Security Landscape Research Articles

Beyond Solitary Reliance on the Namibian Police Force in Preserving Internal Security

ABSTRACT This study underscores that while the Namibian Constitution designates the Namibian Police Force (NamPol) as the authority responsible for preserving internal security, it acknowledges that addressing the multifaceted factors that impede the realisation of internal security requires other stakeholders' involvement. The analysis of participants' views and a thorough review of the current security landscape have shed light on the complexities and challenges faced by NamPol in its sole responsibility for maintaining internal security. Employing an exploratory qualitative approach, I conducted non-probability purposeful sampling, engaging in face-to-face and semi-structured interviews with a diverse pool of 20 participants, including police, military, correctional officers, municipal police, and personnel from legal assistance and NamRights. Thematic analysis was the chosen methodology, guided by a fundamental query: should the responsibility of preserving internal security be entrusted to the police alone or should countries consider moving beyond solitary reliance on the police?. The prevailing conditions emphasise the need for a collaborative approach to address these multifaceted challenges effectively. This is based on the limitations of the police force in addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, social issues, and porous borders. While the police play a crucial role, it is evident that their capabilities are insufficient to comprehensively address these complex issues. The findings suggest that NamPol's constitutional mandate, as stipulated in Article 118 of Namibian Constitution Third Amendment Act, 2014 (Act No. 8 of 2014), should be amended to incorporate the involvement of other stakeholders in the preservation of internal security.

PROSPECTS FOR THE INTEGRATION OF UKRAINE'S NATIONAL SECURITY MECHANISMS WITH THE COLLECTIVE SECURITY SYSTEMS OF THE EU AND NATO

This article examines the prospects for integrating Ukraine's national security mechanisms with the collective security systems of the European Union and NATO. The study addresses the current challenges and opportunities arising from Ukraine's efforts to align its national security policy with the standards and requirements of international security organizations. The analysis underscores the significance of this integration in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions and the necessity for enhanced cooperation in safeguarding national and regional security. Utilizing a qualitative research methodology, the article employs a comprehensive literature review, analyzing existing frameworks, policies, and strategic documents relevant to Ukraine's security landscape. Comparative analysis is also applied to assess the effectiveness of Ukraine's security initiatives against those of EU and NATO member states, identifying best practices that can be adapted to the Ukrainian context. The findings reveal critical areas of cooperation, including military interoperability, intelligence sharing, and joint training exercises, which are essential for strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities. The article further explores the legal, institutional, and operational frameworks necessary for harmonizing Ukraine's security strategies with those of its partners, emphasizing the importance of aligning legislative measures and defense policies with EU and NATO standards. In conclusion, the article advocates for a strategic approach to integration that prioritizes resilience and adaptability within Ukraine's national security mechanisms. By enhancing collaboration with EU and NATO, Ukraine can bolster its security architecture, thereby contributing to regional stability and collective defense initiatives. The recommendations presented aim to guide policymakers in implementing effective strategies for fostering greater alignment with international security frameworks, ensuring a robust response to evolving threats in the region. Through these measures, Ukraine can not only advance its national security objectives but also play a pivotal role in the broader European security landscape.

Geopolitical Competition Between India and China in the Indian Ocean Region: The Case of Myanmar

The 21st century has witnessed an intensification of the strategic rivalry between India and China, particularly in the Indian Ocean region, stemming from long-standing historical contradictions over border disputes and the competition for control over vital maritime trade routes crisscrossing the ocean. This rivalry has profoundly impacted the political and security landscape of countries within the region. Myanmar, being a pivotal geo-strategic location bordering both these powers, has emerged as a crucible for this competitive dynamic, wherein India and China are vying for influence and strategic leverage. This paper seeks to elucidate the nuanced position, role, and extent of competition between India and China in Myanmar. It delves into the multifaceted nature of this rivalry, encompassing not only geopolitical considerations but also economic interests and ideological underpinnings. The analysis underscores how the contradictions, conflicts, and divergent political-economic calculations of these two influential powers in the Indian Ocean region have manifested in a complex web of geopolitical competition within Myanmar. Through a rigorous examination of the historical context, contemporary developments, and the interplay of various factors shaping this dynamic, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying drivers, strategies, and potential implications of India and China's competitive engagement in Myanmar. Ultimately, it concludes that the persistent tensions and power projections by these two major powers in the Indian Ocean have inevitably spilled over into the realm of Myanmar, rendering it a pivotal battleground for their strategic aspirations and regional influence. Received: 18 June 2024 / Accepted: 31 October 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024

Building an Impenetrable Vault: Advanced Cybersecurity Strategies for Database Servers

Organizations are relying more on database servers as storage for important information. This makes it imperative for strong measures against cyber-attack to safeguard sensitive data. The study focusses on some advanced ways of protecting database servers from cyber-crime and these are: SQL injection prevention, role-based access control, data encryption techniques, and insider threat mitigation. It also looks into the latest developments in the area such as machine learning based abnormality detection, Zero Trust architecture, and multi-factor authentication. Such practices make it possible to establish a multi-layered defensive mechanism that enhances data protection by considering the outside as well as inside dangers. Besides compliance with regulations, maintaining visibility and patch management is vital so as to remain ahead of changing cyberspace dangers. Therefore, this research presents an array of recommendations to address the entire security landscape for resilient database platforms against sophisticated assaults. The conclusions point out that there is need to amalgamate these practices towards ensuring safety in terms of risks related with contemporary database server setups. Key Words: Database Security, SQL Injection, Role-Based Access Control, Data Encryption, Insider Threat, Zero Trust Architecture.

Organizing for future war and warfare: Complexity as ‘folk theory’ in NATO policy

Geopolitical and societal changes are increasingly narrated using the concept of complexity. In a range of policy contexts, from climate to finance and peacekeeping to defence and security, complexity is often prominent. This article explores the contemporary expressions of complexity in defence and security scholarship and policy. To understand the expressions of complexity, we view it as a ‘folk theory’ – what others have called a category of practice. We illustrate how this folk theory has gained prominence in NATO policy regarding the organizing of future war and warfare as one example of a policy context in which expressions of complexity are produced and promoted. Specifically, we examine NATO’s future warfighting concept – multi-domain operations – and explore how the concept offers a way and a new language to make sense of an uncertain future and make it governable from the present. We discuss some consequences of a ‘folk theory’ becoming the explanation rather than one of many explanations of the future defence and security landscape. As a representative of folk theory, complexity offers a strong performative master narrative for a variety of orientations, yet one whose practical relevance for the organization of security can be questioned.

SYNERGY IN SECURITY: EVALUATING THE EFFICACY OF COLLABORATIVE STRATEGIES EMPLOYED BY THE ARMED FORCES OF NIGERIA IN COUNTERING VIOLENT EXTREMISM

In the face of evolving security threats, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) stand at a critical juncture, where the echoes of gunfire meet the whispers of diplomacy. This study delves into the heart of Nigeria's counter-extremism efforts, examining the AFN's journey from traditional military approaches to a symphony of collaborative strategies. Through an extensive literature review, the study unravels the tapestry of stakeholder engagement woven by the AFN in their quest to combat violent extremism. This research navigates the complex terrain of Nigeria's security landscape, exploring how the AFN has transformed from a lone sentinel to a conductor of a diverse orchestra of stakeholders. It analyses key initiatives such as the National Security Strategy and the National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, viewing them as scores that guide this intricate performance of national security. The study reveals a narrative of progress punctuated by persistent challenges. It found that while the AFN has successfully harmonized efforts with civil society, religious leaders, and international partners, discordant notes of mistrust and resource constraints continue to resonate. The analysis uncovers the delicate balance the AFN must maintain – striking a chord between military might and community engagement, between national sovereignty and international collaboration. Emerging from our review is a portrait of an armed force in transition, learning to wield soft power alongside hard power. The study identifies innovative practices where the AFN has successfully bridged divides, creating unexpected alliances in the fight against extremism. However, we also highlight the unfinished symphony – areas where the collaboration falls short of its potential. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on military transformation in the face of asymmetric threats. By examining the AFN's collaborative strategies, it provides insights applicable not only to Nigeria but to armed forces globally grappling with similar security challenges. As the AFN continues to compose its response to violent extremism, this research offers both a reflection on its current performance and a prelude to future harmonies in national security efforts.

The History, Landscape, and Outlook of Human Cell Line Authentication and Security

The History, Landscape, and Outlook of Human Cell Line Authentication and Security

Harnessing big data for national security: A review of information systems and emerging technologies in the U.S

The rapid growth of big data and emerging technologies has fundamentally transformed the national security landscape, enabling governments to leverage vast amounts of information for decision-making, threat detection, and operational effectiveness. This review explores the integration of big data analytics into U.S. national security systems, focusing on the technological innovations that facilitate real-time data processing, secure communications, and predictive analytics. Key emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things, are evaluated for their role in enhancing intelligence gathering, cybersecurity, and surveillance operations. Furthermore, the paper examines the foundational principles of big data in national security, detailing its data sources, types, and uses in both structured and unstructured forms. While these advancements present significant opportunities, they also pose challenges related to privacy, ethics, policy, and legal frameworks, which are critical for ensuring that the implementation of such technologies aligns with democratic values and security objectives. The paper concludes by highlighting future research directions, emphasizing the need for continued development in big data infrastructure, governance, and ethical considerations to fully harness its potential in protecting national interests.

Current Trends in ICT Security: A Comprehensive Overview of Machine Learning and Soft Computing Applications

In an era marked by pervasive digitization, information and communication technology (ICT) security stands as a cornerstone of our digital infrastructure. The rapid evolution of cyber threats necessitates equally agile defence mechanisms. This research paper provides a comprehensive overview of the contemporary landscape of ICT security with a specific focus on the emergent trends in machine learning (ML) and soft computing (SC) applications. The paper commences by outlining the escalating challenges posed by cyber adversaries, underlining the inadequacy of traditional security paradigms in contending with the intricacies of modern-day attacks. This backdrop emphasizes the need for innovative, adaptable, and intelligent approaches to bolster ICT security.

The Impact of AI on Secure Cloud Computing: Opportunities and Challenges

This paper explores the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, focusing on the security implications. As cloud computing becomes increasingly ubiquitous, the integration of AI presents both opportunities and challenges. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of how AI can enhance cloud security, the potential risks associated with AI deployment in the cloud, and the future landscape of AI-driven cloud security. Key topics include AI's role in threat detection, data protection, access management, and the challenges related to AI bias, interpretability, and adversarial attacks.

The Effects of Identity Politics on Security in Baringo County, Kenya

Identity politics have been found to create divisions in societies with multiple ethnic communities due to varied cultural and ethnic dynamics leading to insecurity. Baringo County, situated in Kenya's North Rift Valley region, h hosts different ethnic communities and has historically grappled with protracted conflicts. However, there has been limited research exploring the effects of identity politics and the county's security landscape. This study sought to investigate the effect of identity politics on security in Baringo County. This study employed a descriptive survey design utilizing a mixed methods approach for data collection. The target population was comprised residents of Baringo County who had resided there for at least ten years. The findings from the two sets of tools were triangulated to obtain a thick description on the relationship between cultural dynamic and security. This study found that, identity politics had negative effects on security in Baringo County, Kenya manifested four pathways which were: fragmentation and polarization of communities, conflict and violence between communities, radicalization and extremism community members and diversion of resources from the localities. The findings demonstrated that these aspects mutually reinforced each other creating an environment of hostilities that led to violent conflicts. Therefore, rather than unite to fight challenges faced in development, identity politics created fissures whose end result is insecurity thus denying residents peace. To enhance peaceful coexistence there is need to address the underlying issues that that encouraged ethnic diversionary politics and instead embrace inclusivity to enhance unity in the region.

Fragile Geographies and the Climate-Conflict Nexus: Investigating Climate-Induced Security Risks, Migration, and Inequality in Balochistan, Pakistan

Although climate change has been recognized as a “threat multiplier,” its specific effects on conflict-affected areas remain underexplored. This study investigates the nexus between climate change and violent conflict within the “fragile geography” of Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province. Balochistan’s increasingly fragmented security landscape and recurring natural disasters, notably the 2022 floods, provide a pertinent background for examining the interplay between climate change and violent conflict. A qualitative approach was employed, whereby interviews and group discussions were conducted in two Balochistan districts. The analysis revealed that weak institutional capacity, deep-rooted socioeconomic and political inequalities, and notably, “migration patterns” are critical variables influencing the dynamic interplay between climate change and violent conflict in the region. By analyzing the vulnerabilities inherent in Balochistan’s diverse physiography, this study illuminates how climate change exacerbates violent conflict in a region already beset by instability, highlighting the urgent need for a more nuanced understanding to address these complex challenges.

Opto/Thermoresponsive Multimode Luminescence in Eu- and Er-Activated CaF2 Phosphor for High-Security Anticounterfeiting.

As the landscape of information storage and security continues to evolve, the deployment of sophisticated anticounterfeiting strategies with robust security features and multimodal luminescent capabilities becomes imperative. In this work, Eu3+ and Er3+ ions are codoped into CaF2 phosphors to achieve multimodel optical output. The self-reduction of Eu3+ within the CaF2 matrix gives rise to the coexistence of Eu3+ and Eu2+ ions, which manifests as a color transition from orange to blue as the excitation wavelength is varied from 300 to 335 nm. Moreover, the distinct temperature-dependent behaviors of Eu3+ and Eu2+ ions underscore the material's visible temperature-sensitive luminescence properties, characterized by remarkable thermal sensitivity (Sa = 0.0156 K-1, Sr = 0.83%K-1). Additionally, the strategic introduction of Er3+ ions adds an extra dimension, enabling the realization of color-tunable upconversion luminescence through the fine-tuning of Er3+ concentration. This synergistic integration culminates in the establishment of an efficient three-path authentication model within the CaF2 host matrix, facilitating a dynamic multicolor response to changes in the excitation wavelength and temperature. By harnessing these diverse luminescent modalities, the study delivers a versatile and potent anticounterfeiting solution, advancing the frontiers of information security.

Navigating uncharted waters: Legal challenges and the future of unmanned underwater vehicles in maritime military cyber operations

The evolving landscape of maritime security is increasingly shaped by the integration of cyber technologies into naval operations, posing complex legal challenges under international maritime law. This paper examines the 2016 Bowditch incident, in which a U.S. Navy Unmanned Underwater Vehicle was detained by the Chinese navy, as a case study for comprehending the legal implications of maritime military cyber operations. The research delves into the ambiguous legal standing of unmanned underwater vehicles and their activities, particularly within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Through a detailed analysis of the incident, this study identifies significant gaps in existing legal frameworks and advocates for the urgent need to augment international law to adequately address the emergence of cyber technologies in maritime military operations. The findings underscore the crucial role of international consensus in defining the legal status of unmanned maritime systems and the norms governing maritime military cyber operations, essential for upholding global maritime security and stability.

Imperatives of economic nature that have a negative impact on the legal provision of national security

The study represents the effort of applying neo-realism paradigm to the analysis of economic security factor in the system of national security and its legislative framing in various countries in regional view. Along with overall trends in global landscape of economic security, the cases of Pakistan, UK, USA, Australia, and China are considered. The article can serve as a methodological basis for subsequent scientific research in this area.

Causes and consequences of intellectual migration of human capital in the context of national security: Public administrative aspect

The article considers theoretical and practical approaches to processes of the international intellectual migration and investigates modern processes of this phenomenon, their feature, the precondition and the reason at the present. The special attention is given to the role of intellectual migration of human capital on the landscape of national security of countries. It is shown that although the problem of intellectual migration of human capital, “brain drain”, previously attracted economists and sociologists, today it is in the center of attention of political scientists and researchers of international relations. The relationship between intellectual migration of human capital and soft power is considered.Potential vectors of public administration combatting negative consequences of intellectual migration of human capital within the plane of national security.

Intrusion detection using metaheuristic optimization within IoT/IIoT systems and software of autonomous vehicles

The integration of IoT systems into automotive vehicles has raised concerns associated with intrusion detection within these systems. Vehicles equipped with a controller area network (CAN) control several systems within a vehicle where disruptions in function can lead to significant malfunctions, injuries, and even loss of life. Detecting disruption is a primary concern as vehicles move to higher degrees of autonomy and the possibility of self-driving is explored. Tackling cyber-security challenges within CAN is essential to improve vehicle and road safety. Standard differences between different manufacturers make the implementation of a discreet system difficult; therefore, data-driven techniques are needed to tackle the ever-evolving landscape of cyber security within the automotive field. This paper examines the possibility of using machine learning classifiers to identify cyber assaults in CAN systems. To achieve applicability, we cover two classifiers: extreme gradient boost and K-nearest neighbor algorithms. However, as their performance hinges on proper parameter selection, a modified metaheuristic optimizer is introduced as well to tackle parameter optimization. The proposed approach is tested on a publicly available dataset with the best-performing models exceeding 89% accuracy. Optimizer outcomes have undergone rigorous statistical analysis, and the best-performing models were subjected to analysis using explainable artificial intelligence techniques to determine feature impacts on the best-performing model.

Synergy of AI and Blockchain to Secure Electronic Healthcare Records

ABSTRACTIn this article, we delve into the intersection of blockchain technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to fortify the security of electronic health records (EHRs). Existing EHR systems face challenges like interoperability issues, user interface complexities, and data security concerns, hindering seamless patient care and healthcare delivery. This article thoroughly explores the hurdles associated with EHR security and investigates the potential of employing blockchain and AI solutions to mitigate these challenges. The review underscores the necessity for resilient, interoperable systems to protect sensitive health information by pinpointing opportunities for collaborative strategies. In essence, this article contributes valuable perspectives on the dynamic landscape of EHR security, guiding future research and development at the crossroads of blockchain; we presented a case study on EHR security, customized care, predictive analytics, and more efficient healthcare delivery. Using case studies as illustrative examples, the article scrutinizes practical applications, shedding light on successful implementations and areas requiring refinement. Several outcomes for the predictive analytics of patients' surgeries are shown in this case study. Next, we compare blockchain‐based EHR systems with existing, non‐blockchain‐based EHR systems. Finally, we present the concluding remarks with future directions for integrating blockchain, AI, and EHR systems.

Multi‐Level Wettability Patterned Porous Matrix for Advanced Optical Information Encryption

AbstractIn the rapidly evolving landscape of information security, the demand for optical encryption techniques based on wettability patterning, which allows decryption without sophisticated devices and complex procedures, is progressively increasing. However, conventional approaches based on binary wettability patterned surfaces impose significant constraints in their practical use for high‐level information security. Herein, a novel approach to optically encrypt information through multi‐level wettability patterning is introduced on a porous polymer matrix synthesized from vinyl methacrylate (VMA) and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA). By employing the thiol‐ene click reaction, precise patterning of functional groups is achieved that exhibit distinct wettability responses to aqueous solutions with varying surface tensions, as well as pH‐responsive and fluorescent markers. This multi‐level wettability system surpasses traditional binary hydrophilic/hydrophobic patterns by providing enhanced control over wettability states, resulting in higher‐level encryption of information. The integration of pH and fluorescence responsivity further elevates the complexity and security of the encrypted information, making it decipherable only under specific and controlled conditions. The innovative approach offers a highly secure, robust, and customizable encryption method, redefining the potential of optical encryption technologies.

Adapting law enforcement agencies to new security challenges in Nepal

In today's complex security landscape, the focus on maintaining a robust military-like discipline among paramilitary and the security forces have overshadowed the traditional roles of having enforced the law through authority institutions. These agencies have been tasked with mitigating various dynamic security threats. Contemporary security perspectives are increasingly shaped by challenges such as terrorism, migration, armed conflicts, and the activities of non-state entities, which are prevalent across nations. The rise in extremism, armed conflicts, insurgencies, civil wars, cyber threats, and actions by non-state actors pose significant challenges, impacting the efficiency and effectiveness of law enforcement bodies. This study employs a descriptive research approach and secondary sources to analyze modern security dynamics and the roles of law enforcement agencies in addressing these challenges. It aims to offer future-oriented strategies for both domestic and international security agencies amidst evolving global security concerns.