focus on the direct impacts of climate change – warming temperatures, floods, droughts, rising sea levels, disasters, environmental degradation. Another important impact is the displacement of individuals either owing to climate change impacts or social unrest and war. This displacement has led to increasing numbers of refugees who must be supported by countries, corporations and local communities.

Theoretical Framing and Research Question

Existing systems may be inadequate or insufficient to address the grand challenges and wicked problems of our time. New approaches are necessary to achieve desired outcomes. Cross-sector partnerships (Rondinelli & London, 2003; Koschmann, Kuhn, Pfarrer, 2012; Stadtler & van Wassenhove, 2016; Yan, Lin, Clarke, 2018) where nonprofits, government and for profits work together to address these challenges may be the answer. Such partnerships can be challenging.

In this case study at Mount Royal University early data indicates that pre-existing structures, policies, agreements, budgets, and processes threaten execution of the project. Anchoring to the extant cross-sector partnership literature, the following research question will be posed: how are systemic barriers overcome in cross-sector partnerships?

The Discussion Session at IABS offers a valuable opportunity to receive feedback on Theoretical Framing.

Methods

This is a qualitative, inductive, single case study relying on primary interview data and secondary data via documents and reports. Given the lead author’s involvement in the Refugee Workforce Integration Initiative at Mount Royal University the method may be ethnographic in nature.

The Discussion Session at IABS offers a valuable opportunity to receive feedback on Methods.

References

Koschmann, M. A., Kuhn, T. R., & Pfarrer, M. D. (2012). A communicative framework of value in cross-sector partnerships. Academy of management review, 37(3), 332-354.

Rondinelli, D. A., & London, T. (2003). How corporations and environmental groups cooperate: Assessing cross-sector alliances and collaborations. Academy of Management Perspectives, 17(1), 61-76.

Stadtler, L., & Van Wassenhove, L. N. (2016). Coopetition as a paradox: Integrative approaches in a multi-company, cross-sector partnership. Organization Studies, 37(5), 655-685.

Yan, X., Lin, H., & Clarke, A. (2018). Cross-sector social partnerships for social change: The roles of non-governmental organizations. Sustainability, 10(2), 558.

Compared to other groups with a migration background, refugees notably experience more difficulties gaining access to the labour market (Connor, 2010). Dutch cohort studies since 2014 show that only 54 percent are employed after 8 years. Looking at the characteristics of most of these jobs, most permit holders work in vulnerable economic sectors and have a part-time job (65 percent) and a temporary contract (75 percent) (CBS 2023). Previous studies show that this gap can persist on average for up to about ten years after arrival (Bakker et al., 2017; Fasani et al. 2018). Not being able to fully participate in the labour market not only results in a loss of talent and a greater and longer-term dependence on the welfare state (Vervliet & Heyma, 2024), but also hinders the social connection, personal development, health and well-being of refugees (de Bell & Dikkers, 2022).

Although the ongoing shortages of workers in various economic sectors of the Dutch labour market currently seem to provide better opportunities for refugees to enter the labour market, additional efforts are required by all actors involved. In recent years, much research has been conducted to address the causes behind the difficult process of refugees accessing the Dutch labour market; from the perspective of the refugees (e.g. van de Braak et al., 2023; Dieleman et al., 2021), employers (Razenberg et al., 2021; Mack et al., 2019), and (local) government (Damen et al., 2023; Razenberg et al., 2022). The persistence of this issue suggests that there are underlying structural causes that cannot be traced back to one or more of the actors concerned, but are the result of the (difficult) interplay between these three actors.

In recent years, there have been several pilot projects in several economic sectors and industries with apprenticeship programmes. These are so-called ‘dual’ programmes, in which acquiring specific professional knowledge is integrated with obtaining the necessary practical experience on the job. These programmes have great potential because they allow refugees to be (re)skilled in a foreseeable amount of time, and become employed in a profession that fits their (educational) level in an area where there is great market demand. In recent years, many reports and evaluations have been published, focusing on the lessons and ‘best practices’ of these apprenticeship programmes. Despite the promising outcomes of several of these pilot projects (VIA, 2021), the number of these apprenticeship programmes for refugees still remains limited.

The identified ‘success’ factors often prove difficult to implement in a different context or different economic sector. As a consequence, setting up an apprenticeship programme often turns out to be a complex and time-consuming process, which requires a careful and structured approach between a multitude of stakeholders involved (de Bell & Bakker, 2022). After thorough analysis of numerous successful apprenticeship programmes in different economic sectors, the authors have developed an instrument that identifies the main elements that need to be addressed at specific moments in the development process, including the corresponding roles of the appropriate actors.

This (discussion) paper analyses the co-creation process with all stakeholders involved in the development and implementation of apprenticeship programmes for refugees in two large corporates, using the above mentioned framework. It involves a two-year project and uses several action research methods. The main objective and contribution is to provide a better understanding of how to engage multiple stakeholders in creating more sustainable and scalable apprenticeship programmes for refugees, in different economic sectors, which will allow untapped talents to flourish, to the benefit of the individual, the organisation, and society.

References:

Bakker, L., Dagevos, J. & Engbersen, G. (2017). Explaining the Refugee Gap: A Longitudinal Study on Labour Market Participation of Refugees in the Netherlands. Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, vol. 43 (11), pp. 1775-1791.

de Bell, L., & Dikkers, J. (2022). Organiseren van waardig werk voor mensen met een kwetsbare arbeidsmarktpositie: Een pleidooi voor een integrale benadering. Tijdschrift voor Arbeidsvraagstukken, 38(1), 105-116.

de Bell, L. & Bakker, L. (2022). Werk maken van werk. Naar een missie-gedreven aanpak om leerwerktrajecten voor statushouders te verduurzamen en op te schalen. Hogeschool Utrecht.

van den Braak, G., Lazëri, M., Schols, H. & Slingenberg, L. (2023). Belemmeringen asielzoekers bij het toetreden tot de arbeidsmarkt. Regioplan.

CBS (2024). Dashboard Asiel en Integratie. Statistics Netherlands. Consulted on 29 September 2024. https://dashboards.cbs.nl/v5/asielenintegratie/

Connor, P. (2010). Explaining the Refugee Gap: Economic Outcomes of Refugees versus Other Immigrants. Journal of Refugee Studies, vol. 23 (3), pp. 377-397.

Damen, R., Hekelaar, A., Dagevos, J., Bruggeling, D., Moors, F., Watzeels, A. & Bakker, L. (2023). Van start met het nieuwe inburgeringsbeleid in Rotterdam. OBI/Erasmus Universiteit.

Dieleman, D., Huisman, C. & Verschuren, S. (2021). Arbeidsdeelname van statushouders en hun dynamiek op de arbeidsmarkt. in: Huijnk, W., Dagevos, J., Djundeva, M., Schans, D., Uiters, E., Ruijsbroek, A. & de Mooij, M. (Eds.). Met beleid van start. Over de rol van beleid voor ontwikkelingen in de positie en leefsituatie van Syrische statushouders. Sociaal en Cultureel Planbureau.

Fasani, F., Frattini, T. & Minale, L. (2018). (The Struggle for) Refugee Integration into the Labour Market: Evidence from Europe. Bonn: Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Discussion Paper, no. 11333.

Mack, A., Odé, A., Witkamp, B. & Witvliet, M. (2019). Bij elkaar brengen van statushouders en werkgevers. Rapportage over effecten dienstverlening in Den Haag. Regioplan.

Razenberg, I., de Gruijter, M. Nijs, T. & Sikkema, M. (2022). Gemeentelijk beleid arbeidstoeleiding en inburgering statushouders en gezinsmigranten. KIS/Divosa.

Razenberg, I., Oostveen, A. & Klaver, J. (2021). Stappen op weg naar werk. Lessen uit acht studies naar arbeidstoeleiding van statushouders. Regioplan/Verwey-Jonker Instituut.

Vervliet, T. & Heyma, A. (2024). Ruimere werkmogelijkheden asielzoekers. Maatschappelijke kosten-batenanalyse op hoofdlijnen. SEO economic research.

VIA (2022). Eindrapporten thema Leren en Werken programma VIA. Ministerie van SZW. Consulted on 29 September 2024. https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/documenten/publicaties/ 2021/06/25/eindrapporten-thema-leren-en-werken-programma-via

Title: The cooperative model as an instrument to promote sustainable development.

This paper aims to critically examine the cooperative model as an important instrument to promote sustainable development. Main research question: How is the cooperative business model contributing towards sustainable development?

Sustainability is in the intrinsic nature of cooperatives. The values and principles governing cooperative enterprises respond to the pressing issues of economic development, environmental protection and social equity in a globalized world. Cooperative organizational forms can promote sustainable community development and the democratic values in the global economy (Brown, 1997). Cooperatives as a form of association contribute to social inclusion and poverty reduction, in particular for developing countries (UN, Rio+20, June 2012). They allow the exchange of information between partners and peer organizations, the development of commercial initiatives and capacity building while creating opportunities and energizing local development.

The cooperative model promotes sustainable development through its principles of mutual help, solidarity, and environmental protection (Duque, 2013). Cooperatives contribute to sustainability at both micro and macro levels through intangible assets and local community engagement (Castilla‐Polo & Sánchez-Hernández, 2020; Annesi et al., 2021). They play a crucial role in translating global sustainability goals to local contexts (Battaglia et al., 2020). Cooperatives inherently embody sustainability principles due to their dual economic and social nature (Castilla‐Polo & Sánchez-Hernández, 2020). Their governance model and values align closely with sustainable development goals, promoting a balance between economic growth and social equity (Duque, 2013).

Cooperatives are often present where private or state service providers are unable or unwilling to go. They thus play a key role in health and social care, access to financial services as well as water and energy provision in rural areas in many countries. They also support more inclusive and equal trade relations and value chains through their engagement in alternative forms of trade, such as fair trade, and contribute to a low-carbon economy through innovative approaches. More and more farmers are joining cooperatives and associations, not just because of commercial interests (greater profits, increased access to competitive markets) but because of learning opportunities (not just based on production) and social inclusion, especially for those in previously excluded groups, like women and youth. Cooperatives are important for achieving sustainable development goals through promoting democracy, fair income distribution, social inclusion and environmental care (Gagliardi & Gindis, 2022).

A systematic analysis of the characteristics of cooperatives reveals many capacities that recommend cooperative management as appropriate vehicle for sustainable development (Gertler, 2004). Cooperatives, with their collective governance and reinvestment of profits, can actively contribute to sustainability, especially at the local level (Battaglia et al., 2020). First, cooperatives can play a key role in poverty reduction. While savings and credit cooperatives facilitate their members’ access to financial capital, agricultural cooperatives help farmers access the inputs required to grow crops and keep livestock and help them process, transport and market their products. Second, cooperatives are major job providers; they employ at least 100 million people worldwide. It has been estimated that the livelihoods of nearly half the world’s population are secured by cooperative enterprises. Cooperative societies can act as agents towards sustainable community development by facilitating job creation, economic growth and social development (Dogarawa, 2010). Third, cooperatives are contributing towards gender equality by expanding women’s opportunities to participate in local economies.

Through the principles of solidarity, reciprocity, and sharing, cooperatives foster democracy, fair income distribution and social inclusion (Gagliardi & Gindis, 2022). They contribute to poverty reduction, economic growth, and employment generation, particularly in developing countries (Ezekiel, 2014; Jamal, 2023). Recent evidence shows that jobs in employee-owned enterprises are less likely to be negatively affected by cyclical downturns and that these enterprises had greater levels of employment stability over the recent economic downturn. In a world where young people are often struggling with economic challenges and uncertainty, cooperatives can offer a unique transformative approach. The cooperative sector needs to do more to develop and promote distinctive management practices which reflect the democratic values and long term horizon of the cooperative business model, and which will fully exploit the potential cooperative advantage. Not without reason, the second time in history the UN has dedicated an international year to cooperatives: 2025.