Governance, development, and environment: Pathways to a sustainable future

The study aims to explore the relationships among public governance, economic and social development, climate change adaptation, and environmental performance across 149 countries. It seeks to understand how these dimensions interact to promote sustainable development. The methodology is based on Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), utilizing global data from 2022. The variables analyzed include Regulatory Quality, Rule of Law, GDP per capita, Human Development Index (HDI), and Environmental Performance Index (EPI), with data sourced from the World Bank, ND-GAIN, and other reputable institutions. Findings indicate that effective governance drives economic development by attracting investment and fostering institutional stability. This economic progress, in turn, enhances social and environmental indicators, such as HDI and climate adaptation capacity. The interaction among these variables highlights the importance of integrated public policies to achieve sustainability. The originality of the study lies in the presentation of a comprehensive model that integrates governance, economic and social development, and environmental sustainability, providing valuable insights for the formulation of effective public policies. Among the limitations, the study notes the need for a deeper analysis of governance as a catalyst for sustainable development, particularly in light of regional disparities and structural differences among countries. From a practical standpoint, the study suggests integrated policies focused on strengthening governance, reducing regional inequalities, and increasing climate resilience. On a societal level, the research promotes debate on inclusion, social justice, and environmental preservation as essential pillars of global sustainability.