EIRP Proceedings https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP <p> </p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td width="198"><img src="https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/public/site/images/danarobu/mceclip3.png" /></td> <td width="425"> <p><strong>EIRP Proceedings</strong></p> <p><strong>Frequency: 1 issue per year (30th July)</strong></p> <p><strong>Print ISSN: 2067 - 9211</strong></p> <p><strong>Online ISSN: 2069 – 9344</strong></p> <p>• <a href="https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/about/submissions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Author Guidelines</a></p> <p>• <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1l22ugommmEZEV3M0xFWUZSSkk/view" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Publication Ethics and Malpractice Statement</a></p> <p>• <a href="https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/about" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peer Review Process</a></p> <p> <strong> • Previous Issues<a href="http://www.proceedings.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/eirp/issue/archive" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 2006-2019</a></strong></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>EIRP Proceedings containing the works of the <a title=" Eirp" href="http://www.conferences.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/index/schedConfs/current" target="_blank" rel="noopener">International Conference on European Integration - Realities and Perspectives</a>, bring together all the submitted and presented contributions, providing a conclusive and accessible view to all who wish to feel the beat of research. 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You may do so in any reasonable manner, but not in any way that suggests the licensor endorses you or your use.<span id="by-more-container"></span></p> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="row"> <ul id="deed-conditions-no-icons" class="col-md-offset-2 col-md-8"> <li class="license"><strong>No additional restrictions</strong> — You may not apply legal terms or <a id="technological_measures_popup" class="helpLink" tabindex="0" title="" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#" data-original-title="">technological measures</a> that legally restrict others from doing anything the license permits.</li> </ul> </div> Legal Nature Pauline Action - I https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/662 <p>The Pauline action can be seen as a form in which a creditor, injured by the fraudulent acts of one’s debtor concluded with or for the benefit of a third party, seeks legal protection from the court competent to pursue forcely the asset belonging to a person other than the debtor. As an institution born in the cradle of Roman law, the Pauline action naturally reappeared in the attention of civil law science in the process of the transposition of Roman law in Western Europe. However, the real rise of the Pauline action was only marked by the development of capitalist relations in the XVII-XIX century, when jurists were asked for remedies in order to fight against vicious debtors. It is not by chance, therefore, that the classical theories attempting to explain the institution of the Pauline action were developed by the German doctrine of the XIX century, marked by the Pandectist current. These theories are characterized by the attempt to frame the Pauline action within the framework of one or other of the traditional institutions of civil law. Among the classical theories, however, we also find theories that recognize the sui generis character of the Pauline action, a theory also supported by us.</p> Michael Poalelungi Nicolae Fala Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 73 79 Legal Nature Pauline Action - II https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/663 <p>In part two, we will continue our analysis of Pauline action. It can be perceived as a form in which the creditor prejudiced by the fraudulent acts of his debtor entered into with or for the benefit of a third party. The real rise of the Pauline action was only marked by the development of capitalist relations in the XVII-XIX century. It is not by chance that the classic theories trying to explain the institution of Pauline action were elaborated by the German doctrine of the XIX century marked by the pandectist current. Among the classical theories, however, we also find theories that recognize the <em>sui generis</em> nature of the Pauline action, a theory supported by us.</p> Michael Poalelungi Nicolae Fala Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 610 615 Challenges and Perspectives in Sustainable Entrepreneurship https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/565 <p><strong>Objectives:&nbsp;</strong>This research aims to explore sustainable entrepreneurship as a vital approach in contemporary global contexts, focusing on its significance in fostering businesses that actively contribute to sustainable development objectives.&nbsp;<strong>Prior Work:&nbsp;</strong>The paper builds upon existing literature and research on sustainable entrepreneurship, incorporating insights from various disciplines such as business sustainability, finance, innovation, and technology.&nbsp;<strong>Approach:&nbsp;</strong>Methodologically, the study employs an extensive literature review, including case studies, scholarly articles, and reports from relevant organizations. A qualitative approach is utilized to delve into the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and identify viable solutions.<strong>&nbsp;Results:&nbsp;</strong>Key findings underscore the significant challenges entrepreneurs encounter in integrating sustainable practices, including high initial costs and limited access to financing. However, there is optimism in the potential of innovation and emerging technologies to address these barriers.<strong>&nbsp;Implications:&nbsp;</strong>The study holds implications for academics, researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs by offering insights into the dynamics of sustainable entrepreneurship. It underscores the importance of education, financial support, and innovation in accelerating the transition to sustainability.<strong>&nbsp;Value:&nbsp;</strong>This paper contributes to the existing literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of sustainable entrepreneurship, emphasizing its importance in fostering a sustainable future.</p> Claudia Ramona Ciocnitu Stoiconi Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 531 540 Impact of Global Climate Change on Agricultural Development https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/540 <p>The process of globalization significantly influences not only the system of international relations and socio-economic development but also has profound effects on the environment and natural geographic processes. This is most evident against the backdrop of global climate change. The most significant manifestations of global climate change are first felt in agriculture. Research indicates that global climate change, primarily in the context of global warming, results in the destruction of green spaces, water resource shortages, and other harmful phenomena, adversely affecting agricultural development. The harmful effects of global climate change on agriculture primarily lead to a decline in soil fertility and negatively impact the growth of crops due to warmer air masses. It is important to note that climate change, when considered independently, creates numerous problems for the development of agriculture not only in individual countries but globally. Global warming primarily causes a reduction in precipitation, leading to longer drought periods, which negatively affects agricultural productivity. Consequently, this results in a decrease in agricultural production. Therefore, mitigating the harmful effects of global climate change can play a significant role in fostering positive developments in agriculture. Investment is necessary to neutralize the impacts of global climate change on agriculture. Additionally, developing new crop strategies and implementing innovative technologies for cultivating specific plants are crucial. Notably, Azerbaijan has substantial potential for agricultural production due to its favorable natural climate conditions and diverse soil types. Azerbaijan's eleven climate zones provide suitable conditions for the production of various crops. Historically, including during the Soviet era, Azerbaijan's comparative advantages in agriculture were utilized to meet the food needs of the former Soviet Union's central regions. The production of early vegetables played a significant role in satisfying the food demands of these regions. Global climate change does not only result in global warming but also increases precipitation in certain areas, which can negatively impact the quality of agricultural products. Changes in climate conditions also affect the quality of agricultural products. Rising temperatures can significantly reduce the nutritional value of agricultural products and, in some cases, adversely affect their taste and quality. Climate change leads to the degradation of land and agricultural areas, reducing soil fertility and the efficiency of agricultural production. This paper presents scientifically grounded and practically significant proposals for mitigating the harmful effects of global climate change on agriculture.</p> Anar Fazil Abbasov Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 541 546 A Synoptic Analysis of the Regulation and Use of Mobile Money Services in South Africa https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/660 <p>The use of innovative financial technology (fintech) products such as mobile money is increasing in South Africa post the corona virus (covid-19 pandemic). Telecommunications companies and other financial institutions are providing mobile money services to millions of people, especially the poor and low-income earners in South Africa. Mobile money is crucial in aiding financial inclusion for the poor and other economically marginalised persons in South Africa. Any person who has a mobile phone can open a mobile money account and be able to send and receive money. Mobile money allows individuals to, inter alia, pay for products and services in retail outlets, keep money in their mobile wallets and send value to other people using mobile phones. However, despite the numerous advantages of mobile money, it is currently inadequately regulated in South Africa. There is no legislation that expressly regulate mobile money products in South Africa. Consequently, there are concerns that mobile money could be a conduit for illicit financial flows, money laundering and/or terrorism financing purposes in South Africa. Notably, between 2020 and 2021, millions of rands were reportedly channeled out of South Africa through mobile money platforms to fund terrorist activities in some parts of the African continent. In light of this, this article discusses statutes such as the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) and the Regulation of Interception of Communication and Provision of Communication-related Information Act (RICA) to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. It is submitted that the current South African financial regulatory framework is not robust enough to effectively regulate fintech products such as mobile money. It is further submitted that the policymakers should to enact a specific statute to effectively regulate and promote the lawful use of mobile money services in South Africa.</p> Howard Chitimira Elfas Torerai Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 Circumplex Model at the Management Level of the School Organization https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/625 <p>The article presents a model of the managerial approach to organizational culture from the perspective of the Circumplex Model that began to crystallize in the 70s when several psychologists founded the complex concept of human synergy (Human Synergistics). The circumplex model measures 12 distinct thinking styles that either contribute to or hinder people’s effectiveness at work and overall life satisfaction. Thus, the Circumplex Model can be used as a measurement tool at the individual, group, or organization level. For the management of the school organization, this model can be the fastest indicator of the force of change it has and how ready the school organization is for the next level of evolution, development, and performance.</p> Doinita Popa Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 599 565 The Impact of Digital Communications on Society: A Managerial Approach https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/557 <p>Our scientific approach is determined by the accelerated progress that acquires anexponential inertia in the field of intercultural communication on a global level through thevirtual environment made available by digital platforms. In the past, intercultural communicationcould be achieved but only when tourists visited another country. Nowadays, the Internet hasmade it possible to communicate between people living at great distances, thus allowingdifferent cultures to come into contact and become more aware of the global environment inwhich they are located. In the era of digitization, the availability of online services that areincreasingly accessible to many people from as many different cultures as possible, diversity atan international level, has created a bridge of connection between people from all corners of theworld.The hypothesis from which we start in our approach is that according to which, in a globalsociety, intercultural communication is in full expansion. We believe that authentic interculturalcommunication goes beyond acceptance of difference, tolerance, and access to understandingand behavioral change. We thus aim to analyze the impact of digitization on society and theimpact of virtual communities on the offline environment. Digital communication skills(especially intercultural communication) will become more and more important in the future,contributing to the personal development of young people and more.</p> Manuela Panaitescu Bogdan Andronic Gheorghe Chiru Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 566 577 Digital Pedagogy - The Model of Reconstruction of Training and Evaluation Strategies in Higher Education https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/624 <p>In an era of continuous digitization, teachers turn to new technology to adapt to their students' universe and to be updated in this constant educational paradigm change. The article contributes to contextualizing the information, experiences, scientific knowledge, conditions, relationships, and meanings regarding the phrase “digital pedagogy” seen as a part of pedagogy, a component of education sciences. In this sense, the specificity of the field is given by the distinctive note that the digital component adds to didactic methods, the evaluation of school progress, contents, and learning conditions, as well as the extent to which it contributes to their efficiency.</p> Doinita Popa Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 578 586 The Impact of Improving Food Supply in Modern Conditions on Enhancing Competitiveness https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/586 <p>In modern conditions, improving food supply is one of the most important tasks facing the state’s agrarian policy, ensuring the country’s economic security, and maintaining social stability in society. Food supply not only plays a significant role in meeting the basic needs of society members but also constitutes an important factor in ensuring the strategic interests and benefits of the state. The improvement of food supply depends directly on enhancing the competitiveness of agricultural production and food products, which form the material basis of food supply, as well as improving the quality of food products imported into the country. Additionally, several factors influence the improvement of food supply in modern conditions, which are closely related to enhancing competitiveness.</p> Azar Aghazeynal Gurbanzade Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 587 591 Ensuring Market Stability: The Role of Agromarketing Services in Azerbaijan’s Food Market https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/584 <p>The satisfaction of the population’s demand for food products is significantly dependent on stabilizing prices in the food market and ensuring that the products available meet consumers’ needs. The balance between demand and supply in the food market, in principle, directly contributes to maintaining social stability in society. Ensuring market stability in the food market should be approached as a macroeconomic problem. The solution to this problem depends directly on several factors, including the state’s agricultural policy, the continuous development of agriculture and processing industries, stimulating consumers’ purchasing power-demand, and effectively addressing fluctuations in the food market. The food market operates with a more liberal character under globalization conditions, which reflects various interventions in these markets. In fact, these interventions are not considered administrative interventions but arise in the face of global threats in the context of globalization. Therefore, eliminating the destructive manifestations in the food market, first and foremost, depends on the effective organization of agromarketing services.</p> Aynura Fazil Allahyarova Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 592 596 Legal Mechanisms for Ensuring National Security in the Field of International Trade https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/661 <p>The world economic system is developing rapidly, and respecting the essence and principles established in this process is absolutely necessary to ensure the smooth development of economic relations between states. However, the realities of the 21st century require states to take the necessary measures to ensure their national security and the security of their own citizens. In addition to the multilateral rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations (UN), elements related to ensuring national security are also reflected in the free trade agreement between the states participating in international economic relations. This article analyzes some aspects of this complex process of interaction between the need to ensure national security and the specifics of international trade relations.</p> Alexandr Victor Cauia Lidia Cherdivara Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 597 602 An Examination of the Role of University Chief Research Officer: Pathways, Pipelines, and Professional Development https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/471 <p>The world’s great universities impact the contemporary intellectual, societal, and cultural landscape through a rich history of academic inquiry, pedagogy, research, and discovery. The results of faculty-led scholarship increasingly serve as an important measure for global institutional ranking and prestige. As a result, esteemed American and Canadian universities have professionalized leadership of the enterprise-wide responsibilities of research development and administration under the position of the Chief Research Officer (CRO). Despite the critical importance and increasingly complex aspects of the role, little systematic inquiry has been conducted to date that seeks to identify the shared academic and professional development of successful CROs. Accordingly, a study is underway to explore the common pathways and preparation for those seeking to assume the role. Results of the study will have the potential for professional development programs for future CROs, especially for emerging universities across Europe and Asia prioritizing academic excellence through an enhanced research culture. Employing a mixed method approach, the study includes a cross-sectional analysis of more than 250 CROs at empirically rated high research universities in the United States paired with a detailed assessment of focus group interviews of current CROs summarizing experiences deemed critical for success in the role.</p> Jeffrey Harris Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Assessing Student Satisfaction: Opportunities and Challenges in Online Learning https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/483 <p>This research analyzes online and traditional education satisfaction, highlighting their unique<br />opportunities and challenges. Objectives: The study aims to explore the higher education landscape,<br />investigating how students navigate these various environments and the resulting influences on their<br />educational experiences, academic institutions, and more. Prior Work: This research evaluates the satisfaction<br />with online learning throughout university education, providing essential insights for educators, policymakers,<br />and students. Approach: A survey was conducted to measure the online learning satisfaction of 880 students<br />from public universities in Albania during the 2022-2023 academic year. The data was analyzed using an<br />econometric model incorporating multiple factors with index variables. Results: The dependent variable is the<br />satisfaction of online learning, and the independent variables are many dimensions that affect online learning,<br />such as the challenges, disadvantages, and advantages of digitalization and learning platforms, new online<br />teaching methods and relevance, etc. Value and Implications: Despite the numerous benefits and opportunities<br />of online learning, such as access to materials, modern study methods, video-recorded lectures, and guest<br />speakers, there are also some challenges, including technological issues, difficulties with interactive<br />communication, and social isolation.<br />Keywords: online learning; digitization</p> Llesh Lleshaj Suela Agaj Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 455 465 Coping Strategies of Nurses in Response to Nosy Behaviors in the Workplace: An Exploratory Study https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/494 <p>Employees typically value their privacy in the workplace and may feel irritated when confronted with nosy questions. This study aims to explore the coping strategies employed by nurses in response to nosy behaviors exhibited by their colleagues. Despite the significance of nosiness in the workplace, previous research has not extensively examined this phenomenon. Through an exploratory and qualitative approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 23 nurses from four hospitals in Isfahan province, Iran. Our findings revealed that nurses utilize maladaptive strategies such as reducing interaction with nosy colleagues and avoiding responses, as well as adaptive strategies like active confrontation and humorous responses. This study sheds light on the nuanced coping strategies nurses employ to manage nosy behaviors in the workplace, providing valuable insights for healthcare organizations to develop supportive environments that respect employees' privacy and foster positive interpersonal dynamics. Understanding these strategies can enhance workplace communication, promote professional boundaries, and contribute to a more harmonious work environment conducive to quality patient care.</p> Mehdi Golverdi AmirHossein Soleimani Naeini Mohammad Sadegh Sharifirad Mohammad Shaker Ardakani Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 466 472 The Application of Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing Method: A Case Study in an Albanian Restaurant https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/520 <p><strong>Objectives</strong>: This study is focused on identifying activities and resources for a restaurant and then allocating resources into activities for achieving a better performance. Also, through this study are identified activities that are value added and which not.</p> <p><strong>Prior Work</strong>: TDABC was introduced to simplify ABC, by making time the main factor in the cost calculations so that it provided a more flexible method. The method remains the same, but TDABC employs time as a driver, which makes a difference.</p> <p><strong>Approach</strong>: For this paper a case study methodology is used to achieve the goal of the paper. This methodology helps to observe in detail the case and analyze activities for improving operational efficiency.</p> <p><strong>Results</strong>: Through this study we were able to identify all activities and resources involved in the process and identifying activities that add value and the ones that do not, which need improvements in the future in order to help with operational efficiencies improvements, menu pricing, customer demand and balancing cost-quality through managing costs.</p> <p><strong>Implications: </strong>This study is a work in progress regarding papers for TDABC and helps managers in cost management issues.</p> <p><strong>Value: </strong>The conducted study is to value for identifying activities and resources in a restaurant and deciding which are an added value and which not that shows areas for improvements and cost reducing for the restaurant manager.</p> Edison Zaçaj Diana Lamani Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 473 485 Bridging the Gap: Aligning High School and University Mathematics Curricula in Albania https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/510 <p>This paper evaluates the discrepancy in mathematics education between high school and higher education within STEM disciplines in Albania, focusing on the issues caused by curriculum gaps. It addresses the educational challenges hindering students' transition from high school to university and underscores the importance of aligning educational content across levels to enhance student preparedness for advanced studies. This study builds on analyses of educational transitions, emphasizing the impact of curricular disparities on student preparedness for higher education. It explores the shift towards application-focused content in high school mathematics textbooks at the expense of foundational scientific concepts. The research involved a comparative analysis of Albania's high-school and university mathematics textbooks, concentrating on content alignment and pedagogical strategies relative to real-world applications and rigorous academic requirements. Findings reveal a significant gap between the mathematical competencies developed at the high school level and those required in higher education, leading to increased academic pressures and forcing university professors to fill pre-existing knowledge gaps. These insights are vital for curriculum developers and educators, advocating for integrated curricula that improve educational continuity and student outcomes. This paper contributes to the educational discourse by promoting curriculum reforms that prepare students for the demands of higher STEM education, aiming to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Albanian STEM education internationally.</p> Teuta Thanasi (Biti) Orgest Beqiri Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 486 494 Policies and Challenges of Education after the Pandemic in Albania, Integration of Technological Tools in Educational System https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/527 <p class="Abstract"><span lang="HR" style="font-style: normal;">The education system has developed over time. Its development has been influenced by national and international policies and strategies, technological development, etc. But even the pandemic period has had an influence to the change and development of teaching and learning techniques and processes, adapting to the evolving requests. Today, it is necessary for the school/university environment to be equipped with technological infrastructure. The use of technological tools and information systems is becoming increasingly important.</span></p> <p class="Abstract"><span lang="HR" style="font-style: normal;">Nowadays, the ability to manage and create knowledge through technology is critical to the future of students. Many platforms have been created that help and emphasize the importance of using technological tools during the teaching and learning process to increase its efficiency. Improving the quality of the education system is achieved by increasing the teaching capacity for students, which means more qualified staff, updating didactic materials in line with technological developments and transforming auditoriums into resource centers for promoting the professional development of lecturers/teachers. In this paper we will study, technological development and its inclusion in the educational system, as a support to the teaching-learning process, and the challenges encountered in everyday life. An important element for the further development of the educational process and the updating of curricula, is the national and international strategy policy.</span></p> Senada Bushati (Hoxha) Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 495 501 European Union Voting and the Dutch ‘Double No’: The 2005 and 2016 Referendums https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/465 <p>What caused Dutch citizens to vote ‘no’ in the 2005 and 2016 referendums? How do these<br />referendum outcomes compare to voting patterns in European Union (EU) member states more generally?<br />How are national-level referendums related to European integration? In a comparative analysis, we explore<br />such questions based on information and data on two Dutch referendums, exploring the driving forces of voter<br />opposition in light of more general theories of EU-related voting. We find that perceived threats to identity<br />and culture mattered in the ‘Dutch double no’, while economic cost-benefit calculations and the actual contents<br />of the votes played a less dominant role.</p> Madeleine Hosli Caterina Zamparini Luiza Martins Santos Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 45 62 Legal Implications of E-Government - FinTech Interaction. Comparative Legislative References at the European-Spanish-Romanian Level https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/536 <p>New technologies, especially those related to the FinTech phenomenon, are developing in a legal<br />framework that is tested by the new-necessary interaction. On the one hand, it is obvious the need to face the<br />current challenges generated using technologies, and on the other hand, the legal systems must continuously<br />adapt to protect the parties that interact in this system. The integration of increasingly revolutionary<br />technologies in the governmental field gave birth to what we call e-government, and FinTech comes to rank<br />among the first priorities of society through aspects related to transparency and responsibility, compliance with<br />financial regulations, regulation of financial transactions online, cyber security and data privacy. All these<br />represent key points around which the European legislation is created and even more important, the<br />transposition of this legislation into the national legislation of the European states.</p> Nicolae Pana Antonio Tirso Ester Sanchez Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 63 71 The Reconstruction and Development Policy in Albania After the Earthquake of 26 November 2019 https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/505 <p>The paper explores the reconstruction and redevelopment policy in Albania, after the damages caused by the earthquake of 26 November 2019 as a devastating natural disaster, and the following crises it created. One of the major problems was that of damages that suffered several regions, in relation with the houses and buildings in these areas. The reconstruction policy for the unsheltered persons following the destruction caused by the earthquake, aimed at helping individuals and families that lost their homes as a result of this natural disaster. Thus, this paper aims to present the situation in relation with the implementation of the reconstruction and housing policy and the steps undertaken by the Albanian government, together with other public and private actors in this direction. In this regard, it was necessary to create ties and collaborate with affected local government units or municipalities, different nongovernmental actors and citizens, also accompanied by the necessary funds, in order to respond to increased responsibilities to cope and overcome the crises situation, in line with all the support of international actors.</p> <p>In this paper, will be analyzed the involvement and the response of the government and other relevant actors in time of crisis and the undertaken government initiatives to offer citizens effective and efficient public goods and services. The methodology to exploring this topic, is that of qualitative methods, and by using primary and secondary sources of information from different international and national relevant institutions.</p> <p>The different aspects and the used instruments of the reconstruction and redevelopment policies, have been related with arguments about its efficiency and effectiveness, with different treatment of the citizens, the steps and the quantity of the given relief from government, and debates about the speed of the process, accompanied by the problematic situation of Covid 19 spread at the time, in the country.</p> Marsida Ismaili Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 72 78 Citizen’s Rights Regarding Access to Documents Held by the National Archives of European States https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/519 <p>Objectives. The article offers a brief overview of the National Archives in Europe. The implications<br />of European legislation concerning citizen access to historical documents are discussed. Prior Work. By<br />exploring the european documentary treasure, this research examines how access to historical documents can<br />influence the understanding of European history. Approach. The empirical approach involves asking the<br />question, “What are the current practices for accessing documents in the National Archives across Europe?”<br />by examining the regulations of reading rooms in various countries. Results. Some countries have stricter<br />regulations regarding access to sensitive documents from certain historical periods, while others adopt<br />transparent policies. Recommendations include: developing an online platform with advanced search options<br />for digitized documents, requests via the portal for subsequent consultation in the reading room; simplifying<br />procedures, ensuring logistics, and implementing training and education programs. Implications. Theoretical<br />implications regarding access to held documents. Value. The work contributes to the development of existing<br />knowledge by providing innovative ideas in the field.</p> Ioana Ignat Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 79 87 Participatory Budgeting System at the Level of Economic Entities – Utility, Advantages and Disadvantages, Phasing in Implementation https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/531 <p>The adoption and implementation of a participatory budgeting system can have a significant impact on the budgetary process within entities. The participation of subordinates in the elaboration of budgets influences a multitude of factors which in turn will affect the efficiency of the budget system of the economic entity. Thus, participatory budgeting influences the budgetary process by promoting the exchange of information between subordinates and superiors that leads to obtaining more realistic budgets, through the ability of the participatory system to motivate employees, to improve the degree of satisfaction felt by them, but also the level of dedication of employees towards the entity and its objectives.</p> Lucian Cosmin Badalau Aura Oana Mustatea Carmen Mihaela Bulau Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 88 103 The European Union in the COVID-19 Pandemic Crisis: Facts and Reactions https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/544 <p>This paper aims to investigate how the main international organizations, mainly the European Union, reacted to the start of the crisis generated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It started with a chronology of events as soon as the crisis was known, and then the actions taken by the bodies of the European Union were presented. The methodology used to achieve the purpose of the study is descriptive research and the existing literature on the subject. How the different governments managed the pandemic and the measures taken to complement the financial support received from the European Union influenced the economic, political, and health outcomes of the affected countries and the population's well-being.</p> Daniel Tecu Liliana Mihaela Moga Andra Luciana Marcu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 104 109 The Framework for Measuring the Readiness of Mentors in Iranian Accelerators to Accept Artificial Intelligence in the Mentoring Process https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/492 <p>Artificial intelligence as a great event in the history of mankind with the potential of transformation and disrupting all the rules and dimensions of human life, has also marked change and transformation in the fields of entrepreneurship; Therefore, the readiness to accept it by the actors of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, such as accelerators, mentors and startups, is considered an attractive research path. Mentoring, as one of the most important accelerator services for startups, is one of the significant areas for integration with artificial intelligence. According to the concern of the researchers for the combination of traditional mentoring in the accelerator with educational technology and artificial intelligence, the aim of this research is to provide a framework for measuring the readiness of the mentors in the accelerators of Iran to accept the integration of artificial intelligence in the mentoring process, which is in accordance with be Iran's entrepreneurship ecosystem. Rapid review was used to review the literature between 2022 and 2024 and related articles were analyzed to reach the framework. The proposed framework includes three main dimensions consist of intention, ability and utility.</p> Asef Karimi Zahede Abarghoii Zade Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 370 378 Cultural Policy of the European Union https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/489 <p>The European Union is a geographical and political reality, whose cultural policy forms a supporting pillar of its construction. The European Union contributes to the flourishing of the cultures of the member states, respecting their national and regional diversity and highlighting the common cultural heritage. Based on these considerations, the article proposes two scientific objectives: the current strategic framework regarding cultural policy and aspects regarding the Union's international cultural relations.</p> Filofteia Repez Polixenia Olar Marian Stefan Zaharia Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 25 30 The Reform of the Kafala System. https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/521 <p>The sponsorship system (kafala) is characteristic of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and of a few other Arab nations with regard to migration. In light of intense criticism from the human rights defenders, the reform of kafala has been on the agenda of governments across the region. The most recent studies provide evidence of incipient steps on the path of reform, doubting, however, the depth of the implemented measures. This paper will provide a comparative analysis regarding the system across the GCC nations and the different types of reform that have been attempted in order to enhance the compliance of migrant workers’ rights. It will also describe the impact of the system on Romanian migrants and their perception of the improvements generated by the reforms. The research is based on data provided by the authorities of the six GCC countries and data emerging from the international organizations’ reports. I have also conducted a poll among Romanian migrants in the region, to develop a better understanding of the consequences, costs and effects inflicted by system upon their daily lives. The conclusions address the stages of reform in the analyzed countries, underlying the lack of structural reform where the case, future reform opportunities and the perception upon the system of the Romanian migrants in the region.</p> Aniela Cristina Robu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 31 37 Tradition and reform in the legal framework surrounding immigrant woman in Muslim societies https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/522 <p>Migrant communities in the Middle East represent a vibrant space of identity negotiation and (re)construction, strongly influenced by the local context, itself characterised by a robust set of values deeply rooted in history and faith. Sexism is a significant problem throughout the region, as traditional, religious and social norms give men legal and economic power. The general level of male dominance over women overlaps with a particular one which regulates the status of the immigrant woman in Muslim society and family, further diminishing her role and rights. The article provides an overview of contemporary legal systems in Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt regarding the status of immigrant women and explores to what extent these systems are pervaded by sharia-based law, or whether the governments aim to ensure that they meet modern socio-economic needs. Out of all areas of law, familly laws are most influenced by classical sharia. Based on data collected from constitutions and relevant national laws, the paper analyses the framework for marriages, divorces and custodies. While Muslim countries have gradually taken distance from tradition-based legislation to the benefit of women, the rights of immigrants, mainly non-Arabs, vary in terms of individual liberties throughout the analysed countries.</p> Aniela Cristina Robu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 38 44 Implications of Action Components and Communication in Hybrid Developments https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/507 <p>Hybrid warfare presents a complex, fluid, surprising and chameleonic way of communication and conducting today's belligerence. The form of confrontation makes extensive use of non-kinetic modalities of military as well as non-military engagement. It is in this line of thought that psychological, intelligence and informational-related operations, media operations, propaganda involvement, as well as classic methods of confrontation will be carried out in which <em>hard power </em>will excel in the confrontation space. The most important non-military forms will be provided by the economic and technological potential, both of which are fueled extensively by a massive financial support. Even if the objectives of the confrontation are fixed, the methods of deployment will know non-template deployments. All hybrid deployments will exhibit high cloaking capacity, malignant, dangerous cognitive load, and harmful influence on target audiences. The action mechanism consists in the circulation of genuine disinformation and propaganda campaigns towards the opponent. Multiple channels (mediums) will be selected so as to saturate the target audience, without leaving them any opportunity to analyze, relate, compare, systematize or make value judgments. The multidimensional approach results in overwhelming target audiences with data, information and messages by using creative, fast-changing and different modes of action compared to previous events in that category.</p> Liviu Mihail Marinescu Gabriela Elena Sirbu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 248 254 Post-colonial identity and power politics. The case of Myanmar's civil war https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/490 <p>Burma was integrated into the Japanese empire after more than a century of British colonial rule. Since obtaining independence in 1948, Burma has experienced a permanent state of internal strife, insurgencies, civil war, and military dictatorships. Myanmar started transitioning to liberal democracy in 2008, and after the 2015 general elections, it seemed that the process would create a modern functional state. The 2021 military coup reignited the flames of a brutal civil war, including the ongoing Rohingya genocide. The paper aims to explain the leading causes of failure to produce a stable democratic nation-state and end the cycle of violence. How can we expect the ongoing civil war to end, and what will be its consequences? Are there other outside relevant political actors that can influence the outcome? The methodology is linked with the realist constructivist and path dependence theories. The historical narrative, speech analysis of key political figures, and quantitative measurements of ethnicity and religion suggest that the root cause of the problem is that Myanmar was created as an artificial colonial state without taking into account any local or regional specificity.</p> Armand Sadovschi Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 255 266 Mechanisms and International Legal Instruments to Ensure the Economic Security of the Republic of Moldova (Historical Aspects) https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/511 <p>Economic stability and security is one of the main elements of the process of ensuring national security. The risks, threats and dangers to various aspects of the economic security of the state are diverse. At the national level, states create and use various mechanisms and legal instruments to prevent and combat the negative effects on economic security. International organizations, bilateral and multilateral economic cooperation agreements are the most important cooperation mechanisms and instruments in order to ensure the economic security of the state. This article analyzes the range of international legal instruments and mechanisms that can contribute directly and decisively to the process of ensuring the economic security of the Republic of Moldova, through the lens of the provisions of the National Security Strategy.</p> Alexandr Victor Cauia Lidia Cherdivara Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 267 272 Navigating Geopolitics and Diplomacy in the Contemporary World: An Analysis of International Relations. https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/529 <p>This research paper endeavors to dissect the intricate dynamics of modern international relations, with a focus on geopolitics, diplomacy, and global governance. It seeks to elucidate the importance of these factors in achieving strategic interests and fostering global stability. Prior Work: This paper builds upon existing research on international relations, drawing from various theoretical frameworks and empirical studies. It aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse by examining contemporary geopolitical shifts, evolving diplomatic strategies, and challenges in global governance. Approach: The research employs a comprehensive approach, integrating qualitative analysis of diplomatic negotiations, case studies of power dynamics, and scrutiny of theoretical frameworks. It leverages diverse methodologies to capture multifaceted perspectives on international relations in the 21st century. Results: The paper synthesizes key findings, emphasizing the impact of technology and globalization on geopolitical strategies, the evolution of diplomatic practices, and avenues for cooperation on global issues. It provides insights into the complexities of contemporary international relations. Implications: This study has implications for academics, policymakers, and administrators, offering valuable insights into navigating the complexities of modern international relations. It informs strategic decision-making and underscores the importance of proactive diplomatic engagement in addressing global challenges.Value: The paper makes a significant contribution to the field by offering a nuanced analysis of contemporary international relations, highlighting original insights and providing a thorough examination of key issues. It adds value through its comprehensive research approach and rigorous analysis, ensuring its relevance and high quality.</p> Evelina Lusha Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 273 282 The Generation Context and Relevant Hybrid Operational Aspects https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/508 <p>As it is well known, the hybrid form is not exactly an absolute novelty. In fact, it constitutes an adaptation, a cosmeticization, we could say, of the effort to promote the interests of world powers on the world map, carried out in a particular way, so as to serve the interests of the aggressor, of the hegemonic power. Thus, deceiving the vigilance of the media, the public opinion, and opinion leaders is entirely desired and turns up as evident, there being possible to use existing loopholes in the principles of international law to simply justify belligerence. The multiple nonkinetic and kinetic effort is skilfully disguised under different explanations (humanitarian aid, support of one's own ethnicity, eradication of terrorism or elimination of fascism, etc.). Therefore, the grounds of disagreement in relations between states will be exploited for the purpose of making justifications in the laboratories of powerful states, with the selection of hybrid patterns customized for each targeted action. Prior to initiating the action of multiple damage to the international victim actor, there will be carefully evaluated the possibilities of achieving the objectives, the desired aims, the critical elements, the centers of gravity and the adversary's vulnerabilities, the success factors – the whole effort being analyzed on several probable scenarios. The quantification of each sequence in the chain of belligerence events makes it possible to produce additions and interventions in the future development of actions, towards the achievement of the strategic goals planned by the decision-making political level.</p> Emanuel-Stefan Marinescu Gabriela Elena Sirbu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 283 289 Jean Monnet – Revisiting the Past of the EU for Better Understanding the Present https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/513 <p><em>This article presents some key-aspects of the political vision of Monnet, as one of the founding fathers of EU, but also as an original and under evaluated thinker. The biographic descriptions present Monnet as a French businessman, a banker, a diplomat, a politician, and a cosmopolitan personality. His name is related to the conception of the Schuman Declaration, which in May 1950 invited the occidental countries to start the European project. Some specialists appreciate his contribution as decisive for the first European community, for the post-war international bipolar order; others tend to reveal the myth build on his image, as a legitimating European myth. But we consider that Monnet’s political ideas have a theoretical signification and continue to be valuable today, even if the large world order context is different. One can interrogate the current European Union entity by the lens of the political and sociological ideas of Monnet on classical items such social change, solidarity, community, international relations, revealing that the past could help to explain or interpret the new challenges.</em></p> Ruxandra Iordache Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 290 301 Opinions regarding the Principles, Characteristics and Approaches of the Hybrid Spectrum https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/506 <p>Newly generated in the landscape of belligerence of the 21<sup>st </sup>century, hybrid confrontations are carriers of cognitive and polemological charges of deep substance, intended to differentiate them from the previous types of confrontation, symmetrical, dissymmetric and asymmetrical. The hybrid theory took over, integrated, synthesized and explained the complex approach to belligerence of these times, the possibilities of achieving the strategic goals of major international actors, initially produced through non-military efforts, later there making possible the intervention of well-known and destructive kinetic strikes. The main components are intended to validate the norms of conduct specific to the analyzed confrontation, the primary causes and the starting points in achieving the objectives of the belligerence. The characteristics must explain the specific predominant parameters of the confrontation in view, the aspects that particularize and differentiate it from established forms of military art from past wars. Obviously, the operational and non-operational approaches will decipher the possibilities of triggering the confrontation, intervened in space and time, a complex approach that will make it possible to achieve the strategic goals, objectives and the proposed final state.</p> Bogdan Vasile Viorel Catalin Mihalcea Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 302 309 EU power in the democratization process of Albania? https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/523 <p>This paper examines Albania as a Western Balkan country, by investigating the European Union (EU) integration process framework of factors linked with its democracy. In the last decade WBs countries have shown tendencies of stagnation of democratization and over-reliance on strong leaders. The paper deals with some of EU toolbox limits and deadlocks to achieve democratic governance focusing on Albania. On the one hand, strategically EU and its member states are seen to become more self-centered, making thus the EU actorness in the latest as in the Western Balkans less concerned with enlargement. On the other hand, the weakening of the EU integration process, not a clear membership perspective for these countries and lack of benefits from the EU accession process, allowed sometimes the instrumentalization of Europeanization from the internal political actors, leading to the revival of the authoritarian mechanisms. These dynamics enabled the internal actors to use week democratic institutions, political polarization, week state, political crisis, week opposition as legitimacies means of raising their authoritarian power. This internally shifted leading role EU remains one of the hampering factors of an effective democratic governance in Albania.</p> Dorina Berdufi Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 310 317 Vanet Security and Privacy – an Overview https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/497 <p>While vehicular ad-hoc networks (VANETs) offer substantial benefits to society, they also present numerous challenges, particularly in terms of security and privacy. Given the significant impact of VANETs on modern transportation systems, ensuring robust security and safeguarding user privacy are paramount. This paper provides an overview of VANET security and privacy, exploring fundamental challenges, state-of-the-art solutions, and emerging trends in this field. By examining the unique characteristics of VANETs, such as dynamic topology and resource constraints, this paper highlights the vulnerabilities inherent in these networks and the potential threats they face, including malicious attacks and privacy breaches. Additionally, the paper explores the intricate balance between security and privacy requirements, highlighting the trade-offs involved in deploying protective measures while preserving user anonymity and data confidentiality. Finally, the paper discusses future research directions and open challenges, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches and innovative solutions to address the evolving landscape of VANET security and privacy. This paper aims to provide researchers, practitioners, and policymakers with a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between security, privacy, and attacks in VANET environments. &nbsp;</p> Veranda Syla Algenti Lala Aleksandër Biberaj Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 414 423 Blockchain effects on marketing empowerment https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/502 <p>Blockchain has emerged as a major revolution in the field of information technology. It is an open, immutable and distributed public ledger that is accessible by multiple parties involved in a transaction and acts as a global depository for all transactions between the parties involved. The blockchain transaction structure aims to reduce perceived risks for consumers, however, its benefit for marketing is still vague. The motivation of the present study is to investigate the effects of blockchain technology in marketing empowerment. This research has been done through a review of existing literature using an exploratory-descriptive approach and systematic review method. For this purpose, 50 articles were collected from valid databases, with the inclusion criteria considered for the research. Based on the result, five elements including reduction of disintermediation, advertising, privacy, increased security and loyalty programs were found as important components of blockchain that can empower marketing.</p> Leila Rezaei Seyed Mohammadbagher Jafari Ali Farzaneh Mehr Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 424 433 AI-Generated Content and Customer Engagement in Advertising: The Moderating Role of Customers' Attributes https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/501 <p>Many businesses are using AI-generated contents in different aspects of their work. However, the impact of these contents on business success is still a vague issue. This research investigates the impact of AI-generated content on customer engagement in advertising focusing on moderating variables. The study aims to explore the relationship between AI-generated content and customer engagement, emphasizing the importance of investigating this correlation for enhancing marketing effectiveness. Leveraging prior work on AI technology and customer engagement, the study adopts a qualitative approach to develop a conceptual model. The results highlight the pivotal role of AI-generated content in shaping customer engagement, particularly in advertising contexts. The study identifies product type, customers' age, customers' value, and customer innovativeness as crucial moderating variables influencing the link between AI-generated content and customer engagement. By empirically examining these moderating variables, businesses can tailor AI-generated content effectively to different customer segments, thereby enhancing customer engagement and marketing outcomes in the advertising landscape. The study contributes valuable insights to academia and practitioners by shedding light on the unique interplay between AI-generated content and customer engagement in advertising.</p> Soheila Mohammadi Seyed Mohammadbagher Jafari Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 434 441 Molecular-Hydrogen, a Natural Resource for Health, in the Context of Modern Life https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/533 <p><strong>Objectives</strong>. The aims of this paper is to highlight the importance of molecular hydrogen (MH) as a natural resource for health, in the context of modern life.</p> <p><strong>Prior Work</strong>. Hydrogen is an essential chemical element present in our universe. Scientific studies have suggested that MH may have beneficial effects on different conditions and diseases, such as inflammatory, neurodegenerative, metabolic disorders, tissue damage due to ischemia-reperfusion.</p> <p><strong>Approach</strong>. Oxygen, a molecule essential to life, is likely to cause damage in the body via the formation of free radicals, also called activated oxygen species. Hydrogen exists in several forms but we find it mainly in the molecular form of hydrogen also called diatomic form, or dihydrogen.</p> <p><strong>Results.</strong> Due to its small size MH can easily penetrate cells and act directly on free radicals. Unlike many other antioxidants, it does not neutralize reactive species necessary for essential cellular functions, making it an antioxidant without unwanted side effects. MH is easily accessible, it can be inhaled, dissolved in water or administered intravenously, which allows various options for use, especially as an antioxidant.</p> <p><strong>Value</strong>. Overall, this paper presents some important antioxidative mechanisms of MH, forms and methods of use and its benefits as an antioxidant.</p> Ramona-Niculina Jurcau Ioana-Marieta Jurcau Nicolae-Alexandru Colceriu Cornelia Popovici Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 442 446 Prevalence and Impact of Obesity among Middle School Students in Oradea (Romania) https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/524 <p>Objectives: This research aims to assess the prevalence of obesity among middle school students in Romania, identify associated risk factors, and propose comprehensive prevention strategies. Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern globally, and addressing it during the middle school years is crucial for long-term health outcomes.<br>Prior Work: Recent data from the National Institute of Statistics indicate a concerning trend: approximately 20% of children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 in Romania are overweight or obese. This prevalence has increased significantly in recent years, reflecting a growing public health issue.<br>Approach: A sample of 166 middle school students from Oradea-Bihor County (Romania), including 84 girls and 82 boys, participated in the study. Anthropometric measurements were conducted to assess weight, height, body mass index (BMI) and body composition. The study found that 18% of the students were classified as obese. Poor dietary habits and insufficient physical activity were prevalent among students.<br>Results: The results revealed that the average weight for boys is 59.53 kg, while for girls it is 55.03 kg. The average age is 14.02 years. Additionally, the average BMI is 27.78, with boys having an average BMI of 30.10 and girls 25.52. The average obesity grade is 101.13, with the lower limit being 90 and the upper limit being 125. Notably, 23 boys were found to be below the lower limit, while 27 were above the upper limit.<br>Implications: These findings have important implications for academics, researchers, and administrators of educational institutions in Romania. With a growing prevalence of childhood obesity, targeted interventions are urgently needed to address this issue. Strategies should include educational programs, creating supportive school environments, involving parents, and engaging with the community.<br>Value: The key contribution of this paper lies in its comprehensive approach to obesity prevention among middle school students in Romania. By integrating evidence-based strategies and addressing the unique needs of this age group, this research provides valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers working in the field of public health and education.</p> Adrian Titus Serseniuc Urzica Luciela Vasile Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 447 454 Learning from Failure: Insights from the Start-ups’ Graveyard https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/466 <p><strong>Objectives</strong> This research explores the value of learning from failure for startup-scale entrepreneurs, aiming to bridge the gap in understanding failure within the startup ecosystem and provide actionable insights for resilience and growth, <strong>Approach</strong> Through a qualitative research methodology, we conducted a meticulous analysis of cognitive determinants and categorized failure reasons thematically. This involved examining 28 startups across diverse sectors and identifying nearly 90 unique lessons gleaned from failure experiences. These lessons were then distilled into 30 distinct reasons for entrepreneurial failure, categorized into startup-scaleup and internal-external factors, <strong>Results</strong> Our analysis revealed a significant concentration of failure reasons during the startup phase, emphasizing the importance of addressing internal operational inefficiencies and strategic shortcomings early in the entrepreneurial journey. As startups progressed into the scale-up phase, the distribution of failure factors shifted, highlighting the complex interplay between internal and external dynamics. <strong>Implications</strong> By integrating insights from quality management principles, our study offers practical implications for fostering resilience and enhancing entrepreneurial performance, <strong>Limitation</strong> Despite the comprehensive analysis conducted, our study is not without limitations. The sample size of 28 startups may limit the generalizability of findings, and the qualitative nature of the research may restrict the depth of analysis in comparison to quantitative approaches. Additionally, the retrospective nature of examining failure experiences may introduce bias, and external factors beyond the scope of this study may influence entrepreneurial outcomes. Future research could address these limitations by employing larger sample sizes and longitudinal study designs to provide a more robust understanding of failure dynamics in the startup ecosystem.</p> Behzad Mohammadian Marzieh Tahmasebi Asef Karimi Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 403 413 Drivers and Barriers in the Eco-Innovation. Case of Albania https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/528 <p>In development countries like Albania, the new terminology around sustainability as eco-innovations, green innovations, or environmental innovations, for some companies, they are still seen as challenging to implement such technologies, but in other companies that export to the EU, is a must to be part of a larger market for their products. Furthermore, the literature analysis highlights the necessity of determining the obstacles that eco-innovations face when being implemented in developing nations, particularly in areas with abundant natural resources, as in Albania. By examining the effects of these drivers and the innovative attitude of enterprises, this study seeks to determine the elements that either support or prevent eco-innovations in this particular setting. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the drivers and barriers of Eco – Innovation in Albania. The study was conducted with in-depth interviews, firsthand observation, and formal documentation analysis within 20 companies. The findings showed that, despite the area's emphasis on environmental challenges, there are still few eco-innovation efforts. The companies under investigation were indicating a lack of care for regional issues and a low level of investment in environmentally friendly developments. To sum up, this research adds both theoretical and practical value to the field of eco-innovation studies. First, it examines the factors that drivers Eco innovation in emerging nations and second what prevent them on adopting new technologies for being eco-friendly. In addition, it offers a broad overview of the primary eco-innovation processes as a prerequisite for the development of eco-innovation locally.</p> Blanka Xhani Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 110 117 Digital Technologies and the Green Economy: Prospects and Challenges https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/475 <p>The transition to the post-industrial phase of world development is accompanied by the aggravation of global problems that can be solved within the framework of digital technologies and the green economy. The main principles of such an economy respond to modern ideas about balanced development and in many ways are similar to the rational environmental concept. Digital technologies and the green economy are based on the idea of improving the quality of life of the population and economic growth while reducing the burden on the environment. The digitalization and green economy indicators developed so far reflect the difficulty of comprehensively assessing the economic, environmental, and social consequences of development. Due to the lack of a generally accepted approach to such assessment, the development of the world and national economies is often compared to the dynamics of their energy capacity or resource capacity, taking into account the "life cycle" of products, which makes it possible to more objectively distribute the responsibility of countries for environmental damage.</p> Nino Samchkuashvili Tamar Dudauri Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 118 127 Fostering Cross Functional Collaboration for Circular Innovation in Manufacturing Sector https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/504 <p><strong>Abstract: </strong>In light of the growing environmental issues and the necessary transition to a green economy, it is vital to comprehend how collaboration propels systemic change. This paper delves into how cross-functional collaboration promotes sustainable development and circular innovation in the manufacturing sector. Building on previous research, this paper summarizes findings from numerous researches conducted in the manufacturing industry to highlight the significance of teamwork in accomplishing sustainability and circularity goals.&nbsp; An analysis was performed on empirical papers published between 2019 and 2024, utilizing a systematic review methodology. Four key themes emerge: the impact of cross-functional teams on manufacturing dynamics, the relationship between circular economy principles and organizational performance, challenges inherent in cross-functional collaboration, and strategies for overcoming organizational silos to foster circular transformation. The findings reveal the critical role that cross-functional cooperation plays in promoting circular innovation and resolving environmental issues. These insights are pertinent to researchers, investigators, and organizational executives, emphasizing the need for proactive measures and technological integration to achieve sustainable goals. By accentuating the significance of cross-functional cooperation in fostering circular innovation, this research advances the understanding of cooperative strategies for sustainable development and provides guidance for real-world application within the manufacturing sector.</p> Erika Grabocka Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 128 142 Study on the Management Accounting Specifics of Immobilized Biological Assets under Construction https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/515 <p>The purpose of the article is to analyze and provide in-depth information on the specific managerial accounting aspects related to managing immobilized biological assets under construction. In this context, through a detailed analysis of the regulatory framework governing this area, the issues persisting within this distinct subsector, the practices of developed countries within the European Union, and other specific peculiarities of this sector, the author aims to succinctly outline the achievements and existing problems in the field. Additionally, the author seeks to provide a better understanding of how such assets are managed within business processes in agricultural entities. By highlighting key aspects, advanced expertise, and best practices in this field, the paper aims to provide possible directions for improving the situation for accounting professionals and managers involved in managing immobilized biological assets under construction.</p> Igor Balan Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 143 150 The Mediation Effect of Product Market Competition on the Relationship between Cash Flow Management and Capital Structure https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/482 <p><strong>Objectives</strong>: Financial Economics Theory indicates company decisions for liquidity may include making balance between cash reserves and cost of accessing managers to cash assets. The goal of this research is studying the effect of Product Market Competition (PMC) on relationship between Cash Flow Management (CFM) and capital structure. <strong>Prior Work:</strong> The results of past studies showed that product market competition can act as a controlling mechanism for decrement of agency problems between managers and investors, because managers gravitate toward no-added value activities and non-useful projects to preserve their situations and to prevent dissolution in order to maximize their company values. <strong>Approach:</strong> Using data from 86 listed companies in Tehran Stock Exchange from 2010 to 2020, this is a descriptive-correlational research and multi-variable pooled data, so multi-variable regression was used to test the assumptions, and Extended Least Square Method (ELS) was used to estimate it. <strong>Results:</strong> The results show that the relation between cash flow and capital structure management is affected by competition in product market. <strong>Implications:</strong> Therefore, companies with severe competition and low concentration utilize high cash flow. Meanwhile, these companies have lower debt ratio in their capital structure. <strong>Value:</strong> Additionally, competition in product market decreases excess investment or removes ignoring benefits of stockholders by lowering flexibility of management towards accumulation of cash reserves. One of the innovative aspects of the present research is notice to the equalizing role of product market competition against cash flow management and capital structure of companies.</p> Mohammadreza Mehrabanpour Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 151 161 A Model for the Realization of Sustainable Marketing https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/467 <p><strong>Purpose:</strong> The present article aims at designing an integrated model for the realization of sustainable marketing in Iranian automotive industry.</p> <p><strong>Design/methodology/approach:</strong> First of all, the existing literature was analyzed and the initial framework was designed for the realization of sustainable marketing. Then, using qualitative methodology tools such as open questionnaires and in-depth interviews with experts familiar with the subject, the initial model was developed and a comprehensive model was proposed for the realization of sustainable marketing. Then, through holding the focus group meetings, the final revised conceptual model was designed for the realization of sustainable marketing. As the last step, the model was extensively examined and confirmed through field survey.</p> <p><strong>Findings:</strong> The results show that among the various marketing models, internal marketing, integrated cultural marketing, strategy-driven marketing, ethical marketing and altruistic marketing models are effective on the realization of sustainable marketing.</p> <p><strong>Originality/value:</strong> Currently, the two concepts of sustainable development and process integration have greatly influenced the business environment. Both marketing as one of the business sciences and automotive industry as a key industry and one of the poles of production have also been affected by these developments.</p> Maysam Shafiee Roodposhti Seyyed Hamid Khodad Hosseini Asadollah Kordnaeij Afshin Ghavimi Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 162 173 Drivers and Performance of Exports in WB6 – An Empirical Investigation of the Current Dynamics https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/499 <p>This paper investigates the main drivers of exports in the case of the Western Balkans six countries. These countries share common realities with respect to socio-economic and political climate, while also sharing the objective of successfully finalizing the EU integration process. In line with this long-awaited step, major reforms are being undertaken to ensure that regardless of their small market sizes, these economies grow strong and stable together by ensuring regional integration. In this regard, different projects are being implemented with the support of EU and the World Bank aiming to advance regional integration as a first step to EU integration. Exports play a significant part in this process and the economic development of the respective countries and the region. Thereupon, this paper examines four different indicators to bring to light those determinants that must be at the forefront of our reforms and policies. Secondary data is retrieved for the last decade 2012-2022 (inclusive) from World Bank database. Panel data regression analysis is used to understand the relationships between the selected variables. Findings and recommendations of this study are useful to policymakers, international strategic partners, and academia.</p> Egis Zaimaj Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 174 180 From Concept to Practice: Innovations Driving Sustainable Economic Development https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/496 <p>The imperative for sustainable development has catalyzed a growing discourse on integrating green economy principles into economic frameworks worldwide. The green economy, defined by low carbon emissions, resource efficiency, and social inclusivity, is increasingly acknowledged as a crucial pathway to achieving sustainable development goals. This abstract delves into the cutting-edge research and development shaping the nexus of green economy and sustainable development, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical ideals and practical implementation. Sustainable economic development entails harmonizing economic growth with environmental preservation and social equity, demanding innovative approaches that mitigate environmental degradation while fostering inclusive prosperity. Current research emphasizes translating green economy frameworks into actionable strategies and solutions, spotlighting key innovations driving sustainable economic development across sectors. The abstract discusses advancements in renewable energy, such as next-generation solar panels and advanced battery storage, facilitating a shift away from fossil fuels. It also explores progress in circular economy practices, where waste becomes a resource, and biomimicry inspires sustainable solutions. Emphasis is placed on social equity within the green economy, with insights into R&amp;D in areas like green jobs training and social impact investing ensuring an inclusive transition. Moreover, innovative policy instruments like carbon pricing and green taxation are highlighted for incentivizing sustainable practices. The abstract underscores the growing importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships among governments, businesses, and civil society in driving systemic change. Key focus areas include renewable energy technologies, sustainable agriculture practices, circular economy models, and green finance mechanisms. Furthermore, the abstract underscores the significance of policy coherence, stakeholder collaboration, and capacity building in facilitating the transition towards sustainable economic development. By examining recent advancements and emerging trends, it underscores the pivotal role of innovation in fostering a more sustainable and resilient global economy. By showcasing the latest advancements in green technologies, economic models, and policy frameworks, this abstract underscores the transition from a theoretical concept to a practical reality, envisioning a future where economic growth and environmental sustainability mutually reinforce each other.</p> Junaid Sattar Butt Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 181 190 Spatial Econometrics Based on Kronecker Multiplication https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/478 <p><strong>Objectives</strong>: Countries and cities, as places of residence, are endowed with various dimensions, including economic and social ones. The interactions between these components manifest in flows that affect the quality of the human-made environment on one hand and the quality of human life on the other. <strong>Prior Work:</strong> One of the new methods for achieving higher accuracy in analyzing space-affected relationships is spatially weighted regression, introduced by Anselin and Griffith (1988). In his book "Spatial Econometrics: Methods and Models," he presented a comprehensive picture of spatial econometric realities for the first time, claiming this technique had better capabilities and applications than conventional econometrics in regional and spatial studies.<strong> Approach:</strong> The current research is mainly done by a review method. <strong>Results:</strong> The result of this article is the introduction of spatial econometrics based on Kronecker's multiplication, which is used in many researches, especially researches related to sustainable development. <strong>Implications:</strong> This article aims to familiarize the reader with spatial econometrics and some features of the Kronecker product, as well as some of its applications in the context of spatial dependency, spatial heterogeneity, the nature of adjacency in spatial econometrics, spatial positioning, spatial lags, autoregressive models, mixed regression models, spatial autoregression, and the Kronecker product, discussed briefly in this paper<em>.</em><strong> Value:</strong> As far as we know, this article is one of the first articles that introduced, described and explained the spatial econometric method based on Kronecker's multiplication, so it is innovative.</p> Elham Ataei Kachooei Mohammadreza Mehrabanpour Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 191 204 Housing Market in Albania; Theoretical and empirical analysis https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/526 <p>The last decades, the housing market in Albania is experiencing considerable growth and development. Traditionally, customer preferences are towards owning the house rather than renting, leading to an increase in demand for housing. Buying a house is the biggest investment and fixed asset for a household. The factors affecting the housing market are complex and changeable. Fluctuations in this market affect the whole economic system of the country. In recent years, the demand for housing in Albania has been increasing, especially in large cities. This increase in demand has been influenced by urbanization, migration from rural areas to urban areas, as well as the increase in income and standard of living.</p> <p>The main purpose of this paper is to analyze the main factors that affect the demand for housing. First part of the paper presents a diverse literature dealing with the complexities of the housing market. The other sections will have a combination between theoretical and empirical analysis using different methods. This paper is expected to contribute to the housing market analysis literature, considering that there are few studies in this field in Albania and the demand for such studies is high.</p> Ilirjana Kraja Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 Housing Market in Albania; Theoretical and empirical analysis https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/480 <p>The last decades, the housing market in Albania is experiencing considerable growth and development. Traditionally, customer preferences are towards owning the house rather than renting, leading to an increase in demand for housing. Buying a house is the biggest investment and fixed asset for a household. The factors affecting the housing market are complex and changeable. Fluctuations in this market affect the whole economic system of the country. In recent years, the demand for housing in Albania has been increasing, especially in large cities. This increase in demand has been influenced by urbanization, migration from rural areas to urban areas, as well as the increase in income and standard of living.</p> <p>The main purpose of this paper is to analyze the main factors that affect the demand for housing and what are the main characteristics that determine the price of the houses. First part of the paper presents a diverse literature dealing with the complexities of the housing market. Next sections will have a combination between theoretical and empirical analysis using different methods. This paper is expected to contribute to the housing market analysis literature, considering that there are few studies in this field in Albania and the demand for such studies is high.</p> ILIRJANA KRAJA Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Corporate Ports Particularities- An Opportunity for Port Management Development Strategies https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/541 <p>Increasingly, ports are part of global logistics chains, and their public benefits are given regional and global attributes. The value of services provided by regional ports transcends the interests of local users and benefits businesses and communities across regional and national borders. This paper analyzes in detail how the operation and management structure is established in the various ports located on the inland waterways to understand better the particularities and specialties of different port management and operation models. Research developed through this paper states that one of the extended functions of the corporate port model is the development of the port through the involvement of the entire port community. Also, the development of communication between the port and the city positively affects the simultaneous development of the city and the port.</p> Andra Luciana Marcu Ionut Razvan Mocanu Alina Beatrice Raileanu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 212 219 Economic Freedom as a Fundamental Economic Right in the Light of the Integration Process of the Republic of Moldova into the European Union https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/514 <p>The new exigencies of social development have generated an increased concern for economic human rights, reflected in the desire to join economic communities and the imperative of consistency between the democratic principles of the Member States and the economic, social and political principles of the candidate countries. Economic activity, comprising the sum of all actions taken by people to satisfy their needs, influenced both by changes in their needs and by the availability of resources, is the catalyst for accession to these economic communities. Economic freedom, representing the ability of particular subjects to carry out their economic activities within a framework that allows them to act autonomously and make decisions about resource use, production, trade and investment without excessive intervention by government or other external agents, is the legal foundation of prosperous economic activity</p> Valeriu Baesu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 220 226 The socio-economic determinants of migration in Western Balkans countries https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/503 <p>The high level of migration should serve as an indicator for countries of origin to better understand the factors that drive people to migrate, while considering the negative effects of this trend. According to the World Development Report of 2023, 184 million individuals, or 2.3% of the world's population, live outside their home country.</p> <p>The purpose of this study is to evaluate and analyze the socio-economic drivers of migration in Western Balkan nations, which have influenced mass migration of the last decades. Push factors, such as unemployment, poverty, or national security, as well as pull ones, such as the economy, education, and desire for a higher standard of living, can influence migration movements.</p> <p>In this research paper, a gravity model for migration flows in the Western Balkans will be assessed. The considered time period is from 2009 to 2022. The final result is expected to point out a significant relationship between migratory flows and indicators that influence them, such as GDP per capita, differences in the level of unemployment or corruption between countries, or gravity variables like population and distance.</p> Elma Çali Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 227 236 Foreign Direct Investment and Unemployment Patterns in Five South Eastern European Countries https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/589 <p>Our study investigates the relationship between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and unemployment in Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, and Romania. Utilizing quantitative analysis, it aims to uncover patterns and dynamics within each country's economic landscape. By employing polynomial regression and graphical representations, the study evaluates the extent to which FDI influences unemployment rates. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the interplay between FDI and unemployment, offering insights for both all the persons interested in the evolution of Eastern Europe</p> Ionel Sergiu Pirju Angela Mihaela Ene Florin Prunau Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-08 2024-08-08 19 1 237 247 The Integration of People with Disabilities into the Labour Market https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/542 <p>Inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce is a critically important issue in the contemporary society. In a society that increasingly recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental principles, it is essential that we prioritize our efforts to ensure fair access to employment opportunities for all people in the community, enabling them to achieve their full potential. Having a disability should not hinder a person's ability to pursue a professional career or obtain decent employment. However, people with disabilities face several obstacles in different regions of the globe when it comes to securing and maintaining a job. These people face several obstacles in trying to integrate into the labour market, including discrimination, limited access to adequate education and training, insufficient infrastructure and social prejudices. The used research method is a questionnaire from which we have managed to draw conclusions related to this category of people who can and want to work.</p> Cosmin Oprea Cornelia Elena Tureac Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 338 341 The Importance of Specialized Services in Physical Therapy. A Narrative Research. https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/493 <p>Following the digitization process in recent years, the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions have become viral on social networks, these being given very often by people who have read about these conditions or who have encountered them, having no medical knowledge of specialty.</p> <p>We all know that is simpler and cheaper to be able to resolve our health problems only with advices given by people that we know or by people that we think that would have the solutions that we need but the real problem is that even if we believe that the condition has disappeared at the moment, in fact these unspecialized methods of recovery only aggravate the affected part over time or even extend the problem.</p> <p>The aim of the article is to reveal if the people are seeking to Physical Therapy Recovery at a specialized center after suffering of a physical affection and to make them understand that specialized recovery is necessary for a better recovery because the traditional ways or the recovery programs without assistance can leave marks for life.</p> Camelia Panfiloiu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 342 351 Optimization of Nutritionintake for High School Students from Rural Environments https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/491 <p><em>Adolescence, spanning from ages 13 to 18 years, is a crucial period of physical development and growth. During this time, the body undergoes significant changes in composition, metabolism, hormones, and organ system maturation, as well as nutrient deposit establishment. These changes may impact future health. In terms of nutrition, adolescence is also a critical time for establishing a lifelong relationship with food, particularly with regards to the connection between diet, exercise, and body image. During adolescence, individuals face challenges related to time management due to school, training, work, and social commitments. Peers become increasingly influential in shaping an adolescent's behaviour, including their eating habits. Additionally, fluctuating emotions can also be a feature of this period. These patterns should be consistent with proven principles of sports nutrition. It is important to note that athletes require better nutrition than non-athletes. Meeting the nutritional needs of adolescent athletes is crucial for their performance, energy, growth, and recovery. This article aims to explain the key components that must be considered, including calorie needs, macronutrients, hydration, and timing. All aspects of providing adequate nutrition for adolescent athletes are crucial for supporting their performance and overall quality of life. Medical analyses were conducted on a group of 40 students before and after the administration of natural supplements. The students were given one 500mg Spirulina capsule and one Safflower Oil capsule daily for three months, followed by a one-month break.</em></p> Dan Cristian Stoicescu Virgil Tudor Daniel Constantinescu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 352 365 The Social Policy of Granting Aid for Heating Homes https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/543 <p>Public policies represent a border area between several fundamental sciences, such as: political science, sociological economics, social psychology. Through public policies, the state intervenes in the economic and social activity of citizens. It modifies the identified reality, in a direction dictated by the needs of civil society. Social policy consists in pursuing the improvement of living conditions and providing opportunities for disadvantaged people or those who belong to vulnerable categories. The objectives of the social policy are: strengthening economic and social cohesion; employment; development of social services. The used research method is the investigation carried out for the correct application of the procedures regarding the acquisitions, evaluation and provision of housing heating aid. This research provides an in-depth analysis of the administration of heating subsidy applications and highlights both the advantages and difficulties associated with the implementation of these significant social initiatives. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of these issues it enables us to actively participate in the continuous advancement and improvement of policies and practices designed to help the most vulnerable people in the society.</p> Cosmin Oprea Cornelia Elena Tureac Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 366 369 Exploring Hybrid Approaches for Weather Forecasting Domain: A Review https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/498 <p>Weather forecasting is considered one of the most important areas of forecasting as a result of the decisive role it has in different sectors of a country's economy from agriculture to aviation and from disaster management to daily planning. Taking into account the complex and dynamic nature of atmospheric conditions, forecasting through traditional methods does not complete the full panorama of an accurate and qualitative forecast and the approach has turned towards hybrid methodologies. In this paper, we performed a literature review in the domain of weather forecast, with a focus on some of its most important metrological fields, looking at the performance of hybrid approaches for each category. From the entire review process, starting with the selection of databases, defining search keywords, and exclusion criteria and up to the selection of works that would be part of the analysis, 67 papers were selected, referring to the title and abstract of the paper, and then with complete quality analysis, 14 papers were selected to be reviewed and be the main part of the analysis. A detailed review was made, where for each category the effectiveness and quality of the hybrid approaches are demonstrated and highlighting some of the most hybrid models used.</p> Malvina Xhabafti Valentina Sinaj Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 502 510 Children Dominated by Screens https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/518 <p>The article aims to provide the fact that our online social interactions have intensified and digital technology has established itself as the essential element for the survival of our species. As we can see, the line between learning time and screen time has become very blurred, reaching more than seven hours of connection per day on average. The article highlights in a unique way that more and more children have been caught up and have fallen into a destructive, stupefying and futile addiction, which can lead to depression. In this sense, to better use digital communication tools and to no longer let yourself be consumed by them, you need to understand how to use digital. The history of technologies allows us to understand the new modalities that result from them and the civilizational, anthropological and political disorders that now affect our societies. The purpose of my article is to show how new technologies influence children's mental health, the education, the role of parents, the respect for private life, how from consumers they become products.The main methods used in the study are observation and case study. The article is important and valuable for parents, children, but also for scientists, researchers in social sciences and more, because it provides a clear picture of the changes that are taking place globally and a possible perspective on the future.</p> Emilia Andreea Motoranu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 511 517 Enhancing Mathematics Education with Artificial Intelligence https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/509 <p class="p1">This paper explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in mathematics</p> <p class="p1">education to enhance student outcomes and teacher effectiveness. It builds upon existing studies that</p> <p class="p1">demonstrate improvements in personalized learning and teacher performance through AI applications in</p> <p class="p1">educational settings. The research specifically focuses on AI's role in addressing individual learning</p> <p class="p1">challenges in mathematics, employing a case study methodology to deeply analyze the implementation and</p> <p class="p1">impacts of AI tools in classrooms. These case studies reveal that AI significantly enhances individual learning</p> <p class="p1">experiences by providing tailored support and feedback, resulting in improved understanding and retention of</p> <p class="p1">mathematical concepts. Teachers also report improved efficacy in managing diverse learners and tracking</p> <p class="p1">progress, highlighting AI's practical benefits in educational environments. This study is relevant for</p> <p class="p1">academics in educational technology and curriculum development, as well as administrators aiming to</p> <p class="p1">integrate innovative technologies into teaching strategies. The strategic use of AI tools, as shown by this</p> <p class="p1">research, can significantly enhance educational practices. This paper contributes to the educational discourse</p> <p class="p1">by detailing the effective application of AI in mathematics education, showcasing its unique benefits, and</p> <p class="p1">expanding the knowledge base on effective teaching strategies that utilize advanced technologies.</p> Teuta Thanasi (Biti) Oriana Mema Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 518 523 Relational-Object Mapping of Databases https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/473 <p>Mapping relational databases is a programming technique that enables developers to interact with the database using objects, which are instances of classes defined in a specific programming language. <strong>Objectives</strong>: This paper proposes a scientific method based on several rules in order to transform the logic layer of a relational database into an object model formalized in a class diagram. <strong>Prior Work</strong>: This research is based on C.J. Date logic and relational approach to modeling relational databases. <strong>Approach</strong>: We are using the high-level Microsoft C# object-oriented programming language in order to implement the object model of a classic transactional database employing a set of rules and a specific library for serializing collections of objects for a dedicated (MongoDB) persistence layer, <strong>Results:</strong> the JSON serialized form of the objects is further used to generate new instances according to the business application layer. <strong>Implications</strong>: The back &amp; forward transformations without information loss by serializing and deserializing objects according to a predefined data scheme validate the methodology proposed by this paper. <strong>Value</strong>: The importance of our research resides in the plenitude of source code utilized for exemplifying our methodology and the diversity of real-life situations that might benefit our research in terms of efficiency and consistent data management.</p> Radu Bucea Manea Tonis Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 524 530 Data, Privacy, and the Law: Safeguarding Rights in the New Millennium https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/488 <p>In the dynamic realm of data governance and technological progression, the confluence of the General Data Protection Regulation, 2018<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1"><strong>[1]</strong></a> (‘<strong>the GDPR, 2018</strong>’) and the newly enacted EU Artificial Intelligence Act, 2024<a href="#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2"><strong>[2]</strong></a> (<strong>‘AI Act, 2024’</strong>) stands as a significant juncture for examination. While the GDPR, 2018 has solidified its reputation as one of the world's most stringent data privacy and security laws, the AI Act, 2024 represents a groundbreaking step in regulating artificial intelligence. This study delves into the intricate relationship between these regulatory frameworks, probing whether they coalesce harmoniously as a potent force for responsible AI advancement or potentially clash in their objectives. The research critically evaluates how the GDPR, 2018 and the AI Act, 2024 intersect, navigating through their shared objectives of safeguarding individual rights while scrutinizing their distinct emphases and compliance requisites. By adopting a multifaceted approach encompassing legal, ethical, and practical dimensions, this article endeavors to unravel the complexities surrounding data protection, algorithmic governance, and the ethical application of AI. Through a comprehensive analysis, the study aims to illuminate whether the symbiotic relationship between the GDPR, 2018 and the AI Act, 2024 indeed fosters a conducive environment for responsible AI development or introduces challenges that impede innovation. By shedding light on the nuances of this regulatory interplay, the research contributes to a deeper comprehension of the opportunities and obstacles inherent in the convergence of data protection and AI governance in the digital era. This examination holds particular relevance for researchers, policymakers, and businesses engaged in the development and deployment of AI systems, offering insights into navigating the evolving landscape of data privacy and technological regulation in the new millennium.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1"><strong>[1]</strong></a> European Data Protection Supervisor. (2024). The History of the General Data Protection Regulation. Retrieved April 27, 2024, from <a href="https://www.edps.europa.eu/data-protection/data-protection/legislation/history-general-data-protection-regulation_en">https://www.edps.europa.eu/data-protection/data-protection/legislation/history-general-data-protection-regulation_en</a></p> <p><a href="#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2"><strong>[2]</strong></a> European Parliament. EU Artificial Intelligence Act, 2024. Retrieved April 26, 2024, from <a href="https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-9-2024-0138_EN.pdf">https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-9-2024-0138_EN.pdf</a></p> Junaid Sattar Butt Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 9 18 Administration and Interpretation of Evidence in Road Accident Cases https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/517 <p>In this paper, we carefully analyse the process of examining suspected vehicles and the necessary<br />steps to follow in order to determine whether or not they were involved in the road accident with an unknown<br />perpetrator. This meticulous examination, which involves both visual inspection and technical analysis, is<br />essential in establishing the connections between vehicles and the accident.</p> Georgian Dan Sabina Delia Vieriu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 19 24 On the Relation Between Phraseology and the Morphology of the Folktale in Petre Ispirescu and Ion Creanga https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/481 <p>This paper intends to prove that the usage phraseologisms is in a direct relation with the main characteristics of the folktales. In order to illustrate this affirmation, first we explained the terms <em>phraseology</em>, <em>saying</em>, <em>folktale</em> using scientific definitions and afterwards we illustrate the theory with quotes from Ion Creanga’s and Petre Ispirescu’s works. The famous Russian formalist V. I. Propp demonstrated that all the folktales have a specific morphology, with certain rules to be followed, and therefore our case study will prove that in the Romanian fairytales written by Ion Creanga and as well in those collected by Petre Ispirescu, such rules are certainly respected. Also, our survey will present relevant examples, quotes, commented contexts which prove the importance of using phraseologisms in creating texts that have the intention of falling into the fairy tale genre. The popular oral tradition can be found in the researched texts, many set phrases, idioms and sayings being used in order to help categorize the literary works.</p> Elvira Buzoianu - Ambrinoc Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 318 328 Phraseology and Stylistics in Liviu Rebreanu's Novels https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/516 <p>In this paper, I will try to prove the strong connection between two linguistic disciplines,<br />phraseology and stylistics. Most of all, I aim at highlighting the stylistic component of the existing<br />phraseologisms in Liviu Rebreanu’s novels, a component which gives the language used by Rebreanu a<br />high degree of expressiveness. At the same time, I will try to apply some ideas theorized by Iorgu Iordan<br />and Tudor Vianu.</p> Mihaela Voicu Stanciu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 329 337 The Housing Policies for Urban Low-income Groups in Iran https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/476 <p>The problem of housing is the most important challenge for urban managers in Iran, form first of rapid urbanization, So has implemented a variety of programs and policies. However, the problem still remains. This article tries to analyze housing policies in Iran. In this way have been studying the position of housing for urban low-income groups and experiences in housing planning in Iran. This is a development research. Also, several methods have been applied in the research process. First, the documentary method has been used to explain housing policies, so the descriptive-analytical method has been used to explain the role of relevant policies and programs in problem-solving. Finally, the SWOT analysis model has been used for Information analysis as well as strategies. The results show several activities on housing for urban low-income groups have been done in the development program. However, housing policies and programs don’t have an organizational relationship with development Programs. In other words non-participatory, non-targeted, and inefficient traditional top-down approaches to planning cause to marginalization many of people. Therefore it is necessary to review the institutional framework for providing access to housing and land for low-income groups and regionalizing support programs.</p> Mohammad Mirehei Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 379 398 No Data - No Policy https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/525 <p><strong>Objective:</strong> Studying of the strategies in Albania in terms of the implementation of the “evidence based policy” principle. <strong>Prior Work</strong>: As specialist on strategic planning in INSTAT i have prepared an inventory on evidence based strategies. <strong>Approach: </strong>The methodology of this study is based on qualitative method, analyzing case by case every strategy in Albania in terms of using statistical data on the building of the priorities. <strong>Results: </strong>From 16 studied strategies and only 4 of them have described the SWOT analyses based on statistical indicators.<strong> </strong>The "evidence based policy" principle is not applied and the objectives are raised by political incentives at the macro level and as a result the achievement of the objective is immeasurable. <strong>Implication: 1. </strong>If the strategies/policies in Albania aim to respond to the needs of Albanian society, then it is expected that they are based on an assessment of needs with measurable statistical indicators. <strong>Value:</strong> this study offers a clear argument for policy-makers and other stake-holders in importance of the evidence using during the drafting of the strategies in order to build an effective and efficient policy. This is a study that is not elaborated before.</p> Silvana Shehu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-07-31 2024-07-31 19 1 399 402 The Right to Happiness - between Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/560 <p>The right to happiness is a concept reintroduced into the sphere of fundamental rights starting with the year 2012. In the present work we will go through some historical landmarks of the development of this concept and we will analyze the way in which this right is understood today. Public institutions and civil society have at their disposal a series of levers through which they can develop this new interpretation of the right to happiness. Our analysis we will try to bring closer to the general public and the academic world a series of factors that can influence the subsequent development of the right to happiness: maybe statistics and artificial intelligence can influence public policies and the digital revolution can turn into social involution. How far is the practical applicability of the right to happiness from being achievable if we only take into account global statistics and forget the particular nuances of each generation, nation or civilization.</p> Alexandra Cerasela Pana Nicolae Pana Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 New Development Patterns for European Emerging Economies https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/576 <p>Emerging economies are highly relevant cases of countries that must incorporate sustainability goals into their development strategies and simultaneously solve structural gaps. European emerging countries, many of them from the ex-communist Eastern part of the continent, were subject to massive transformation and reforms during the last thirty years, trying to implement the free economy mechanisms. The transition was not an easy process, and its scars, represented by weak institutions, corruption, social and economic inequalities, and regulatory system flaws, are still vital features that need to be addressed. Besides, sustainability issues and climate change mitigation are new challenges for these countries that need to recover from development gaps. However, the last thirty years, characterized by deindustrialization, chaotic urbanization, unequal economic growth, and profound asymmetries between social categories, did not create the proper premises for approaching sustainability goals. Nevertheless, several features, such as the potential of renewable energy sources, ease the implementation of sustainable development patterns and achieve climate change mitigation targets.</p> Florian Nuta Florentin Tanasa Fatmir Memaj Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Regional Impact of Clusters from the South - East Region of Romania on the Management of Public Entities https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/592 <p>The principle of association is implemented and supported by public policies for the stimulation and development of forms of association, as a result of financing opportunities but also of the dynamics and flexible orientation of the private environment towards the public sector. The managerial activity in the South-East Region of Romania is a sum of the principles and functions of all public entities. Innovations, productivity increases and the development of specializations in the reference areas of the clusters, must be correlated with the concerns of public sector management for the use of performance measurement methods. Cluster component organizations are components of the public and private sectors that provide and deliver products, services, works and/or ideas to the general public. The competition of managerial ideas converge towards the public interest, which together with the competitiveness imposed by the demands of the public sector and the innovation of clusters, will lead to a positive, interactive, operational and interdisciplinary impact. The connections based on principles, characteristics, the geographical proximity of the South-East Region of Romania and the innovations of the clusters, have an impact on the managerial development of public entities, as they become poles of interest for the clusters in the region, through specialization, productivity and performance.</p> Tincuta Gudana Vrabie Nicoleta Constandache Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Levers of Influence of Turkey in the Construction of the Identity of the de facto States in the Black Sea Area https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/608 <p>Based on the theory of the regional security complex (Barry Buzan and Ole Waever) , the statements made by high-ranking officials and key decision-makers at the international and regional level, the paper aims to formulate a possible answer to the question of whether the steps taken by Turkey aimed both at asserting as an important regional political actor, as well as consolidating its position in the region, something that is increasingly well defined especially after the military attack launched by the Russian Federation in Ukraine.</p> Elena Onu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Impact of Mobile Phones in English Language Teaching and Learning: A Pragmatic Perspective https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/626 <p>As it is the age of information revolution, it is very clear that effective utilization of cell phone in English language teaching and learning have become inevitable. Human life in all walks of life is by cell phone. The life of a common man starts at dawn with a cell phone and lasts till late in the night: One who is smart the device appropriately attains one’s goal. English language plays a vital role in students employment opportunity in their career depends on one’s proficiency of English language. The major problem faced by students coming from vernacular medium and rural locations is that they could not grasp the meaning and were not able to respond in English with apt words and clarity of expression and pronunciation. English language learners benefit from the reinforcement of vocabulary and concepts by utilizing and combining graphics, pictures, video, recording pronunciation etc. through mobile apps &amp; internet resources. Traditional modes of language teaching with proper use of the device can help learning English language effortlessly through innovative methods of learning. The cell phone offers television programmes, web-assisted materials, self help group discussions, and interviews, presentations online app etc. improve their oral and written skills besides they can enhance their active and passive vocabulary. Hence this paper explores the ways of effective use of cell phone in English Language Teaching and Learning.</p> P. Thiyagarajan Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Psychology of Verbal Interactions Studying the Differences between Persuasion, Manipulation and Coercion within the Educational Environment https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/642 <p>Our everyday life and society are built on the concept of interaction, this being defined as the general means of exchanging information between at least two individuals. In this respect, the main means of communication is through verbal interactions, although, the quality and the relevance of such effective acts are heavily influenced by additional elements, such as non-verbal and paraverbal components: gestures, body language, voice inflexion, pitch, etc.</p> <p>Thus, this research was conducted with the purpose of identifying and analysing the psychology of verbal interactions, within the educational environment, including the effects exerted upon each individual, while comparing the discursive manifestations of different processes and techniques, such as persuasion, manipulation and coercion. In addition, other elements relevant to our research were the following: the differences between techniques of influence, their impact upon each participant within interactions, the manner in which their are received, processed and handled &nbsp;by each individual involved in the educational process.</p> <p>Our study targeted both the category of educators (teachers) and the one of students, from different institutions and levels of education (high school and post-secondary school), from Bacau county, Romania, while the research methods included observation and questionnaires, all in order to correctly assess the reasons, the needs and the impact (if any) of these influential practices.</p> Lacramioara Mocanu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 A Framework for Supply Resilience in Engineering-To-Order Manufacturing Companies https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/573 <p>Engineering-to-order companies are a group of manufacturers that design and produce “one of a kind” products according to special customer orders. These companies play an important role in development of production technologies and technical knowledge. So, their survival and improving their productive performance have a considerable effect on economic development. One of the problems these companies face is the low economic scale of production for each specific product. As a result, their suppliers do not have enough motivation to cooperate in their supply chains and there is always a risk of disruption in their supply network. The main issue in this research is to provide a multifaceted framework to increase the stability of this network. The strategy of this research is multiple case study, and the information needed in the first step was obtained through the examination of cases and interviews with experts. Then, the results obtained from the survey, are weighted and ranked by BWM technique. The postponement strategy and redesigning production processes to maximize internal similarity is among the most important strategies identified for improving resilience in supply base of ETO companies.</p> Meisam Shabazi Mahdi Houshmand Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Dynamics of Terror and the History of Its Use in Contemporary International Relations https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/605 <p>The 21st century was a period full of exacerbation of international relationsafter a period of political quasi-stability in post-war international relations. Thesocial, economic, military and political interests of the various international stateactors have fully contributed to the establishment of a new balance of power incontemporary international relations based on the establishment of a new dangergiven by the spread in the world of the terrorist threat in general and of cyberterrorism, in special. Due to the advent of the digital age, progress andinformation technology are making their place more and more powerful ineveryday relationships and with it certain vulnerabilities of the virtual environmentcan appear that can quickly turn into opportunities for the various criminal groupsthat try to move their range of action in the online environment.</p> Stefan Gheorghe Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Fundamental Ethical Principles of the Profession of Legal Advisor https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/622 <p>Ethics, also known as moral philosophy, is the field of study that explores the concepts of moral right and wrong, as well as the distinction between morally right and wrong. This term can also be associated with any system or theory relating to moral values or principles.</p> <p>The essential purpose of legal ethics is to maintain the professional integrity and dignity of lawyers and legal advisers, with a view to cultivating a spirit of friendly collaboration, treating clients with honor and fairness, and fulfilling responsibilities to society.</p> <p>The importance of legal ethics becomes evident in situations where lawyers and other legal professionals face conflicts of interest between clients and personal interests, requiring ethical guidance to balance these interests and promote the principles of good faith.</p> <p>Therefore, the study aims to address and analyze the fundamental ethical principles of the profession of legal advisor, in the light of the need to know and respect them in professional practice.</p> Angelica Staicu Ana Alina Ionescu Dumitrache Monica Pocora Roxana Benza Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Vocational Counseling - a Solution for the Integration of Young People on the Current Labor Market? https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/639 <p>Youth unemployment is a quasi-general phenomenon in all societies based on a market economy, and solving the problem is, of course, the responsibility of vocational counseling according to the opinion of the majority of specialists. In our opinion, vocational counseling can and must become a tool intended to support young people in crisis situations due to inadequacy in socio-economic dynamics.</p> <p>It is a truism that only a qualified workforce can be competitive in the accelerated dynamics registered by the current labor market. Analyzing the quality of young human resources, it is observed that, indeed, their level of training is quite precarious and therefore presents major difficulties in relation to the profile required by employers from different branches of the economy or social life. In conclusion, the current study tries to generate new&nbsp;<strong>psycho-pedagogical opportunities</strong>&nbsp;in the direction of reconfiguring this niche field which is vocational counseling in accordance with the emerging economic and social life that characterizes the third decade of the 21st century.</p> Lidia Stanciu Cornelia Tureac Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Effects of the Suspension of the Execution of the Sentence under Supervision https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/655 <p>In the framework of this paper, the analyzed institution is the suspension of the execution of the sentence under supervision, in comparison with all other institutions of the punishment to highlight its effectiveness in correcting the defendant's behavior, his reintegration into society according to existing social requirements in the context of an educated and civilized people, but also the effective support of the victim of the crime in order to repair the damage caused as a result of the violation of the social values achieved by the committed act or to compensate it satisfactorily, fairly and proportionally to the repercussions suffered as a result of the commission of the crime.</p> <p>In order to carry out the juridical-social analysis in a complex way, a series of scientific research methods were used, such as the logical method, through the legal perspectives and interpretations deduced in the work, the comparative method, by making a comparison between the institutions of the application of punishment, but also of the sources and the jurisprudence identified in the specialized field, the sociological method, consisting in the fact that the institution of punishment directly influences social life and interpersonal relations, but also those established between the state and the citizen.</p> Gabriel Ionut Buta Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Foresight. Limitation of the Binding Force of Contracts under Romanian Law https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/553 <p>The present research aims to analyse the unforeseeability of contracts in Romanian legislation. Starting from the context that defines this civil law notion, we will go through the characteristics, the possibility of voluntary and judicial adaptation of the contract, the conditions under which this is possible, and the effects. In Romania, limiting the binding force of contracts is a crucial aspect influenced by various legal traditions. The evolution of contract law in Romania reflects the need to balance contractual freedoms with the protection of fundamental legal rights and the weaker party in contractual relations. Restrictions on liability clauses, the use of subcontractors and adaptation to European standards have shaped the legal landscape regarding contract enforcement and limitations. The Romanian legal system underwent adjustments to align with European directives, emphasizing the importance of good faith, the balance of obligations and the protection of essential contractual elements. The dynamic nature of contractual freedoms and the impact on social and economic activities underline the continuous development of contract law in Romania.</p> Andy Pusca Daniel Bancila Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Blue Finance. Finance for the Blue Economy https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/570 <p>Finance field has to respond to increased new challenges of becoming and behaving more environmentally friendly. As pollution affects all kinds of environments, actions to diminish the pollution level, inhibit the effects of climate change, and expand the resilience of different communities are needed. Scholars attention regarding these dimensions increased more and more.</p> <p>Specific goals-oriented finance should carry out these tasks. In this regard, blue economy, a freshly introduced concept to highlight the economic activity related to oceans, seas and coasts generate space for distinctive financial flows to support activities, initiatives and projects related to this field .</p> <p>The life, health and economic well-being of millions of people depend on how activities are organized in oceans, seas or coastal areas. Relating the destination of financial funds to objectives that ensure the sustainable development of these areas confers a very important role on the field of blue finance.&nbsp;</p> <p>Innovative financial tools , like blue loans, blue bonds, meet a double targeted scope: enhance economic potential in the ocean, sea, and coastal environment and for people involved in and improve the health of the global water resources system.</p> <p>The path for the net zero approach is tightly connected to replacing fossil oil energy with more environmentally friendly sources, like renewable energy. Seas and oceans are important sources of both traditional mining and renewable energy. In this sense, it is pivotal to limit the financial flows for projects that have a damaging impact on oceans and transfer more funds for a sustainable blue economy.</p> Alina Nuta Levente Dimen Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Democratic Control Over the Security Services through the Lens of the Objective of Ensuring the Security of the Republic of Moldova https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/602 <p>The role and place of intelligence services in the process of preventing and combating thenegative effects on the complex process of ensuring national security is of utmost importance, especiallyin light of the challenges generated by recent events. Democratic control over intelligence services is akey element of modern democracies and a mechanism to guarantee the efficiency and fairness of theiractions. This article presents the essential elements of the legal and institutional mechanisms for ensuringdemocratic control over the intelligence services in the Republic of Moldova through the lens of theobjectives established in the National Security Strategy.</p> Alexandr Victor Cauia Artur Cepuc Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Concept of Freedom of Movement from the Perspective of International Security https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/619 <p>The concept of freedom of movement, a fundamental human right recognized by international laws and treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, presents complex challenges and considerations from the perspective of international security.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>Freedom of movement allows individuals to travel, reside, and work in different locations, promoting cultural exchange, economic development, and personal freedom. However, in the context of international security, this freedom can sometimes conflict with the need to maintain national security and public safety.</p> <p>Countries must balance the rights of individuals to move freely with the necessity to safeguard their borders against threats such as terrorism, illegal trafficking, and unauthorized migration. This balancing act has led to the development of various security measures. For instance, border controls, visa requirements, and international databases for tracking the movement of individuals are all designed to mitigate potential risks while still respecting the principle of freedom of movement.</p> <p>In the post-9/11 era, many nations heightened their security protocols, often at the expense of freedom of movement. Enhanced surveillance, stricter immigration laws, and more rigorous background checks have become commonplace. These measures, while potentially effective in preventing security threats, also raise concerns about privacy, discrimination, and the infringement of human rights.</p> <p>Moreover, in regions experiencing conflict, war, or crisis, the freedom of movement is crucial for the safety of individuals seeking refuge from peril. International security frameworks must therefore also consider the rights and needs of refugees and displaced persons, ensuring that measures to protect national security do not unduly hinder the ability of vulnerable populations to access safety and asylum.</p> <p>The challenge lies in creating and implementing policies that provide adequate security without unnecessarily restricting movement or violating individual rights. International cooperation and adherence to international law are essential in achieving this goal, as unilateral measures can lead to tensions and conflicts.</p> <p>Thus, while freedom of movement is a valued principle that enhances global interaction and understanding, it requires careful management to align with international security concerns, ensuring both the safety of nations and the rights of individuals are maintained.</p> Varvara Licuta Coman Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Influence of Language Disorders on Children’s Personality: Implications for Educational Management https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/636 <p>In an increasingly digitized and interconnected world, communication skills and linguisticadaptability are becoming increasingly important for childrens academic and social success. Inthis sense, language disorders can represent a significant obstacle to realizing their potential andforming a healthy and balanced personality.Language disorders influence children's personality development and the important role ofeducational management in addressing these issues. By examining the current literature andrelevant research, the complex interactions between language disorders and aspects ofpersonality in children are analyzed. The variable impact of language disorders on children's self-confidence, social adaptability, and emotional behaviors is explored. In addition, educationalmanagement strategies that can be implemented to manage and mitigate the negative impact ofthese disorders on children's personality development are discussed. These strategies includeearly identification of language disorders, specialized intervention, curriculum adaptation, andactive involvement of parents and teachers in the care and education process. By adoptingeffective educational management sensitive to the individual needs of children with languagedisorders, their personal development and their harmonious integration into the school and socialenvironment can be supported.</p> Manuela Panaitescu Adelina Renea Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Cryptocurrencies and the Banking System https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/652 <p>Cryptocurrencies are a form of digital payment that eliminates the need to carry cash. It only exists in digital form and although people mainly use them for online transactions, you can also make some physical purchases.</p> <p>Cryptocurrencies are transforming the world and can provide financial services for the population that does not have access to or does not accept banking services.</p> <p>Owning cryptocurrencies does not involve any kind of physical or tangible objects. Investors are free to use them as they wish, store them or transfer them to another wallet, without depending on a third party, as happens in the traditional banking system. However, while banks insure money held in bank accounts against loss, cryptocurrencies have no recourse mechanism in case of loss.</p> <p>In recent years, more and more investors have become interested in the cryptocurrency exchange, especially during periods of growth. However, the cryptocurrency space can be intimidating for those who are new to cryptocurrency investing.</p> <p>Thus, cryptocurrencies are an investment option that can be taken into account, but, like any kind of investment, it requires documentation and caution.</p> Felicia Olaru Mihaela Budeanu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 AI and Legal Evolution https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/549 <p>The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in legal systems is an evolving frontier, raising profound questions about legal evolution and the adaptation of laws to manage new technological realities. AI's capabilities extend from automating routine tasks to making autonomous decisions, which challenges existing legal frameworks and necessitates a re-evaluation of traditional legal doctrines. One significant debate centers on the concept of granting legal personhood to AI, referred to as "electronic persons," which would allow AI systems to own property, incur liabilities, and possibly enjoy rights similar to human entities. This proposal underscores the broader implications of AI in international law, where inconsistencies exist due to varied national approaches to technology governance. The document outlines various international and national responses, including legislative efforts by entities like the European Parliament and regulatory initiatives aimed at ensuring that AI's integration into society is managed ethically, transparently, and with accountability. The integration of AI into legal services across different countries illustrates diverse applications and highlights the ethical and practical challenges, particularly concerning bias, accountability, and the potential for a shift in the legal profession.</p> Andy Pusca Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Smart Tourism Drivers and Challenges in Iran https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/567 <p>Smart tourism is a new tourism concept that is formed through the process of data collection and analysis combined with the use of the latest information technology to make the travel experience more valuable, efficient, and sustainable. In this research we try to understand of smart tourism drivers and challenges in Iran.</p> <p>The methodology of this paper is descriptive method and it used documentary method for gathering data. To analysis the finding we conduct expert-based method.</p> <p>Based on the findings, the factors of perceived relative advantage, external support, external pressure, manager's support, human resource preparation, centralized structure, data-oriented culture and complexity have been effective in analyzing the key drivers effective in smartness and technology in Iran's tourism, but from the two factors of compatibility and Technical preparation did not have a significant effect. According to the results of the research, considering the high importance of understanding the relative advantage and the lack of significant influence of adaptation and technical preparation, attention to the introduction and application of an innovation is more important than the current technological capabilities and capabilities of organizations to accept that innovation.</p> Azadeh Azimi Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Understanding the Impact of Global Trends on Food Production Stimulus: A Case Study of Azerbaijan https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/583 <p>In today's world, the dynamics of food production and its stimulation are crucial areasof study, given the numerous challenges we face globally. This paper explores how globaltrends influence the stimulation of food production, focusing specifically on Azerbaijan as acase study. With the world's population growing rapidly, the demand for food hasskyrocketed, creating a significant gap between what is needed and what is available. Thisgap is worsened by various socio-economic factors and geopolitical tensions, making itessential to address the challenge of stimulating food production. This is particularly criticalin developing countries where agricultural productivity is low, and advanced technologies arenot fully utilized. Our study aims to highlight the importance of understanding andincorporating global trends into discussions about stimulating food production. By examininghow globalization, socio-political dynamics, economic factors, and environmental issuesinteract, we aim to shed light on the complexities involved in achieving sustainable foodsecurity. This topic is highly significant academically as it provides valuable insights into thecomplex relationship between global trends and food production. Additionally, it serves as aplatform for exploring potential strategies and interventions to improve food production in theface of evolving global challenges.</p> Novruz Rahimov Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Research of Road Traffic Accidents https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/599 <p>The development of car transport, the rapid growth of the car fleet, have determined, objectively, the intensification of concerns in order to ensure the safety of road traffic. These concerns are all the more necessary since the increase in the number of accidents is relatively directly proportional to the increase in the motorization index, with the improvement of the vehicle's performance, first of all the speed of travel, an element that has priority in the causes of road accidents.</p> <p>Starting from the definition of the accident as a random and unforeseen event that causes an accident or causes the injury, mutilation or death of a being, we find that two important factors are generally involved in a road traffic accident: the vehicle and the man in his multiple capacities: driver car, passenger, pedestrian, cyclist.</p> <p>So, road traffic is a phenomenon whose existence competes for several component elements, the most important of which are: the person, the vehicle, the road and the legislation corresponding to the field or which has influence on it. The normal development of road traffic requires the existence of a typology determined by relationships between the component elements. The disturbances that appeared in the interaction between these elements constitute the materialization of the alteration of the relations between the factors that compete for the realization of road traffic as a dynamic phenomenon of social life.</p> Andreea Corsei Mariana Alina Zisu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Accrual Accounting versus Cash Accounting https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/616 <p>The article addresses a detailed comparison between two fundamental accounting methods used in recording and reporting financial transactions: accrual accounting and cash accounting. This paper aims to provide a deep understanding of the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of each method, highlighting the situations in which one may be preferred over the other. By examining in detail the principles underlying each method, the article facilitates a better appreciation of their impact on the financial statement presentation of entities. Accrual accounting is recognised for its holistic approach, recording transactions at the time of their economic generation, regardless of when cash flows are realised. This method offers a more accurate picture of an entity’s financial situation, enabling the recognition of revenues and expenses in the period they occur, not when they are received or paid. Therefore, accrual accounting allows for a better assessment of financial performance and financial position of entities.</p> <p>On the other hand, cash accounting, also known as bookkeeping, focuses on recording financial transactions at the time actual cash flows are made. This method is often valued for its simplicity and is preferred by smaller entities and those seeking to maintain a strict record of cash flows. Cash accounting facilitates an immediate understanding of available liquidity, but it can offer a distorted view of long-term profitability and solvency.</p> <p>The article employs a methodology based on the comparative study of specialised literature, analysing real cases to illustrate the differences and implications of each method in various contexts. It discusses the adaptability of the methods to current accounting regulations and financial reporting requirements, highlighting how the choice of accounting method can influence managerial decisions and stakeholders’ perception.</p> <p>The findings of the article emphasise that the choice between accrual and cash accounting depends on several factors, including the size of the entity, the complexity of financial transactions, reporting requirements, and specific financial information management needs. Although accrual accounting is often preferred for the accuracy and comprehensiveness it provides in financial reporting, cash accounting remains relevant for entities that prioritise efficient cash flow management.</p> <p>The article offers an in-depth analysis of the advantages and limitations of each accounting method, concluding that the choice between them should be informed by specific financial reporting goals and the operational context of the entity. Therefore, the decision between these two methods is not universally applicable but must be adjusted according to particularities.</p> Carmen Mihaela Cretu Emanuel Stefan Marinescu Anca Gabriela Turtureanu Calin Tudorita Marius Luca Oana Iuliana Ghiban Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Sailing Through Shadows: The Double as a Mirror of Identity Crisis in Literary Fantasy https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/633 <p>A recurring theme in literature, the doppelgänger explores the duality of identity, the hidenaspect of personality, and internal conflicts. Writers such as Fiodor Dostoievski, Guy deMaupassant, Robert Louis Stevenson and Edgar Allan Poe used it to examine the darker sides ofthe human soul, with the double revealing contradictory facets of characters to express deepmoral or psychological dilemmas. This theme offers a wealth of interpretations and promptsreflection on the complexity of human nature, through the fragmentation of identity and the questfor self.</p> Mirela Gheorghe Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Cryptocurrencies, Developments and Trends https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/649 <p>In the digital age we live in, the concept of money and financial transactions is in constant transformation. A remarkable evolution of this paradigm is cryptocurrencies, a revolutionary innovation in the financial field that has captured the attention of the entire world. In this paper, we aim to explore the depth and complexity of the cryptocurrency world. We will look at the origin and concept of cryptocurrencies, explore how they work, and investigate the evolution and key trends that have shaped their course.</p> Petronela Sandu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Impact of Demographic Features, Globalization and Technological Innovation on Ecological Footprint in Emerging European Countries https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/564 <p>Addressing environmental degradation is a top priority for world leaders and communities. The pollution-sphere is growing in thickness creating vital risks for humans and wild life on Earth. Assessing the complex interaction between human-related features and environmental welfare creates the premises for cooperation between academia and policymakers, as the last are searching for efficient instruments for mitigating climate change without affecting social and economic development.</p> <p>In this context, this research aims to evaluate the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI), globalization, technological innovation, demographic features, and ecological footprint. Previous research brought evidence to support that economic globalization can harm the environmental quality but also can support the ecological regeneration, after a certain development threshold. Additionally, it supports the transfer of new technologies and the renewal of production facilities, contributing to increased energy efficiency and green growth. Depending on the development status of the national economy, and active interaction with global markets and free transfer of financial resources and technologies will add environmental degradation, confirming the pollution haven hypothesis, or on the contrary will decrease the ecological footprint.</p> <p>This study uses a panel of emerging European countries to demonstrate the impact of demographic features, globalization, and technological innovation on ecological footprint. The main findings support the evolutionary thesis, showing that some of the selected national economies still depend on the foreing resources to recover structural gaps and support the economic output growth. The care for ecological welfare is still in debate, as stringent issues such as poverty, poor institutional framework and low technological capacity are still priorities for local governents.</p> Florian Nuta Itbar Khan Hayat Khan Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Metamorphosis of Universities - Under the Sign of Entrepreneurship and Sustainability https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/580 <p>The universities serve as pillars of society, contributing mainly to education, research, innovation, cultural enrichment, and community development. The higher education institutions are more and more engage in entrepreneurial activities such as technology transfer, spin-offs, and industry collaboration. There is more and more discussions about expanding the functions of universities and even about the proliferation of entrepreneurial universities. Entrepreneurial universities not only focus on traditional roles such as education and research but also prioritize creating economic and social impact through entrepreneurship. In many universities,&nbsp; dedicated offices or departments are set up and focused on supporting entrepreneurship, facilitating partnerships with companies, and commercializing research outputs.Entrepreneurial universities play a pivotal role in fostering innovation and driving regional economic development through their collaborations within the local ecosystem. The interactions with regional ecosystems are complex and put on the form: knowledge transfer, incubation and acceleration, collaborative research, workforce development, job creation, cultural and intellectual hub,&nbsp; and community engagement. The involvement of universities in society and their evolution have been carefully studied, the Triple Helix model and Quadruple Helix model gaining consistency as the functions of higher education institutions expand.</p> <p>The Triple Helix model is a concept developed by Henry Etzkowitz and Loet Leydesdorff. This model describes the relationship between academia, industry, and government in fostering economic development. The three helices represent these three sectors, and the interactions between them are believed to be crucial for driving innovation and knowledge creation.The Quadruple Helix model expands on the Triple Helix model, which describes the collaboration between academia, industry, and government in fostering innovation and developing economy. The Quadruple Helix adds a fourth dimension, usually represented by civil society or the public, emphasizing the importance of broader societal engagement in innovation processes. This model suggests that innovation are most effective when they involve active participation and collaboration among academia, industry, government, and the public. It highlights the role of citizens, communities, and non-governmental organizations in shaping innovation and sustaining development.</p> <p>In summary, entrepreneurial universities play a multifaceted role in regional ecosystems, driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and contributing to economic prosperity. By leveraging their resources, expertise, and networks, these institutions can catalyze positive change and help build thriving communities.</p> Mirela Panait Marius Gabriel Petrescu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 A Comparative Analysis of Online Shopping Trends: Romania, Poland, Hungary, and Bulgaria https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/596 <p>Prior research has identified an important rise of online shopping among all these consumers; however, the region is still behind the adoption of e-commerce compared to western Europe consumers. Moreover, there are some important differences in the shopping habits among consumers in each of these countries, despite some commonalities. This article aims to explore the recent online shopping trends among consumers in some neighboring country in Central and Eastern Europe, i.e. Romanian, Hungarian, Polish and Bulgarian consumers. To this aim, several Eurostat e-commerce datasets were utilized for a statistical exploration covering the period 2011-2023. The focus was on online shopping trend evolution and demographic variations within the countries studied, with an analysis of differences according to factors like residence, age, education, and gender. The results of the detailed analysis offer a nuanced image of e-commerce adoption among different demographic groups, some groups being characterized by an accelerated adoption, while other groups still lag behind. This research can contribute to the development of strategies for increasing online shopping participation among consumer segments with lower current activity but promising growth potential. The study additionally reveals significant regional variations in e-commerce adoption. These insights can serve as a valuable resource for companies seeking to develop strategies that stimulate online shopping trends based on successful practices observed in other countries within the region. Finally, public policy aiming to ensure a more balanced increase of the digital economy among its different demographic groups could use the results to identify further the vulnerabilities of some of the consumers in terms of participation to the digital economy.</p> Madalina Balau Rose Marie Puscaciu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Evolution of Political Communication in the Digital Age: The Impact of New Technologies on Political Participation https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/613 <p>In recent decades, digital technologies have revolutionized the way political communication takes place worldwide. This paper investigates the impact of new technologies on political participation, focusing on changes in voter behavior and communication strategies adopted by political parties.</p> <p>The paper examines how the use of social networks, online platforms, and digital tools has transformed the relationship between politicians and citizens. It analyzes how instant access to information and social networks have influenced decision-making processes and public opinion, providing new opportunities for civic engagement and electoral mobilization. Additionally, the paper explores the challenges and dilemmas associated with the use of digital technologies in political communication, including the risks of misinformation and online manipulation. It discusses how politicians and political organizations are adapting their strategies to address these challenges and to maintain public trust and engagement.</p> <p>This paper provides a valuable contribution to understanding the transformations in political communication in the context of technological evolution and underscores the importance of continuous adaptation of communication strategies to respond to new challenges and opportunities in contemporary society.</p> Mirela Curca Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Asymmetry in the Knowledge Society https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/630 <p>The Internet, everyone's access to information, has led to a democratization of knowledge. At the same time, in the absence of changing the paradigm of educating the population, new technologies, artificial intelligence, have created another type of asymmetry through adverse selection, moral hazard. Elements of social manipulation and digital deception, facilitated by new social media, built on emerging technologies, deepen another kind of asymmetry. This paper analyzes these changes, trends, and identifies possible options to rebalance access to accurate information to eliminate cognitive disparities.&nbsp; Education requires a new approach, because in its current form it can create more polarization and asymmetry for disadvantaged categories. There is a gap between technological developments and social changes that creates a new kind of asymmetry, of disparities. This article conducts research of these approaches, wishing to propose including the related public policy element.</p> Calin Mihai Rangu Mircea Constantin Scheau Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The History of the Romanian Currency https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/646 <p>From the precious coins of Greek and Roman civilizations, on which divine faces were represented, to modern plastic banknotes, the course of the coin was long and diversified, and the Romanian leu does not rebate from this description, having a tumultuous history, being affected by inflation, monetary stabilizations and denominations.</p> <p>The Romanian leu is a monetary unit, but also a symbol of national stability and pride, a tangible result of the ideal of independence and unity, always manifested by the Romanian people. The study of the Romanian leu is not only an economic analysis, but represents an amazing journey into the identity and evolution of the Romanian people over time.</p> Andreea Amalia Prisacariu Marcela Puiu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Country Governance Scores as Moderators of ESG Impact on Firm Performance in the European Context https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/561 <p><strong>Purpose –&nbsp;</strong>It is believed that engaging in ESG activities has a positive impact on the financial and market performance of firms mainly due to the positive perception of the public, including current and potential customers and investors. However, research on the relationship between ESG scores and firm performance has produced mixed results, raising concerns about greenwashing. We posit that greenwashing is harder to occur in the context of sound governance practices. Hence, the purpose of this study is to explore the moderating effect of governance indicators on the relationship between a firm’s ESG scores and its financial and market performance.</p> <p><strong>Methodology&nbsp;</strong>– To achieve the aims of the study, we have collected data from a sample of 2012 listed firms from the European continent. We have employed 2SLS and Panel Regression models, using published financial information spanning over a period of 12 years, from 2011 to 2022. After cleaning the data for missing values, we obtained an unbalanced and cross-sectional panel of 12,508 firm-year observations from the 2,012 firms used in the study.</p> <p><strong>Findings&nbsp;</strong>– The findings reveal that individual components of governance represented by the worldwide governance indicators have a positive moderating effect on the relationship between ESG and firms’ market performance.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong>– The study findings imply that firms operating in countries with higher governance scores are likely to see a greater positive impact from their ESG efforts on market performance compared to those in lower-scoring countries. The implementation of ESG practices is perceived to be more reliable and effective in countries with higher governance scores, making investors more inclined to invest in firms operating in such countries.</p> Enida Demiraj Rezart Demiraj Suzan Dsouza Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Conceptual Model for the Identification and Assessment of the Degree of Confidence in the Financial Reporting Quality of Economic Entities https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/577 <p>Ensuring the quality of financial reporting stands as a cornerstone in the realm of decision-making within economic entities, to foster trust among investors and stakeholders alike. A robust financial reporting framework not only furnishes precise and pertinent information but also bolsters credibility, painting an accurate picture of an entity's financial health and performance. It is crucial to develop a conceptual framework aimed to analyze the quality of financial reporting. This design of a conceptual model should incorporate key criteria and assign appropriate weights to each, facilitating a thorough assessment, which is vital for enhancing the transparency, relevance, and integrity of financial data disclosed by organizations. Additionally, by improving financial reporting quality, this model serves as a fundamental tool to increase the confidence of investors, creditors, and other stakeholders in the financial information presented.</p> Aura Oana Mustatea Carmen Mihaela Bulau Mirela Matei Pana Diana Violeta Prodanczuk Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Shaping Europe’s Journey to Economic Prosperity – Challenges and Opportunities https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/593 <p>Economic growth models often inform policy decisions, making it crucial to account for the potential impact of policy interventions accurately. However, predicting the effects of policy changes is inherently challenging due to the complexity of economic systems. The European Union presents a unique case study for economic growth modeling due to its size, diversity, and level of integration. Modeling the economic growth of the European Union involves analyzing a complex interplay of factors that influence the economies of its member states as well as the EU as a whole. Thus, modeling EU economic growth becomes a multifaceted task that requires integrating insights from various theoretical frameworks, empirical methods, and data sources. EU economic growth modeling requires harmonizing data from various sources, including Eurostat, national statistical offices, and international organizations, to ensure consistency and comparability across countries and time periods. While modeling economic growth poses numerous challenges, such as: endogeneity issues, measurement errors, and data gaps in economic data, ongoing advancements in data analytics, interdisciplinary collaboration, and modeling techniques offer promising opportunities to improve the accuracy and relevance of growth models. By leveraging these opportunities, researchers can better understand the dynamics of economic growth and inform more effective policy decisions.</p> Gabriela Marchis Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Power to Regulate: Analysing the EU AI Act https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/609 <p>In the last decade we have witnessed the rapid development of technology and the intensification of its use. As has been the case with other inventions and developments, this has underlined a number of different challenges. In this context, the European Commission has proposed in 2021 a draft for the AI Act, which aimed to regulate the use of AI. Following the decision-making process in the EU, in March 2024 the plenary session of the European Parliament has endorsed the Artificial Intelligence Act making it the first law in the world which will regulate for example, how artificial intelligence is used for biometric identification. This paper will analyse EU’s capacity to formulate regulations and how this may contribute to its identity.</p> Mihaela Adriana Padureanu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Agile Learning is a New Concept in Education? https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/627 <p>The concept of agile learning is a relatively new approach in education that draws inspiration from agile methodologies used in software development. Agile learning focuses on iteration, collaboration, and adaptability to create a more responsive and student-centered learning environment.</p> <p>Some key characteristics of agile learning are: Increased collaboration, Adaptability to feedback, Focus on results.</p> <p>Agile learning is still a developing concept, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we learn</p> Adrian Beteringhe Lidia Stanciu Filip Stanciu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Human Resources Management and Audit at Public Utilities Company from Tecuci https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/643 <p>Human resources management in a public company refers to all the activities related to selecting, employing, and involving human resources in achieving the stated public policy objectives.</p> <p>The human resources audit in state-owned companies serves a crucial purpose. It ensures compliance with all rules related to employee employment within the company and provides effective ways to resolve possible labour conflicts, thereby fostering a harmonious work environment.</p> <p>Because public financial resources are involved in the activity of the studied company, periodic evaluation of human resource performance is very important. Also, the auditing of this activity must emphasize how the public financial resources and the human resources involved contribute to the fulfilment of the company's public role.</p> <p>In conclusion, without the implementation of rigorous human resources management doubled by an audit activity carried out in compliance with the norms of ethics and professional deontology, the company's activity may suffer in terms of achieving the objectives for which it was founded, namely, serving the public interest.</p> Simona Chirila Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Right to Petition of Citizens in the Relationship System with the Public Administration: Analysis of the Support Provided through Artificial Intelligence https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/558 <p>Public administration authorities are established, organized and operate to meet the needs ofcitizens. Respect for the fundamental rights of citizens by all public entities is the guarantee of ademocratic state. One of the fundamental rights that citizens have in relation to the local publicadministration is the right to petition. In the citizen-public administration relationship system,can the "computer message" respect the right to petition? Artificial intelligence (AI) is theguarantor of informational accuracy that receives citizens; complaints and "intelligently";transmits the image of respect for fundamental rights. Does the public administration, byproviding the AI-based relational system, ensure respect for the right to petition? The answer,theoretical but also practical, will open future directions of analysis and reporting on the respectof the fundamental rights of the citizens but also the obligation of the public administration tocome to the support of the citizens.</p> Manuela Panaitescu Tincuta Vrabie Gudana Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Destination Management - Ecotourism in the Romanian Carpathians https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/574 <p>Ecoturismul a castigat teren ca alternativa durabila la turismul de masa, raspunzand cererii tot mai mari de conservare a mediului natural si promovand dezvoltarea economica a comunitatilor locale. In acest context, Carpatii romanesti, cu peisajele lor diverse si biodiversitatea bogata, ofera un potential semnificativ pentru dezvoltarea ecoturismului. Articolul exploreaza strategiile si practicile de management al destinatiilor turistice care pot maximiza beneficiile ecoturismului pentru regiune, minimizand in acelasi timp impactul negativ asupra mediului si comunitatilor locale.</p> <p>Incepand cu o analiza a literaturii de specialitate, studiul identifica principalele provocari si oportunitati ale ecoturismului in contextul specific al Carpatilor romani. Se discuta despre importanta integrarii principiilor dezvoltarii durabile in toate aspectele managementului destinatiei, de la planificare si marketing pana la implementare si monitorizare.</p> <p>Metodologia adoptata in acest studiu include o analiza comparativa a cazurilor internationale de succes in ecoturism si aplicarea acestor lectii in contextul romanesc. Cercetarea ofera o perspectiva detaliata asupra asteptarilor si perceptiilor legate de ecoturism.</p> <p>Rezultatele studiului evidentiaza cateva strategii cheie pentru optimizarea managementului destinatiilor turistice din Carpatii Romaniei. Acestea includ stabilirea de parteneriate solide intre sectorul public si privat, dezvoltarea infrastructurii de ecoturism cu impact minim asupra mediului, promovarea autenticitatii culturale si naturale a destinatiei si implementarea de programe educationale pentru vizitatori si comunitatile locale.</p> <p>Discutia se concentreaza pe importanta adaptabilitatii si a inovatiei in managementul destinatiei, subliniind necesitatea unui echilibru intre conservarea resurselor naturale si culturale si satisfacerea nevoilor economice ale comunitatilor gazda si subliniaza rolul crucial al implicarii si participarii comunitatii in procesul de dezvoltare a ecoturismului. . Cercetarea propune un cadru integrat pentru promovarea ecoturismului responsabil si durabil in Carpatii Romaniei. Prin adoptarea unei abordari holistice si participative, este posibila valorificarea potentialului unic al regiunii, conservand in acelasi timp mostenirea naturala si culturala si sporind bunastarea.</p> Anca Turtureanu Carmen Mihaela Cretu Emanuel Stefan Marinescu Carmen Gabriela Sirbu Bianca Georgiana Claudiu Petrea Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Preparation of Development of the Assessment System of Quality of Wine and Wine Products https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/590 <p>Viticulture and winemaking are crucial sectors in Azerbaijan's agro-industrial complex, holding significant potential for growth. However, they face challenges such as adverse natural phenomena impacting grape production and the proliferation of counterfeit wine products. This not only confuses consumers but also poses risks to public health and safety, eroding trust in the industry.</p> <p>To address these challenges, it is essential to enhance analytical and expert identification capabilities to ensure the reliability and objectivity of wine product assessments. This involves developing new techniques, including analytical and expert methods, to study the component composition of wine products comprehensively. By evaluating specific properties that remain unchanged throughout the production chain, based on modern scientific knowledge, we can establish a robust quality assessment system.</p> <p>This system will enable effective control over compliance with laws and regulations, facilitating identification and prevention of inaccurate information regarding product type, name, and origin. To ensure objectivity and reliability, it is crucial to gather scientifically validated data on qualitative and quantitative changes in analyzed indicators.</p> <p>In conclusion, the development and implementation of a quality assessment system for wine products are critical for supporting production, circulation, and import substitution in compliance with the law. By leveraging fundamental scientific knowledge and modern research tools, we can address risks and dangers in the industry, ensuring consumer confidence and fostering sustainable growth.</p> Kamala Seifulla Dadashova Ilkin Emil Aliev Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Crisis Situations in Internal Communication Determined by the Difference in Values between the Organization and Employees https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/606 <p>Internal communication is closely related to the organizational culture cultivated in an organization, which is represented by the system of beliefs, values, beliefs, attitudes and shared experiences, which together influence the behavior of employees. The employer's interest is that the entire team shares the organization's values with an important role in both internal and external communication of the organization. The specific values of the organization's culture make it unique and different from other competing organizations. However, each employee has his own values, specific to the culture of the environment from which he comes, and it can be difficult to assume new values if the manager does not provide support in order to help the process of assuming the vision and values of the organization by the employees. This support is offered by communication and public relations specialists, and I want to emphasize in the paper the importance of being aware of the complexity of public relations activities and internal communication in an organization. The premise from which I start in this study is that, in an organization, the manager - PR specialist - employees relationship has an important impact on the performance and optimization of internal communication and the organizational culture, which is decisive in this process, having as the central pillar the values the organization. The research uses qualitative methods to highlight the crisis situations that are determined by the insufficient assumption of the organization's values by the employees and the effects generated.</p> Florentina Popa Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Importance and Relevance of Learning English in the International Context of Nursing https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/640 <p>Being considered the global language of communication, science&nbsp;and business, the English language still occurs as a hurdle in the life of numerous people, including Romanians. Thus, this paper attempts to decipher, study and understand the manner in which Romanians perceive the process of learning the English language, as well as their behaviour manifested towards acquiring and using the necessary knowledge in the current world.</p> <p>Another issue studied in this research is the relevance of learning English language in the international context, concerning the field of nursing. The professional environment of a nurse involves, besides specialised knowledge of the field (nursing techniques, anatomy and emergency practices), other data, extracted from numerous domains, such as efficient communication skills, empathy and stress management, as well as proper abilities of speaking an internationally used foreign language, hence the importance of English in a nursing career.</p> <p>In this respect, our research is based on the process of observing a number of nurses communicating with native English speakers, as well as with non-native English speaking patients, while insisting upon the challenges faced by former category during their interaction with patients and their efficiency displayed in this process. Another issue studied was the success rate of such interactions and thus, the implication and the relevance of already acquired English speaking skills in these intercultural interactions in the nursing field.</p> Lacramioara Mocanu Raluca Andreea Nechifor Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Author and Participants https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/656 <p>In this context of the need for regulation, the idea of liability/assuming responsibility for the fact was born. Liability has been divided, over time, according to the social values damaged (civil, contraventional, criminal, etc.) and the degree of abstract or concrete social danger generated by the illegal act. Later, there was a need for regulation regarding the repetition of illegal conduct and regarding the cooperation of several people in the commission of an illegal act. Thus, various ways of establishing liability in case of multiple acts and multiple perpetrators have appeared.</p> <p>For the interest of this work, the institution of the plurality of perpetrators, regulated by the legislator in chapter VI (Author and Participants), from title II (Offense) of the Criminal Code, Law no. 286/2009, regulation related to the fundamental institution of the crime, one of the three fundamental institutions in the General Part of the Criminal Code (along with</p> <p>the institution of criminal liability and that of punishment). However, as the regulation is a homogeneous one, in dealing with the various problems related to participation, it will not be possible to ignore the analysis of certain related aspects from the matter of unity/plurality of facts (such as the regime of participation in continued crime), as related aspects from the matter of punishments will be highlighted, especially the regime of circumstances, either mitigating or aggravating.</p> <p>Thus, we assume that a complex analysis of the author's institution and participation must also take into account aspects related to the regulation contained in Chapter VI. At the same time, the particular aspects of the Special Part of the Criminal Code will also be taken into account, especially in the matter of crimes in which the legislator requires a certain special quality of the author (for example, embezzlement) or in the matter of dissociated crimes (such as taking/giving bribery), where the first impression is that the intermediary of the bribery is a participant in both crimes. Obviously, there are certain nuances in the interpretation, necessary to avoid establishing a more serious liability on the part of the participant than on the author of any of the two dissociated crimes, aspects that will be analyzed in the appropriate framework, in this context, the purpose of the exposition being only anticipatory.</p> Elena Nistor Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Immigration and Integration in the European Union https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/555 <p><em>Among the objectives of the European Union is the comprehensive immigration policy, oriented towards the future and based on solidarity. Related to immigration and immigrants, integration is seen as a process of active participation of immigrants in all dimensions of European society, a process that must be seen from two directions - of the host society and of the immigrants. The integration of immigrants is a complex process, a real challenge for both directions. For the success of integration, there are legislative acts in the European Union that have an impact on the integration of immigrants. Based on these considerations, the article aims at the following scientific objectives: the presentation of some approaches to European integration, some statistics and some aspects of the European Union policy in the field of immigration and integration.</em></p> Filofteia Repez Polixenia Olar Maria Stefan Zaharia Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 An Evaluation of the Net-zero Transition in Australia https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/571 <p>This study offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between CO2 emissions, technological innovation, and renewable energy consumption in Australia by employing a wavelet analysis. Several quantitative methods were employed to explore the unique characteristics of the dataset obtained from 2000 to 2021. The results align with (Abban et al., 2023; Nuta et al., 2024; Nuta, 2023; Zhang et al., 2023), indicating a negative link between renewable energy and innovation and a direct and positive relationship between non-renewable energy and carbon emission. Policy recommendations were suggested for governments and other stakeholders based on our findings.</p> Olivier Joseph Abban Alina Nuta Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Demographics of Companies - an Effect of Entrepreneurial Success, or a Failure? https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/587 <p>The creating and closing of enterprises - seemingly common actions, in fact they essentially highlight the health of the entire entrepreneurial system of a country. Analyzing the dynamics of businesses from the perspective of the events that lead either to their establishment, or closure – it is a valuable resource for identifying future trends in the business environment. The article aims to provide a balanced perspective of the relationship between demographics of companies and entrepreneurial success, highlighting the importance of a contextual approach and an exhaustive analysis of the internal and external factors that influence the evolution of a business. This study explores how factors such as a company's lifespan, size, industry, and financial performance affect company demographics, by using empirical data and statistical analysis. Thus, the article aims to demonstrate that entrepreneurial success and failure impact the survival rate of businesses, as well as their birth rate. In addition, the study provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs, investors and decision makers in managing and promoting sustainable economic development and business innovation.</p> Rose-Marie Puscaciu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Socio-economic Aspects Appearing in the Conflict Zones and their Impact on the Balance in International Relations https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/603 <p>The recrudescence of international conflicts presupposed the adoption of somereactions by the international community in favor of the victims who suffer fromthe war and the adoption of mechanisms to help them in accordance withinternational standards in the field of humanitarian law. Unfortunately, theexisting legislative, political vacuum, of the inability of public, local orgovernmental authorities to impose themselves to the detriment of those who havebenefited from these situations is a fact that is more and more frequent andmaintained in many regions of the globe where war is being waged and conflictstake place. The deterioration of the status of the civilian population is closelyrelated to the belligerent groups and all those who have economic and politicalinterests in the region.</p> Stefan Gheorghe Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 National and International Aspects of the Enforcement Decisions Concerning Children https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/620 <p>It can be observed that there are significant deficiencies in the field of family law terms of the existing specific clauses by analysing the national and international legislative framework.</p> <p>The comparative analysis revealed that both at national level and in a number of Member States, there are no explicit rules for the application of the 1980’s Hague Convention and Brussels II Regulation to ensure the prompt return of the children to his on herplace of residence.</p> <p>As long as there is no unified approach on an international level in this sense, it will be almost impossible to achieve this goal – the best interests of the child through the immediate return of the minor.</p> Lenuta Giurgea Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Exploring Consumer Experiences and Perceptions in the Online Shopping https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/637 <p>Recently, we are witnessing a remarkable increase in the volume of purchases made online, reflecting significant changes in consumer behavior and the global retail landscape. This study explores the online purchasing behaviors of Romanian consumers, and uses a qualitative methodology based on semi-structured interviews from a convenience sample of 10 participants. The findings reveal that Romanian consumers attach significant importance to brand reputation in their online purchase process, being prone to choose the brands that offered them a positive experience or those which have a good image. The price remains a decisive factor, as Romanian consumers carefully analyze the quality-price ratio, and so the quality of the product or service is also important, Romanian consumers showing a preference for products with high performance or durability. The study contributes to a better understanding of the way Romanian consumers interact with e-commerce platforms, discussing aspects such as the frequency of purchases, product and service preferences, decision-making factors, and potential challenges or barriers encountered in their online shopping experience.</p> Ionela Nicoleta Ariton (Lungu) Rebeca Beatrice Beniuga (Sava) Madalina Balau Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Analysis of Economic and Social Performance Indicators of Regional Bodies implementing Sustainable Development Goals https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/653 <p>Currently, the financing of social projects through National Interest Programs (NIPs), based on Government Decisions (GDs), may lead to an inequitable distribution of resources, overlooking the specific needs of vulnerable groups in certain regions. This issue significantly impedes the sustainable development of disadvantaged areas.</p> <p>Decentralizing the contracting, approval, and financing process of NIPs at the regional level holds significant potential to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of social programs. This decentralization process would allow for the adaptation of programs to the unique needs of each region, potentially leading to more efficient resource use and greater impact on disadvantaged groups.</p> <p>In-depth research on this topic could greatly enrich the existing knowledge in the field of social policy and regional development. Analyzing the effects of NIP decentralization could yield valuable insights for social sector practitioners and policymakers.</p> <p>The successful decentralization of NIPs could positively influence regional economic indicators, such as employment rates, poverty levels, and overall population well-being. By catering to the specific needs of vulnerable groups, better tailored social programs could enhance social inclusion and boost local economic growth.</p> <p>Furthermore, it is important to note that regional bodies effectively contribute to local progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</p> Alexandru Carabat Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Diplomatic Service of the European Union https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/550 <p><em>Engendered by the Treaty of Lisbon, the European External Action Service (EEAS) is the Diplomatic Service of the European Union and represents a major institutional innovation, one of the most significant changes introduced by this treaty.</em></p> <p><em>EEAS was established by decision of the Council of Ministers on 26 July 2010 and was formally launched on 1st January 2011 that constituted a major step in the European integration process and in developing a common foreign policy.</em></p> <p><em>In this paper we aim to include elements of analysis about its creation, structure, organization, collaboration with other EU institutions, its role and responsibilities related EU foreign policy priorities. We emphasize the contribution of the EEAS to strengthening the coherence and increasing impact and visibility of European Union action at international level and therefore of the Member States.</em></p> <p><em>For the elaboration of the paper we have used as research methods the analysis of problems generated by the mentioned subject with reference to doctrinal views expressed in treaties and papers, the documentary research, the interpretation of legal norms in the matter.</em></p> Jana Maftei Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Advancing Eco-friendly Growth through AI-Powered Green Economy: Utilizing Blockchain for Enhanced Supply Chains and Natural Resource Management https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/568 <p>Objectives. This study explores the interplay between Artificial Intelligence (AI), renewable energy adoption, and Green Total Factor Productivity (GTFP). It aims to understand how AI influences carbon intensity across industries and developmental stages and examines the potential of digital technologies like blockchain to promote sustainable development. Prior Work. Building on existing literature on renewable energy transition, AI's impact on various sectors, and the role of digital technologies in sustainability, this paper seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of AI's influence on green economic development. Approach. Employing a relevant mathematical model, this research assesses the effects of AI on carbon intensity and evaluates the potential roles of blockchain and AI in enhancing supply chain transparency, traceability, and sustainability practices. Results. The study reveals diverse impacts of AI on carbon intensity, with significant reductions observed during specific planning periods. It underscores the potential of digital technologies in decoupling economic growth from carbon emissions and highlights the importance of inclusive governance in maximizing positive impacts. Implications. Findings have implications for academics, policymakers, and industry stakeholders involved in sustainable development. It emphasizes the need for collaborative frameworks and inclusive governance to leverage digital innovations effectively for environmentally friendly industrial transformations. Value. This paper contributes to the understanding of AI's role in green economic development and provides insights into the potential of blockchain and AI in promoting sustainable practices. Its rigorous analysis and practical recommendations offer valuable guidance for addressing environmental challenges while fostering economic growth.</p> Sipan Shivan M. Saeed Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Diplomatic Crosscurrents: Southeastern Europe's Balancing Act between the Main Foreign Powers https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/600 <p>This study aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on Southeastern Europe's diplomatic relations with the dominant foreign power in the region. It provides a novel perspective on how Southeastern European countries strategically navigate their diplomatic ties to either maintain or challenge regional stability in unpredictable global and regional contexts. By expanding upon the understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by these countries in balancing their relationships and in some cases avoiding overreliance on any single global power, this study builds upon prior research in the field.</p> <p>To capture practical and evidence of alignments, this study employs a qualitative methodology. It observes how historical representations influence diplomatic and political discourses/approaches of key political figures in Southeastern European countries. Case studies are utilized to provide in-depth insights into how states in the region navigate diplomatic crosscurrents and align with specific interests based on geopolitical lines.</p> <p>The key findings of this study highlight the nuanced strategies employed by certain Southeastern European countries to advance their regional interests and ambitions while managing relationships with both Western and Eastern powers. At the same time, maintaining a delicate equilibrium is emphasized as crucial for regional stability and economic development. The thorough research and high-quality analysis presented in this paper provide valuable insights on lesser-explored aspect of how specific countries in the region strategically leverage their diplomatic ties based on historical representations and into the complexities of maintaining stability in Southeastern Europe. The implications of this study extend to academics, researchers, and foreign policy experts, offering a deeper understanding of the diplomatic dynamics and future perspectives for policy decision informing in Southeastern Europe.</p> Elira Luli Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 European Tourist Product – The Destination of Timisoara https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/617 <p>The article explores the complexity and dynamics of the tourist resources of the city of Timisoara, presenting the types and forms of tourism practised, as well as the evolution of relevant tourism indicators in recent times. Through detailed analysis of cultural, historical, architectural, and natural attractions, the paper highlights how Timisoara has transformed into an attractive tourist destination on the European scene. Various forms of tourism are considered, including cultural, business, gastronomic, and ecotourism, emphasising the city's adaptability to current tourist requirements and trends. The tourism indicators analysed, such as the number of visitors, average length of stay, and utilisation rate of tourist accommodation capacity, provide insight into the effectiveness of marketing and tourism development strategies. The article also proposes recommendations for the continuous optimisation of Timisoara's tourist offerings, with the aim of strengthening its position as a top European tourist product.</p> <p>In this context, Timisoara proves to be an example of good practice in the integration of cultural and natural resources in a cohesive and attractive tourist product, succeeding in combining the harmonies of tradition with modernity.</p> <p>Timisoara's role as the European Capital of Culture in 2023 has further strengthened its tourism relevance, giving the city the opportunity to showcase its heritage and cultural diversity on an international platform. The events and projects carried out in the framework emphasized the capacity of this city to host visitors from all corners of the world, thus promoting intercultural dialogue and international cooperation.</p> <p>However, continued success in tourism requires proactive and innovative approaches to meet emerging challenges, such as the need to balance tourism development with heritage conservation and environmental protection. Therefore, it is essential that Timisoara continues to invest in the sustainable development of tourism, continuously improve the visitor experience and maximize the economic benefits of the sector, without compromising its cultural and natural resources.</p> Ionela Nicoleta Ariton (Lungu) Gica Luca (Negoita) Anca Turtureanu Carmen Mihaela Cretu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Social Equity and Inclusion in Urban Development https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/634 <p>Rapid urbanization increases competition for limited urban resources and accentuate the need for policies that promote equitable access to all types of resources. This article presents the problems that highly urban areas have had over the years, facing sustainable urban development. Review of policy documents, strategies and plans within the ambit of urban development was done. Documents were sourced from organizational websites and offices (URBACT European programme). Emerging themes on equity and social inclusion (education, ageing, poverty, youth, and housing) in access urban resources were identified and analysed.</p> Luminita Iosif Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Theoretical and Practical Considerations regarding the Accounting and Fiscal Treatment of the VAT at Chasing System in Romania in the Context of 2024 https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/650 <p>The VAT at cashing system was introduced in Romania as an option for VAT paying taxpayers in 2013, according to Law no. 149/2013 for the amendment and completion of the Law on the Fiscal Code. This system is an alternative to the traditional pay-as-you-go VAT system and allows businesses to pay VAT to the state only after receiving money from customers.</p> <p>By implementing the VAT at cashing system, a better management of companies' liquidity is aimed at, avoiding situations in which they are obliged to pay VAT to the state before receiving the value of invoices issued to customers.</p> <p>It is important to note that the VAT at cashing system is optional in Romania, companies can opt for this system only under certain conditions and for certain categories of activities . The choice between the classic system and the accrual system is an important aspect in a company's fiscal strategy, being influenced by the nature of the activity, cash flows and other managerial considerations.</p> <p>The general conditions for the application of the VAT at cashing system are: the taxable person must be registered for VAT purposes, the seat of the economic activity must be in Romania and the turnover from the previous year must not exceed 4.5 million lei.</p> <p>This article also looks at comparisons with some states in the European Union regarding the application of the VAT at cashing system. Here are some of the EU countries that apply the VAT at cashing system:Austria: companies with an annual turnover of less than 1 million euros can opt for the VAT at casing system. Belgium: Companies with an annual turnover below 250,000 euros can opt for the VAT system on receipt. France: Companies with an annual turnover of less than 236,000 euros can opt for the VAT at casing system. Germany: Companies with an annual turnover below 600,000 euros can opt for the VAT at casing system. Italy: Companies with an annual turnover below 700,000 euros can opt for the VAT at casing system. Spain: Companies with an annual turnover below 600,000 euros can opt for the VAT at casing system.</p> Liliana Babei Mihaela Denisa Birhala Eduard Andrei Dorus Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Precedent and Unifying Practice of the Supreme Court in Albania, a Distinguishing and Harmonizing Element between Civil Law and Common Law https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/546 <p>The precedent in the legal system in Albania is closely related to the judicial hierarchy. Although Albania is part of the Civil Law system, the unifying practice has a determining role in the interpretation of legal provisions, as well as the unification of the judicial practices of the lower courts, which during the judicial disposition and the analysis of the facts, take different positions and not unified, creating confusion.The notion of legal systems is a complex notion, which includes in itself the historical origin, the legal method, the nature of the treatment of sources of law, as well as ideological factors.</p> <p>The purpose of this paper is precisely to deal with the role of precedent in Albanian judicial practice, as well as the interpretation of legal provisions, dealing with the comparative elements between the two legal systems.</p> <p>Based on the qualitative analysis of the literature, the law and the unifying practice of the Supreme Court, referring to the role of precedent in Albania, as a country with a tradition of the Civil Law system, the research questions are posed:</p> <p>- If the continental system and that of English law go on different paths, and there are no meeting points between them, taking into account the bindingness or not of the Unifying Decisions of the Supreme Court for the treatment of similar cases or for the interpretation of legal provisions?</p> <p>- Are the Unifying Decisions of the Supreme Court, which have disposed differently from the legal provisions, considered contrary to the law?</p> <p>-If the historical and economic development of different countries, as well as the development of contractual relations between them, has it brought about an intertwining of the common law system and the continental one, for the development of the justice system, and the most practical solution of various judicial issues?</p> Entela Abdul Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Factors Influencing the Adoption of Management Accounting Practices among Albanian Family Businesses https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/581 <p><strong>Purpose –&nbsp;</strong>This study focuses on family businesses, defined as enterprises owned, controlled, and managed by family members who are related by blood or marriage. Family businesses are of significant interest because they represent 65-80% of all enterprises in Europe and have a substantial impact on a country's GDP and employment levels. Since the adoption of Management Accounting Practices (MAPs) is a key factor in business success, we aim to investigate how widely these practices are adopted among Albanian family businesses and identify the key factors that influence their adoption.</p> <p><strong>Methodology&nbsp;</strong>– To achieve the objectives of our study, we collected primary data through questionnaires sent to business owners/managers in Albania. We analyzed the data using qualitative methods to assess the adoption extent of MAPs in family businesses and quantitative methods (regression) to identify the key factors influencing this adoption.</p> <p><strong>Findings&nbsp;</strong>– The findings reveal a low relatively level of adoption of MAPs among Albanian family businesses. Their management accounting systems are predominantly informal and unsophisticated. Moreover, characteristics unique to family businesses are the main drivers of this adoption.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong>– The state of MAP adoption among family businesses in Albania suggests a potential area for significant improvement. The unique characteristics of family businesses, which influence this adoption, highlight the need for tailored management accounting solutions that align with their specific management styles. Future initiatives and policies should focus on educating and equipping family businesses with the tools and knowledge necessary to implement more formal and sophisticated MAPs, thereby enhancing their decision-making processes and competitive advantage.</p> Enida Demiraj Rezart Demiraj Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Perceptions and Expectations Regarding the Activity of Financial Auditors from Users of Financial Statements https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/597 <p>The current economic-financial environment, constantly changing, characterized by increasingly strong signals for a new period of recession brings back into focus the debates regarding the "audit expectation gap" issue. The study aims to carry out a questionnaire-based research. The purpose of the undertaken approach is to analyze the perceptions and expectations that users of financial information have regarding the external audit activity. These aspects are presented in the context of the need to increase the quality of the audit and the concerns of the professional bodies to be actively involved in the continuous training of its members. The work is based on a questionnaire survey, quantitative method, and the interpretation of the results was carried out by means of qualitative tools such as: analysis, generalization of the obtained data and professional reasoning. At the level of the analyzed sample, the discrepancies in perception intervene mainly against the background of the lack of education of the respondents, especially regarding the technical elements of a basic mission in the financial audit. The attitude towards the objectivity and independence of professional accountants is generally a good one.</p> Florentin Emil Tanasa Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Communicative Act of Lying. A Philosophical Perspective https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/614 <p>In this paper, I aim at analysing – mostly from a logical and philosophical point of view – the communicative act of lying. According to Saint Augustine’s definition, the act of lying involves someone speaking against his/her own belief with the intention to deceive the interlocutor (or the public). This means that, actually, the essence of lying has nothing to do with telling the truth. In order to clarify some of its aspects, I will take into account and use two very important philosophical concepts,&nbsp;<em>universality</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>(empirical) generality</em>. At the same time, as a study case, I will bring into discussion a famous ancient paradox (the so-called “antinomy of the liar”).</p> Cristinel Munteanu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 A Systematic Review of the Organizational and Healthcare Professional Barriers of Timely Initiation of Insulin Treatment Among People with Type 2 Diabetes in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/631 <p>The aim of this focused review is therefore to identify the professional and organisational barriers and facilitators in primary and secondary/tertiary care that affect the initiation of insulin treatment in PLWT2D in the MENA region.</p> Shatha Khalid Alsayed Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Cryptocurrencies and their Market Evolution https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/647 <p>Cryptocurrency or crypto money is a type of digital, virtual currency used as a means of payment. This type of currency eliminates the need to carry cash and makes it easier to purchase goods. Cryptocurrencies work on a chain of computers, in a peer-to-peer network without an intermediary. The process by which cryptocurrency transactions are validated is called "mining", and the participants are called "miners". These coins are stored in special wallets, these wallets being digital, hardware, etc. Cryptocurrencies are an interesting investment with potential, being generally a long-term investment.</p> Ana Maria Teletin Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 New Candidates, New Issues: the Process of EU Enlargement in the 2020s https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/562 <p>The Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in February 2022, has reshaped the enlargement debate in the European Union, granting candidate status to three post-Soviet states (Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, and Georgia), as well as to the Republic of Bosnia and Hercegovina, in the Western Balkans.&nbsp; The European Union decision makers are currently working to devise a new enlargement framework, especially since they are dealing with candidate countries that currently display a relatively low level of preparedness for integration.</p> <p>While the new security challenges, especially in Eastern Europe, have seemingly pushed aside earlier concerns about absorption capacity and enlargement fatigue, there are reasons to conclude that consensus building among the member-states will remain a difficult task. This contribution will assess the steps EU institutions and member-states have taken in order to create a positive environment for enlargement, even though there are strong reasons to believe that most of the candidate countries face long and difficult negotiations. It will also review the political and diplomatic initiatives by which EU leaders have tried to encourage the public opinion in the candidate countries to maintain its support for accession.</p> Lucian Dirdala Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 European Funding Support for the Societal Effort towards Energy Transition https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/578 <p>The European Union has planned during the last decades a significant budget to support the implementation of its cohesion policies for State Members. The transition to a low-carbon economy is one of the key issues due to the significantly high social implications resulting from the very high costs that technological transfer and infrastructure currently raise and which affect citizens' budgets. This study aims to develop to the analysis of opportunities and challenges in the use of European funds for energy transition in Romania and it refers to the calls on the dedicated thematic objective financed through the operational programs. We carried out a case study for the Bucuresti-Ilfov Development Region, back to the financial programming period 2014-2020 2014-2023. The financial data were extracted from official sources for the projects implemented in the analyzed region, the amounts being those from co-financing from non-reimbursable funds. The results of the study show, on the one hand, the role of these funds in supporting the budgetary effort to fulfill the thematic objective of transition to a low-carbon economy, and on the other hand, the aspects that made it difficult to implement the contracted projects.</p> Diana Joita Doru Claudiu Damean Carmen Elena Dobrota Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Complementarity of the Performances of Public Entities versus Clusters to Meet the Needs of Citizens https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/594 <p>The efficiency of development strategies are the result of managerial and competitive professionalism, as a result of achieving performance. Credibility, trust and managerial notoriety are determined by actions and measures so that the needs of citizens are satisfied and the area of their problems is reduced or eliminated. Public entities and clusters, in order to reach a high performing level of satisfaction of citizens' needs, must have the same elements of comparison in terms of ideas, beliefs and organizational culture. The management model that must be adapted takes into account the conception of an interest based on the complementarity of the performances of public entities and clusters. The derivation of the results from the complementarity of the performances emerges from their cumulative monitoring, having the citizens' needs centrally located. In this way, new performance values are obtained which, correlated and interpreted in a competitive way in terms of the achieved performances, will generate positive competitiveness, the redesign of management and operational processes with a major impact on the satisfaction of citizens in the area of interest of both the public sector and of the dimensioned area of the cluster domains.</p> Tincuta Gudana Vrabie Nicoleta Constandache Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Dimensions of Communication and its Influence in Social Relations https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/610 <p>Communication in modern society is a complex and multidimensional process involving a number of interconnected factors. We can identify as dimensions of communication the interpersonal dimension, the social dimension, the media dimension, the technological dimension, the intercultural dimension. It is important to note that these dimensions of communication are not independent but interrelated.</p> <p>Elements such as expressing emotions, active listening, empathy, feedback and conflict resolution are essential for building and maintaining solid and lasting relationships.</p> <p>Understanding the dimensions of communication in modern society is essential to being an effective communicator. Also, being aware of the complexity of communication can help people improve their communication skills and build solid relationships on an organizational, personal or social level. The norms and rules of communication specific to each culture, the influence of mass media, propaganda, political communication, artificial intelligence and virtual reality are issues that will be developed in this paper.</p> Oana Andreea Nae Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Pros and Cons in the Use of Devices in the Current School https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/628 <p>At present, modern society is unthinkable without the latest digital technologies and the Internet, which permeate all spheres of our lives, including education. We have the possibility to receive large amounts of information, news, to have access to various audio and video resources and to communicate in social networks. Access to the Internet allows virtual contact with people anywhere in the world, ensures the diversification of forms of learning organization, etc. The large-scale use of electronic devices and social networks for the purpose of communicating with others has also produced negative effects that specialists cannot ignore. In these parameters, there is currently a fierce dispute between pros and cons regarding the negative effects, in the short and medium term, of the penetration of devices into the current school life.</p> Lidia Stanciu Adrian Beteringhe Filip Stanciu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Role of Financial Information for Assessing the Financial Status of a Public Organization https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/644 <p>Public entities have economic and non-economic objectives, which is why we analyze the accounting of public institutions to see what is happening behind the economic component and how the financial resources are allocated to accomplish the non-economic objectives.The analysis of the financial position, based on the indicators of financial balance, liquidity, and solvency, will provide the opportunity to make a financial diagnosis that highlights advantages and opportunities, strong points, and weak points of the state of financial health that public institutions have.</p> Eliza Georgiana Dinu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Theoretical and Practical Considerations on the Evaluation Criteria of the Trainee Period of the Debutant Civil Servant https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/559 <p>Put in the position to evaluate the internship period of a debutant civil servant, themanagers are in the theoretical and practical situation to understand the concepts, criteria andappreciation of the debutant civil servant, the mentor and their own evaluations andappreciations, all correlated with each other. An extensive evaluation of the criteria in theprocess of evaluating the professional performance of civil servants for the activity carried outduring the internship period, is based on decision-making documents issued as a result of someinformation that is collected three-dimensionally debutant civil servant -mentor-leading publicservant. An in-depth understanding of the theoretical and practical side of this aspect will lead toa qualitative improvement of the evaluation process through criteria that the legislator hasdeveloped, but also by giving meaning to the fundamental cognitive processes, by involving eachparty in the evaluation.</p> Manuela Panaitescu Tincuta Vrabie Gudana Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Multi–dimensional Portfolio Risk and its Diversification in the Iranian Stock Market https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/575 <p>One of the criteria that is commonly used to measure portfolio risk is the standard deviation or variance. This criterion cannot properly measure risk in the case that the distribution of stock returns is abnormal, because skewness and kurtosis can increase the risk. Therefore, in the new definition of risk, skewness and kurtosis criteria should also be included. In this research, it has been investigated how the two components of skewness risk and kurtosis risk are reduced by increasing the number of stocks in a well-diversified portfolio. The results of this research show that when the portfolio has skewness and skewness, not only the variance of the portfolio but also the skewness and skewness decrease simultaneously with the increase in the number of stocks in the portfolio, and if the risky assets in a portfolio have correlation As the number of shares increases, three components of risk - variance, skewness and kurtosis - decrease and eventually converge to a non-zero value, this part of risk that does not decrease with the increase of the number of shares represents a multi-dimensional systematic risk. So, it can be said that the multi-dimensional unsystematic risk decreases with the increase in the number of stocks in a well-diversified portfolio. Another important result obtained from this research is that the risk of skewness decreases more slowly than the variance and the kurtosis risk. In fact, it is more difficult to diversify the risk of skewness than the risk of kurtosis and variance.</p> Alireza Saranj Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Gender Dynamics and Risk Management in Spanish SMEs: The Influence of Female Directors https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/591 <p>In the evolving landscape of corporate governance, the composition of the board of directors plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic directions and risk profiles of organizations. This is particularly evident in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Spain, where the dynamics of gender and ownership structure present unique challenges and opportunities for risk management. Leveraging the theoretical framework that posits female directors as more risk-averse compared to their male counterparts, this study embarks on an empirical investigation to scrutinize the veracity of this assertion within Spanish SMEs, utilizing the Altman Z-score as a barometer for financial risk. Drawing upon a robust dataset of Spanish SMEs, this research employs a System Generalized Method of Moments (System GMM) to analyze the influence of board composition and ownership structure on the firm's risk profile. Specifically, the study examines a spectrum of independent variables, including the percentage of female directors, the ownership concentration of the main shareholder, the Herfindahl index, the Cubbin-Leech index, and the presence of institutional or family ownership, alongside other governance attributes such as board size, and the ownership stakes held by CEOs and directors. The empirical findings illuminate a nuanced relationship between board composition, ownership structure, and firm risk. Consistent with the underlying theory, an increased percentage of female directors on the board significantly correlates with a reduction in financial risk, as evidenced by higher Altman Z-scores. Similarly, the presence of family ownership is also associated with lower risk levels, underscoring the conservative financial strategies often adopted by family-run enterprises. In contrast, other variables, including the ownership concentration, institutional ownership and board size are linked to heightened risk.Finally , this study shows a non-linear relationship about CEO and director ownership. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the risk-reduction benefits of female board representation and family ownership in the specific context of Spanish SMEs. It underscores the importance of considering gender and ownership dynamics in the formulation of risk management strategies and corporate governance policies. Moreover, the findings highlight the complex interplay between various governance factors and their collective impact on the financial stability of SMEs. Through the lens of this research, it becomes evident that the strategic integration of female directors and the promotion of family ownership can serve as effective mechanisms for mitigating financial risk within SMEs. These insights pave the way for future studies to further explore the gender dimensions of corporate governance and their implications for organizational success and sustainability.</p> Joanna Hernik Antonio Minguez Vera Luis Antonio Palma Palma Martos Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Apuseni Mountains: Forging a Virtuous Interplay between Natural Resources, Regional Geopolitics and Diplomacy in Transylvania's Contemporary Society https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/607 <p>This academic publication examines the intricate relationship between natural resources, regionalgeopolitics and diplomacy in the Apuseni Mountains of Transylvania. The Apuseni Mountains are rich inboth natural resources, such as mineral deposits and forests, and cultural heritage, making them a focal pointin Romania for various stakeholders, government entities or international organizations. Furthermore, theregion's strategic location within western Romania and its burgeoning positive international imagemeticulously cultivated through sustainable development are revealed as potent geopolitical assets.Throughout history, control over this territory has been heavily desired by tribe conquerors, and later bystate and non-state actors and political powers. Natural resources and geographical position are twoimportant stakes in the nexus, so they have practically influenced the way in which this control has beenexercised over the centuries and even in contemporary society.A meticulous examination unveils a multifaceted interplay of strengths and weaknesses within the SWOTAnalysis of this work. Results obtained from the analysis will provide a comprehensive picture of the currentsituation of these mountains and identify both the strengths and opportunities, as well as the weaknessesand threats faced by this region. Also, the SWOT analysis can provide a clearer perspective on thepositioning of the Apuseni Mountains in relation to other tourist areas in the country or to other mountainregions in Europe, facilitating the identification of competitive advantages and possibilities for collaborationor partnerships.The region's rich biodiversity, cultural heritage and strategic location offer significant advantages. However,limitations in resources and potential social conflicts pose challenges. Despite these, opportunities exist forfostering regional collaboration and developing sustainable tourism. The analysis acknowledges potentialthreats from climate change to political instability. As we navigate these dynamics, it is essential to prioritizesustainable practices and collaborative partnerships to ensure the long-term health and prosperity of theApuseni Mountains and the surrounding communities. Even without the trappings of traditional diplomacy,effective communication, negotiation, and collaboration can be achieved in such remote regions, whenvillage elders, community leaders, environmental activists are eager to engage in face-to-facecommunication and consensus-building to resolve conflicts and share relevant inputs regarding theirlivelihood in Apuseni.By subscribing to the relevant national and European legal frameworks, we create a symphony of law andsustainability. This ensures not only the legal soundness of proposals, but also their adherence to higherenvironmental standards. Romanian Law no. 86/2000 on access to information, public participation indecision-making and access to justice in environmental matters regulates the access to information of publicinterest matters and decision-making transparency in public administration. Its main objective is to ensurecitizens' access to public information, also having an important role in strengthening democracy andpromoting an open and responsible government, in which citizens have the opportunity to exercise theirrights. We must strive to find innovative solution approaches while simultaneously upholding the laws and<br>regulations that govern ongoing construction plans, as well as population census in the villages. The long-term viability of the discussion can help fostering a future where environmental protection and sustainable<br>development move in harmonious accord.<br>As scholars, we are driven by a profound respect for the intricate tapestry of nature, culture, and humanprogress. It's this very reverence that both challenges and opportunities that define our contemporary worldcoalesce, demanding innovative solutions that ensure a sustainable future for this irreplaceable treasure. Ouractions today will shape the world of tomorrow, so we need to make sure that it is a world worth inheritingby the youth and future generations.The analysis draws inspiration and insights from various studies on the Apuseni Mountains and authors whotouched on some of the connecting points of the work, including Debarbieux and Price, 2008, who focus onexamining how mountain regions are renewed for unique environmental and social patterns, and how thewell-being and sustainable development of these areas depend on the promotion of common good practiceswithin mountain communities. On the other hand, montology is the transdisciplinary science of mountains,characterized by ”envisioning that the convergent science of mountains will be offered not only in tertiaryeducation, but also at the secondary and primary levels”, as mentioned Sarmiento, Oliva-Cruz andFernandez-Güimac, 2020. Peeling from the related bibliography and the correct insertion of definingconcepts and terms are crucial aspects when understanding the complexity and interdependence of thesefields of study: ”Use of montological approaches will bring mountain scientists to a new level, where theapplication of local ecological knowledge and cutting-edge technological instrumentation could rendersustainable mountain communities in a dynamic biocultural heritage scenario”, according to Sarmiento,2020. Defining and clarifying the key concepts will help establish a solid theoretical and conceptualfoundation for research on the topics during the rest of the paper and in the future studies.As the interest in this region continues to grow, there is a great potential for future works and studies thatcould further explore and expand understanding of the topic. Additionally, future studies could explore thehistorical and cultural significance of the Apuseni region. From ancient archaeological sites to medievalcastles and churches, the region is rich in historical landmarks that offer valuable insights into the past.The road ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but with a deep understanding of the geopoliticallandscape, a commitment to local communities and unwavering dedication to collaborative action, we canensure that the Apuseni Mountains not only endure, but thrive, continuing its captivating legacy forgenerations to come. By choosing this region as the main focus point of the work, this volume sheds lighton critical environmental and social challenges and explores innovative solutions. Here, amidst thewhispering pines and crystal-clear streams, lies a microcosm of the challenges and opportunities that defineour contemporary world.</p> Marian Toader Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 A Decade of Ups and Down’s Concerning the Istanbul Convention https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/641 <p>In the last decade the Istanbul Convention, formally known as the&nbsp;<em>Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence</em>, is significant because it provides a comprehensive legal framework for preventing violence against women, protecting victims, and prosecuting perpetrators. It covers various forms of violence, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence, as well as forced marriage and female genital mutilation.</p> <p>From the human rights perspective the Convention is emphasizing the right of everyone to live free from violence and discrimination. It acknowledges that violence against women is a violation of human rights and a form of gender-based discrimination.</p> <p>By ratifying the Istanbul Convention, countries commit to cooperating internationally to prevent and combat violence against women. This includes sharing information and best practices, as well as coordinating efforts to address transnational forms of violence. Also, the Convention emphasizes the importance of preventive measures, such as education and awareness-raising campaigns, as well as measures to promote gender equality and address underlying social and cultural norms that contribute to violence against women.</p> <p>Taking all that in consideration, after 10 years we need to ask ourselves one question – We had benefited from It, or we did worse? We underline the fact that Turkey's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention in March 2021 sparked significant debate and controversy. But at the same time, we have 45 countries and the European Union that had signed the Istanbul Convention in the last decade.</p> Calin-Alexandru Stanciu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Comparison between the Legislation regarding the Regulation of Mediation in Romania and the Kingdom of Spain https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/657 <p>In the legal field we often find conflict situations that need to be resolved, thus, we can call on the help of an impartial person, who has the role of reconciling both parties. This person, who is called a mediator, finds a middle way so that both parties are satisfied.</p> <p>Mediation is an art, through which the mediator manages to transform a conflict into an agreement as a result of the options generated and chosen by the parties. The best-known resolution of conflicts is to appeal to the judicial bodies, which solve them win-lose.</p> <p>Mediation has become a good alternative for resolving conflicts between two or more parties when a quick solution is desired. It is based on the trust that the parties place in the mediator to facilitate negotiations between them and to provide them with support in resolving the conflict, by obtaining a convenient, efficient and sustainable solution.</p> <p>In this context, the present study analyzes the institution of mediation from a comparative perspective, wanting to highlight the elements that bring them together, as well as those that differentiate the regulation of the mediator profession in Romania and the Kingdom of Spain (conditions regarding the acquisition of the quality of mediator, the way of organization and exercise of the profession , the mediation procedure, etc.).</p> Georgiana Tanasa Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Trafficking in Human Beings: A Modern Form of Slavery or a Transnational Crime? https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/556 <p>This article aims to critically assess the two elements of the position just expounded. In the first part, we will try todemonstrate that ‘enslavement’ and trafficking in human beings are distinct legal categories. Although we submit that theconcept of enslavement has expanded, especially through the case law of the International Criminal Tribunal for the formerYugoslavia, and that trafficking in human beings partially overlaps with enslavement, both crimes should in my view not beconflated. Moreover, we will argue that trafficking in human beings in the vast majority of cases does not qualify as a crimeagainst humanity. To that purpose, wewill analyse the relevant law, dealing successively with primary sources ofinternational conventions (section 2.1), case-law of the International criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY)(section 2.2) and judgments of the European Court of Human Rights (section 2.3).</p> Georgeta Modiga Daniela Marin Iulian Paduraru Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Relationship between Uncertainty and Renewable Energy in the USA https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/572 <p>Uncertainty affects the economic system in all areas, like production, distribution, and resource allocation, increasing people's standard of living and, at the same time, making it difficult to reach the goal of leaving no one behind. This study evaluates the impact of different kinds of uncertainties on energy consumption in the USA. The analysis uses data from 1985 to 2022 and applies unit root tests and time-varying causal relationships. The findings of our study, in line with Ayad et al. (2023), Andrei et al. (2024) and Dilanchiev et al. (2024) suggest that these uncertainties must be considered when stakeholders create new directions for implementing the energy transition process and ensure environmental quality.</p> Hicham Ayad Alina Nuta Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Enhancing the State's Role in Cluster-based Tea Development https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/588 <p>Considering that the state has the opportunity to directly influence the formation of the basic income of tea producers in the agricultural sector and the quality of the product varieties they produce, it allows to significantly reduce the uncertainty that exists in tea farming. The article examines the determination of the objectives of producers and consumers facing the agrarian policy of the state in tea cultivation, the development of tea cultivation and the increasing of the role of the state. In the study, the importance of having conditions that provide conditions (communication between tea production and processing enterprises and state bodies and development of personnel training system) for the purpose of developing a competitive tea product cluster is shown. It is proposed to develop an organizational and economic interaction mechanism between the cluster participants in order to ensure the efficient operation of the tea products cluster and high competitiveness. The principles inherent in the formation of tea growing clusters are defined, the innovative character of the development in the formation of the cluster, the accessibility of the creation of conditions for profitable investments that ensure the increase of the competitiveness of the cluster participants in the regional and international market are emphasized. Based on different methodological approaches, it is suggested that the formation of a cluster consists of six stages. Given the main methodological principles of the formation of the tea product cluster, the possibilities of forming an effective agrarian policy of the state are limited without having basic knowledge about the current state of tea cultivation development. Therefore, factors affecting the value and quality of tea products should be thoroughly analyzed, problems in the areas that shape their value should be identified and measures should be developed to eliminate them. Solving the mentioned problems can have a significant impact on the competitiveness of tea products in Azerbaijan.</p> Parvin Mammadova Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Sharpening of Ethnic and Religious Conflicts between Communities and their Impact on International Relations in the 21st Century https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/604 <p>Contemporary society is torn by numerous conflicts based on a series of themost unusual motivations. Within the communities but also between thecommunities, although tolerance and respect towards others should prevail, weare witnessing a recrudescence of the ethnic and religious factor in the speeches ofpolitical leaders and not only that. Democracy and education, good practices andreligion promote the acceptance of those who are somewhat different, but theadversities and intensity with which certain states act on the international politicalscene is worrying, especially when appeal is made to the ethnic and religiousargument.</p> Stefan Gheorghe Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Art of Legal Mediation: Ffom Principles to Practice Exemplary https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/621 <p>The article explores the field of legal mediation, analyzing in depth its fundamental principles and exemplary practices. It addresses issues such as the concept of mediation as a legal institution, the procedural subtleties of mediation, the essential role of the mediator in legal proceedings, and the national and international code of ethics governing the conduct of mediators. By analyzing these aspects, the article provides a comprehensive understanding of the art implicit in judicial mediation, from theoretical foundations to practical application in real-world scenarios.</p> <p>The article also investigates the importance and implications of mediation in the context of the judicial system, highlighting the ways in which mediation can contribute to efficient dispute resolution and the reduction of lengthy and costly court proceedings.</p> <p>At the same time, it analyzes how mediators fulfill their role as neutral and competent facilitators in the process of negotiation and conciliation, offering the parties involved in the dispute a safe and effective framework for conflict resolution. By highlighting exemplary practices and high ethical standards, the article highlights the potential of mediation to improve access to justice and promote a culture of peaceful dispute resolution in contemporary society.</p> <p>In conclusion, the article highlights that legal mediation is not only a viable alternative to traditional court processes, but also a superior form of conflict resolution that focuses on collaboration, communication and mutual respect. By promoting ethical values and standards of excellence in the practice of mediation, a fairer and more humane legal landscape is being shaped, where citizens can obtain sustainable and satisfactory solutions for their various needs and interests. Thus, the article aims to provide a broad and encouraging perspective on the role and potential of legal mediation in promoting a fairer justice accessible, efficient and fair for all members of society.</p> Angelica Staicu Ana Alina Ionescu Dumitrache Monica Pocora Catalin Braicovici Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Some Considerations Regarding Corruption Crimes Committed by Public Servants with Special Status within the Ministry of Internal Affairs https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/638 <p>In this paper, we aim to highlight a number of aspects related to corruption offenses provided for by the Criminal Code and Law no. 78/2000 for the discovery, prevention and sanctioning of acts of corruption, committed by public servants with special status within the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI).</p> Ana Alina Ionescu Dumitrache Nela Salcianu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Concepts and Ethical Values Specific to Magistrates https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/654 <p>The study aims to address and analyze concepts - values of the magistrate profession, fundamental for the good organization and functioning of the judicial system (independence, integrity, impartiality).</p> <p>According to the general definition of the notion, independence is "the situation of a person who judges things and acts independently, uninfluenced by others".</p> <p>Relating the notion of independence to the specifics of the judicial system, in the legal literature it is argued that the independence of magistrates is not only a guarantee of the state for the administration of justice, but, equally, a right and an obligation of the magistrates.</p> <p>Independence is seen as "attribute of the position that allows the judge to act in the realization of the legal act and, above all, to decide, only on the basis of the law and his own conscience, without any subordination or influence"</p> <p>On the other hand, according to the dictionary text, the term impartiality represents "the quality of being fair, objective, unbiased".</p> <p>Regarding the concept of impartiality towards the judiciary, legal literature argues that impartiality refers to the mood or attitude of the court regarding the issues and parties in a particular case.</p> <p>The term impartiality refers to the absence of real or perceived bias.</p> <p>Independence and impartiality interfere, and although they are distinct values, impartiality and independence as characteristics of justice are closely related and mutually reinforcing.</p> <p>Therefore, the intended analysis of the values of the judicial profession is intended to lead to a better understanding of them, as well as the role they have in the existence and consolidation of the judicial system.</p> Angelica Staicu Ana Alina Ionescu Dumitrache Monica Pocora Cristina Butnariu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT POLICIES AND PRACTICES IN ALBANIAN. A COMPARATIVE STUDY WITH DEVELOPING COUNTRIES https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/304 <p>Sustainable urban development is a critical aspect of ensuring long-term economic, social, and environmental well-being in cities around the world. Albania is a developing country that faces numerous challenges in achieving sustainable urban development due to rapid urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, and limited financial resources. This paper provides a comparative study of sustainable urban development policies and practices in Albania with other developing countries.</p> <p>The study analyzes the existing policies and practices in Albania and identifies the strengths and weaknesses of these policies in achieving sustainable urban development. The paper also compares the policies and practices of Albania with other developing countries. The analysis highlights the similarities and differences in policy frameworks, implementation strategies, and outcomes. A great effort will be conducted to compare the urban development based on the indicators of the urban development</p> <p>The findings of the study suggest that Albania has made some progress in implementing sustainable urban development policies and practices, such as promoting energy efficiency and green spaces. However, significant challenges remain in areas such as affordable housing, waste management, sustainable transportation and urban planning. The comparative analysis also indicates that Albania can learn from the experiences of other developing countries and adopt best practices that are tailored to its local context.</p> <p>In conclusion, this paper emphasizes the importance of sustainable urban development in Albania and other developing countries. It highlights the need for policymakers to develop comprehensive and integrated policies that address the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainability. The study also provides recommendations for improving sustainable urban development policies and practices in Albania and other developing countries.</p> <p><strong>Keywords: Sustainable urban development, developing countries, policies and practices</strong></p> FABJOLA ELHAM Besa SHAHINI Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Cybercrime Jurisdiction: Past, Present and Future https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/551 <p>This article describes activities and policies which have been put into place to date in order to deal with aspects related tocross-border access to computer data and cybercrime jurisdiction. It includes an analysis of the European instruments thataddress the issue of cybercrime jurisdiction; a perspective on the role of Internet Service Providers in facilitatingcooperation to law enforcement for the adjudication of jurisdiction to prosecute cases in national courts. The articleaddresses some of the current international discussions and possible future scenarios and ends with a personal view andassessment of alternative approaches for asserting jurisdiction for the prosecution of internet-related crime.</p> Georgeta Modiga Daniela Marin Iulian Paduraru Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 An Examination of the Contemporary Paradigm of Environmental Accounting and Sustainable Finance https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/569 <p>Objectives: This study aims to comprehensively understand the existing framework for environmental accounting and sustainable finance globally, emphasizing its significance in contemporary economic and environmental contexts. Prior Work: Building upon established concepts, this paper synthesizes existing research to bridge gaps in understanding and provide insights into evolving environmental accounting practices. Approach: Employing a rigorous methodological approach, this study utilizes literature review, case studies, and empirical evidence to identify key factors influencing the effectiveness of environmental accounting and sustainable finance frameworks. Results: The study underscores the importance of integrating environmental considerations into accounting practices and highlights the need for robust frameworks to address environmental impacts. It also reveals insights into challenges and opportunities associated with global implementation of sustainable finance initiatives. Implications: This research informs strategies for enhancing environmental accountability and promoting sustainable development, benefiting academics, policymakers, practitioners, and administrators. Value: By offering a comprehensive analysis and synthesizing existing research, this paper provides valuable insights for both theoretical advancement and practical application in environmental accounting and sustainable finance.</p> Choli Ameen Rasheed Majda Boutahar Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Advantages of Export Promotion Policy in Rural Agriculture and Factors Influencing It https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/585 <p>Rural agriculture is considered a vital strategic sector within the economy. Thus, ensuring foodsecurity is directly dependent on the continuous development of rural agriculture. Particularlyin developing countries, and especially for oil-exporting nations, the role of rural agriculture issignificantly elevated concerning the development of the non-oil sector and the implementationof alternative export policies. In light of these factors, the implementation of export promotionpolicies in rural agriculture holds a distinct significance. Export promotion policy in ruralagriculture aims to stimulate exporters domestically and provide practical assistance toagricultural producers internationally, thereby increasing the volume of exported agriculturalproducts. Generally, the success of export promotion policy is directly linked to theimplementation of trade policies and the enhancement of business attractiveness within thecountry. The experiences of developed countries demonstrate that measures directed towardsexport promotion, such as providing export credits to producers and offering necessaryguarantees, reflect positively on increasing the volume of purchases within the country and thusboosting economic activity.Several factors influence the promotion of exports in rural agriculture, with the development ofthe non-oil sector being of paramount importance. This is particularly crucial for countriesspecializing in the export of petroleum products, as it plays a significant role in ensuringeconomic security.In developing countries, the promotion of rural agricultural exports is vital in stimulatingeconomic development. Therefore, this article discusses the distinct advantages of exportpromotion policy in rural agriculture. It is noted that export promotion policy possesses uniqueadvantages compared to import substitution policy, primarily due to its facilitation of favorableconditions for attracting foreign investments and fostering a free competitive environment.<br>These factors collectively create favorable conditions for agricultural entities engaged in export-oriented production within rural agriculture.</p> Ramil Asgarov Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Public Diplomacy in the Western Balkans https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/601 <p>Public diplomacy in the Western Balkans encompasses a range of initiatives aimed at fostering understanding, promoting cooperation, and building relationships within the region and with the international community. Cultural exchanges, educational programs, media engagement, and youth empowerment are among the key components of public diplomacy strategies. Cultural diplomacy plays a central role in showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of the Western Balkans, with events such as art exhibitions, music festivals, and film screenings serving as platforms for intercultural dialogue and exchange. Educational exchanges and academic partnerships facilitate learning opportunities and collaboration among institutions, while media campaigns and online platforms disseminate information and counter misinformation. International partnerships are key to amplifying messages and leveraging resources for mutual benefit, with collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations, and multilateral institutions enhancing the effectiveness and reach of public diplomacy initiatives. Interethnic dialogue and reconciliation efforts promote understanding and cooperation among different ethnic groups, contributing to peace and stability in the region.</p> Mirela Metushaj Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Procedure for the Trial and Enforcement of Judicial Decisions Concerning Individuals under Special Protection in the Legislation of the Republic of Moldova and the European Union https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/618 <p>The topic we addressed concerns enhanced protection measures for vulnerable persons, freedom of expression, civil rights, etc.</p> <p>Special protection concerns the legal institution of special guardianship, which is a legal protection measure established by the court for people who, due to a total deterioration of their mental abilities, are unable to exercise their rights and freedoms.</p> <p>The main characteristics are: the guardian has the role of fully representing the protected person in all legal acts; the conditions for the establishment of guardianship are based on the mental impairment, which must be total and, where applicable, permanent; the length of time of this measure is limited to a maximum of 5 years, with the possibility of extension to 15 years in exceptional cases; the purpose of this measure is to protect the rights and interests of the protected person, promoting autonomy and social inclusion.</p> <p>The difference in judicial approach in the court is given by: special guardianship which offers a broader protection, involving full representation; and judicial counselling in the court, which is exercised by the special guardian appointed by the court, who supports the person in the independent use of rights with specific assistance throughout the civil proceedings.</p> <p>The guardian has a set of main duties, of which we highlight: the administration of the assets of the protected person; the representation of interests in court and before and in front of the authorities; the support for social inclusion of the protected person.</p> <p>The importance of the special guardianship is to provide a protective legal framework for the severely mentally disabled person ensuring a decent life in society.</p> Laurentiu Onosa Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Functional Literacy - A Strategic Priority in Education in Romania? https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/635 <p>Functional literacy is an important concept in the context of education and personal development. The components of functional literacy are: literacy, mathematical literacy, scientific literacy. In Romania, increasing the functional literacy level of students and even students are a priority, considering the high rate of functional illiteracy among Romanian students (44-47% in the 2018 PISA tests). By clearly understanding these components and through educational efforts, we can contribute to the development of the necessary skills for active and autonomous participation in society. Moreover, qualitative research in higher education is necessary considering the scale of the process in secondary education.</p> Filip Stanciu Adrian Beteringhe Lidia Stanciu Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Global South versus Global North – the role of BRICS nations https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/651 <p>At international level we saw a clash on multiple economic and geopolitical dimensions between representatives of Global South and the Global North. The Global North is representing the old establishment led by USA, UK and developed European Countries while the Global South is composed of states that challenges the status quo having as their front runners the BRICS countries (Brazil, Rusia, India, China and South Africa).&nbsp;<strong>Objectives</strong>&nbsp;The aim of this work is to present what has happened until now on this clash and what will be the next probable steps that will be taken.&nbsp;<strong>Prior Work</strong>&nbsp;Usually, the analyses done are concentrated on the Global North, only lately the research has shifted towards Global South countries, especially the BRICS, and from southeast Asia. The main topics addressed in the paper are the shift of global power from the USA as the main military and economic power towards a multipolar world.&nbsp;<strong>Approach</strong>&nbsp;To provide a better picture, national data has been used aggregated in two country groups: the G7 representing the Global North and the BRICS representing the Global South.&nbsp;<strong>Results</strong>&nbsp;The main results that stemmed from the study highlighted the de-dollarization effect on international trade, the transfer of gold from Global North economies to Global South economies and the separation of the two blocks because of the latest geopolitical events.</p> Marian Catalin Voica Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 About the Minor's Alternative Home https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/548 <p>Both legally and factually, the minor lives with both parents, married or not, as long as they live together. After the separation of the parents, the minor will live with one of them, according to their agreement or, in the absence of this agreement, according to the order of the court.</p> <p>It has been observed in the recent years that there has been an increase in the number of cases in which parents agree to an alternative home, confirmed by a notary or the court that establishes this alternative home, at the request of both parents or only one of them.</p> <p>The material aims at making a brief analysis of these cases, with the advantages and disadvantages for the child and for the parents.</p> Gabriela Lupsan Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Smart City Transformation Models from Iran https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/566 <p>Many cities around the world want to become a SMART CITY, but this evolution does not have clear and uniform paths for all cities. Even the phrase "smart city" has its own definition and interpretation in each place; However, moving towards this title will be a difficult and tumultuous journey. The unprecedented rate of urban growth and the challenges that come with it, brought up the necessity for urban management to seek optimal solutions. Solutions that should be able to address all different aspects of urbanism, including sustainable development, education, energy, environment, safety and public services, etc. Following the improvement of information and communication technologies, these solutions had been defined as being “Smart" and the concept of “SMART CITY" is introduced as a way to achieve efficient and sustainable cities that can face all deferent urban challenges regarding to their cultural, environmental, economic and logical context.</p> <p>In this research we try to demonstrate the Iranian smart city transformation model. In order to achieve our goals we conducted documentary study and used literature review to understanding the complex structure of smart city transformation planning.</p> Amin Faraji Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Investment in Metals or De-Dollarization https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/582 <p>We are going through a period of economic recession, with high inflation, which has reached 14 percentage in some places. Interest in credit is falling amid a high interest rate. The main currencies, namely the US dollar, the euro, the pound sterling and the Swiss franc devalue in turn. Under these conditions, the orientation towards production and goods represents a viable alternative. But not to any kind of goods, but to precious metals: gold, silver, platinum, palladium, rhodium, etc. In addition, owning shares in gold, silver and oil mining companies is a safe long-term investment.</p> Sorin Enache Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Prediction of US Agricultural Commodity Prices with Ordinary Least Squares and Long Short-Term Memory Neural Networks https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/598 <p>Commodity price prediction for agricultural commodities is a crucial research topic in the field of agriculture for realizing the sustainable and healthy development of agriculture. The agricultural commodities prices are influenced by irregular fluctuations may be due to global warming; so that, it may affect global food security. This research aims to provide crucial information for the development of agricultural commodities price prediction. The weekly price data of US agricultural commodities: Wheat, Sugar, Cocoa, Coffee, and Cotton from the last 10 years is mainly investigated. This data prediction using the Ordinary Least Squares and the LSTM neural networks is compared in terms of the mean square error and the mean absolute error. As a result,&nbsp; it can be clearly seen that the performance of LSTM neural networks outperformed in predictions of commodities prices according to OLS.</p> Serdar Neslihanoglu Abdullah Altay Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Analysis of the Marketing Mix and of the Business Model of MOPAN SUCEAVA S.A. https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/615 <p>An essential aspect for being competitive and profitable is knowing your customers and offering them products and services that meet their needs and wants. In addition, operational efficiency and constant innovation are other key ingredients, as keeping costs under control and investing in technology and development ensures that the company stays relevant in the market. This article aims to analyze the marketing mix and business model of a company activating in the bakery industry, a rather traditional industry, in Romania. Thus, a case study was conducted which highlighted the four elements of the marketing mix for Mopna Suceava S.A. company. We conclude that white flour bread is the bakery product mainly consumed on the Romanian market, a valued product, but poor in nutrients important for health. However, over the past 10 years, bread consumption has declined and consumer preferences have begun to change, with an increased concern for healthier eating. This change is characterized by an increase in the consumption of bread made with various other grain flours such as: rye flour, black flour, graham mix and whole meal flour with a higher content of dietary fiber and vitamins, especially in the B complex.</p> Felicia Olaru (Munteanu) Mihaela Loredana Budeanu (Tufaru) Madalina Balau Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Impact of Sanctions on Medical Education: An Overview and Implications for Policy and Research https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/632 <p>Objectives The purpose of this review is to analyze the effects of international economic sanctions onmedical education in Iran, Prior Iran has faced various international sanctions that have significantlyimpacted its economy. While the economic consequences are well-documented, evidence of the socialrepercussions, particularly in higher education, is scarce. To gather relevant evidence, three databases andgrey literature were examined. Two authors worked together to eliminate duplicates and screen the papers,Results The review highlighted that sanctions could potentially damage medical education, encompassingreduced publications, decreased international collaboration, and diminished funding. These adverse impactscan ultimately undermine a country;s academic capabilities in the long term. Sanctions might encouragescholars to develop greater self-reliance, Implications More investigations are needed to quantify the effectsof sanctions on medical education. Policymakers should explore ways to facilitate knowledge exchange andcollaboration without relying solely on traditional international collaborations, and Value The reviewaddresses a research gap by focusing on the social consequences of sanctions. It encourages internationalbodies to explore new ways to facilitate global knowledge exchange. The findings can be applied to othercountries facing similar challenges and serve as a foundation for comparative studies.</p> Haniye Sadat Sajadi Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Evolutions in the Development of Currencies: Cryptocurrency https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/648 <p>Cryptocurrency or cryptocurrency is a type of digital, virtual currency used as a means of payment. This type of currency eliminates the need to carry cash and makes it easier to purchase goods. Cryptocurrencies work on a chain of computers, in a peer-to-peer network without an intermediary. The process by which cryptocurrency transactions are validated is called "mining", and the participants are called "miners". These coins are stored in special, digital wallets. Cryptocurrencies are long-term investments considering the growing interest in virtual currency.</p> Ana Maria Teletin Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Investigating the Phenomenon of “Greenlash” in Europe. Are the EU’s Green Policies Moving too Fast for its Citizens? https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/563 <p>It is a known fact that the European Union's environmental policies are ambitious and geared towards addressing pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and reducing pollution. These policies aim to transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy, enabling a green transition across various sectors. The EU has set ambitious targets, including the goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2050, which entails a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. However, the fast pace of implementation has often given rise to “Greenlash”. "Greenlash" refers to a phenomenon where there is public resistance, opposition, or backlash against environmental or "green" initiatives, policies, or practices. This resistance can come from various sectors, including individuals, communities, industries, or political entities. Greenlash may occur for several reasons. Some individuals or groups may be concerned about the economic impact of environmental policies, fearing job losses or increased costs. Others may resist due to ideological differences or skepticism about the scientific basis for certain environmental measures. Additionally, there could be concerns about the potential social impacts of these policies, such as unequal distribution of the burden or disruption to traditional ways of life. A good example of greenlash is represented by the protests of european farmers in the beginning of 2024, who are pushing back against the ever more stringent EU policies which are interfering with their occupation. The govering bodies of the European Union have already been forced to backtrack on some of the measures they were planning to implement. The energy sector is a huge contributor to greenhouse gasses and one of the main fouses of the EU’s green policies. Energy producers and consumers alike are constantly forced to adapt to ever changing regulations, which often come with financial burdens for the average household. And as the regulations become become more stringent, the greenlash becomes more evident. The aim of this paper is to investigate whether or not european citizens and businesses are aligned with the goals and pace of the EU's green policies, considering the evident challenges and greenlash phenomena. One key aspect of this study is understanding how European citizens perceive the environmental measures imposed by the EU and whether these policies resonate with their values and priorities. Additionally, we will delve into the perspectives of businesses, particularly in the energy sector, to assess their capacity to adapt to evolving regulations and the associated economic implications. To achieve these objectives, the paper will employ a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods and an analysis of public discourse. We will also explore case studies to provide specific examples of the impact of green policies on both individuals and businesses.</p> Raquel Fernandez-Gonzalez Felix Puime Guillen Razvan Gh. V. Ionescu Alina Gabriela Brezoi Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Energy Sources at the Level of the European Union – Current Situation and Perspectives https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/579 <p>In this study, the authors took into account the current situation and the perspectives of energy sources at the level of the European Union, starting from the objectives of the European Union, which assume the reduction of GHG emissions until 2030 and the net zero objective until 2050. The scenarios regarding the development of renewable energy sources were analysed and it was highlighted that although there are some differences between them, the share of renewable sources in the final gross energy consumption at the level of the European Union will not exceed the threshold of 45% until the year 2030. The need to develop the electrical infrastructure, that can support the transport of a significantly larger amount of electricity produced by renewable energy sources (hydro, wind, solar and others) was also studied. Also, the potential for energy development from various sources was analysed one by one. Thus, the evolution of wind energy was taken into account, highlighting the fact that the development of this source was slowed down by some constraints such as the authorizations and administrative issues. The use of solar energy had a development in recent years that it can say has somewhat exceeded expectations. The authors also propose measures that can contribute to the acceleration of the energy transition process differentiated by the categories of stakeholders involved. The complexity of the phenomenon requires joint measures that &nbsp;must be adapted to the specifics of each European country, taking into account the endowment with energy resources, the geopolitical context and the involvement of consumers.</p> Mirela Panait Stefan Iacob Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The New Development Model of Emerging European Countries from the Perspective of Economic Complexity https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/595 <p>The concrete context of development can no longer be linked only to economic aspects. A variety of factors are driving a sustainable development trajectory of a nation, involving additional social and environmental elements. In this sense, the human development index encompasses a multidimensional perspective of an inclusive and equitable pathway. The importance of a just transition is foremost.</p> <p>The economic complexity index measures and ranks economies worldwide by considering three main elements: trade, patents, and research publications. The literature revealed an obvious direct interlink between economic complexity and economic growth; wealthier states are being higher ECI ranked. Nevertheless, there is no explicit exploration of the influence of economic complexity on human development; previous studies mainly consider economic complexity's influence on environmental degradation or the economic complexity-economic growth link.</p> <p>In this sense, we used data from 1998 to 2022 to evaluate the impact of economic complexity, digitalization, foreign direct investments, and innovation on human development in selected emerging European countries by employing different approaches to evaluating the variables causality, contributing to the advancement of the economics literature.</p> Alina Nuta Lucian Gaban Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 Interpersonal Communication – Cognitive Dimensions https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/611 <p>Effective communication involves more than just exchanging information. There are a number of cognitive processes that underlie our ability to communicate and understand others. Some of the key cognitive dimensions of communication are attention or the ability to selectively focus on certain information in the environment and ignore distracting stimuli, perception or the way we interpret the information we receive through the senses, memory, thinking, language, through a complex system of symbols and rules that allows us to encode and decode messages but also theory of mind or the ability to understand that others have minds of their own, with thoughts, beliefs and intentions different from ours. These cognitive dimensions constantly interact to enable us to communicate effectively. By using and understanding the cognitive dimensions of communication, we can develop our concentration skills, pay more attention to details, improve our memory and think critically to correctly interpret the messages we receive. We can also use language in a clear and concise way to ensure that our messages are understood correctly.</p> Oana Andreea Nae Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 E-Learning Platform on Access to University Education by Public Servants in Nigeria https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/629 <p>E-learning is made more effective because; it is enable student to students to easily interact, share, and collaborate across time and space with the help of e-governance platform. Zoom and the Microsoft classroom team can invite students from all around the world to join a conversation on a certain subject simultaneously. E-governance may be able to work on problem solving skills, as well as brainstorming and developing new ideas. As a result of the shared experiences and knowledge, students are able to express themselves and reflect on their own learning." For students, e-governance facilities provide greater opportunity for students to build critical (higher order) thinking abilities through constructive learning methods. Students' critical thinking abilities may improve with more time spent in an online classroom. Students' inventiveness can be enhanced through the use of computer-based instruction. Discover new multimedia tools and produce products in the styles that are easily available through games, CDs, and television. The use of e-learning has increased both teaching and learning quality by combining student autonomy, capacity, and creativity over time in developed countries." Teachers are catalysts for the integration of technology through ICT, and e-learning supports teaching by simplifying access to course content." Creating an ICT class will be much easier if educational institutions provide teachers with the assistance, equipment, and resources they need. The study adopted survey research design. The populations of the study are Students and staff. The study adopted simple random sampling technique to select a representative population. Both primary and secondary method of data collection was used to obtain the data. A chi-square statistical technique was used to analyze. Finding from the study revealed that, e-learning has increase accesses to universities educational by public servants in Nigeria.&nbsp; Public servants in Nigeria have utilized e-learning and Online Distance Learning (ODL) programme to into various degree programmes. Finding also shows that, E-learning plays an important role in teaching because it is oriented toward the use of information and communication technologies that have become a part of the everyday life and day-to-day business. E-learning contributes to traditional teaching methods and provides many advantages to society and citizens. The study recommends that the e-learning tools and internet facilities should be upgrade to foster any network challenges in the online facilitation and lecture delivery system.</p> Musa Zakari Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1 The Role of European Financial Support for Developing Local Communities https://dp.univ-danubius.ro/index.php/EIRP/article/view/645 <p>The word project is one of the most frequently used phrases in the Romanian business environment. The projects at the European Union level are significant and help economic development. With the integration into the European Union, large or small projects are the way to develop and support the Romanian economic environment.The purpose of these funds is to provide structural support; financial support is intended for less developed regions in order to strengthen economic and social cohesion.In conclusion, projects must consider the context in which they are implemented and, last but not least, aim to achieve the set objectives in order to bring long-term benefits.</p> Dorina Mogos Copyright (c) 2024 EIRP Proceedings https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2024-08-23 2024-08-23 19 1