Author: Iryna SIKORSKA
Abstract: This article examines the critical role of higher education reforms in the Eastern Partnership (EaP) countries since their independence as they endeavor to align their systems with European standards and norms, ultimately seeking closer integration with the European Union (EU). The EaP countries, comprising Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine, have embarked on ambitious journeys of transformation in their higher education sectors to foster economic development, enhance academic excellence, and strengthen regional cooperation. The article employs a comprehensive approach, encompassing both policy analysis and empirical insights to shed light on the multifaceted nature of higher education reforms across the region. It delves into the various challenges and opportunities faced by the EaP countries in their pursuit of European integration through higher education reforms. The key themes explored include the alignment of the national higher education reforms with the Bologna Declaration guidelines including the promotion of internationalization and quality assurance mechanisms emphasizing the importance of cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange. It critically assesses the progress made so far, highlighting successes and identifying persistent obstacles. Moreover, it examines the role of international organizations and the EU programs in supporting these reforms. The analysis highlights the importance of higher education reforms in the EaP region not only as an instrument for achieving European integration but also as a catalyst for broader societal and economic transformations. The research data collected refer to the period of 1991-2020.
Keywords: EaP countries, higher education, national reform, Europeanization of higher education, internationalization process.
UDC: 061.1EU:378.014.3(476+477+478+479.22+479.24+479.25)
JEL Code: I21
Pages: 6 - 23 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.01
Authors: Urszula KURCZEWSKA
Abstract: The paper presents an analysis of the role of interest groups in Poland's energy policy in the context of the EU climate and energy policy. The main aim of the analysis is to try to answer the question of who shapes the Polish energy policy, which stakeholders have the greatest impact on, who are the key players, and what kind of interest intermediation system has developed in the energy sector. Poland's energy mix is dominated by coal, which results from the ownership structure in the energy sector, strong influence of conventional (coal) energy companies and centralization of energy policy. The interests of coal energy companies are protected by the government both in Poland and at the EU level. The research puts forward a thesis that Polish energy policy is co-shaped by conventional energy companies, which leads to their monopolistic position and the formation of a neocorporatist model with elements of statism, and the process of illiberal backlash and creeping authoritarianism further strengthens their role. Privileging the interests of the state-owned energy companies hampers the process of energy transition in Poland, which is contrary to the EU's climate and energy policy.
Keywords: energy policy, interest groups, Poland, energy transition, neocorporatism, illiberal backsliding
UDC: 338.23:620.9(438)
JEL Code: L380, Q280, Q480
Pages: 24 - 40 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.02
Author: Alexandru VLADOI, Lara-Greta MERLING, Kevin CASHMAN
Abstract: In the last decade the world has experienced a number of global crises which triggered economic downturns. Impacts from the global financial crisis, the global COVID pandemic, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine trigger instability in financial markets. This paper explores similarities and differences between these crises based on inflation and its energy-related components. A Vector Autoregressive (VAR) model is used to analyze both EU-level trends, as well as data for Romania. The findings indicate idiosyncratic shifts in the relationships between variables. The changes are often specific to individual shocks and the policy context. How policy makers respond to these shocks will also impact the fiscal space, the borrowing costs of countries, and the cost of servicing debt, which risks a return to the type of austerity policies that slowed down the post-financial crisis recovery. There is a need for more detailed research and investigations in policy responses designed to respond to ongoing events.
Keywords: economic crises, energy prices, exchange rate volatility and stock markets.
UDC: 338.124.4:[620.9+336.02](498)
JEL Code: G15, G18
Pages: 41 - 52 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.03
Authors: Nicolai JIERI, Violeta CODREAN, Ana Carolina COJOCARU (BĂRBIERU)
Abstract: Abstract. In the process of carrying out economic activities, each entity engages with various business partners, governmental bodies, personnel, and others. Consequently, the relationships formed often result in the emergence of receivables, owing to the time delay in meeting financial obligations related to the sale of economic goods or the provision of advances. The main objective of this research is to comprehensively examine the theoretical aspects related to the concept of accounts receivable, including their definition, classification, and regulation. Additionally, it aims to analyze the normative framework at both the national and international levels, considering economic and legal perspectives. Furthermore, this study encompasses an assessment of scientific productivity, the impact of scientific research, trending topics, and other aspects through bibliometric analysis. It's worth noting that the current market conditions underscore the significance of this research topic, where economic agents have the ability to choose their market and business partners. In this context, accounts receivable play a pivotal role in reflecting the economic and financial situation of both parties involved.
Keywords:receivables, accounts receivables, classification, regulation, bibliographic study, bibliometric analysis.
UDC: 657.432:001.818
JEL Code: M40, M41
Pages: 53 - 66 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.04
Author: Mihaela MIRON
Abstract:At the global level, school dropout represents an important concern of specialized research within the educational issue as a whole, a fact explained by the very high percentage of young people who do not complete their studies.
Every school organization tries to own and successfully implement an effective school dropout management system to achieve the expected results, in accordance with the harmonization of the needs, interests, aspirations and expectations of the entire school community, but also of the society in general.
This study aims to identify differences in the challenges faced by stakeholders dissatisfied with the dropout management (N=96) and those in the highly satisfied group (N=260). A series of statements were evaluated by the participants and the comparison was accomplished with the help of t-test for independent groups. We confirmed statistically significant differences for all challenges presented.
Keywords: focus groups, sociological researches, children, transnational families, labor migration.
UDC: 005.3:371.543.8(498)
JEL Code: I21, I25, I26, O35
Pages: 67 - 81 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.05
Author: Cristina COPĂCEANU, Silvia MAZĂRE
Abstract: The present research aims to investigate and evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the management of European funds in two distinct counties of Romania: Neamț County and Constanța County. European funds represent a significant resource for the economic, social and infrastructural development of the country, and the way in which they are administered and used has a significant impact on regional progress. Our comparative analysis focuses on identifying the significant differences between the two counties regarding the attraction, management and use of European money. The obtained results reveal significant differences in the approach and performance of European funds management between the two counties, highlighting the key factors that influence this process. Our research not only contributes to the understanding of how European funds are managed at the regional level in Romania, but also provides practical recommendations for improving the management of these resources in both counties. The positive impact of European funds on agricultural businesses in the two counties is obvious, contributing to the improvement and modernization of the agricultural sector.
Keywords:European funds, programs, projects, agriculture, economic development.
UDC: [339.96:005.56]:338.43(498)
JEL Code: O00, O10, O13, Q14
Pages: 82 - 95 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.06
Author: Adrian ANDRONIC
Abstract: This paper explores the digital transformation of education in Moldova, with a comparative analysis of Estonia's successful experience in this area. First, the article provides an overview of the current status of digital transformation in education in Moldova and identifies critical challenges in financing this process. Next, the Education Strategy 2030 in Moldova, which aims to improve the functionality of the educational system through the effective implementation of digital technologies to ensure the quality and sustainability of education, is discussed. The success factors of digital transformation in education in Estonia, including government support, high levels of digital literacy, a strong IT sector, and a culture of innovation and experimentation, are identified. Finally, the paper provides recommendations for financing digital transformation in education in Moldova, including allocating a specific portion of the state budget, seeking funding from international organizations and donors, and exploring opportunities for educational institutions to generate income. The implications for policy and practice and suggestions for future research are also discussed.
Keywords: digital transformation, education, Estonia, Moldova, financing
UDC: 336.144:[378.4:004.78]( 474.2+478)
JEL Code: I21, I28, O33, O38
Pages: 96 - 107 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.07
Authors: Mahlatse MABEBA, Xinxin XU
Abstract. This paper conduct an empirical research and investigate the effect of China’s travel purposes on Hungary’s inbound tourism during a period of uncertainty. The study takes into account the influence of the Covid-19 and Ukraine-Russia war on inbound tourism. The short-run monthly sample from January 2018 to July 2022 has been utilzed to capture the uncertain period. A Poisson Regression Model has been applied to calculate the efficacy of China’s travel purposes on Hungary’s inbound tourism. This study finds that China’s leisure and business trips have positive and significant effect on Hungary’s inbound tourism. China’s business trips has a large contribution to Hungary’s inbound tourism than leisure trips. During the uncertain period, the Covid-19 and Ukraine-Russia war had a negative and significant effect on arrivals of tourists to Hungary. Inbound tourism from China to Hungary had contributed positively to the economic performance of Hungary’s tourism sector.
Keywords: Travel Purpose, Inbound Tourism, Poisson Regression, China, Hungary
UDC: 338.48(439+510)
JEL Code: C30, D12, Z32
Pages: 108 - 124 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.08
Authors: Tatiana GAUGAȘ
Abstract: Advertising has become an integral part of everyday life, due to the abundance of advertising messages, it is virtually impossible to pay attention or to retain all of them; thus, consumers learn to ignore most advertisements they are exposed to. Striving for exceptionalism and persuasion, advertisers tend to use dramatic emotions, they create messages that would shock consumers, and they increasingly break social and moral norms, so that their advertising messages break through the traditional advertising clutter and reach the existing or potential customer. Since the 1980s, shock advertising has gained interest among advertising industry specialists and academics. However, the impact of shock advertising on consumer behavior can vary and its effectiveness is questionable. This article aims to analyze the differences in the reactions among generations Z and Y to shock advertising, using the eye tracking method. A total of 40 participants were invited to take part in the study. The core of the research was based on seven distinct types of shock tactics. Each of these groups represented a category of advertising posters. Within each group, there were 3-5 individual images, each varying in design, content, and nature. This variety ensured a comprehensive understanding of participants' reactions to different types of advertisements within the same category. After the data analysis, it was concluded that there are differences in the perception of different types of shock depending on the generation. The results indicate that generation Z is more tolerant of shock tactics, having a more positive reaction than generation Y. The younger age group (16-20 years) appears to engage with visual stimuli in a more dynamic and perhaps exploratory manner. They seem to have a more focused or selective attention, especially when the content is emotionally or ethically charged. This paper provides marketers with a better understanding of the effectiveness of shock advertising based on age variable, recommending alternative methods to capture the attention of consumers.
Keywords: shock tactics in advertising, eye tracking research, consumer behavior, generation theory
UDC: 659.118:659.117-053
JEL Code: M1, M3
Pages: 125 - 141 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.09
Author: Marina COBAN
Abstract: The adoption of digital technologies by EU businesses enables them to achieve better performance in terms of productivity, management practices, innovation and has a major impact on the economic growth of European countries. The aim of the paper is the analysis of digital transformation of enterprises in the EU states. We used comparative analysis of existing data from the Eurostat database. Several indicators are analyzed in this paper, such as the degree of digital intensity, the use of Cloud computing, Big data, Artificial intelligence, the share of SMEs that sell online and sell online cross-border in various EU countries. The advantages and disadvantages of e-commerce as well as the problems faced by SMEs in selling online cross-border, such as problems related to returning products, solving complaints and disputes, lack of knowledge of foreign languages were highlighted. Our study provides an overview of the current state of adoption of digital technologies by EU businesses and identifies the main trends of digital technologies progress in different EU countries
Keywords: digital technology, digital transformation, Cloud computing, Big data, Artificial intelligence, e-Commerce
UDC: [334.72:061.1EU]:004
JEL Code: O3, O52, P52
Pages: 142 - 155 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.10
Author: Eudochia BAJEREAN, Andrei JIZDAN
Abstract: The domestic commercial entities use as an alternative settlement method: payment services offered by e-money companies. This article is intended for both theoreticians and practising accountants, since, in addition to developing the existing theoretical basis, the aim is to identify relevant solutions for solving problematic accounting issues related to the documentation of the use of local payment services. Technological progress does not stand still, and in the last decade, so-called companies issuing electronic money have started to appear on the local trade market of the Republic of Moldova. The importance of the topic requires research into the practical application and accounting of transactions related to the use of payment services offered by e-money companies. The applied research methodology involves both general and specific approaches such as: analytical method, web-graphical analysis, synthesis method, comparison method, systemic method and other relevant research methods. Therefore, in the following, an attempt will be made to identify the correct way of documenting the cash collection process by applying domestic payment services.
Keywords: payment services, Paynet, e-commerce, electronic money institution, settlement methods
UDC: [657.28:004.738.5]:339.18(478)
JEL Code: M40, M41
Pages: 156 - 168 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.11
Author: Kwadwo YEBOAH BOTAH
Abstract: Forest ecosystems are vital for sustainable development and human well-being globally and in Europe. Sustainably managed forests are fundamental in combating natural disasters and providing multiple important goods and services for humans and the environment. However, with increasing climate change and its associated effects, forests have become severely and regularly prone to fires. This is seriously threatening forest protection, human safety, the economy, and biodiversity. In this context, understanding future forest fire risks, susceptibility, hazards, and fire prevention is essentially needed. This study thus examines the forest fire risks and hazards in Leiria National Forest (Mata Nacional de Leiria), Portugal using the 2017 forest fire as a benchmark. With the adoption of GIS and remote sensing techniques and data, vegetation type (NDMI), human factors (roads and settlement proximity), and terrain characteristics (slope and aspect) were assessed to map fire risk. Through multi-criteria analysis, these data were integrated to generate a forest fire risk index. Results demonstrate that about 46% of the study area is within high-risk and risky zones, 50% is considered moderate-risk fire zones and 3% is classified as low and risk-free zones. Sensitivity analysis indicated that high-risk areas are mostly low moisture coniferous fuel types while risk-free areas are high moisture deciduous fuel types. Further, it was established that the observed high-risk and risky zones are attributed mostly to proximity to settlements and roads and little topographical influence. The study thus suggests an increased future forest fire risk under the prevailing conditions and a hiking potential of increased burnt areas. We thus proposed effective proactive measures and adaptive management approaches to prevent and mitigate the devastating impacts of forest fires within the study location.
Keywords: Forest Fires, Climate Change, Fire Risk Assessment, Spatial Framework, Fire Hazards, Leiria National Forest, Mediterranean Europe
UDC: 005.931.11:614.841.42(469)
JEL Code: Q51, Q54, Q57
Pages: 169 - 191 | Full text (PDF)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.53486/2537-6179.9-2.12
Author: Liliana LAZARI, Roman VIERU
Abstract: The present research focuses on the study of income tax through the lens of accounting and the lens of taxation by establishing the interdependence links that are formed. The taxation of entities' income and profits is a particularly important component of any tax system, but also of how it is determined, calculated, recorded, and reported (by accounting) for each entity. In this context, this research addresses the relationship between accounting and taxation with regard to income tax, starting from the principles on which it is based, the reporting period, and the regulatory framework.
Keywords: income tax, accounting, taxation, accounting information, tax reporting
UDC: 657.446:336.226.1(478)
JEL Code: M41, H29
Pages: 192 - 203 | Full text (PDF)