External Threats Research Articles

SCIENTIFIC AND METHODOLOGICAL PRINCIPLES OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONCEPT OF ENSURING SOCIO-ECONOMIC SECURITY OF ENTERPRISES IN THE CONDITIONS OF INNOVATIVE DEVELOPMENT

The article is aimed at defining and disclosing the scientific and methodological foundations for implementing the concept of ensuring socio-economic security of enterprises in the context of innovative development. The subject of the research in the article is the scientific and methodological principles of ensuring socio-economic security of enterprises in the context of innovative development. To achieve this goal, the following theoretical methods were used: analysis of the source base, comparison, systematisation and generalisation. The category of innovative enterprise development and socio-economic security has been identified. A number of indicators may be employed to evaluate the extent of social and economic security enjoyed by an enterprise. These may be classified according to their financial, social, innovative, operational or environmental impact. This paper considers the distinctive characteristics and principal consequences of the impact of innovative development on the social and economic security of enterprises. It has been established that the scientific and methodological principles of social and economic security comprise a set of theoretical and practical tools, methods and approaches that facilitate the identification, assessment and management of risks associated with innovative activities. In the context of outlining the scientific and methodological foundations, a number of principles for developing a system of socio-economic security for the enterprise were identified and expanded upon, and a list of scientific approaches for studying and providing socio-economic security for the enterprise was provided. The importance of a systemic approach in ensuring the socio-economic security of the enterprise in the context of its innovative development is demonstrated. It is determined that the methodological principles include the development and implementation of a system of indicators for assessing the level of socio-economic security, analysis of risks associated with innovation activities. The components of methodological support for the system of socio-economic security are proposed: monitoring, evaluation, risk management. The conclusions of the study are that the innovative development of enterprises determines the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of business. The socio-economic security of an enterprise can be defined as a dynamic state of stable functioning and development in the presence of external and internal threats. This encompasses the protection of the enterprise's economic interests, the assurance of financial stability, risk management, the optimisation of resource utilisation and the enhancement of production efficiency. The concept of the relevant scientific and methodological principles can be developed on the basis of the principal approaches to the study of the socio-economic security of the enterprise, as well as the principal principles of its development, which are presented in the article.

Why Civilizations Collapse: The Cruciality of Social Solidarity and the Dangers of Its Absence

This essay examines the complexities of civilizational collapse, proposing that it is not a singular event but a prolonged process driven by internal conflicts and external threats. It begins by defining the concept of collapse and uses historian Jared Diamond’s perspective to analyze how internal strife, such as loss of cultural identity, conflicting ideologies, and political division, can initiate the decline of a civilization due to a fragmentation of social solidarity. The essay then uses historical examples of the Islamic and Roman Empires to illustrate the importance of social solidarity for the survival of civilizations. It also discusses the internal challenges faced by modern civilization, including issues brought about by globalization, political polarization, East-West conflicts, global supply chain shortages, and how these factors can erode solidarity, posing a risk of collapse to the contemporary “world civilization.” The essay concludes by highlighting that internal conflicts and the absence of social solidarity are the primary causes of civilizational collapse, a theory that remains relevant for understanding the challenges faced by the global civilization today.

India As a Democratic Nation- Concepts and Perceptive

India, as the world's largest democracy, presents a unique and diverse political landscape. Since gaining independence in 1947, it has upheld democratic ideals amidst challenges of diversity, inequality, and external threats. This paper explores the foundational concepts of Indian democracy, its key features, and its role as a beacon of democratic governance in the global arena. By examining India’s electoral system, constitutional framework, and challenges, we gain insights into how democracy functions in one of the most populous and complex nations in the world.

Holding on until the barrel is empty? Algeria's bumpy trajectory towards a post-rentier state

Rentier states are under increasing pressure to move towards a post-rentier state model as peak oil demand is approaching. However, it remains unclear if or how a rentier state can make this transition. To answer this, I developed an analytical framework including the mechanisms from the rentier state theory that need to be present to move towards a post-rentier state. This analytical framework is hypothetical, as up to now, no rentier state has been able to transition to a post-rentier state. Using Algeria as a case study, this novel framework is used to analyse the incremental evolution Algeria has made towards a post-rentier state since the year 2000. I argue that Algeria experienced several internal as well as external opportunities and threats and was influenced by its history on how it responded. Although Algeria fulfilled several steps of the framework, it failed to fulfil necessary sustainability aspects to become a post-rentier state.

Optimalisasi Potensi Wisata Desa Serangan Melalui Pendekatan Berkelanjutan: Studi Kasus Menggunakan Metode TOWS, EFAS, dan IFAS

Serangan Village in Denpasar, Bali, is recognized as an innovative tourist destination, having won the 2023 Anugerah Desa Wisata award. This recognition is supported by a variety of attractions such as Pura Sakenan, Asyuhada Mosque, Melasti Beach, mangrove forests, the Turtle Conservation and Education Center (TCEC), local traditions, and unique culinary offerings. This study aims to identify the internal (strengths and weaknesses) and external (opportunities and threats) factors affecting Serangan Village and to formulate strategies for sustainable tourism development based on the four main pillars of sustainable tourism destination criteria according to Minister of Tourism Regulation No.9 of 2021. A qualitative descriptive method using TOWS analysis, EFAS, and IFAS matrices was employed, with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results indicate that Serangan Village is in quadrant III, highlighting the need for effective strategies to optimize opportunities and address internal weaknesses. The strategy formulation results include leveraging the Bappenas Masterplan to build stakeholder collaboration, participating in training from the Denpasar City Tourism Office, forming a tourism impact monitoring team, implementing sustainable governance policies, utilizing social media for surveys and feedback, and developing policies for cultural asset protection and animal welfare to support sustainable tourism growth in Serangan Village.

Bit Sufi-Dance: Covert Data Exfiltration from Air-Gapped Networks via Electricity Meter

To protect important data and files, people often use air gap isolation, also known as air gap separation, to block external threats. However, internal networks may still introduce pollution due to supply chain contamination, human error, or social engineering. Although internal devices cannot directly communicate with the outside world. This paper proposes a new technology called Bit Sufi-Dance that utilizes electricity meters and optical devices to detect exfiltrated data. Most electricity meters have power indicator mechanical turntables or LED lights which can be indirectly controlled by the device’s power consumption oscillation. This allows for information encoding and the extraction of data from the air-gapped computer. It is important to note that this exfiltration channel does not require any hardware or firmware modifications and cannot be detected by existing Data Leakage Prevention (DLP) systems. The article discusses its design and implementation issues while evaluating it using different types of electricity meters. Our experiment demonstrates that data can be exfiltrated from the air-gap isolated computer through an electricity meter at a bit rate of 101 b/h. Finally, we assess this security threat and discuss defense mechanisms and preventive measures.

THE PHILOSOPHY OF FREEDOM AND ITS LIMITS: UKRAINIAN EXPERIENCE OF DEMOCRATIC DEVELOPMENT

The purpose of this research is a philosophical reflection on the category of freedom in the context of Ukraine’s democratic development, with a focus on its limits in light of current political and social challenges, particularly war and crises. The study analyzes the historical stages of the concept of freedom in Ukraine, the legal and ethical constraints placed on it, and the existential dimension of responsibility tied to individual choice. The research methods include critical analysis of philosophical and political works, synthesis of approaches from different philosophical schools (particularly liberalism and existentialism), comparative analysis of freedom and responsibility concepts, and systematic analysis of the legal and ethical challenges facing modern Ukrainian society. The results of the study reveal that the concept of freedom in Ukraine has specific historical features, related to the ongoing struggle for national independence, and dynamically changes under the influence of external threats and internal political processes. It is determined that the limits of freedom are shaped not only by legal norms but also by ethical and societal factors that actively shape Ukrainian public discourse. Special attention is given to the existential dimension of freedom as responsibility, which manifests in complex moral choices in the context of war. The scientific novelty of the article lies in the combination of historical, legal, and existentialist approaches to understanding freedom in the context of Ukrainian democratic development, providing deeper insights into the relationship between freedom and responsibility during periods of social crises. The theoretical significance of the work lies in expanding the philosophical understanding of the category of freedom within the Ukrainian context, its interaction with legal and ethical norms, which is essential for further research in political philosophy and law.

COUNTERING DISINFORMATION POLICY: CHALLENGES FOR UKRAINE’S NATIONAL SECURITY

he article examines the problems of combating disinformation in the conditions of a modern full-scale war and overcoming the challenges facing the national security of Ukraine. The concept of disinformation, its impact on public consciousness and the key mechanisms of the spread of false information are outlined. The main directions of the policy of combating disinformation aimed at ensuring information security and resistance to information attacks have been studied. The importance of the development of media literacy among the population as one of the main tools for countering disinformation campaigns through educational programs and social interaction is revealed. The experience of combating disinformation in the developed countries of the world, the USA and the countries of the European Union, is analyzed. The role of state and international initiatives, the cooperation of governments with technology companies, as well as the implementation of legislative mechanisms are highlighted. The main tools aimed at regulating the spread of false information in the information space are revealed. The study emphasizes the importance of active cooperation with international partners to ensure an effective fight against disinformation at the global level. Special attention is paid to the role of international organizations in the formation of a unified strategy for countering disinformation attacks. Prospects for attracting international support for the development of national information protection systems and Ukraine's participation in global information security initiatives are being considered. Proposed means of an effective policy of combating disinformation, which combine legislative, technical and educational measures. The methods of ensuring resistance to external information threats are characterized. Particular attention is paid to media literacy programs, which have become important elements of national strategies in the fight against fakes and disinformation attacks. The article considers the possibilities of implementing international experience in Ukraine with the aim of strengthening national information security. The expediency of developing complex programs, including the strengthening of modern means of monitoring the information space and raising the level of critical thinking among the population, is analyzed. Emphasis is placed on the need to create a national security strategy for combating disinformation, which will allow effective response to new threats and ensure information security in the conditions of modern warfare.

Система государственного управления как актор политики по обеспечению жизнеустойчивости страны (на материалах РФ и стран Запада)

This study draws conclusions from the analysis of the activities of governmental bodies and the public administration system in ensuring the resilience of the country. Resilience is understood as the state and capacity of society to counteract both external and internal threats without significant losses to the vitality and integrity of the nation. The viability of a country depends on a variety of conditions and factors that affect its existence and position at a particular time. The study reveals the management subjects and the mechanisms for implementing state policy. Systemic errors in the implementation of state policies aimed at ensuring national resilience are identified. Furthermore, ways for improving the public administration system as a mechanism that fosters the achievement of this goal are proposed. The main task of public policy for ensuring national resilience is the development of society and the overcoming of uncertainty and chaos in the relationships among individuals, society, and the state under the influence of both internal and external threats. “Freedom” as a systemic category characterizes the quantity and quality of connections among the elements of the system. It can be stated that the greater the freedom afforded to social systems – characterized by fewer moral, ethical, spiritual, legal, and other ties – the lower the level of security within such a society. In addressing the challenge of ensuring the resilience of the country, enhancing the effectiveness of the public administration system demands firm political decisions and operational management.

Ginsenoside Rk3 Treats Corneal Injury Through the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB Pathway.

The cornea serves as a vital protective shield for the eye, safeguarding its intricate internal structures from external threats. Damage to the cornea compromises this protective function, triggering inflammation and potentially causing long-term harm. While ginsenoside Rk3 has demonstrated potential for repairing the corneal barrier and reducing inflammation, its effectiveness in treating corneal damage remains relatively unexplored. This comprehensive study uses both in vivo and in vitro models to investigate the therapeutic capabilities of ginsenoside Rk3. Using two models of corneal damage, a benzalkonium chloride-induced mouse model and a high osmolarity-induced human corneal epithelial cell model, we scrutinized the effects of ginsenoside Rk3 treatment. Our results showed that ginsenoside Rk3-treated mice manifested reduced corneal damage and inflammation compared with their untreated counterparts. Furthermore, mice treated with ginsenoside Rk3 exhibited an organized arrangement of corneal cells and diminished stromal layer thickness, indicating reparative properties of ginsenoside Rk3. Additionally, ginsenoside Rk3 increased the expression of tight junction proteins, suppressed inflammatory factors, and decreased HMGB1 protein expression, thereby modulating downstream signaling pathways. Collectively, our findings present compelling evidence that ginsenoside Rk3 is a promising therapeutic option for corneal injury. By repairing the corneal barrier, mitigating inflammation, and modulating specific protein levels, ginsenoside Rk3 opens new avenues for managing corneal damage.

Jordan’s Strategic Alliance With the West to Protect the Hashemite Regime

Jordan’s strategic alliance with the Western countries was established at the same time as the establishment of the state. It was a survival tool for the Hashemite regime which was perceived in the West and the Middle East in particular as a weak and vulnerable regime. The internal and external threats, as well as the coup attempts, were many and therefore the regime had to create a defense alliance with a Western power. Naturally, Britain was the first security support for the Hashemite regime and as its position in the Middle East declined at the end of the 1950s, the United States replaced Britain and became the Western power that protected the Hashemite regime. This was due to its pro-Western policy. Jordan receives the largest foreign aid from America (after Israel), is involved in security projects, participates in training with the American army and with Western countries, and is a partner with them in the fight against global terrorism. However, it should be mentioned that Israel also took a significant part in the defense of the Hashemite regime and was involved, officially and unofficially, in a number of operations starting in the 1950s. At that time, Israel’s perception of security took shape, which saw the existence of the Hashemite regime in Jordan as an Israeli interest, and therefore did everything possible to prevent its fall.

«УЧРЕДИТЬ НА ЮЖНОМ БЕРЕГУ КРЫМСКОГО ПОЛУОСТРОВА В СЕЛЕНИИ ЯЛТАХ ТАМОЖЕННУЮ ЗАСТАВУ…»: К ИСТОРИИ СОЗДАНИЯ И ДЕЯТЕЛЬНОСТИ ЯЛТИНСКОЙ ТАМОЖНИ И ЮЖНОГО ОТРЯДА ТАВРИЧЕСКОЙ БРИГАДЫ ПОГРАНИЧНОЙ СТРАЖИ

The article examines the history of the creation and activities of the Yalta customs outpost (later the Yalta customs), which celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2024. Based on archival documents, some of which are being introduced into scientific circulation for the first time, as well as previously published statistical materials, collections of the customs department and other official publications of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Empire, the main stages of interaction between customs institutions, border and quarantine guard units operating in the Taurida province are determined in the 19th century. The work of these authorities in peacetime and the features of their functioning during the Crimean (Eastern) War of 1853–1856 and the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878 had been analyzed. Measures aimed at optimizing the work of these units in difficult conditions of combat operations and occupation of the Crimean Peninsula by the enemy had been studied. The specifics and sources of formation of personnel of the Yalta customs outpost, units of the Taurida border guard brigade, and quarantine guard units stationed in the province had been identified. It is concluded that the organization of customs, quarantine and border services on the territory of the Taurida province, namely, on the southern coast of Crimea in the 19th century was well thought out and fully consistent with local specifics, since the peninsula was not only the center of external and internal trade operations in the Northern Black Sea region, but also the most important region in geopolitical and strategic terms. Russia, which has repeatedly faced the need to eliminate external threats while simultaneously increasing its economic potential, has taken the necessary steps to ensure the normalization of the activities of customs institutions in the region.

Development of a Cloud Computing-Based Collaboration Information System

The rapid advancement of information and communication technology has created a demand for efficient and effective information systems to facilitate collaboration among institutions. This study develops a cloud computing-based collaboration information system designed to enhance real-time communication, data management, and collaboration among users. The system comprises key modules, including collaboration management, document management, and integrated collaboration features. Testing involved various scenarios with 10 to 100 active users simultaneously, revealing that the system maintained stable performance with response times under 3 seconds for each user request. Furthermore, security assessments utilizing encryption protocols and two-factor authentication confirmed that the managed data is protected from external threats. The findings underscore the system's potential to improve collaborative efficiency while ensuring data security, making it a valuable solution for future collaborative initiatives.

Denial-of-service attack (BH and PDA) effect analysis on AODV Routing Protocol with Random Mobility

Mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) has received significant attention in the research domain of routing protocol as they provide security to transmit the data at the destination node. Mobile ad hoc networks do not have a fixed infrastructure, and nodes have random mobility due to this network topology changing dynamically and it vulnerable to external threats. Block hole and packet dropping are well-known network layer Denial of service attacks. during the route, discovery phase malicious nodes work normally and it became the shortest path to route the data and after that, it will drop all the data instead of transferring the data to the destination and in case of the packet dropping attack node drop the packet due to the elfishness of a node, Lack of energy resources, Bandwidth consumed by the attacker node, Overflow of the transmission queue, Misbehavior of a malicious node, it will drop the packet in the network. In this paper, we analyze the impact of both attacks on the AODV routing protocol in the random mobility environments with the different simulation parameters. DOI: https://doi.org/10.52783/pst.922

Navigating New Waters: Russian Military Aggression on Ukraine and Effects on the Visegrad Group

In this article, the author examines the dynamic evolution of the Visegrad Group (V4) countries in response to Russia's war on Ukraine. Although V4 cooperation is deeply rooted in shared historical experiences, recent geopolitical challenges have revealed significant differences among member countries. Poland and the Czech Republic are strongly supportive of Ukraine and oriented towards NATO, while Hungary and Slovakia are more ambivalent, creating internal tensions. The author examines the factors that shape national identities and their influence on these divergent responses, highlighting that these factors have implications for the future of the V4 countries. The researcher used mixed methods to analyse official documents, political speeches and opinion poll data from the V4 countries, to examine the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on V4 unity and solidarity, and to consider the implications for the future of the V4 countries. The findings point to a fragile unity and growing concerns about the V4's ability to respond coherently to external threats.

Н.И. Воробьев и Центральный музей Татарской республики (1923–1930 гг.)

N.I. Vorobyev headed the TASSR Central Museum during the formation period of the new museum practices, when the right decisions came with experience and the main task was to develop a new structure of the institution. As the museum director, the young scholar dealt with a large number of administrative issues and difficulties, from budget and personnel shortage to elimination of external threats caused by the low level of security of museum collections. The acute shortage of funds was reflected in everything: the museum could not occupy all the areas allocated by the state, there were no more than three people in the staff of departments, the tasks of purchasing exhibits and planned acquisitions were barely fulfilled. However, at the same time, as part of preparation for exhibitions, ethnographic expeditions to many cantons of the republic were organised under the leadership of N. Vorobyev. During the expeditions, significant materials that document the culture and traditions of the peoples of the region, household items and crafts were collected, as well as a large number of photographs were taken. As a result of this work, the museum was able to adequately represent the Tatar Republic at large-scale All-Union exhibitions in Moscow in 1923 and 1927 and at the international exhibition in Paris in 1925. The public warmly welcomed the Tatrepublic sections at the exhibitions; upon the exhibitions closure, the objects replenished the museum funds. In conditions of limited funding, lack of space capacity and limited number of staff, under Vorobyev’s leadership, the museum laid down the functioning principles, which would serve as the basis of its work in the following decades. Combining museum work with his academic career, Nikolay Vorobyev left the museum during the period when full supervision of the state was being established over the institution. He left not just a museum, but also an academic institution where research work was constantly carried out.

There and Back Again: How UK–EU De‐Institutionalisation After Brexit Shaped Re‐Engagement After Ukraine

AbstractRussia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 disrupted the status quo of the European security order and brought about a re‐engagement in the UK–EU security relationship. However, co‐operation remains informal and ad hoc in ways that diverge from theoretical expectations of security co‐operation in the face of external threats. Applying insights from Historical Institutionalism and drawing on semi‐structured elite interviews with UK and EU officials from 2017 to 2023, our article explains why a shock as severe as the Russian invasion was not sufficient to bring about the wholesale renewal of UK–EU co‐operation. Our analysis demonstrates that the exogenous shock of conflict interacted with path‐dependent dynamics stemming from the Brexit process, shaping the institutional outcomes and limiting co‐operation in important ways. We show that co‐operation has intensified only when problematic Brexit legacies have been removed, arguing that UK–EU security re‐engagement represents a phased process rather than a linear one.

МНОГОУРОВНЕВАЯ СИСТЕМА ОБЕСПЕЧЕНИЯ ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКОЙ БЕЗОПАСНОСТИ

Economic security is an integral part of the overall security of the state. It is like the foundation on which the prosperity and stability of the country are built. Economic independence, sustainable development and the well-being of society directly depend on how well our economy is protected from internal and external threats. The efficiency of enterprises and organizations is also closely related to the level of economic security. The article highlights the close relationship between food and economic security of the state. The ability of the agro-industrial complex to provide the population with high-quality and affordable food directly affects the stability of the economy, social cohesion and political independence of the country. The authors note that the balance between domestic production and food imports plays a key role in ensuring food security and allows the state to effectively respond to external challenges.

СТРАТЕГІЧНИЙ АНАЛІЗ ПІДПРИЄМСТВА АГРАРНОГО СЕКТОРУ

With the development of the economy and constant changes in the external environment, it became more difficult for Ukrainian agricultural enterprises to conduct their activities, especially under the influence of two factors, namely the pandemic and the war. The Ukrainian economy, companies and population had not yet recovered from the consequences of COVID-19 when a full-scale invasion began, which forever changed the realities of both the agricultural sector and entrepreneurship. Global climate changes, international trade conditions, technological development and demographic changes were also important external factors, which created new challenges and opportunities for agricultural enterprises. In this context, there is a need to carry out their strategic analysis to determine competitiveness and develop effective development strategies. However, at the moment there is a need for a more detailed study of issues related to the analysis of internal and external factors, their interrelationship and influence on strategic decision-making in the agricultural sector. Thus, the problem that needs to be solved is the development of an integrated methodological approach for the strategic analysis of agricultural enterprises, which would take into account various aspects of their functioning and the impact of changes in the external environment. The article is devoted to a strategic analysis of the agricultural enterprise «Dekoplant». Based on the performed PEST and SWOT analyses, main threats, opportunities, strengths, and weaknesses of both the internal and external environments were identified. Among the identified threats and weaknesses are changes in trade policy conditions, national legislation, currency exchange rate fluctuations (USD and Euro), a weak development strategy, and ineffective marketing platforms. The opportunities and strengths encompass heightened quality and service level demands, high product quality, a diverse range of products, extensive experience, and a large customer base. The article highlights the significance of strategic analysis for efficient enterprise management and gaining competitive advantages. Additionally, top companies in Ukraine's agricultural sector were investigated to determine key industry trends and competitiveness. The analytical approach enables well-founded recommendations for optimizing the strategy of the «Dekoplant» enterprise considering the identified internal and external threats.

ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ВПРОВАДЖЕННЯ МОНІТОРИНГУ ПЕРСОНАЛУ НА СУЧАСНИХ ПІДПРИЄМСТВАХ

Businesses related to various niches and industries use employee monitoring to protect themselves from potential risks of data leakage and other external threats. Employee monitoring is a new strategy in today's business that is central to improving productivity and operational efficiency. The application of scientific methods of monitoring and analyzing the activities of employees in real time allows organizations to achieve a high level of accountability, optimal allocation of resources and making informed management decisions. Such a monitoring system contributes to the rise and development of the enterprise, creating a more productive and motivated work environment. The article examines the peculiarities of the implementation of employee monitoring as an important tool for ensuring the efficient operation of the enterprise, maintaining labor discipline and rational use of resources. Separate forms of monitoring that are used in practice are considered. Attention is focused on the legal aspects of the monitoring process, compliance with the needs of both employers and employees, in particular, taking into account the rights and privacy of the latter. In the modern conditions of business operation and development, employers have an interest in the most efficient use of their staff's working time. Time control is one way to achieve this. Controlling working hours can be efficient and beneficial for a company, but it can also raise certain ethical and legal issues. It is important that this control is carried out in compliance with all relevant legal requirements and taking into account the rights and interests of employees. Therefore, the employer must develop and implement internal regulatory documents that regulate monitoring procedures, as well as ensure that employees are informed about their rights and obligations in this process. This will avoid conflicts and ensure the legal purity of monitoring, maintaining a balance between the needs of the enterprise and the rights of employees. The choice of personnel monitoring and tracking tools is not limited to technical aspects, but includes the creation of a culture of trust and openness in the relationship between the employer and employees.