Balanced Policy Research Articles

A.A. Gromyko and Security Policy: Сonceptual Tactics of Diplomacy (to the 115th Anniversary of A.A. Gromyko)

The article deals with the role of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the USSR. A.A. Gromyko in the formation, development and maintenance of security policy, its principles and structural elements. The author explores the conceptual approaches of diplomatic tactics in the context of strategic thinking. This research is carried out on the basis of the detente project of A.A. Gromyko in 1974. Firstly, the author provides evidence that the ideas and approaches of A.A. Gromyko (the so-called Gromyko system) were approved by the leadership of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union and the state leadership of the USSR. Therefore, A.A. Gromyko took personal responsibility for the success of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe. Secondly, tactical objectives that Gromyko had to solve in 1974 are analyzed. The author highlights differences between these tasks in the first and second half of the year of negotiations. Thirdly, it is argued that Gromyko’s conditions were presented for the first time in historiography for making the conceptual compromises. Gromyko assumed that the conceptual compromises would remain for 20-30 years. Finally, the article deals with the difficulties faced by the Western partners. These difficulties (the so-called West’s trap) did not allow them to pursue a balanced policy. These difficulties also did not allow the USSR to fully implement the Gromyko system. The article is based on published documents of the Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany. The author’s conclusions should be considered in the context of his earlier article in the journal.

Towards Sustainability: Understanding Norway’s Ecological Footprint Through the Framework of the Environmental Kuznets Curve

With rising concerns about environmental sustainability, examining the economic-environmental nexus is essential. This study investigates the relationship between economic growth (GDP), renewable energy consumption (RENC), urbanization (URB), and foreign direct investment (FDI) with Norway’s ecological footprint from 1990 to 2023. Guided by the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis, we aim to understand how these factors influence Norway’s environmental impact over time. Using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study captures both the short- and long-term effects of these variables on the ecological footprint, and model stability is confirmed through the Cumulative Sum of Squares (CUSUM) test. The findings reveal a U-shaped EKC pattern, where initial economic growth reduces the ecological footprint, but beyond a certain GDP threshold, environmental pressures increase. Renewable energy consumption is shown to lower the ecological footprint significantly, supporting Norway’s sustainability goals. Conversely, FDI is associated with increased environmental impact, potentially due to resource-intensive projects. These insights underscore the need for balanced policies that harmonize economic development with environmental preservation. Policymakers are encouraged to foster green FDI, prioritize renewable energy investments, and implement sustainable urban planning to maintain Norway’s trajectory toward ecological sustainability.

The Impact of China/US Trade Friction on China's Electronic Product Exports

China and the United States, as leading global powers, have faced ongoing trade disputes. From 2003 to 2005, the U.S. triggered several trade frictions with China, marking a period of significant conflict. In 2018, the Trump administration’s trade war reignited tensions, and these frictions have since evolved alongside shifts in international relations. Recently, the U.S. imposed restrictive measures on Chinese exports, affecting China's electronics sector-a vital component of its high-tech industry and economic growth.This study analyzes data on Chinese electronics exports in the context of these trade tensions, using a Difference-in-Differences (DID) model to assess changes over the past decade. The results show a statistically significant positive impact of U.S.-China trade friction on China’s electronics exports, despite the challenges posed by restrictive U.S. policies. Ultimately, this study emphasizes that while trade conflicts may strain relations, balanced policies and open communication are essential to avoid further escalation. Both countries could benefit from a cooperative approach, recognizing the advantages of mutual trade development.

Legal regulation of combating nuclear terrorism: national and international aspects

The article deals with the issue of legal regulation of the fight against nuclear terrorism. The purpose of the article is to highlight the problems of legal regulation of the fight against nuclear terrorism. The authors of the article conducted a retrospective review and analyzed the state of development of Ukrainian legislation in the field of legal regulation of the fight against nuclear terrorism. As a result of such consideration, it was determined that the last decades of the 20th century, as well as the 21st century, showed that the greatest threat is terrorist organizations that have an international (transnational) character and are connected to organized criminal societies. Terrorist organizations have largely reoriented themselves from single murders or serious explosions of conventional explosives to active attempts to acquire or manufacture means of mass destruction with the subsequent threat of use. The level of risk of using nuclear weapons and radioactive materials can be pre-estimated by threats of committing acts of nuclear terrorism and theft of nuclear materials. The authors of the article provide separate data related to terrorist acts, as well as the most dangerous cases of their abduction. The article analyzes the basis of the provisions of the International Convention on Combating Acts of Nuclear Terrorism. The authors concluded that the International Convention on the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism plays a key role in ensuring nuclear security. Before the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation in Ukraine, Ukraine was considered to be an example of a consistent and balanced policy in the field of nuclear non-proliferation. The events that have been going on in Ukraine for almost three years have shown that nuclear legislation, both international and domestic, in the sphere related to the use of nuclear energy is imperfect and does not provide adequate answers to many questions. Externally, the political activity of states that possess nuclear weapons is decisive for the future of humanity, for the survival of human civilization. To prevent the unthinkable - the destruction of life on earth, to defend peace - there is no more important task for all peoples of our planet today. According to the authors, it is expedient to develop and adopt an international act on the norms of relations between nuclear states, which would be of great importance.

The Impact of Employee Benefits on Job Satisfaction in the Sales Industry: An Analytical Study Using Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory

Abstract: This study aims to explore the relationship between employee benefits and job satisfaction in the sales industry and analyze how improving employee benefit programs can affect employee job satisfaction. Through literature review and in-depth interviews with employees of sales companies of different sizes, this paper analyzed various types of employee benefits and their potential impact on employee satisfaction. The study utilized psychological and social theoretical models, such as Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory, to construct an analytical framework. The research findings indicate that certain key elements in employee benefit programs, such as health insurance, training and development opportunities, and work-life balance policies, have a significant effect on improving sales personnel's job satisfaction. Furthermore, through a case study of Starbucks Corporation, this paper further verified that implementing comprehensive and competitive employee welfare strategies in a sales environment can significantly enhance employee loyalty and reduce turnover rates. The study provides specific management recommendations for enterprises in the sales industry, emphasizing the importance of establishing or improving employee benefit plans to enhance employee satisfaction and business performance.

International Monetary Fund Conditionalities May Weaken the Recipient States’ Readiness to Adapt to Climate Change! Evidence from 1995 to 2020

While several studies examine the effects of IMF conditionalities and IMF programs in relation to climate change, to our knowledge, there are no studies that empirically examine the effect of IMF conditionalities on recipient states’ readiness to address climate change. Using a two-stage least square instrumental variable approach, we found that IMF conditionalities related to the fiscal balance policy area and, to a lesser extent, the external debt policy area weaken the recipient states’ climate change readiness. These findings are supported by a series of robustness checks. Nonetheless, this reflects that IMF conditionalities that fiscally restrain states can weaken their fiscal capacity to invest in climate change adaptation. Therefore, our research findings carry policy implications for the IMF, and future research is needed to examine the IMF in relation to its climate change initiatives. The limitations of this study are also discussed.

Factors Affecting Employees Motivation: An Exploratory study of employees at The General Administration of Education in Jeddah

This research aims to systematically explore the intrinsic and extrinsic factors influencing employee motivation in the General Administration of Education in Jeddah. Through qualitative methods, the study seeks to identify and understand the impact of career development, leadership styles, organizational culture, work-life balance policies, and external economic factors on motivation(Al Doghan & Albar, 2015).Furthermore, the research aims to investigate and identify the key factors, both intrinsic and extrinsic, that significantly influence employee motivation within the General Administration of Education in Jeddah ,proposing strategies for improvement in educational administration. The significance lies in bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical applications, ultimately enhancing the quality of education and administrative efficiency in the region. The study employs an exploratory study with a mono-method design utilizing semi-structured interviews for data collection. Thematic analysis is employed to extract insights from the gathered qualitative data(Delve,Ho,2023).The research sample comprises 15 employees from the general administration of education in Jeddah, including administrative assistants to department heads. The participants consist of 8 males and 7 females, with varying ages ranging from 30 to 55 years old. Years of experience range from 7 to 33 years, with a mix of job titles including administrative roles and managerial positions.The study concluded that job satisfaction and opportunities for personal growth play a crucial role in enhancing employee motivation and productivity. It also showed that a positive work culture and transformational leadership contribute to increasing motivation levels. Additionally, the research emphasized the importance of achieving a balance between work and personal life, and the need to understand and address economic factors to maintain high levels of motivation and commitment.

Empowering Women through Work-Life Balance Policies and Practices

This article examines strategies for empowering women through effective work-life balance policies and practices. It reviews literature demonstrating the disproportionate work-life challenges faced by women and the negative career impacts that can result without organizational support. Key policies shown to address these challenges and improve job satisfaction for women are discussed, including flexible work arrangements, paid family and medical leave, child and elder care support, extended career breaks/sabbaticals, and visible leadership commitment. Tangible examples are then provided of how leading companies in healthcare, technology, and legal sectors have successfully implemented combinations of such policies. The results for these organizations include higher retention rates, greater diversity, improved employee satisfaction and loyalty, and enhanced business performance. The article translates this research foundation into practical recommendations, concluding that holistic integration of evidence-based work-life balance solutions within HR practices and culture builds an inclusive environment where all talents can thrive.

Artificial Intelligence and Environmental Sustainability: Insights from PLS-SEM on Resource Efficiency and Carbon Emission Reduction

This study investigates the relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and environmental sustainability, focusing on how AI-driven resource efficiency, energy consumption, environmental monitoring, and carbon emission reduction contribute to sustainability outcomes. The purpose of this research is to examine the dual nature of AI's impact on sustainability by testing both positive and negative effects using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Drawing from a sample of 233 firms in the energy, transportation, and manufacturing sectors, this study collects data through an online survey measured on a five-point Likert scale. Four hypotheses are tested, revealing that AI-driven resource efficiency and environmental monitoring positively affect sustainability, while AI energy consumption has a negative impact. Furthermore, AI integration in industrial processes helps reduce resource depletion. The findings suggest that governments should incentivize AI adoption aimed at resource efficiency and environmental monitoring through policies like tax breaks or subsidies, particularly for firms reducing their carbon footprint. To mitigate the negative effects of AI energy consumption, policymakers are urged to promote energy-efficient AI models and invest in renewable energy infrastructure. A balanced policy approach is crucial to optimize the environmental benefits of AI while minimizing its energy-related drawbacks.

Determinants of Inflation Rate Fluctuations in Five ASEAN Nations

This paper examines the key relationships between independent variables and inflation fluctuations in the ASEAN-5 countries, which include Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines. Using annual data from 2001 to 2020, a static panel data regression model is employed. The empirical results reveal that at least two independent variables significantly impact inflation rates in these five ASEAN nations. Specifically, the unemployment rate has a significant negative correlation with inflation fluctuations, while economic growth shows a significant positive correlation. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into how exchange rate determinants influence inflation fluctuations, highlighting the importance of balanced policies to address the interactions between unemployment, economic growth, and inflation.

Empowering work-life balance: Exploring the nexus of flexible work arrangements, job satisfaction, and women's well-being in SMEs

The aim of this study is to evaluate flexible working arrangements, work-life balance, and job satisfaction among women who work in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of flexible working arrangements, particularly for women juggling work and family responsibilities. The study evaluates the extent to which flexible working arrangements enable women to maintain a balance between work and family life in order to achieve work-related satisfaction. One hundred and thirty questionnaires were collected from the respondents for analysis. The analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between flexible working arrangements and work-life balance/job satisfaction among women working in SMEs. Importantly, work-life balance is an explicit factor that influences job satisfaction and mediates the relationship between flexible working arrangements and job satisfaction. These findings emphasize the need for organizations to seriously consider implementing flexible working arrangements and work-life balance policies in return for enhanced satisfaction of their workforce, especially women in SMEs in Malaysia. Research in this area is scarce; however, these findings offer valuable insights for SMEs in improving employee satisfaction and striving for growth and sustainability in the long run.

Job Stress and Its Influence on University Staff’s Quality of Life: The Importance of Work-Life Balance and Coworker Support

Quality of life plays a crucial role in enhancing employee productivity. This study aimed to assess the relationship between job stress and quality of life among university staff, identifying types of stress that positively or negatively impact well-being. A total of 88 university employees participated, with data collected using the New Job Stress Scale and WHOQOL, both adapted into Indonesian. Analyses included one-predictor regression, product moment correlation, independent t-test, and one-way ANOVA to evaluate job stress and quality of life. The results indicated that job stress predicts quality of life and is correlated with all its domains. Specific components of job stress, such as working time, work-related anxiety, role conflict, work-life balance, and coworker support, were significantly related to overall quality of life. No significant differences in job stress were observed based on gender, age, type of work, length of service, education level, or marital status. Similarly, quality of life did not vary by gender, age, type of work, education level, or marital status. However, significant differences in quality of life were found based on service length, with employees working more than five years reporting better quality of life than those with one to three years of service. The findings suggest universities should implement stress management programs and improve work-life balance policies to enhance staff well-being, particularly for long-serving employees.

Stark Decline in Journalists’ Use of Preprints Postpandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of preprints, aiding rapid research dissemination but also facilitating the spread of misinformation. This study analyzes media coverage of preprints from 2014 to 2023, revealing a significant postpandemic decline. Our findings suggest that heightened awareness of the risks associated with preprints has led to more cautious media practices. While the decline in preprint coverage may mitigate concerns about premature media exposure, it also raises questions about the future role of preprints in science communication, especially during emergencies. Balanced policies based on up-to-date evidence are needed to address this shift.

How Effective Are Work-Life Balance Policies? The Importance of Inclusion

In this manuscript we review research on the effectiveness of work-life balance (WLB) policies in improving employee and organizational outcomes. We find that while WLB policies are often implemented with good intentions, their effects are generally small or inconsistent. We identify eight barriers to policy inclusivity that we theorize are linked to reduced effectiveness—a narrow definition of family, focusing on work-family rather than work-nonwork balance, low policy awareness, the practical constraints of access, overlooking vulnerable workers, the nature of the job, supervisor attitudes and behaviors, and unsupportive organizational cultures—and make recommendations for addressing these barriers. We also highlight the importance of considering individual differences and cultural contexts when implementing WLB policies. We conclude by proposing future research directions, such as examining coworker support and the impact of national culture on policy effectiveness.

The Gains and Losses of Cultivated Land Requisition–Compensation Balance: Analysis of the Spatiotemporal Trade-Offs and Synergies in Ecosystem Services Using Hubei Province as a Case Study

The cultivated land requisition–compensation balance (CLRCB) policy is an important policy implemented by China to address the reduction in cultivated land and ensure food security. Although this policy has alleviated the loss of cultivated land quantity, it has had complex and diverse impacts on ecosystem services. Taking Hubei Province as the study area, this research explores the impact of the implementation of the CLRCB on ecosystem services and simulates the changes in ecosystem services in the study area in 2030 and the impact of CLRCB on the interactions among various services. The results show the following: (1) from 2000 to 2020, Hubei Province achieved a balance in the quantity of cultivated land through excessive compensation but failed to reach the goals of balancing cultivated land yield and productivity. (2) During the requisition–compensation process, habitat quality decreased by 501,862, and carbon storage lost 1.3 × 107 t, indicating negative ecological impacts; soil conservation services increased by 184.2 × 106 t, and water production increased by 21.29.3 × 108 m3. Within the cultivated land requisition–compensation area, habitat quality and carbon storage, as well as soil conservation and water production, exhibited synergistic relationships, while the remaining pairs of ecosystem services showed trade-off relationships. (3) The simulation of ecosystem services in 2030 indicates that soil conservation and water production are highest under the natural development scenario, while habitat quality and carbon storage are highest under the ecological protection scenario, both of which are superior to the urban development scenario. Under the natural development scenario, the trade-off and synergistic relationships among various ecosystem services in the cultivated land requisition–compensation area remain unchanged, while these relationships change significantly under the other two scenarios. This study emphasizes that future CLRCB should not only focus on maintaining the quantity of cultivated land but also consider the comprehensive benefits of ecosystem services, in order to achieve sustainable land-use management and ecological conservation.

From Handouts to Empowerment: Impacts of Policy Subsidies and Employment Support on the Well-Being of Disabled Veterans

Balancing policy subsidies and employment support is crucial for developing effective assistance policies for disabled veterans. This study conducted an empirical investigation in China using 315 survey questionnaires. The findings indicate that, first, subsidies have a positive impact on the well-being of disabled veterans, but this effect diminishes as disability severity increases. Second, employment emerges as a crucial factor that surpasses subsidies in contributing to overall well-being. As disability severity increases, the relative impact of employment on well-being strengthens. Third, employment enhances well-being by improving self-identity, while the influence of subsidies on self-identity is relatively minimal. Additionally, a policy model demonstrates that subsidies enhance individual well-being but increase group uncertainty, whereas employment support improves individual well-being and reduces group uncertainty. These insights are valuable for governments when formulating policies related to social security, employment stability, and welfare protection.

Религиозный фактор в деструктивных социальных процессах (на примере исламизма)

Spiritual and cultural characteristics play a significant role in modern society. The religious factor is one of the key elements that ensure spiritual security, strengthen friendly relations between various ethnic and religious groups, and shape their self-determination. Religion is one of the driving forces of the development of civil society and even determines the degree of its intensity. Due to the increasing influence of religion on political processes, its influence is becoming extremely important for domestic and foreign policy activities, therefore, the government of any state should take into account religious specifics. The religious factor has a powerful consolidating condition in countering the development of destructive processes. At the same time, in order to satisfy personal ambitions and achieve political goals, despite the contradiction of the basic religious principles and doctrines, representatives of destructive religious trends actively use psychological methods of influence, using the faith and beliefs of their followers. The implementation of the proposed measures to ensure spiritual security in various spheres of civil society at all levels of government makes it possible to counteract destructive influences using religious beliefs. The aim of the study is to formulate the main outlines of a balanced policy in the ethno-confessional sphere and based on ideological principles that can provide conditions for agreement and unification of relations between political actors. It is precisely such ideological concepts that can act as a weighty opponent to the destructive process. In this study, methods based on rationalism, dialectics, comparative analysis, historiography were used, structural-functional and civilizational approaches were applied. The results of the research can be used in the development of conceptual documents in the field of security.

Away from the cities? A medium-to-long-term investigation of how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed population spatial patterns in Italy

This article focuses on the medium-to-long-term effects of COVID-19 and associated non-pharmaceutical interventions on population movements across the urban–rural spectrum in Italy. By analysing data from Facebook/Meta, population registers, and the housing market from January 2020 to May 2022, we aim to determine whether trends observed at the beginning of the pandemic have sustained over time. Results indicate an initial shift away from densely populated urban areas, marked by increased Facebook connections, higher rent prices and rising property sales in less densely populated locales. As the pandemic progressed, however, a decline in Facebook connections outside of urban poles indicated a resurgence in urban living. At the same time, intermediate and ultra-peripheral regions continued to attract permanent residents, as evidenced by a lively housing market and population growth in these areas. This suggests a complex pattern, where urban areas remain attractive, but the appeal of suburban and rural living has significantly increased, with both theoretical and practical implications. These findings challenge existing models of urbanisation and call for a re-evaluation of the factors driving residential preferences and mobility. Ultimately, a better understanding of these patterns could inform balanced policies that leverage internal migration dynamics, by supporting infrastructure development in suburban and rural areas, while adjusting urban planning to mitigate potential negative impacts like overcrowding and resource strain.

Constitutional and legal foundations of territorial integrity in federal states: historical and legal analysis

The article explores the constitutional and legal foundations of the territorial integrity of the federal states, focusing on historical and contemporary examples. The authors examine cases of successful and unsuccessful secession, as well as legal mechanisms used to prevent separatism. We take Spain, the USA, Canada, India, and Germany, as the examples to analyze the role of constitutional provisions in maintaining state unity. A key aspect of the study is the distribution of competencies between federal structures and federation subjects, which ensures a balance of interests and prevents internal conflicts. A great attention is paid to the principle of subsidiarity and the role of federation subjects in governance, contributing to the preservation of territorial integrity. The authors emphasize the importance of integration mechanisms and constitutional guarantees in maintaining the stability of the federal states. The article establishes that the territorial integrity of federal states is ensured through a set of constitutional and legal norms that regulate the relations between federal authorities and the subjects of the federation. These norms include a clear distribution of competencies, where federal authorities are responsible for national issues such as defense and foreign relations, while the subjects of the federation have powers in local governance. The principle of subsidiarity involves the participation of the federation’s subjects in state governance, ensuring a balance of interests and preventing internal conflicts. Additionally, the supreme legal authority of the federal constitution, mechanisms of federal intervention in case of threats to integrity, and the unity of the economic space all contribute to the stability and unity of the federal state, effectively countering separatist movements. It is determined that the participation of federation subjects in the process of constitutional amendments guarantees their representation and protection of interests, preventing unilateral changes in the state structure. The state language plays an important role, promoting national unity and preventing ethnic conflicts, which is critical for multinational federations. Furthermore, the representation of federation subjects in the national parliament ensures their influence on key decision-making, promoting more balanced policies and strengthening ties between the central government and the regions.

Migration problems of the Benelux countries in the context of joint European policy

The purpose of the article is to prove by specific examples the inability of the authorities of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, united into the Benelux community, to regulate the flows of immigrants and refugees to their countries; to identify the consequences of a liberal policy towards foreigners, in particular, difficulties in integrating them into the European society. Along with this, the issues of the crime rate growth, the discontent of the local population with the destabilization of the situation and other topics are discussed. The author concludes that the Benelux countries, despite their efforts, are still unable to develop a unified balanced policy towards immigrants and refugees. This is due to great differences both in government circles and in the civil society of these countries.