Geopolitical Factors Research Articles

Nepal’s Status‐Seeking Endeavors: Between Normative Convergence and Geopolitical Interests

Due to limited material and geopolitical factors, the agency of small states is limited in international politics. As such, these states may seek to mitigate such weaknesses through status-seeking, adopting peculiar foreign policy approaches or international commitments to signal to more powerful actors about specific political or normative affinities. In this article, the conceptual framework of social identity theory, specifically social mobility, is used to assess Nepal’s foreign policy choices. It is argued that Nepal pursues the identity management strategy of social mobility in the form of normative conformance with more powerful actors to reinforce its status in the international community but not necessarily to rise up in the hierarchy of states. Social mobility through normative conformance not only allows Nepal to elevate its status with higher-status groups like the EU, the UN, and US (which are the country’s primary development partners), but it also reinforces Nepal’s interest in maintaining (and if possible, expanding) its agency as a sovereign state which is constrained due to its geopolitical location in between much larger neighbors, India and China. Nepal’s normative convergence efforts are broadly categorized into two specific types of commitments: (a) multilateralism and (b) normative congruence with development partners. Both of these normative conformance approaches seek to emulate the values and practices of the higher-status group—the US, the UN, and the EU.

The Impact of Financial Support Mechanisms and Geopolitical Factors on the Profitability of Investments in Solar Power Plants in Slovenia

This article examines the impact of financial support mechanisms and geopolitical factors on the profitability of investments in solar power plants within Slovenia. The European Union’s energy policy prioritizes increases in renewable energy sources, aiming to reduce dependency on unstable and volatile fossil fuel markets. Solar power plants play a vital role in this transition. The energy policy framework also includes mechanisms and support systems to operate such facilities. This article analyzes electricity price trends over the past decade and addresses which support type—guaranteed purchase or operational support—has proven more profitable for investments in solar power plants up to 50 kW in Slovenia, considering economic and geopolitical influences on the electricity market. Although the global energy market has been affected by various significant events in recent years, it was found that the COVID-19 pandemic had minimal impact on the electricity market. In contrast, the onset of the conflict in Ukraine has contributed to rising electricity prices and has influenced the support dynamics essential for the development and sustainability of renewable energy systems. Analyses from the past decade indicate a higher return on investment in solar power plants when operational support mechanisms are chosen over guaranteed purchase support.

Assessing War Crimes Accountability Through Just War Theory: A Comparative Legal Analysis of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Abstract: With the great power games and the continued escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the international community has paid great attention to the issue of war crimes, prompting the war crimes accountability mechanism to become an important topic in the field of international law. This new type of war crimes accountability mechanism is an intertwining of the theory of just war and the applicability of international law, reflecting the complex global scrutiny of legal responsibility and moral constraints in conflicts under the current complex geopolitical factors. Against this backdrop, the International Criminal Court (ICC), national courts, and relevant institutions are attempting to build an effective accountability network to pursue war crimes through legal means. How to assess the accountability mechanism for war crimes through the just war theory and how the applicability of international law affects the justice of war will become an important factor in promoting universal adherence to international law and upholding the justice of war.

Research on Changes in International Energy Trade Pattern under the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

The impact of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine on world energy markets has received great attention. Some researchers have found that the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused an energy crisis to a certain extent. However, there is a lack of overview of the changes in the trade pattern and the scope of its impact. Therefore, through a comprehensive analysis of changes in policies and economic data, this study analyzes the different response measures taken by countries in different regions such as Europe and Asia to deal with the reduction in Russia's exports of major energy products and the fluctuations in international energy prices. This study also analyzes how the mutual sanctions between Russia and Western countries have contributed to the shift of Russia's energy export focus to the Asia-Pacific region and the diversification of Western countries' energy supply. Research results show that energy trade is at risk of being affected by geopolitical factors such as regional conflicts and mutual sanctions. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has strengthened the attention of countries on energy security issues. The research also highlights the implications for future policies and actions, providing an understanding of emerging trends in the future. Economically, this study, based on past data, emphasizes the inevitability of the Russia-Ukraine conflict affecting energy fluctuations and affirms that the Russia-Ukraine conflict is conducive to global new energy transformation and sustainable development in the long term.

Energy Citizenship in Energy Transition: The Case of the Baltic States

The governance of energy systems is undergoing a transformative shift, vital to advancing the energy transition. Understanding the dynamics of energy citizenship and the factors that influence citizen engagement in energy matters is critical for driving social and institutional change. This paper informs on the key results of a comprehensive analysis of 54 energy citizenship cases in the Baltic states (Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania). The study explores the role of citizens in the energy transition and characterizes the socio-economic and geopolitical factors shaping energy citizenship activities in the region. The governance of energy systems represents a significant transformational shift that is essential for energy transition. A more comprehensive understanding of the current state of energy citizenship and the factors influencing the energy transition process could inform the social and institutional changes necessary for the involvement of citizens in energy matters. This desk study represents a crucial element of the EU Horizon 2000 EnergyPROSPECTS project, which aims to map the landscape of energy citizenship in Europe. This paper presents an in-depth analysis of 54 cases from the Baltic states. The findings provide insight into the role of citizens in the transition process and the underlying factors and conditions that shape energy citizenship activities within the specific socio-economic and geopolitical context of the region. In general, energy citizenship in the Baltic states can be seen to exist on a spectrum between reformative and transformative practices. Overall, progress is being made toward systemic changes in the energy sector, with a focus on the democratization of processes. Nevertheless, additional measures to enhance and reinforce energy citizenship, coupled with the advancement of enabling conditions, are imperative at all levels of governance and across all energy transition scenarios.

Motivations of Israeli physicians to return, or not, to Israel after their fellowship abroad.

Emigration of healthcare professionals, particularly physicians, is an unresolved "pandemic", influenced by various factors. In high-income countries, the training phase (fellowship) abroad is critical for career development, yet it poses challenges for the retention of these professionals upon their completion of training. This study aimed to identify the determinants influencing Israeli physicians' decisions to return to their home country after completing fellowship training abroad. This cross-sectional study conducted in early 2024, surveyed Israeli physicians with post-graduate training who pursued a fellowship abroad between 2013 and 2024. An anonymous survey included questions on demographics, training experience, and professional challenges. Analytical methods included descriptive statistics and regression analysis to explore factors associated with the decision to return. Of the 323 individuals surveyed, 297 met the inclusion criteria. Among them, 141 (47.5%) have returned to Israel, while 156 (52.5%) currently reside abroad, 48 (31%) of them have completed their fellowship. Respondents identified several challenges, beginning with a complex application process prior to fellowship (47% stated this as a major challenge), substantial financial burdens averaging 35,546 USD in direct out-of-pocket expenses during, and job uncertainty, with only 55% having secured positions upon return. Of the 156 Israeli fellows still abroad, 107 (69%) reported medium to low confidence in returning. Factors associated with a higher likelihood of confidence in returning to Israel included a secured job position upon return (OR 8.6, 95% CI 3.1-28.9) and having an opportunity for a position that would utilize the skills gained during the fellowship (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.3-10.2). The decision to return to Israel after a fellowship abroad is influenced by a mix of professional, personal, and geopolitical factors. To counteract the critical issue of brain drain, it is essential to enhance occupational certainty for returning physicians. These findings highlight the urgent need for healthcare policies that provide robust support for returning professionals and address their specific challenges.

The Way Forward in the Energy Transition; Good Practices and Challenges at Wageningen University & Research

Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to changes in energy used in buildings is the most successful part of Wageningen University & Research’s (WUR) climate policy. In this article the authors evaluate sustainable energy measures and identify key success factors, based on internal documents, discussions with stakeholders, and relevant literature. The role of government and stakeholders has been important, as were the technical possibilities to take a major step with constructing the heat and cold storage on campus. Geopolitical factors also played a role, in particular the war in Ukraine, which increased energy prices, acutely reinforcing the need for energy savings. In addition to saving energy, WUR aims to contribute to the energy transition by generating green electricity with wind turbines and solar panels. Furthermore, electricity used from the grid is offset with wind energy through Dutch guarantees of origin (GVOs), allowing us to offset GHG emissions for electricity at zero. Yet, there are other reasons to save as much as possible on electricity use. In addition to environmental considerations, congestion of the electricity grid plays a role, which is largely associated with the energy transition. Looking ahead, we describe further potential energy reduction opportunities and related challenges. As described in the Rough Outline of WUR Energy Transition 2050 [1], WUR provides clear targets and possible sets of measures to achieve these targets. Challenges include the uncertainty surrounding technological solutions and the availability of funding. We recently expanded our carbon footprint to include Scope 3 emissions of purchased goods and services. An additional challenge is the reduction of implicit energy use through the purchasing chain.

ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF THE POLISH-UKRAINIAN BORDER CONFLICT ON THE EXPORT AND IMPORT ACTIVITIES OF ENTERPRISES

The article focuses on the Polish-Ukrainian border conflict, which has become a focal point of geopolitical tension. The consequences of this conflict extend beyond the political realm and impact the export-import activities of enterprises. The blockades are being implemented in six of the nine directions along the border between Poland and Ukraine, which is a key factor in deepening the crisis. This study aims to comprehensively analyse the multifaceted impact of the conflict on trade dynamics, regulatory changes, operational challenges faced by businesses, and potential strategies adopted to overcome these difficulties. This study uses a mix of methods, such as in-depth interviews with key stakeholders and statistical analysis of trade data from the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, to find out how geopolitical factors, trade policy, and business operations are all connected in complex ways. By shedding light on the complex relationship between border conflict and export-import activity, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and researchers grappling with the effects of geopolitical tensions on international trade.

Trade facilitation, market size, and supply chain efficiency of Taiwan semiconductor companies.

In an environment marked by global economic volatility and geopolitical uncertainties, the stability of Taiwan's supply chain takes on heightened importance, particularly given Taiwan's crucial role in the global semiconductor supply chain. In recent years, semiconductor companies in Taiwan have faced increasing inventory pressures, which will reduce their competitiveness and increase operational costs over the long term. Although previous studies have explored the influence of trade facilitation on macroeconomic and trade efficiencies, its specific impacts on the semiconductor industry have been less frequently addressed. This study integrates corporate inventory, trade facilitation, and geopolitical factors within a unified analytical framework to construct a model that explores mediating and moderating effects. This study conducted regression analysis on data from 52 Taiwan-listed integrated circuit companies from 2014 to 2022. Contrary to traditional findings that trade facilitation decreases inventory in other industries, it predominantly fosters inventory accumulation within Taiwan's semiconductor sector by expanding market size, thereby affecting supply chain efficiency. Moreover, geopolitical factors were found to intensify the effects of trade facilitation on corporate inventory. Elevated geopolitical risks lead to greater inventory accumulation, which ultimately threatens long-term competitiveness and diminishes the semiconductor industry's advantage in Taiwan, further influencing supply chain efficiency. Consequently, this study recommends that to more accurately forecast market size, semiconductor companies in Taiwan are encouraged to expand their manufacturing investments in Chinese mainland. Additionally, the prudent handling of cross-strait relations by the Taiwan authorities is an important strategy to mitigate geopolitical risks affecting the semiconductor supply chain.

A Study on the Activating Tradition and the Will to Practice in the LiuTao

LiuTao is one of the WuJingQiShu compiled during the Yuanfeng reign of Emperor Shenzong of the late BeiSong Dynasty (1078-1085), which delineated the vertical and horizontal aspects of East Asian military science. Throughout the history of East Asia in this period, library science and bibliography, as official books, formed a huge collection. At the end of the reign of Emperor Shenzong, due to the failure and death of WangAnshi's reform, this was a historical period that could predict the trend of imperial power in the reigns of Emperor Zhezong and Emperor Huizong for more than 40 years. It also foreshadowed a large-scale war, as the capital of the BeiSong Dynasty was relocated to Hangzhou in the NanSong Dynasty (today) due to political struggles and chaos during the war. In addition, the political, social, historical, religious, linguistic, artistic and other cultural areas in this period, in addition to the geopolitical factors in East Asia, also through the textual research of various scholars in the ChunQiuZhanGuo periods, indicate the areas where ancient customs [易俗] can change the development of knowledge and information in the Middle Ages. The distribution and staging of the gains and losses in history, regional, and sociology during the ChunQiuZhanGuo periods have played a role in the development of human civilization and the spirit of war and political humanism in the common track. This is both an economic and moral, legal and educational issue, and also lies in rediscovering the ‘TaoHai (韬海)’ of hegemonic victory to inquiry the Probability variable. In order to investigate the outcome of the ‘Wuyi (无疑)’ military expert hegemony, specifically criticized the traditional activation of military politics based on probability variables and the differences in mercenary techniques and utilitarian positions reflected in the outbreak of war.

Selective separation and recovery of rare-earth elements (REEs) from acidic solutions and coal fly ash leachate by novel TODGA-Impregnated organosilica media

Rare-earth elements (REEs) are essential in a wide range of applications including magnets and satellite technology, with demand driven by geopolitical factors. While multiple techniques exist for REE recovery including solvent extraction and selective precipitation, solid–liquid extraction offers key advantages in selectivity, scalability, and recyclability. N, N, N′, N′-tetraoctyl diglycolamide (TODGA) is a tridentate ligand widely used in solvent extraction, but the incorporation in a solid support to separate individual lanthanides from acid solutions remains largely unexplored. A novel TODGA-organosilica sorbent material was developed and tested to evaluate recovery of 17 elements (REEs and thorium) in terms of selectivity, kinetics, and equilibrium isotherms in 0.01 to 15.9 M nitric acid. Characterization of the new sorbent was performed before and after sorption using FTIR, XPS, and SSA techniques to help elucidate sorption mechanisms and limiting variables. REE adsorption increased from 1.26 mg g−1 to 10 mg g−1 with nitric acid concentrations of 0.01 M and 15.9 M, respectively. TODGA-organosilica exhibits high selectivity towards heavy REEs (Dy to Lu), with minimal sorption of lighter REEs (Ce to Gd). Batch adsorption experiments confirm pseudo-second-order kinetics and a Langmuir adsorption isotherm with TODGA binding to REEs in a 3:1 complex. A packed bed column study confirmed the high selectivity of TODGA-impregnated organosilica towards heavy REEs and a proof-of concept experiment with coal fly ash leachate shows high selectivity for REEs over Al, Fe, and Ca present in several orders of magnitude higher concentrations. Fractionation was observed where loading cycle effluent contained 84 % light REEs while strip cycle effluent contained 80 % heavy REEs. More than 90 % of loaded REEs were successfully stripped with water as the stripping agent.

GEOPOLITICS IN SCHOOL EDUCATION: ASSESSING THE PERCEPTION OF KEY ASPECTS BY SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN KAZAKHSTAN

This article analyzes the section “Geopolitics” in school geography curricula in Kazakhstan and assesses the level of knowledge and perceptions of secondary school students on this topic. To collect data to determine the degree of assimilation of geopolitical concepts, a survey method was used. The authors set the goal of analyzing the content of educational materials, developing a survey instrument, conducting a survey and analyzing the data obtained to identify the level of knowledge and awareness of students. The study found that most students demonstrate a good understanding of geopolitical concepts and are able to analyze world problems by relating them to geopolitical factors. However, some students have an incomplete understanding of geopolitics, which may be due to lack of clarity in teaching materials or lack of interest. Overall, the authors conclude that the study of geopolitics in the school curriculum contributes to the formation of a deep understanding of global issues and analytical skills of students, but requires additional effort to improve the effectiveness of learning. In addition, the study found that geopolitics receives full coverage in the curriculum for grades 10-11. However, the main question remains how students perceive this concept upon completion of studying the section, how much they understand the essence of world problems and assess current global trends in the field of geopolitics of the world and Kazakhstan.

Управление основными производственными средствами предприятия в условиях изменчивой внешней среды

The study of strategies for managing the main production facilities of an enterprise in conditions of geopolitical instability and the introduction of mutual sanctions is an urgent topic, since effective management of production resources of organizations of any type of activity is critical for their successful functioning. Geopolitical factors and sanctions can seriously affect the availability and cost of production facilities, as well as their operating conditions, which requires the development of adequate management strategies to ensure the sustainability of production processes and minimize negative consequences. In this regard, the strategies formulated in the article for managing the main production facilities of the enterprise are of significant scientific interest and practical importance for the business community.

Emerging Technologies for Precision Supply Chain Management

The global business landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the convergence of rapid technological advancements and an increasingly complex geopolitical environment. This research explores the strategic implications of this convergence for precision supply chain management. By examining the interplay between emerging technologies like AI, automation, and blockchain, and geopolitical factors such as trade policies and regional instability, this study offers insights into how businesses can navigate this dynamic landscape. The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating historical analysis, in-depth case studies, and speculative scenarios to illuminate the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating advanced technologies within a globalized LSCM (Logistics and Supply Chain Management) context. The findings underscore the transformative potential of technology in enhancing efficiency and optimization, while also highlighting the critical role of geopolitical considerations in shaping LSCM strategies. The research concludes with actionable recommendations for businesses, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach that balances technological innovation with geopolitical awareness to achieve precision, resilience, and sustainable growth in an ever-evolving global marketplace.

Mineral policy and sustainable development goals: Volatility forecasting in the Global South's minerals market

This paper aims to evaluate the volatility of precious metals, specifically Palladium, Gold, and Platinum, within the context of the global minerals market. The research focuses on understanding the price dynamics of these metals and their implications for sustainable development, particularly in the Global South. The study employs a comprehensive approach, utilizing advanced machine learning and deep learning models such as GRU, Huber, Lasso, LSTM, Random Forest, Ridge Regression, SVM, ANN, and XGBoost. These models are assessed based on their forecasting accuracy for different time horizons, using metrics such as RMSE and MAPE. The findings reveal that the ANN, XGBoost, and LSTM models exhibit robust performance in forecasting the volatility of precious metals across various time horizons. The research highlights the unique volatility patterns of each metal and underscores the effectiveness of machine learning techniques in capturing these dynamics. The study acknowledges limitations such as the exclusion of macroeconomic and geopolitical factors in the forecasting models. Future research is suggested to integrate these factors to enhance forecasting accuracy. The study's findings are pivotal for investors, policymakers, and market regulators, especially in the context of the Global South and sustainable development. The research offers valuable insights for risk management strategies, investment planning, and policy formulation aimed at promoting market stability and sustainable economic growth. The study emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate forecasting models based on specific time horizons and market requirements.

Perspectives and challenges for the development of leadership in Latin American women

Throughout history, women have faced diverse Challenges and played multiple roles in society. Today, the pursuit of equality in all economic sectors continues, with Women striving to establish themselves as leaders in areas such as the productive sector, politics, and science. This transition has been characterized by constant changes and persistent challenges. This article explores the development of leadership and emotional intelligence in Latin American women, analyzing various perspectives and associated challenges. It addresses the barriers they face in developing leadership skills, as well as the need to improve their emotional intelligence to seize opportunities, develop and execute strategies, and overcome these barriers and challenges. Leadership among Latin American women is a complex and multifaceted topic that requires recognition of the influence of cultural, social, and geopolitical factors that are constantly changing globally. These factors impact women’s leadership in the region, perpetuating structural and systemic barriers such as gender discrimination, lack of access to educational resources, limitations in professional development, and socioeconomic factors such as poverty and inequality. These conditions have hindered the full development of women in the public and professional spheres. To promote female leadership, programs and policies are needed that promote gender equality through organizational and governmental practices that empower women and encourage their participation in leadership roles and decision-making.

The Ethiopian State, Foreign Policy and Participation in International Peacekeeping: Continuities and Changes

Abstract This article examines the continuities and changes in Ethiopian peacekeeping practices since its inception in the early 1950s to the present. It focuses on how international operations have interacted with historical, structural and ideational factors to shape Ethiopia’s involvement. Drawing on archival sources, policy papers, and media material as well as interviews with officials in Ethiopia, it singles out four distinct periods that have influenced Ethiopia’s participation in peacekeeping mission. It shows that all were characterised by the interplay between geopolitical factors, regional developments in Africa and domestic political changes. By identifying the major shifts in Ethiopia’s foreign policy orientation and involvement in peacekeeping, the article seeks to explains the rise of Ethiopia’s as a major actor in international peacekeeping since the early 2000s. It concludes by highlighting uncertainties facing Ethiopian peacekeeping due to regional complexities and political constraints resulting from internal conflicts.

The transition to nuclear energy in Bangladesh: The interplay between climate-related urgency and geopolitical factors

One of the significant issues in contemporary international politics is to examine the contexts of energy usage of different countries, keeping in mind the looming climate threat. Energy transition not only highlights the central role of energy usage but also exposes the vulnerability caused by it. Given the context, Bangladesh has adopted nuclear technology to meet its economic demand and environmental requirements. As a middle-income country, eyeing to graduate to a developing nation by 2041, its choice of exploring nuclear energy has exposed the country to the question of the rationality of the decision. Nuclear energy has a distinguished history that accommodates several debates about its safety and sustainability. Though many developed countries are planning for a nuclear phase-out, Bangladesh’s decision merits attention and explanation to embrace such a stand. Often, the economic priorities have been attached to Bangladesh’s decision for the energy transition, while the discussion about nuclear energy in Bangladesh ignores the geopolitical purposes and international political agenda. This paper, therefore, aims to explore the internal and external climate-related urgency, and geopolitical concerns responsible for such a transition, which have remained unexplored in the existing literature.

Trends and Risks in Mergers and Acquisitions: A Review

This study examines risk factors in mergers and acquisitions (M&As) identified in the recent literature, addressing the following question: “What risk factors associated with M&A transactions are discussed in the recent academic literature?” A semi-systematic literature review was conducted using a comprehensive search strategy with targeted keywords related to M&A risks. Papers from 2020 to 2024 were selected based on quality and relevance, with detailed review of abstracts and titles. Co-occurrence analysis using VOSviewer software (version 1.6.20) was applied to categorize key themes. The review of 118 papers identified four main risk categories: information asymmetry; performance and corporate reputation; litigation and investor protection; and geopolitical factors. Findings reveal complex interdependencies among these risks, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to risk management. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is crucial for mitigating risks, improving transparency, and enhancing reputation. This study offers recommendations for better financial disclosures, robust environmental, social and governance strategies, and the integration of digital finance technologies as blockchain in M&A activity. Future research should include longitudinal studies on M&A risk dynamics, case studies on corporate governance, advanced valuation methods, and comparative analyses across regions and industries, focusing on emerging technologies like AI and blockchain.

Assessing Decarbonization Approaches across Major Economies

The global energy transition is an uneven process, fundamentally related to the level of economic development of countries and their access to energy resources (renewable and non-renewable) to a large extent. The global climate is interconnected, and all nations impact it through their products and services. The six countries discussed—China, Brazil, Germany, Japan, Russia, and India—account for 44.8% of global primary energy consumption and 49% of global CO2 emissions. Each of them has its own strategy for achieving carbon neutrality, based on different decarbonization scenarios, which, according to the authors, depend on geopolitical factors, national economy characteristics, and the established pragmatic goals and objectives. However, the “green agenda” itself may not always be among the top priorities when formulating energy strategies. The study objective is to analyze the feasibility of the stated goals in these countries using a combined logistic curve-based forecasting tool for predicting solar and wind production as well as investment volumes. It aims to justify the relation between solar and wind energy production and investment policies using a calculated technological coefficient. Results show similar, but time-shifted fluctuating investment dynamics in solar and wind energy trends in Japan, Germany and China, with Germany and Japan outperforming investment forecasts when considering the technology efficiency coefficient. Furthermore, the findings highlight the overwhelming appreciation of the unevenness of the green transition process, which will consequently make it impossible to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement until 2050. Taking these factors into consideration, exploratory decarbonization scenarios for these six major world economies alongside two dimensions, namely, the pace of green transition versus green technology and versus resources, are presented.