Economic Pressures Research Articles

The Role of Ionic Liquids in Textile Processes: A Comprehensive Review

Thanks to their unique physicochemical properties, ionic liquids (ILs) have moved from niche academic interest to critical components in various industrial applications. The textile industry, facing significant environmental and economic pressures, has begun to explore ILs as sustainable alternatives to traditional solvents and chemicals. This review summarizes research on the use of ILs in various textile processes, including dyeing, finishing, and fiber recycling, where their high thermal stability, tunable solubility, and low volatility are exploited to reduce resource consumption and environmental impact. The discussion also extends to the integration of ILs in textile waste recycling, highlighting innovative approaches to fiber dissolution and regeneration aimed at circular economy goals. Despite these advances, challenges such as high production costs and scalability remain barriers to the widespread adoption of ILs in the textile sector. Addressing these barriers through continued research and development is essential to fully realize the potential of ILs for sustainable transformation in textiles.

Transformation of Settlement Structures in Europe: Trends, Challenges, and Reform Approaches

Changes in the number of municipalities and their administrative organization represent one of the central themes of European public administration, reflecting historical context, demographic changes, economic pressures, and technological progress. The aim of this study is to analyse approaches to the merging and division of municipalities in selected European states and to identify factors influencing the success of these reforms. The research uses a combination of comparative analyses of legislative frameworks, socio-economic conditions, and case studies and works with data from official statistics, scholarly literature, and reports on the implementation of reforms. The main findings show that some states, such as Denmark, achieve significant improvements in efficiency through the merging of municipalities, while others, such as France, prefer the preservation of smaller municipalities in order to maintain local identity and community ties. Reform processes often face cultural and political obstacles, and their success depends on a combination of voluntary approaches, financial incentives, and effective communication with the public. The study concludes that the key to effective governance is the balance between the need to optimize public services and the preservation of local specificities. These findings provide important guidance for further reform processes in the European context and can contribute to the sustainable development of regions as well as to the greater satisfaction of the population.

The Dilemma and Breakthrough of Gaming Dream: A Study on the Survival Status and Career Path of Semi-Professional Gaming Youths

With the rapid development of the e-sports industry, semi-professional e-sports youth, as an important but relatively disadvantaged group in the e-sports career ecology, face many difficulties such as economic pressure, narrow career paths, and insufficient social cognition. This study focuses on the survival status and career path of semi-professional e-sports youth, and proposes countermeasures at the macro, meso and micro levels by analyzing the problems they face. That is, at the macro level, to improve industry policies and career protection, and to promote the standardized development of the e-sports industry; at the meso level, to improve the social perception of e-sports, and to strengthen the support of families and communities; and at the micro level, to provide players with guidance on career planning, comprehensive skills training, and mental health support, and to help them achieve sustainable development. The study shows that solving the plight of semi-professional e-sports youth not only helps to improve the career development of this group, but also has important significance for the healthy development of the e-sports industry and the diversification of the social career ecology.

Service delivery and the role of clinical pharmacists in UK primary care for older people, including people with dementia: a scoping review

ObjectiveAs populations age globally, there is increasing prevalence of multiple long-term conditions, such as dementia, leading to many challenges. The burden on health and care services, economic pressures, and the necessity for innovative policies to better support older people and people with dementia becomes paramount. This review explores how clinical pharmacists working in UK primary care support older people and people with dementia.DesignScoping review.MethodThis review was conducted following the framework for scoping reviews in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. The search of Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Cochrane was initially conducted in September 2022, and updated in August 2024. Searches included literature exploring the landscape of clinical pharmacy services for older people in the UK, focusing on roles and services delivered, perceptions, and experiences.ResultsA total of 30 articles were included. These detail the multifaceted responsibilities of clinical pharmacists in primary care for older people. Stakeholder perspectives, including healthcare professionals and patients, emphasised the positive outcomes of clinical pharmacist involvement, from reducing other practitioners’ workloads to improving patient safety. However, communication gaps, concerns about competence from other healthcare professionals, and the need for clear role definitions emerged as challenges. Research focused on the experiences of underserved groups, such as people with dementia or from minority ethnic backgrounds, is lacking.Conclusions and implicationsThe review enhances our understanding of the primary care clinical pharmacist service in the UK and identifies gaps in evidence, emphasising the need for empirical studies on the experiences of older people with cognitive impairment and those from minority ethnic backgrounds. It provides insights into what makes an effective clinical pharmacist service, such as training and communication, which may help to inform international policy and practice and improve service provision globally.

Assessing the Coordination Development Level of Agricultural Economy and Ecology in China: Regional Disparities, Dynamics, and Barriers

Achieving sustainable rural development in China requires effectively integrating agricultural growth with ecological balance. However, existing research on the coordination between agricultural economy and ecosystems has often focused on isolated aspects, such as economic growth or ecological sustainability, or has been limited to specific provinces or regions, lacking a comprehensive nationwide analysis. To address this gap, this study uses spatial data from 31 provincial-level regions in China from 2008 to 2022, developing a multidimensional framework that encompasses economic input, structure, efficiency, benefits, vitality, ecological conditions, and pressure. Using multi-factor econometric methods, we comprehensively evaluate the coordination between China’s agricultural economy and ecosystems, revealing regional disparities and spatiotemporal variations in their coupling coordination, and analyzing the barriers affecting this coordination. Our findings show that: First, coupling coordination has steadily improved, narrowing regional disparities. Second, regional differences are primarily driven by variations between the eastern, central, and western regions, with structural disparities shifting from interregional to hyper-variable density. Third, development exhibits a “club convergence” pattern, where upward transitions are difficult and downward mobility is a risk. Key barriers include farmland scale, land efficiency, afforestation area, and soil erosion control. Based on these findings, we recommend regional development strategies, dynamic monitoring mechanisms, optimized land use, and enhanced ecological protection. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners to promote the coordinated and sustainable development of agricultural economies and ecosystems in China.

Causes of Seasonal Out-Migration in the Terms of Agricultural Perspectives in Phulbari Upazila, Kurigram, Bangladesh

This paper explores the major push-pull and self-selective factors driving seasonal out-migration in Phulbari Upazila, Kurigram District, from an agricultural perspective. Seasonal migration, especially during lean agricultural periods, is a longstanding livelihood strategy in this region. The study utilizes primary and secondary data to understand the agricultural dynamics influencing past and present migration trends. Key factors contributing to seasonal out-migration include flooding and river erosion, agricultural off-seasons, landlessness, poverty, limited employment opportunities, climatic variability, debt, economic pressure, social networks, and migration traditions. The research reveals that natural vulnerabilities and seasonal food insecurity continue to drive migration. Due to uncertain climate change and weather conditions, rural areas suffered from seasonal hunger due to a lack of manpower and unsuitable soil conditions to harvest food for their people. This outlines the patterns, causes, and impacts of seasonal out-migration among agricultural workers in Bangladesh as well as how this condition affects the socioeconomic of a rural area, Phulbari Upazila, Kurigram. Most migrants are agricultural wage laborers, landless, and marginal farmers. The study also highlights that households' coping capacity is closely linked to the socio-economic status of the household head, with illiterate and low-income groups being more vulnerable than their educated and higher-income parts. This study identified the significant role of agricultural changes in shaping migration decisions and suggests that interventions aimed at reducing dependency on seasonal migration could foster sustainable development. The push factors, such as poverty and unemployment, are more influential than pull factors. Empowering migrants through education, safety nets, and diversified income opportunities, both in their villages and at migration destinations, can transform migration from a necessity into a choice. Collaboration works among communities, government, NGOs, and other stakeholders is important for implementing sustainable and impactful policies and strategies.

Health utility scores of six common cancers in China measured by SF-6Dv2

PurposeGiven the recent update of SF-6Dv2, detailed data on utility scores for cancer patients by cancer type remain scarce in China and other regions, which limits the precision of cost-utility analyses (CUA) in cancer interventions. The aim of the study was to systematically evaluate utility scores of six common cancers in China measured using SF-6Dv2, and identify the potential factors associated with utility scores.MethodsA hospital-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from August 2022 to December 2023. It recruited 896 cancer patients from three tertiary hospitals in China, including 270 with lung cancer, 96 with stomach cancer, 88 with liver cancer, 71 with oesophagus cancer, 142 with colorectum cancer, and 160 with breast cancer. The validated Simplified Chinese version of the SF-6Dv2 was used to calculate utilities based on the Chinese value set, and the utility values were described using the mean and standard deviation (SD). Participants’ socio-demographic, behavioral and clinical characteristics were also obtained from the survey. Univariate and multivariate linear regression models were performed to explore the impact of these three categories of characteristics on utility scores derived from SF-6Dv2 for the total cancer patients and each cancer group.ResultsThe mean utility score was 0.66 (SD = 0.26) for the total cancer sample, 0.66 (SD = 0.25) for lung cancer, 0.75 (SD = 0.23) for stomach cancer, 0.69 (SD = 0.24) for liver cancer, 0.69 (SD = 0.24) for oesophagus cancer, 0.65 (SD = 0.31) for colorectum cancer, and 0.57 (SD = 0.24) for breast cancer. Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated that patients who were older, from larger families, under greater economic pressures, undergoing fewer health examinations, smoking, and in advanced cancer stages had lower utility scores in the total cancer sample (p<0.05), with variations observed across different cancer types.ConclusionsThis study is one of the first to apply the SF-6Dv2 to a heterogeneous group of cancer patients, providing evidence for conducting CUA with SF-6Dv2 across six common cancers in China. In addition, the study provides a basis for improving interventions for different cancer types.

Auditing Under Martial Law

Purpose: The article examines the influence of martial law on the economy and social policy and presents the consequences for auditing. Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative research strategy was used to study the financing of audit firms at the macro level. A purposive sampling method was applied to select 100 audit firms across 24 regions of Ukraine, representing diverse operational conditions. Data analysis involved statistical techniques to compare expenditures and revenues from 2021 to 2023, highlighting the impact of martial law on financial performance. Research Limitation: Data was obtained on a 25% reduction in the number of audits in 2023 due to economic pressure on the audit sector. Findings: The findings reveal that auditing during martial law in Ukraine underwent significant adaptation to sustain operations amid war-induced disruptions. Audit firms shifted towards digital tools like ACL and IDEA, enabling efficient remote auditing despite restricted site access. Modular systems and flexible schedules mitigated operational challenges such as relocations, delays, and increased risks. Practical Implication: This research benefits the industry by providing insights into practical strategies for maintaining operational continuity, addressing emerging risks, and leveraging technological tools to improve audit quality and efficiency. Social Implication: The analysis emphasised societal benefits, including increased resilience in financial reporting, enhanced data security, and improved accountability mechanisms, which collectively contribute to the country's economic recovery and stability. Originality/ Value: This study's novelty lies in its focus on the unique integration of digital platforms during active hostilities, which provides a model for adapting audit practices in crisis conditions.

A Systems Approach to Improving Well-Being in Graduate Medical Education.

The imperative to improve the well-being of graduate medical education (GME) trainees has been well documented. While existing interventions have largely centered on increasing individual trainee resilience, less focus has been on the role of national health policy, economics, and the overall U.S. care delivery system in acting as antecedent contributors to burnout among learners. To explore the impact of these national system level factors, Princeton University hosted the Systems Summit on Clinical Wellbeing in October 2023. Co-sponsored by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, American Medical Association, and Healing Works Foundation, the event brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and experts from a myriad of backgrounds, including GME leaders and trainees.Through a systems lens, summit attendees identified opportunities and barriers for well-being at both the national and health care organization levels. At the national level, identified barriers included historical national policy decisions, longstanding economic pressures in health care, and their combined cumulative impact on trainees. At the health care organization level, trainees pointed to an incongruity between common institutional wellness offerings and their more immediate support needs, along with unsustainable workload expectations, including the added toll of non-physician tasks (e.g., scheduling). A lack of appropriate tools for assessing well-being through a systems lens further compounds these issues. More actionable outputs may be achievable through the integration of operationally oriented well-being metrics (e.g., clinical and academic workload hours, call frequency, stay intent).Long overdue updates to ill-fated national policy decisions, along with a redirection of the focus of GME well-being efforts at the programmatic level, could, in combination, fundamentally reshape the experience of trainees, contributing to lower incidences of depression, exhaustion, and burnout.

PLAIN PAVEMENT; AN ECONOMIC ALTERNATIVE

The paper "Plain Pavement; An Economical Alternative" by Ralph C. Blum and Clinton E. Solberg examines the economic pressures faced by state transportation departments and the innovative measures implemented to reduce costs in highway construction. Focusing on the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WDOT), the study details the transition from steel-reinforced concrete pavement to non-reinforced plain concrete pavement (PCP) in a 20-mile segment of Interstate Highway 43. This shift resulted in a significant cost reduction of $1.6 million. The authors discuss the historical context and economic analysis that influenced the decision, emphasizing the need for cost efficiency due to the declining purchasing power of state dollars and increasing construction material costs. The paper explores the construction process, the performance and maintenance of plain versus reinforced pavements, and the long-term economic and operational benefits. It concludes that the use of PCP not only offered immediate financial relief but also maintained quality and durability, making it a viable economic alternative for future highway projects. The findings suggest that PCP could potentially offer a sustainable model for managing limited resources while addressing the need for infrastructure development. (Abstract generated by AI tool ChatGPT 4)

Effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Psychological Rehabilitation After Lung Cancer Surgery: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis protocol.

The incidence and mortality of lung cancer is the highest among malignant tumors worldwide, and it seriously threatens human life and health. Surgery is the primary radical treatment for lung cancer. However, patients often experience discomfort, changes in social roles, economic pressures, and other postsurgical challenges. These factors frequently cause various psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression, significantly diminishing the quality of life and elevating the risks of recurrence, metastasis, and mortality. Therefore, effective strategies for mental function rehabilitation should be urgently developed. Traditional Chinese medicine can significantly improve psychological function and physical symptoms after lung cancer surgery, and prolong patient survival. However, its effectiveness for mental function rehabilitation after lung cancer surgery remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Chinese medicine on mental function recovery after lung cancer surgery through a systematic review and meta-analysis. This study will systematically search the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang database, VIP database, and Chinese BioMedical Literature database. Search for studies published from the inception of each database until April 22, 2024. This study will be limited to clinical randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The primary outcome will be depression or anxiety, as indicated by the scale score. Data analysis will be performed using RevMan 5. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool will be used to evaluate the quality of included studies. Finally, the quality of the evidence will be classified using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) System. This meta-analysis aims to offer comprehensive evidence of the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine in mental function rehabilitation after lung cancer surgery. The study will assess the quality of the reports and conduct a subgroup analysis based on various postoperative stages, intervention measures, intervention duration, and sex to gather more evidence to fill the gap in psychological function rehabilitation after lung cancer surgery. These data can be used to guide clinical practice and inform future studies. More importantly, the results of this study will provide evidence to support the development of expert consensus and clinical guidelines in the field of mental function rehabilitation after lung cancer surgery.

Okpameri Language: A Moribund Language

The Okpameri language, a minority language spoken in Nigeria, is gradually heading towards extinction due to sociolinguistic factors such as the dominance of languages like Yoruba and English. Language death is a slow process driven by the diminished use of a language across generations, often due to social, economic, and political pressures that force speakers to switch to more dominant languages. This study examines the stages of language death in Okpameri land, focusing on how language contact with English and Yoruba is contributing to the language's decline. The research utilizes a survey method, gathering data from 100 Okpameri multilinguals to analyze attitudes towards language loss and its impact on cultural identity. Findings indicate that Okpameri is in serious decline, with a significant portion of the population unable to speak the language fluently. There is widespread concern about its potential extinction, and most respondents believe that the dominance of other languages is detrimental to Okpameri's survival. The study underscores the urgency of language revitalization efforts, particularly through education and community engagement, to preserve Okpameri and its cultural significance.

Islamic Political Law in Economic Warfare: Indonesian Economic Policy in the Global Economic Struggle

Islamic Political Law in Economic Warfare: Indonesian Economic Policy in the Global Economic Struggle

POVERTY, DECLINE OF MORALITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE IN NIGERIA

This paper examines poverty and decline of morality and social justice in Nigeria. It is a decrease in ethical behavior and the commitment to fair treatment for all members of a community, often manifested through increased social inequality, corruption, disregard for human rights, and a growing acceptance of immoral actions, leading to a sense of societal decay and a weakening of collective values. Secondary sources of data and qualitative analysis was used for the study. Economic pressures, weak governance and corruption, cultural erosion, social fragmentation and breakdown of family structures are some drivers of decline of morality and social justice. This has led to survivalist mentality. This qualitative study explores the interconnections between poverty, morality, and social justice in Nigeria, emphasizing the transformative role of education in addressing these issues. Conflict theory was used as the theoretical framework for the study. It was recommended that Strengthen social institutions, create employment opportunities and social welfare schemes that will alleviate poverty, encourage good leadership and governance. Others are government should adopt dialogue and civil society engagement with a view to promote social justice and morality and integrate moral education into school curricula to promote values such as honesty, integrity, and respect for human rights and promote civic education to raise awareness about citizens' rights and responsibilities.

Expansionary Federal Monetary Policy and U.S. Banks’ Risk Profiles During the COVID-19 Pandemic-Induced Economic Recession

This study focuses on the pandemic phase when the U.S. economy dealt with significant economic recessionary pressures due to widespread, prolonged social mobility restraints. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) promptly pursued expansionary policies, such as lowering the federal funds rate to almost zero until February 2022. This study employs a Dynamic Panel Data Generalised Moment Method Model (DPD-GMM) to analyse the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic shocks and FOMC’s expansionary policy on U.S. banks’ loan portfolio and asset complement risk profiles. Our analysis extends from two pre-pandemic years through the pandemic recession and recovery periods (until early 2022) prior to the FOMC’s eventual aggressive rate hiking policies intended to attenuate consequent inflationary conditions. Our findings clarify that banks’ risk exposure can be driven by both uncontrolled and discretionary portfolio decisions. Economic shocks beyond the banks’ control (such as the pandemic) could suddenly discredit historical lending decisions as economic slowdowns indiscriminately affect even clients previously assessed as creditworthy. Thus, banks experience more pronounced loan portfolio risk due to rising non-performing loan (NPL) balances. Meanwhile, the FOMC’s expansionist low interest-rate policy provides relief for banks who use their discretion in resolving their compounding liquidity concerns. These decisions, however, increase their risk asset holdings characterised by greater vulnerability to economic fluctuations. Our study’s implications call for more cautious management of banks’ risk profiles under difficult economic periods through prudent asset purchase decisions, greater loan diversification strategies, and more equitable financial market access for smaller and specialised (such as agricultural) banks.

Evaluating Financial Health and Stability in the Energy Industry: Analyzing Key Indicators in Times of Crisis

Research background: In terms of evaluating the financial health and stability of the entire industry, the financial and economic analysis of individual companies is among the most critical. It is a composite of numerous fragmentary components that collectively convey information regarding individual activities. Purpose of the article: The energy industry is assessed from the perspectives of profitability, debt coverage, equity, and efficient asset utilization through the use of individual indicators to determine the changes and impacts of recent crisis. The purpose of this paper is to assess the extent to which the financial health and stability of the selected industry have been impacted by a diverse array of economic factors. Methods: The subsequent section of the paper is dedicated to the examination of individual relative financial indicators within the designated sector of the national economy. The industry selected for this project is classified as section D - Supply of electricity, gas, steam, and cold air by the Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic and the SK-NACE classification of economic activities. The ratio analysis is the most critical component of the paper when analyzing the economic effects on the energy industry. The optimal values are then contrasted to the resultant values, which are evaluated based on the trend of positive or negative development. Findings &amp; Value added: In summary, the design phase assesses computed indicators in the context of external factors during the monitored period, while the industry anticipates its future using the data. The profitability indicator was most significantly impacted by the aforementioned factors in 2022, as the sector experienced a decline. Additionally, liquidity increased until 2021. In 2022, it experienced a slight decline as a result of economic pressures. The indebtedness analysis indicated that the property could be funded by personal capital, as evidenced by the substantial self-financing. The energy sector's financial status was consistent, as evidenced by the stabilization of critical financial ratios and its resilience in the face of significant external disruptions.

Fishery Laws Adherence in San Pedro Bay: Insights from Selected Fishing Communities

The preservation of food security and livelihoods in coastal communities faces significant challenges due to illegal fishing activities in San Pedro Bay. This qualitative study aimed to evaluate the adherence to fishery laws in the San Pedro municipality, encompassing Tolosa, Tanauan, and Dulag, Leyte. Through purposive sampling, thirty-six informants were engaged, including members of the Fishery Law Enforcement Team (FLET), dedicated police officers, and local fisherfolk. The results revealed widespread violations of fishery laws, notably destructive dynamite and fine fish nets, and fishing in restricted areas. The study identified various motivations behind these infractions, including economic pressures, imitation of illegal practices, and collusion with government entities. This study proposes sustainable livelihood programs, educational seminars, and regular seaborne patrol operations. It underscores the critical need to equip law enforcement agencies with adequate resources for effective policing. In conclusion, this research highlights the urgency of bolstering fishery law enforcement to ensure compliance, promote sustainable marine resource management, and safeguard the well-being of coastal communities in San Pedro Bay. Keywords: Illegal Fishing, Adherence, Fishery Laws, San Pedro Bay

THE PRICE OF TRUTH: THE IMPACT OF WAR ON JOURNALISTIC FREEDOM AND NEWS CONTENT IN UKRAINE

The aim of this paper is to analyze how the ongoing war with Russia, starting on February 24, 2022, has influenced the freedom of journalistic activity and the content of news in Ukraine, using the example of the publication "Ukrainska Pravda." The study examines the specific challenges that have emerged under the conditions of military aggression, including legal restrictions, economic pressures on media outlets, and the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in balancing the public’s right to know with considerations of national security. The paper explores how censorship and self-censorship have impacted independent media in Ukraine, altering both the accessibility and depth of information available to the public. Methods applied in this research include general scientific approaches (such as analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction), theoretical frameworks (from abstract to concrete), and the historical method, enabling a comprehensive view of the shifts in Ukrainian journalism in wartime. Through this examination, the study highlights the sacrifices and complexities involved in maintaining the integrity and independence of journalism under extreme political and social conditions.

Effects of Materials on Environment and Economy of Public Transport

The global shift towards sustainable development has underscored the importance of minimizing the environmental footprint and optimizing economic efficiency across all sectors, including public transportation. The materials used in public transport vehicles has substantial implications for both environmental and economic performance. The choice of materials utilized in the construction, maintenance, and operation of public transport systems plays an important role in achieving these goals. The document aims to examine the aim of selecting environmentally friendly and economically viable materials for public transport vehicles, along with the subsequent effects these choices have on both the environment and the economy. Public transportation is a cornerstone of modern city planning, facilitating mobility, reducing congestion, and promoting social equity. As the world faces with the challenges of climate change and economic pressures, the materials used in public transport infrastructure and vehicles are under increasing scrutiny for their impact on both the environment and the economy aspects.

CIS Countries Foreign Economic Activity — from Challenges to New Opportunities

Aim and tasks. To identify current trends and issues in foreign trade, the international financial system, and the investment activity of CIS member states, and to provide recommendations that contribute to sustainable economic development and strengthened mutual cooperation.Methods. Utilized statistics from the external sectors of CIS economies from 2019 to 2023. Methods of aggregation, comparison, retrospective, and indicative analysis were applied to the data. Graphical representation of indicators allowed for visualization of key trends in the studied metrics, calculated from data provided by the Interstate Statistical Committee of the CIS, the World Bank, UNCTAD, and the Brookings Institution.Results. In recent years, the CIS has faced several global shocks that have affected the international economic relations of its members with each other and with third countries. Despite external destabilizing influences and geopolitical turbulence, CIS member states maintain resilience and a positive development trajectory, largely due to mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia — an essential economic partner. Russia holds a leading position in mutual trade with CIS countries, and the reorientation of Russian exports to “friendly” countries has stimulated regional trade turnover. The burden of external debt for CIS national economies is decreasing, and their debt stability and solvency are normalizing. Less positive situation is in direct investment flows, which remain unstable and unevenly distributed among countries.Conclusions. In the context of individual national economies, it is fair to note that the complex geopolitical environment and unprecedented external economic pressures narrow opportunities for economic growth and sustainable development. However, this statement is not always true for interstate associations, and CIS member states are a prime example of this. Currently, during a challenging period that requires solidarity and mutual support from participants, the potential of this union can be fully realized. A thorough study of the issue can reveal numerous promising areas for mutually beneficial cooperation in trade, credit, and investment relations. It is necessary to eliminate integration barriers to transform the CIS into a powerful and influential international organization.