Southeast European Countries Research Articles

Analysis of Developmental and Other Aspects of Investments in Research and Development of a Group of Countries in the Southeast Europe

ABSTRACT The purpose of this article is to analyse the state and the dynamics of developmental and other aspects of investments in research and development (R&D) in the group of countries in Southeast Europe. The analysis is performed for several countries in Southeast Europe together and by individual countries. The period from 1996 to 2020 is observed in the analysis. In most countries of Southeast Europe, the allocation for R&D is relatively small. Applied research is the most represented. Significant differences can be noticed regarding the sources of financing and to the implementation of allocations for R&D. A particularly important part of this work is devoted to the analysis of the impact of the gross expenditures on R&D on economic growth. This analysis was performed on the basis of regression analysis. Several regression models were formed in which the dependent variable was gross domestic product per capita It can be concluded that the parameters of the financial condition of the observed economy have the greatest influence on the economic growth of the observed group of countries. Allocations for research and development still do not have a significant enough impact on economic growth in observed countries in Southeast Europe.

Food security challenges: Evidence from the southeast Europe countries

Description of the subject. In the past half-century, the world has become increasingly aware of the challenges and threats to food security. The challenges of maintaining food security have been further increased under the influence of crises (COVID-19, Russia-Ukraine war). Many factors affect food security, and the effects of crises have additional negative consequences on food systems, with direct and indirect implications on the lives of everyone, especially the developing countries, such as countries of Southeast Europe. Objectives. Therefore, the aim of the research is analyzing the effects of socio-economic factors and policy factors on the level of food security of Southeast Europe countries. Method. This research covered countries of Southeast Europe: Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, and North Macedonia. The research data were taken from the FAOSTAT database and World Bank for the countries of Southeast Europe during 15 years (2006-2020), and in this paper panel data analysis was used. Results. The results of the research showed that there is a statistically significant influence of socio-economic factors and policy factors on the level of food security of the Southeastern Europe countries. Conclusions. The results of the research showed that food production variability, food supply variability, food imports, inflation, GDP per capita and political stability have a significant impact on the level of food security in the countries of Southeast Europe.

Comparative Analysis of Adult Education System in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Southeast European Countries

Adult education is now recognized as an integral part of the educational system. Considering its importance and relatively weak interest of authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina in improving this area, we decided to conduct this research that compares the adventages and disadventages of solutions in Southeast European countries that were part of the former Yugoslavia (Montenegro, Croatia, Nort Macedonia, Slovenia, Serbia). The article presents that state of legislation, institutional competencies, funding models, and the status of the adult education profession. The ultimate purpose of this paper is to describe the complexity of the education system within Bosnia and Herzegovina and identify succesful solutions developed in neighboring countries. The primary method used is the comparative one, comparing the system of Bosnia and Herzegovina with that of the regional countries. The content analysis technique was employed to extract necessary data from relevant documents. The article concludes with recommendations for improving the adult education system in Bosna and Herzegovina.

First report of Aspergillus welwitschiae causing maize ear rot in Serbia.

In recent years, countries in Southeast Europe are facing climate changes characterized by extreme hot weather, which contribute to the increased frequency of Aspergillus species. Because of these changes, Aspergillus parasiticus was isolated, for the first time, from maize grain in Serbia (Nikolic et al, 2018). The presence of black powdery mycelia on maize ears indicated occurrence of species of the genus Aspergillus section Nigri, which led to the need for detailed identification of these fungi. Disease incidence ranged from 10 and 15% in August 2013. Maize ears with black powdery symptoms were collected from field in Zemun Polje, Serbia. Symptomatic kernels were surface sterilized with 1% sodium hypochlorite solution for 3 min, rinsed three times with sterilized water, then incubated at 25°C in the dark for 7 days on potato dextrose agar (PDA). Twenty isolates were identified as genus Aspergillus section Nigri. Monospore cultures formed black cottony colonies with a yellowish border on PDA. The average colony diameter was 50 mm. In order to reliably identify, isolates were transferred to Malt Extract agar (MEA) and Czapek Yeast Autolysate agar (CYA) (Samson et al, 2014). On CYA fungal colonies consisted of a white mycelium, covered by a layer of black conidiophores. On MEA fungal colonies were dense, black, with yellowish border. The reverse side was colorless to pale yellow, with a yellow ring in the middle. The average size of conidia was 4.3 µm. The conidia were globose to sub-globose, smooth to roughened, which coincides with previous research (Silva et al, 2020). Given that the fungi Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus welwitschiae are morphologically indistinguishable (Susca et al, 2016), species level identification was completed by analysis of a partial sequence of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (ITS1/ITS4 primers) and calmodulin gene (CMD5/CMD6 primers) (Samson et al., 2014). The sequences were compared with the sequences of A. welwitschiae strains registered in the GenBank database based on nucleotide similarity, and results showed 99,64 and 100% similarity with ITS (OL711714) and calmodulin (KX894585), respectively. The sequence was deposited in GenBank with accession numbers OQ456471 (ITS) and OQ426518 (calmodulin). We also confirmed the presence of this species with specific primers (AWEL1/AWEL2) designed by Susca et al. 2020. Pathogenicity test was performed in Zemun Polje on the same maize hybrid from which the fungal species was isolated. Using artificial inoculations by the injecting conidial suspension into the silk channel, three days after 50% of plants reached the silking stage. Twenty ears were inoculated with each isolate, in four replicates (Reid et al, 1996). Inoculum was prepared from 7-day-old colonies on PDA, and 2 ml of a conidial suspension (1×106 spores/ml) was used. Control plants were inoculated with sterile water. All inoculated ears showed symptoms, similar to those from field infections. Control ears were symptomless. The fungus was reisolated and was morphologically identical to the original isolates, thus completing Koch's postulates. Based on molecular, morphological and pathogenic properties, the isolates were identified as A. welwitschiae. This is the first report of A. welwitschiae as the causal agent of black maize ear rot not only in Serbia, but also in the other countries of the Western Balkans. Given that the fungus A. welwitschiae synthesizes both ochratoxin A (OTA) (Battilani et al, 2006) and fumonisin (FB) (Frisvad et al, 2011), further studies should be focused on assessment its aggressiveness and toxicological profile.

Financial inclusion and inflation in Southeast European countries

Background: As a complex socio-economic concept, financial inclusion is related to the improvement of access and use of formal financial products and services (such as bank deposits, loans, insurance, etc.) by all participants in the financial system. More inclusive financial systems contribute to poverty reduction, decrease in inequalities among different income groups leading to economic growth, and economies more resilient towards macroeconomic shocks. Purpose: This paper aims to assess the relationship between financial inclusion and inflation in Southeast European countries, focusing on Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Slovenia, Serbia, and Turkey in the period from 2011 to 2021. Study design/methodology/approach: The financial inclusion index was constructed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The connection between the financial inclusion index and inflation was investigated using panel regression modeling (OLS, fixed-effect, and random-effect models). Findings/Conclusions: The research showed that countries with higher levels of financial inclusion are more resilient to inflation. This finding is consistent with other research implying that policymakers and other stakeholders within a financial system should contribute to promoting financial inclusion and building more inclusive financial systems. Limitations/future research: The main limitation of the research is related to data availability for multidimensional index construction. Future research should be directed to providing a better understanding of whether the relationship between financial inclusion and inflation is under the influence of other monetary policy instruments, such as interest rates.

Real gains being made as a result of the transposition of the European Minimum Wage Directive

In most EU countries there were significant increases in minimum wages on 1 January 2024. Despite persistently high inflation rates in the majority of member states, these were sufficient to maintain or even expand the purchasing power of the minimum wage. The dynamics of minimum wages have also been advantaged by the European Minimum Wage Directive, passed in autumn 2022. In the course of transposing the Directive, many member states have been striving to achieve the reference values of 60% of the median wage or 50% of the average wage. However, the trend in Germany was different: the country’s Mindestlohnkommission (Minimum Wage Commission), against the votes of trade union members, only advocated a small increase in the minimum wage, and one which fell behind the rise in prices. In their approach and conclusions, the authors focus on the German aspect but this version of their original report slightly expands on that (see also the surrounding discussion) with the aim of widening the coverage and the consideration of its themes to the countries of south-east Europe.

Ekonomska politika i energetska bezbednost zemalja Jugoistočne Evrope

Energy security is essential for the sustainable economic development and stability of the country. In recent years, it has been actively studied. The energy security challenges of European countries have changed significantly in the past 20 years. From one point of view, the current war between Russia and Ukraine raises doubts about the energy security of the countries of Southeast Europe. On the other hand, deep changes in energy security at the world level, activated by innovative progress and major geopolitical changes, encourage the European Union to reevaluate its security system. Economic, social and demographic changes in the world require new solutions that would include innovative ways to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted flow of energy to sustain the daily life of citizens. The inability to access energy resources causes severe economic disruptions and political instability. In the conditions of the global economy, disruptions are easily transmitted and therefore it is essential to permanently secure energy resources and make an effort to reduce the so-called energy poverty, which mostly affects countries in transition (Southeastern European countries) and Third World countries. The obtained research results show that renewable energy sources could become a sustainable solution to the above-mentioned problems. A well-balanced and well-positioned use of renewable energy sources could alleviate the shortcomings of traditional energy systems and prevent major shocks to energy security in the world and in the countries of the European Union.

ECONOMIC TRENDS IN THE REGION OF SOUTHEAST EUROPE AND THE SPECIFICITY OF THE CEFTA AGREEMENT

<p><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Economic collaboration among Southeast European countries and the establishment of free trade with the European Union are seen as potential drivers for regional development. However, given the region's intricate political landscape and historical challenges, achieving these objectives faces hurdles stemming from political and historical complexities. In an effort to fortify regional ties, the European Union has provided support through mechanisms such as Bilateral Free Trade Agreements, Generalized Trade Preferences, and the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) of 2006. Since the inception of the CEFTA agreement in 2006, the Free Trade Agreement has emerged as a pivotal catalyst in enhancing international trade in Southeastern Europe. It has played a crucial role in fostering economic integration, streamlining trade processes, boosting regional trade volumes, and establishing a cohesive economic zone that appeals to foreign direct investors and facilitates the mobility of professional service providers. Over the past fifteen years, intra-regional trade has experienced significant growth, accompanied by a rising proportion of trade occurring within the region. The liberalization of trade within CEFTA has not only stimulated market competition but has also spurred integration across various sectors and industries in the region. Furthermore, it has acted as a catalyst for foreign direct investment, both from external sources and within the region itself.</span></p>

Modern-Day Contributors to Sleep Disturbances in Generation Z: A Look at Chronotherapy and Other Solutions

Sleep is an important biological process that affects both physical and mental health. Modern-day stressors and technology have led to certain behavior patterns that have become an active threat to sleep. The 2021 Philips Global Sleep Survey conducted among 13,000 individuals of ages 18 and above, across 13 countries (South East Asian and European countries, US and Australia), reported that 76% of adults reported having one or more sleep issues; with stress being the most reported hurdle. These sleep challenges were further exacerbated by the pandemic. The survey also pointed out that, 37% of adults experienced insomnia and 62% of adults felt they don’t sleep well.

THE QUALITY OF INSTITUTIONS IN THE COUNTRIES OF SOUTHEAST EUROPE: A COMPARISON WITH THE MEMBERS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION

The purpose of this paper is to show the importance of the development of institutions and the institutional environment in a globalized world. The methodology used to measure the quality of institutions are components of the World Governance Indicators Database developed by Kaufmann, Kraay and Mastruzzi (2010) where we performed a comparative analysis of the quality of institutions for three samples of countries, the countries of Southeast Europe (countries of the region), the newest members of the EU and the countries of Central Europe and the Baltic States. After that, we showed the degree of correlation between economic development measured by GDP per capita in purchasing power parity and each of the six indicators of the quality of institutions. The results show that the countries of the region lag significantly behind the countries we call New Europe (Central Europe and the Baltics), but also lag behind the youngest members of the European Union in terms of the quality of institutions, i.e. the rules of the game. When it comes to correlation between economic development and institutional environment, for all 6 indicators of instituional environment, a strong and positive correlation was shown, especially between the rule of law and economic development. The conclusion is that the countries of the region must strengthen the rule of law, fight against institutional corruption, ensure political stability so that the economic standard of their citizens could improve.

EXPLAINING THE CORRELATES OF CHILD’S MULTIDIMENSIONAL POVERTY IN SOUTH AFRICA USING THE ALKIRE-FOSTER APPROACH

The purpose of this paper is to show the importance of the development of institutions and the institutional environment in a globalized world. The methodology used to measure the quality of institutions are components of the World Governance Indicators Database developed by Kaufmann, Kraay and Mastruzzi (2010) where we performed a comparative analysis of the quality of institutions for three samples of countries, the countries of Southeast Europe (countries of the region), the newest members of the EU and the countries of Central Europe and the Baltic States. After that, we showed the degree of correlation between economic development measured by GDP per capita in purchasing power parity and each of the six indicators of the quality of institutions. The results show that the countries of the region lag significantly behind the countries we call New Europe (Central Europe and the Baltics), but also lag behind the youngest members of the European Union in terms of the quality of institutions, i.e. the rules of the game. When it comes to correlation between economic development and institutional environment, for all 6 indicators of instituional environment, a strong and positive correlation was shown, especially between the rule of law and economic development. The conclusion is that the countries of the region must strengthen the rule of law, fight against institutional corruption, ensure political stability so that the economic standard of their citizens could improve.

Effects of Broadband & Telephone Subscription on Exports in New Global Era: Evidence from Southeast European Countries

Effects of Broadband & Telephone Subscription on Exports in New Global Era: Evidence from Southeast European Countries

New Functions of VSC Based HVDC Transmission Systems that Can Effectively Support the Future South-East European Grid with Low Inertia and Large Amount of Res Generation

Abstract The energy mix in South-East Europe is nowadays mainly composed by hydro and fossil fuels generation almost equally distributed in the share of electricity generation. Wind and solar PV generation play a very marginal role playing cumulatively less than 7% of the total generation, while fossil fuels exceed 52% of the total generation. A Multi-Terminal HVDC grid between the different countries in South-East Europe may provide various operational and socio-economic gains. In this paper are presented some grid specific challenges and explored some new functions of HVDC transmission systems based on VSC technology that can effectively support the grid with large amount of RES. The paper aims to explore how the VSC converters can improve the system’s voltage stability and provide the necessary frequency control when the inertia in the grid is very low and how the HVDC transmission system can accomplish transferring the primary and secondary reserves solving the rising problems related to dispatchability and inertia response in RES based power grids.

POLITICAL CULTURE LEGACY HINDERING EUROPEANIZATION EFFORTS IN PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS

In recent years, the democratization efforts required for EU integration have been challenged by authoritarian regimes' persistence across some Southeast European countries. This study focuses on Albania as a case study, examining the endurance of political and administrative cultural legacies within its public institutions. Despite numerous reforms aimed at EU integration and democratization processes, institutional transformation remains impeded by outdated behavioural attitudes, concepts, and mindsets. The efficacy of democracy is intrinsically linked to the adherence to fundamental principles within the realm of Public Administration, encompassing key values such as meritocracy, impartiality, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to public service. Moreover, a resilient judiciary is pivotal in upholding integrity by acting as a bulwark against malfeasance and procedural impropriety. Additionally, the autonomy of the media and the empowerment of civil society are indispensable requisites for sustaining a robust democratic framework. Collectively, these elements serve as the bedrock for establishing and perpetuating a well-functioning democratic system. Various scholars highlight that political culture can impact the implementation of good governance practices, values, and behavioural methods. This research delves into the challenges Albania, an early-stage EU aspirant, encounters over three decades as it endeavours to adopt EU norms during the transformation of public institutions. The study considers the influence of internal hindrances, including political memory and past legacies, on the reform process and the Europeanization of Public Administration. By analysing these factors, the research aims to gain insights into the negative internal dynamics and provide recommendations for fostering a democratic political culture that strengthens institutions through effective reforms.

Patterns of remittances of intra-European migrants: social relations and moral obligations

ABSTRACT The importance of remittances for economic development and the maintenance of transnational social relationships have been widely discussed. Based on data from Switzerland, we analyze the roles of transnational social relations and moral obligations for the likelihood of sending remittances among intra-European migrants from Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Portugal, Serbia, and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Our data shows high levels of remitting among these groups, with migrants from South-East European countries sending remittances primarily to family and friends and migrants from Portugal and Great Britain sending remittances primarily to their own bank account. Furthermore, by using differentiated and direct measures for social relations and moral obligations, we show that strong social ties as well as moral family obligations are relevant predictors of sending remittances, beyond measures of various desires and capacities to remit usually discussed in the literature. However, these effects also vary according to social relation and remittance type. Together, the results make a strong case for the social embeddedness of remittances and the importance of including migrants from western and southern Europe in empirical research.

Implementation of the European Union Legal Framework for Electric Vehicles in Montenegro

Transitioning to electric drive and using energy from renewable sources can help in the decarbonisation process globally. Wider usage of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure development depend on the legislative and regulatory framework. In this paper, we have analyzed the legal and regulatory framework for electromobility in the European Union. This analysis is conducted to propose adequate measures which should be implemented in Montenegro to accelerate electric vehicle adoption. Proposed measures must be in accordance with the current legislative and regulatory framework in the European Union. Additionally, a brief overview of current state in this area in Southeast Europe countries is conducted. We would like to initiate changes in Southeast European countries to make progress in this area.

Factor structure of the brief psychiatric rating scale-expanded among outpatients with psychotic disorders in five Southeast European countries: evidence for five factors

The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) is a useful tool for measuring the severity of psychopathological symptoms among patients with psychosis. Many studies, predominantly in Western countries, have investigated its factor structure. This study has the following aims: (a) to further explore the factor structure of the BPRS-Expanded version (BPRS-E, 24 items) among outpatients with psychotic disorders in Southeast European countries; (b) to confirm the identified model; and (c) to investigate the goodness-of-fit of the three competing BPRS-E factor models derived from previous studies. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) produced a solution with 21 items grouped into five factors, thus supporting the existence of a fifth factor, i.e., Disorganization. A follow-up confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) revealed a 19-item model (with two items removed) that fit the data well. In addition, the stability of two out of three competing factor models was confirmed. Finally, the BPRS-E model with 5 factors developed in this cross-national study was found to include a greater number of items compared to competing models.

Associations of burnout with job demands/resources during the pandemic in health workers from Southeast European countries.

Despite several studies assessing job demands and burnout in countries from the Southeast European (SEE) region, there is still a lack of data about the psychological impact of the pandemic on health workers (HWs). The present study aimed to demonstrate and compare levels of burnout dimensions in HWs from SEE countries and to reveal the burnout-job demands/resources relationships in these workers during the pandemic. During the autumn of 2020, this online multicentric cross-sectional survey studied a large group (N = 4.621) of HWs working in SEE countries. The Maslach Burnout Inventory was used for the measurement of burnout dimensions. We analyzed the job demands by using the Hospital Experience Scale. Remuneration and relationships with superiors were measured using the Questionnaire sur les Ressources et Contraintes Professionnelles (English version). A series of ANOVA comparisons of means revealed the countries in which respondents showed higher mean values of emotional exhaustion (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Moldova, Montenegro, and North Macedonia) and the countries in which respondents showed lower mean values of this burnout dimension (Israel and Romania) (Welch F = 17.98, p < 0.001). We also found differences among HWs from different countries in job demands and job resources. The testing of hierarchical regression models, which have been controlled for certain confounding factors, clearly revealed that emotional exhaustion was predicted by job demands (R2 = 0.37) and job resources (R2 = 0.16). Preventive measures for the improvement of mental health in HWs during the pandemic and beyond have to take into account the differences between countries regarding the country context and current scientific knowledge. A modified stress test should be implemented in hospitals regarding future shocks that might include new pandemics, terrorism, catastrophes, or border conflicts.

Differential influence of basic psychological needs on burnout and academic achievement in three southeast European countries.

Several studies show the importance of basic psychological needs (BPN) for decreasing burnout and increasing grade point average (GPA), but, to our knowledge, no prior study has explored the potential contextual differences in Southeastern European countries. Moreover, even less is known about how this relationship may differ during stressful (exam) and less stressful (beginning of the semester) periods. Measures of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey and BPN Satisfaction and Frustration Scale were translated and adapted. The study included a cross-sectional sample of students from Croatia, Serbia and Slovenia during beginning of the semester and exam period. Across all countries and both contexts, students with high autonomy need satisfaction showed the strongest decrease in burnout, followed by those with high competence need satisfaction. Students with high academic achievement showed an increase due to competence need satisfaction. Competence and autonomy need satisfaction were higher beginning of a semester, while burnout was higher during the exam period. BPN play an important role in educational settings-satisfaction of the need for autonomy and competence protects students from burnout, and the need for competence predicts greater academic achievement regardless of culture or time of the semester.

Measuring Financial Inclusion in Southeast European Countries Using Multidimensional Index of Financial Inclusion

This paper provides an insight into measuring financial inclusion through a multidimensional index of financial inclusion in Southeast European countries (SEE). We used a two-stage principal component analysis to extract dimensions of financial inclusion. Data were obtained from two sources, the World Bank Global Findex Survey (WB-GFS) data base and the International Monetary Fund Financial Access Survey data (IMF-FAS), for twelve SEE countries for the years 2011, 2014, 2017, and 2021. The research confirms that financial inclusion can be measured using two dimensions in terms of access as one factor and usage and availability as the second factor. Practical implications of this research are in ensuring an adequate measure of the level of financial inclusion for SEE countries that can be used for further research related to understanding the underlying factors contributing to financial inclusion, barriers to financial inclusion as well as the impact of financial inclusion on economic growth and poverty alleviation.