Theses and Dissertations

Issuing Body

Mississippi State University

Advisor

Nukpezah, Julius

Committee Member

Shoup, Brian

Committee Member

Potter, Michael

Committee Member

French, P.

Date of Degree

8-7-2025

Original embargo terms

Visible MSU Only 2 Years

Document Type

Dissertation - Campus Access Only

Major

Public Policy & Administration

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Department of Political Science and Public Administration

Abstract

The analysis conducted in this study develops and tests an Integrative Sustainability Framework (ISF) that proposes a composite understanding of the economic, financial, political, social, historical, and organizational determinants of sustainability outcomes across national contexts, with a particular focus on the role of public institutions. Grounded in the field of public administration, it explores how structural and strategic forces interact to support or constrain long-term sustainability objectives, with implications for global sustainability efforts. The study employs a continuous sustainability index spanning multiple time periods, encompassing the environmental, social, and economic dimensions. It applies a comparative cross-national panel data approach and utilizes a correlated random effects model to examine sustainability performance at the national level. It finds that sustainability performance is strongly influenced by factors such as equitable access to education, effective governance through the rule of law, and state sovereignty in the policymaking process. This inquiry highlights the critical role of inclusive policymaking, social capital, and integrated governance frameworks in achieving sustainability goals at the domestic level. It proposes a theoretical framework to advance our understanding of sustainability governance in public administration, providing actionable policy recommendations for governments. Finally, it underscores the value of a holistic and context-sensitive approach to sustainability, ensuring it aligns with institutional capacity, and strategic planning in an increasingly globalized society.

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