EEJRS Issue 11.2 Full text
Author: Elena CARP
Abstract: Over the last decade, the European Union has stepped up its efforts to integrate sustainable development principles into its transport policies, placing green logistics at the heart of the ecological transition. This article analyzes the European Union's legislative framework on green logistics, focusing on the key directives, regulations, and strategies that regulate and guide Member States' practices. Through a critical analysis of legislative instruments such as Directive 2014/94/EU on alternative fuels infrastructure and Regulation (EU) 2020/1056 on the digitization of freight transport, the research highlights the role of European regulations in creating a coherent framework for promoting sustainability in the logistics sector. It also analyzes the impact of the European Green Deal and the "Fit for 55" legislative package on transport policy reform and the overall goal of climate neutrality. The paper includes examples of good practices from member states, with a focus on their applicability in Eastern Europe, where differences in administrative capacity and infrastructure pose significant challenges. The findings show that while EU Member States benefit from advanced infrastructure and financial mechanisms, the Republic of Moldova remains in a stage of partial alignment, with significant opportunities for convergence through digitalization, institutional reforms, and cross-border cooperation.
Keywords: green logistics, European directives, environmental policies, sustainable transport, sustainable development, European integration.
JEL Code: F55, K32, Q58, R41
UDC: [338.49:504.03+338.47(478)]:[346.7:061.1EU]
Pages: 6-21 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.01
Author: Lucia SAVA
Abstract: The construction of the quality assurance approach in the Higher Education in the Republic of Moldova is quite recent. The reconceptualization of quality management systems in Moldovan universities begins with the approval of the new Education Code in 2014. As a result, the National Agency for Quality Assurance in Education and Research (ANACEC) was created, whose aim is to ensure the quality of services provided by institutions of all levels of education and research, thus contributing to the satisfaction of the demands of society and the labour market. Through its role of external evaluation, the Agency stimulates an increase in the level of responsibility of the institutions towards the quality of the services provided. From its inception, the Agency has applied the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG, 2015) in its evaluation. From here, the challenges of Moldovan universities: how to combine European practices and requirements with Moldovan experience and traditions? Based on the methodology and sources selected, it was possible to ascertain that Moldovan quality assurance system face the ongoing challenge of reconciling European standards and practices with national traditional experience, a process that continues to shape the trajectory of higher education reform in the country.
Keywords: quality approach, ESG, internal and external quality assurance systems, Republic of Moldova, EU.
JEL Code: I21, I23, I28.
UDC: 005.6:378.4(478)
Pages: 22- 40 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.02
Author: Serghei PETIGHIN
Abstract: This paper examines the evolution of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Moldova from 2014 to 2023, focusing on how small, vulnerable economies adapt to overlapping crises and institutional reform. Using ten years of sector-disaggregated data from the National Bank of Moldova, National Bureau of Statistics, and international institutions (IMF, OECD), the study addresses three questions: How has Moldova’s FDI composition changed? Which sectors gained or lost strategic relevance? And how has investor trust evolved through uncertainty? A mixed-methods design combines longitudinal analysis, reinvestment ratios, and a custom volatility index. Findings reveal a shift from traditional sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing toward ICT and logistics, especially after 2018. Investor confidence improved, as seen in rising reinvestment – up from 21% to nearly 39%. External shocks like the banking crisis, COVID-19, and the Ukraine war, rather than stalling FDI, catalyzed sectoral realignments. Moldova’s reforms, such as digital infrastructure and tax modernization, enabled strategic repositioning, particularly for nearshoring investors. The conclusions suggest that even small economies can strengthen FDI profiles through targeted institutional improvements and adaptive capacity. The paper offers insights for policymakers navigating volatile capital flows. Future research should examine subnational disparities and firm-level behaviors to enrich understanding of resilience mechanisms.
Keywords: foreign direct investment; Moldova; sectoral reorientation; reinvestment behavior; institutional reform; crisis response.
JEL Code: F21; F23; O52; L16; P33
UDC: |339.727.22(478)
Pages: 41- 52 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.03
Author: Ludmila GONCEARENCO
Abstract: This paper delves into the nuanced interplay between legal empowerment, digital technologies, and financing models within the Republic of Moldova. It unpacks how digital solutions can bridge the justice gap, offering a lens through which the justice system becomes more accessible and efficient. Through comparative analysis with EU and non-EU countries, the study highlights Moldova's imperative to refine its digital legal empowerment strategies to ensure inclusivity and scalability. Key strategies such as enhancing digital infrastructure and literacy, alongside exploring innovative funding avenues, are identified as crucial. The research suggests a balanced array of challenges and opportunities as Moldova progresses in digital legal service development, emphasizing the need for equitable tech implementation. This paper contributes insightful analysis into the amalgamation of legal empowerment and digital technologies, proposing forward-thinking recommendations for strategic planning and international cooperation to bolster legal empowerment and access to justice in Moldova and beyond.
Keywords: legal empowerment, digital technologies, access to justice, financing strategies, Moldova.
JEL Code: K15, O33, P35, H41, O17.
UDC: 004.78:[336.1:347.9](478)
Pages: 53- 69 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.04
Authors: Dok Hee OH, Kyung Sook GIL
Abstract: The goal of the foreign economic cooperation policy of the Government of the Republic of Korea is to reduce trade barriers and achieve export growth by expanding interests in areas of bilateral economic concern. Active expansion of foreign economic cooperation contributes to improving the country’s image and enhancing the competitiveness of South Korean export products. In addition, the main directions of the South Korean government’s policy on expanding foreign economic cooperation are, on the one hand, expanding measures to attract foreign companies and foreign capital to Korea, and on the other hand, encouraging the international investment activity of South Korean companies.
Keywords: expansion of foreign economic cooperation, expansion of international trade, improvement of industrial structure, mutual benefit between the two sides.
JEL Code: E60, F02, F13
UDC: 339.94(519.5)
Pages: 70-83 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.05
Author: Monika KVITKOVSKÁ
Abstract: The paper explores the application of the quadruple helix (QH) model in the creation and implementation of strategic documents of Slovak self-governing regions (NUTS III). Using the Programs of Economic Development and Social Development (PEDSD) as the main source, the study compares the involvement of the four helices - public sector, private sector, academia, and civil society - across all eight regions. To achieve this, a qualitative research design based on directed content analysis was employed, allowing the systematic identification of QH actor roles within the documents. The evaluation draws on a four-dimensional analytical scale capturing institutional involvement, level of participation, document emphasis, and impact on strategic content. The analysis reveals that the public sector remains the dominant actor, coordinating the planning process and ensuring alignment with national policies. The private sector is actively engaged in economically advanced regions, where industrial clusters and SMEs contribute to competitiveness and innovation, but less so in structurally disadvantaged areas. The academic sphere plays a fundamental role in shaping innovation and knowledge-oriented priorities, particularly in regions where universities directly coordinated or authored PEDSDs. By contrast, civil society exhibits the highest degree of variation: from active and institutionalized involvement in Bratislava, Nitra, Žilina, Banská Bystrica, Prešov, and Košice SGRs to largely symbolic or declarative engagement in Trnava and Trenčín SGRs. The findings suggest that while the QH framework is formally recognized across all regions, its practical application remains unbalanced. Stronger institutionalization of civic participation and more effective facilitation by regional authorities are needed to reduce asymmetries among helices and to realize the full potential of the model.
Keywords: quadruple helix model, regional development, Slovakia, strategic planning, participation
JEL Code: R58
UDC: [332.14:338.28](437.6)
Pages: 84-107 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.06
Authors: Adela Sorinela SAFTA, Lavinia POPESCU, Andrei TINU
Abstract: This study examines the transposition and interrelation of fundamental rights, such as the right to freedom of expression with particular focus on their impact on the exercise of priestly functions. These rights, guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights are especially significant in cases where religious service is performed out of personal conviction rather than under an employment contract, as exemplified in the jurisprudence, including the case of Tothpal and Szabo. The origin of the case lies in two applications submitted under Article 34 of the Convention, highlighting violations of fundamental rights stemming not only from interpretative tensions in national legal systems but also from conflicts between constitutional principles and doctrinal coherence. The research aims to identify how the Convention defines and safeguards essential rights, including freedom of religion, freedom of expression, equality, and the right to dignity, and to explore the way in which the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) interprets these rights through its jurisprudence. By analysing key judgments such as Kokkinakis v. Greece, Sahin v. Turkey, Lautsi v. Italy and Eweida and Others v. the United Kingdom, the study highlights that neutrality is not a discretionary political choice but a binding international legal requirement designed to ensure equal treatment of all individuals irrespective of their beliefs or identities. The article concludes that the obligation of neutrality derives from the universal and nondiscriminatory nature of the rights enshrined in the Convention and is essential for the functioning of a pluralistic democratic society. Failure to observe neutrality leads to inequality, indirect coercion, and erosion of democratic pluralism, whereas respect for neutrality guarantees the effective protection of human dignity and fundamental freedoms.
Keywords: right fundamental, legal doctrines, freedom of expression, religious service.
JEL Code: K1,K4,D78,Z00, Q18.
UDC: 341.231.14+342.727
Pages: 108-124 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.07
Authors: Kristina SHOPOVA, Dimcho SHOPOV
Abstract: The relevance of sustainability across all sectors of life is a defining feature of the 21st century, particularly in tourism, where environmental pressures and socio-economic challenges demand urgent transformation. In this context, the hospitality and restaurant industries must undergo a strategic transition toward sustainable management practices. The purpose of this study is to substantiate the necessity of implementing modern managerial approaches grounded in ecological responsibility and circular economy principles. The object of the research is the process of transitioning to sustainable hospitality and restaurant management, while the subject comprises the specific techniques and models that facilitate this transition. The central thesis posits that the successful adoption of sustainability-oriented practices in hotel and restaurant enterprises is a key driver of long-term economic viability, environmental stewardship, and socially responsible tourism development. The methodology is qualitative and conceptually descriptive, employing general scientific methods such as analysis, synthesis, comparison, and analogy. It is further enriched by an AI-assisted systematic review of academic literature and official documents from institutions such as the EU and UN Tourism, enabling the classification of transition techniques and formulation of actionable management recommendations. This process includes the analysis of leading industry benchmarks and official Best Environmental Management Practices (BEMPs), which serve as applied examples for defining operational optimization. The scientific novelty of the study lies in its integrative approach, combining macroeconomic frameworks (e.g., ESG and Triple Bottom Line) with micro-operational strategies (e.g., circular economy principles and Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies). This dual-level integration redefines sustainability not merely as a moral imperative but as a strategic economic model that enhances competitiveness, operational efficiency, and investment attractiveness. The main conclusion is that sustainable development should be embraced as a core mission of the tourism business. Enterprises that align their operations with sustainability principles demonstrate measurable success, validating the strategic and economic value of responsible hospitality and restaurant management.
Keywords: sustainability, hospitality management, restaurant management, circular economy, waste management
JEL Code: Q56, Z32
UDC: 640.4:[005.35+504.03]
Pages: 125-154 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.08
Author: Elena BIZIM (SURDU)
Abstract: This study explores the obstacles and risks that Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) encounter in carrying out economic development initiatives, across Romanian nations. The study addresses financial, regulatory, risk management and social-environmental factors that influence the success of PPPs in the current economic environment . The research has as main objective to identify and analyze the major risks associated with PPPs in Romanian national governance systems.Drawing from a comprehensive review of existing literature, the study highlights a litterature review regarding the most common issues, as limited sources of financing, high upfront costs, technological and cash-flow risks, uncertain returns and weak regulatory frameworks. By integrating theoretical frameworks, the research explores the corelation between these challenges and the factors that slow down the effectiveness of PPPs in the nowaday economic trends. The findings emphasize the need for enhanced government capacity, tighter regulatory enforcement, and improved risk management strategies. Policy suggestions are offered to bridge the gaps and enhance the overall efficiency of PPPs in fostering sustainable economic and social development. Finally, the study outlines directions for future research to further explore the evolving dynamics of PPPs in sustainable economic growth and their potential role in achieving sustainable development goals.
Keywords: Economic challenges, Romanian regulatory, PPP, technical expertise, risk management, social impact, economic strategies.
JEL Code: K23; L33; L74; O18.
UDC: [334.722.26:005.334](4+498)
Pages: 155-170 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.09
Author: Anis BENABED
Abstract: This paper presents and analyzes the process of decarbonization as a new key business industrial process for the industrial and energy sector; as an alternative business opportunity and partnership for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and Multinational Companies (MNCs) or global companies (GCs) as large companies. Decarbonizing and reducing the CO2 emissions means contributing to sustainability in the carbon market and globalization. The author set the following research questions to structure the research: Could CO2 emissions be a useful for companies’ business partnership in globalization? Can decarbonization be a business opportunity for innovative SMEs to lift their status? How can SMEs and large companies such as MNCs and GCS collaborate in the carbon market for decarbonization? Could CO2 help in regenerating fossil fuels such as oil and gas in globalization? The methodology of research based on designed conceptual frameworks to design and illustrate the process and its values linking the related literature review to the part of research and analysis. The results showed that CO2 emissions could be a business opportunity for companies especially innovative SMEs in the decarbonization process and the carbon market. However, Small and Medium Sized Enterprises should seek some help and support by large global and multinational companies in order to survive in this operational process. Large companies will need the innovative perspectives of SMEs and SMEs will need large companies for funding their process and rise in the internationalization process. The conclusions showed that the carbon market needs CO2 emissions as a business option, Oil and gas are main energy resources worldwide that is why their use is necessary, Companies such as Innovative SMEs may collaborate with MNCs in the carbon market and the energy sector to regenerate them for an alternative energy storage and satisfaction in case of crises. Companies that engage in this process are able to participate in both processes of sustainability and internationalization to advance globalization to a better phase with business values and energy satisfaction.
Keywords: Decarbonization, globalization, business values, scalability, SMEs, company, internationalization, Multinational companies (MNCs), sustainability,
JEL Code: F23, F60, F63, F64 L71, L95, M13, Q01, Q02.
UDC: [620.9:334.7.012.6]+[504.05:551.588.74]
Pages: 171- 185 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.10
Author: Maia PISANIUC
Abstract: In 2016, the World Economic Forum recognized blockchain technology as one of the ten most important emerging technologies. Prior to this recognition, The Economist published articles about the "trust machine," introducing this remarkable technology to a wider audience. In order to understand the progress of blockchain technology and its current state, it is essential for countries to research these issues in relation to their economies. It is important to distinguish between theoretical blockchain applications and their commercial applications to assess the potential disruption of existing business models by blockchain technology. This article presents the European initiative in applying this technology and estimates the Moldovan economy's preparedness in this regard. To achieve this, we have set the following objectives: describing the principles and directions of the EU Blockchain/Web3 Strategy; conducting a comparative analysis of the level of innovation in the Moldovan economy with two EU member states; estimating the potential for future use of these technologies, and outlining the necessary skills and abilities. This research is relevant because it identifies the actions that the Moldovan economy must take to achieve a level of innovation and economic progress on par with the EU.
Keywords: blockchain, Web3, metaverse, EU Blockchain Web3 Strategy, digital skills.
JEL Code: O30, O32
UDC: [004.056.55+338.2:061.1]:330.341.1(478)
Pages: 186-197 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.11-2.11
Authors: Evangelos TALIOURIS, Nikolaos TRIHAS, Georgia DIMARI
Abstract: The issue of the interconnection between CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and SD (Sustainable Development) with administrative science and public policy constitutes a privileged field for development and specialization in the curricula of Hellenic University Departments in the field of tourism studies regarding policy and administration. This happens due to the economic growth of tourism as development and policy field in several regions of Greece, in particular insular areas where University Departments operate in tourism studies directly or indirectly (e.g. economics, policy). This paper analyses the European policy framework for CSR and SD within the context of a multigovernance level (Greece, EU, World Tourism Organization) and links it with the tourism academic field in University departments in Greece through and comparative analysis of courses and overall policy framework for sustainability and responsibility. The research methodology of this paper is based on qualitative research and it is based on literature review, archive research, grounded theory analysis and evidence based policy analysis.
Keywords: sustainability, corporate social responsibility, public policy, tourism
JEL Code: M14, Q01, Z31, I28
UDC: [338.48:005.35]:378.4(495)
Pages: 198 - 214 | Full text (PDF)