National Interests Research Articles

Геополитические реалии российско-американских отношений

The article examines the key aspects of the geopolitical realities in Russian-American relations at the present stage. The current state of the global system of international contacts is analyzed. Particular attention is paid to the factors determining the strategic interests of Russia and the United States, as well as the impact of regional conflicts on the dynamics of interaction between the two powers. The economic, military-political and information aspects of the confrontation are being investigated. Based on a comprehensive analysis, practical recommendations are offered for stabilizing Russian-American relations and adapting the system of international contacts to the realities of the emerging multipolar world. It is noted that Russia in the modern geopolitical space has several vectors of development, characterized by an increasing influence on global processes determined by strategies for the realization of national interests in the context of a transforming system of international relations. The complexity and inconsistency of modern relations between the two powers is emphasized, as well as the need to find ways of cooperation to solve global problems.

Formation of national varietal resources: status and prospects

Purpose. To study the current state and structure of national plant variety resources, analyse the dynamics of their formation, identify new challenges and threats to national interests and food security of the state. Methods. The research used general scientific methods including hypothesis, observation, search with elements of extrapolation from the source database, analysis, comparative evaluation and synthesis to draw conclusions. Results. The physical and geographical location of Ukraine in the centre of Europe determines the export­import segment of resources of varieties and hybrids, which depends on international trends and trends in the food market. In recent years, our country has lost its leading position in the market of varietal plant resources. At the beginning of the third quarter of 2024, the share of varieties of Ukrainian applicants in the State Re­gister of Plant Varieties Suitable for Distribution in Ukraine was lower than that of foreign varieties, slightly exceeding 44% (corn – 45.3%, sunflower – 32.9%, vegetables – 23.3%, rapeseed – 19.1%, beetroot – 19.2%). Currently, the priority of domestic breeding is maintained for the following groups: cereals – 52.3%, fodder – 64.2%, medicinal – 88.7%. According to experts, in the coming years three quarters of the varieties of plants grown in our country will be of foreign origin. This situation is of great concern not only because of the increased dependence on imports, but also because of the real prospect of the decline of domestic breeding and the emergence of risks in the field of plant variety rights protection. The reasons for this state of national varietal resources and trends in the development of the seed industry of the main strategic varieties were analysed, taking into account the production of seeds of both foreign and domestic breeding, the market share of which was determined during the research. The volumes and the main producers of conditioned seeds in Ukraine were determined. Conclusions. The state of plant variety resources was analysed, trends and main problems arising in the process of their formation were identified. The main directions of development and implementation of the norms of the European national legislation in the field of protection of rights to plant varieties and seed production were determined.

Инициатива «Один пояс, один путь» и традиционные западные геополитические теории

This article examines the relationship between the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and three major traditional geopolitical theories: sea power – by A.T. Mahan, Heartland – by H. Mackinder and Rimland – by N. Spykman. The author notes that all of them are fundamentally different from the “One Belt, One Road” initiative and are differentiated in time and space. Arguing this statement, he considers the essence of all three concepts, which can be reduced to the achievement of hegemony in human society through military conquests, economic pressure or coercion to subjugation through other means. In this context, the concept of “One Belt, one Road” is presented as an antipode to Western strategies, since it is focused on abandoning national interests in favor of universal human interests and represents a plan for the integration development of all countries of the world on the terms of partnership with each other, excluding any dominance.

Navigating linguistic ideologies and market dynamics within China’s English language teaching landscape

Abstract This study explores the intricate interplay of linguistic ideologies, market dynamics, and linguistic habitus within the context of English language education in China. Analysis of Chinese English language teachers’ (CELTs) discourse on linguistic insecurity reveals a strong association between accentedness and incompetence, as well as between nativeness and teacher expertise. Despite dissatisfaction with nativeness-oriented criteria prevalent in the field, most CELTs reported experiencing anxiety due to the social stigma surrounding Mandarin-accented English. While certain Inner Circle English varieties are viewed as the most valuable capital, local and other non-Inner Circle varieties are considered the least valuable. Notably, Mandarin-accented English gains higher symbolic value than other perceived nonstandard English varieties beyond the teaching domain. This pricing mechanism within China’s English language teaching (ELT) landscape deviates from the price formation model of world Englishes proposed in previous work, which assigns a greater value to Outer Circle varieties than Expanding Circle varieties. By contextualizing CELTs’ experiences within broader language policies, this study illustrates how national interests, beyond the influence of Inner Circle publishers, intensify native-speakerism in China’s ELT market, thus emphasizing the intricate nature of explaining nuanced pricing patterns in the autonomous market within Expanding Circle contexts.

Enhancing Maritime Security: Challenges and Strategies in Indonesia's Natuna Sea

The Natuna Sea, a strategic region within Indonesia's exclusive economic zone, faces multifaceted maritime security challenges that threaten national sovereignty, economic interests, and regional stability. This abstract explores the key issues and strategic responses to enhance maritime security in this vital area. Indonesia's maritime security challenges in the Natuna Sea are driven by illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, territorial disputes, and transnational crimes such as smuggling and human trafficking. The encroachment of foreign fishing vessels, particularly from neighboring countries, exacerbates the IUU fishing problem, undermining local economies and depleting fish stocks. Additionally, overlapping territorial claims, particularly with China, complicate Indonesia's efforts to assert its sovereignty and maintain peace in the region. To address these challenges, Indonesia has developed a comprehensive maritime security strategy that includes diplomatic, legal, and operational measures. Diplomatic efforts focus on strengthening regional cooperation through ASEAN and other multilateral forums to foster dialogue and build consensus on maritime security issues. Legal measures involve the enforcement of national and international laws, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to uphold Indonesia's territorial rights and combat IUU fishing. Operationally, Indonesia has enhanced its maritime patrols, surveillance capabilities, and naval presence in the Natuna Sea. The establishment of the Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) and the deployment of advanced technology, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and satellite monitoring, have improved the detection and interdiction of illegal activities. Despite these efforts, challenges persist due to resource constraints, coordination issues among agencies, and the complex geopolitical landscape. This abstract underscores the importance of a holistic and adaptive approach to maritime security, integrating diplomatic, legal, and operational strategies.

‘Foreign’ Trademarks in Jordan and the Influence of Imperial Powers

Abstract The Jordanian Trademarks Law, as it stands today, suffered from the influence of imperial powers. Namely, the influence of the USA and UK has resulted in the introduction of a classification of trademarks, which is: “Foreign Trademarks”. This paper proves the said influence through the standard of well-known trademarks under the Jordanian Trademarks Law, in addition to the preferential treatment of the foreign trademarks in terms of invalidity and annulment. It is argued that the privileges given to foreign trademarks were to the detriment of national trademarks. This paper is a call for Jordan to put national interests first in this area of law, and advances an argument for a legislative reform, De lege ferenda, and the way Jordanian courts and the trademarks’ registrar should deal with the law as it stands today, De lege lata, in order to mitigate the loss that ‘national’ marks currently suffer from.

The Coming US Presidential Elections: Prospects and Challenges for Russia

The upcoming 2024 US presidential elections will have a tremendous impact on the nations’ domestic and foreign policies. The Republican and Democrat presidential nominees Donald Trump and Kamala Harris hold completely opposite views on a number of key electoral issues. One of these issues is particularly important for Russian national interests — the US involvement in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

Developing smart archives in society 5.0: Leveraging artificial intelligence for managing audiovisual archives in Africa

In the age of Society 5.0, marked by the profound integration of digital technologies and human society, the preservation and management of audiovisual archives in Africa face substantial challenges. The application of artificial intelligence plays a pivotal role in the establishment of digital archives in the society 5.0. The exponential growth of digital content, combined with the continent's diverse cultural landscape, presents complex obstacles to conventional archival practices. Without the effective implementation of artificial intelligence technologies, crucial aspects such as curation, accessibility and sustainable management of audiovisual archives in Africa remain hindered. Thus, the overarching problem under scrutiny pertains to how the establishment of intelligent archives, facilitated by AI, can offer innovative solutions for preserving and managing audiovisual archives in Africa, within the overarching framework of Society 5.0. This approach has the potential to significantly contribute to safeguarding Africa's rich cultural heritage and advancing research, education and cultural exchange. The purpose of this paper will be to focus on the challenges encountered by selected African countries, such as the ESARBICA countries and those that undertake environmental conservation projects, in managing their audiovisual collections and what can be done to facilitate AI. It resulted in the formulation of a framework for implementing smart archives using AI in African contexts, emphasizing practical strategies and best practices. A qualitative approach enabled a nuanced understanding of complex dynamics at play. Through the observation of AI integration processes, by means of desktop analyses of websites of African national archives and online interest groups showcasing nature conservation projects and initiatives, this article aims to capture a comprehensive picture of the current landscape and future possibilities.

Nepal’s Geostrategic Location: Realist Imperatives on Foreign Policy

Realist imperatives in foreign policy emphasize the pursuit of national interests, power balance, and pragmatic decision-making in an anarchic international system. This study aims to analyze Nepal's foreign policy through a realist perspective, focusing on its historical evolution, challenges, and opportunities. An exploratory research design is employed, using secondary data from peer-reviewed journals, historical records, academic books, policy reports, and governmental publications. The publication period of the sources ranges between 1963 and 2023. The study finds that Nepal’s foreign policy decisions are significantly influenced by its geopolitical position and the need to balance relationships with neighboring powers India and China. The implication of this study is that realist theory provides a valuable framework for understanding how small states like Nepal navigate complex international dynamics to safeguard their national interests.

Assessement of Nigerias Afrocentric Foreign Policy: A Case Study of President Olusegun Obasanjo's Administration

The emergence of President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999 as the president of Nigeria marked a significant transition from military rule to democratic rule, the image of the country have been battered in the international arena due to military dictatorship, hence the president have to concentrate on rebuilding the image of Nigeria. Nigeria's Afrocentrism, rooted in its post-independence policy under Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, has consistently placed Africa at the center of its foreign policy. The paper explores Nigeria's Afrocentric foreign policy, focusing on the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo (1999-2007). This approach emphasizes African unity, emancipation, and development, with Nigeria playing a key role in mediation, conflict resolution, and peacekeeping within the continent. The research aimed to critically examines the effort made by president Obasanjo in area of ensuring democratic rule, Peacekeeping operations, and regional economic integration in Africa. This paper argues that Nigeria’s Afrocentric foreign policy, while altruistic, may require recalibration to better align with national interests, ensuring that such commitments do not disproportionately burden the Nigerian economy. The historical and analytical approach was employed in the presentation and analysis of data, the information goes through rigorous analysis that is data analysis, which is a technique for an objective, systematic and qualitative description of the data acquired. Furthermore, the theory employed in the making of this research is Concentric circle theory which was first brought from sociology, and later adopted in the study of foreign policy. A shift towards a more pragmatic and national interest-focused foreign policy, emphasizing economic growth and development, is recommended for future engagements.

CAPACITY BUILDING FOR CIVIL SERVANTS AND STATE MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATIONS OF VIETNAM'S SEAS AND ISLANDS

Vietnam's seas and islands greatly influence political and legal life for national, regional, and international development in history, present, and future. The article analyzes the need and importance of capacity building for civil servants and state management organizations on seas and islands in the context of developing the marine economy and protecting Vietnam's sea and island sovereignty. With a long coastline and a rich island system, Vietnam is facing many challenges from resource exploitation, and climate change to national security and defense issues. The article discusses the current status of the sea and island management capacity of civil servants, officials, and related organizations, including limitations in expertise, management skills, and the ability to respond to complex situations. The article also proposes strategic solutions to improve management capacity through training, professional development, enhanced international cooperation, and application of modern technology in sea and island management. The article emphasizes that improving the capacity of civil servants and state management organizations is the key to effectively implementing policies for sustainable marine economic development and protecting national maritime interests, making an important contribution to the comprehensive development of Vietnam.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0712/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Post-colonial Relations of Britain with India and Pakistan, 1947–71

Abstract The decolonization process of Britain in India was completed with the independence of India and Pakistan in 1947. Because of the long colonial history in that area, it was natural that creating bilateral relations between Britain and the two former colonized parties (India and Pakistan) would be challenging and not free of issues. Furthermore, the two colonized parties were in a bitter relationship with each other. The major concern of this paper is to present the post-colonial bilateral relations of Britain with each country, India and Pakistan, between 1947 and 1971. It argues that multiple factors led Britain to maintain a balanced relationship with its former colony. These are: 1) British trade interests, 2) cold war relations, 3) wars between India and Pakistan, 4) Commonwealth issues, and above all, 5) British national interests in that region.

Going beyond the Council as brake of EU energy policy: Analysing the internal process of the Council in the recast of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive

The Council is the voice of the member states' governments in the EU policymaking process and the institutional setting where member states can enforce their national interest. The literature on Council decision-making has previously mostly used expert interviews or voting patterns. Through a detailed examination of one specific legislative file in the recent ‘Fit for 55’ climate package in which subsidiarity and varying national conditions is central, this study focus on how disagreements between member states are resolved and how strategic word framing can aid in resolving political controversies in EU energy policy. This article analyses Council working group meeting notes and revisions of the recent recast of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, providing a unique look behind the curtains of negotiations between member states in the Council within a deliberative intergovernmental framework. A mix of quantitative and qualitative text analysis is applied to deliberations and legislative revisions. The findings show that a fragile consensus is reached despite disagreement through enabling of national flexibility in policy decisions, indicating that the Council determines the speed of European integration in the policy domain.

REALIZATION OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE AS AN ELEMENT OF THE MECHANISM OF ENSURING NATIONAL SECURITY OF UKRAINE

The article is devoted to the study of the peculiarities of exercising the functions of the Prosecutor’s Office of Ukraine in the context of ensuring the national security of the State in the current conditions. Attention is focused on the procedural guidance of pre-trial investigation and support of public prosecution in court in criminal proceedings on crimes against the foundations of national security of Ukraine. The author notes that the main regulatory documents defining the main directions of the state policy in the field of national security do not mention the prosecutor’s office and its activities. At the same time, the work demonstrates that, as a key criminal justice body, the prosecutor’s office is actively involved in ensuring the national security of Ukraine within its competence. The author emphasizes the importance of the prosecutor’s office’s coordination activities in the area of combating crime, primarily crimes against the foundations of national security of Ukraine, cybercrime, corruption criminal offenses, offenses in the budgetary and economic security spheres, as well as organized crime, which have a destructive impact on the proper functioning of the national security of the State. The author provides examples of skillful use of coordination powers by the heads of individual prosecutor’s offices, which helped to orient law enforcement agencies to further effective counteraction to separatism, encroachment on the territorial integrity and inviolability of the State and other crimes against the foundations of national security of Ukraine. The author emphasizes the need to improve the mechanisms of interaction between the prosecutor’s office and other law enforcement agencies, which is crucial for a comprehensive approach to protecting national interests and citizens’ rights, which is the basis of a strong and stable state. The author substantiates the importance of timely and high-quality coverage of the work of the prosecutor’s office in the area of ensuring the national security of Ukraine using the capabilities of modern communication tools, such as the official Telegram channel of the Prosecutor General’s Office, the official pages of the Office on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Fact-Checkers on the Fringe: Investigating Methods and Practices Associated With Contested Areas of Fact-Checking

This study investigates the methods and practices used by self-identified fact-checkers situated on the fringe of the field of fact-checking to support their agenda for public recognition and legitimacy. Using a case study approach and selecting nine cases across five countries (Russia, Brazil, India, China, and Singapore), we identify the most common distinguishable attributes and tactics associated with this ambiguous collection of actors. In addition to identifying how fringe fact-checkers weaponize fact-checking practices and exploit or mimic the social standing of accredited fact-checkers, we critique examples where state-supported fact-checkers associated with authoritarian governance structures fact-check for national interests. We propose a spectrum of fact-checkers including those where public or general interest fact-checkers follow journalistic ideals and align with accredited communities of practice or non-accredited peer recognition, and a collection of fringe fact-checkers ranging from “special interest” actors promoting specific political agendas to hostile actors with disruptive, destructive, and openly propagandistic interests and aims to destabilize the global public sphere. The article contributes to current research and debates about the institutionalization of fact-checking and the understudied area of fact-checking impersonation, a problematic activity associated with misinformation and propaganda on platforms and the internet.

The law politics of bankruptcy decision execution against debtor's assets abroad

The purpose of this study is to examine and analyze law politics related to the execution of bankruptcy decisions against debtor assets abroad. The research method used is normative legal research with a qualitative descriptive analysis method approach, based on comparative law, with prescriptive analytical specifications. The research findings conclude that sovereignty is interpreted as the responsibility to improve and protect all national and international community interests, manifested in the form of the state's ability to interact and establish relations with countries in the world, as well as cooperate and coordinate bilaterally, multilaterally and in international organizations. The provisions on international bankruptcy in Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 37 of 2004 concerning Bankruptcy and Suspension of Debt Payment Obligations or Undang-Undang Republik Indonesia Nomor 37 Tahun 2004 tentang Kepailitan dan Penundaan Kewajiban Pembayaran Utang (Bankruptcy Law) are similar to the Dutch Bankruptcy Law, there are no comprehensive regulations related to international bankruptcy. To ensure legal certainty, a legal policy is needed in the form of changes and updates to the Bankruptcy Law by adding articles to apply the principles of international bankruptcy in the Model Law, namely the Principle of Access, the Principle of Recognition, the Principle of Assistance and the Principle of Cooperation and Coordination, as applied in the US Bankruptcy Code Chapter 15. Article 299 of the Bankruptcy Law also needs to be amended so that the procedural law applied is the special procedural law for international bankruptcy.

The Effectiveness of the International Environmental Law: The Issues of State Sovereignty, National Interests, and Differing Levels of Commitments

This study aims to explore the main challenges facing international environmental law and affecting its effectiveness. Although many international texts and agreements have been adopted to address environmental degradation and promote sustainable resource development, most of these agreements remain ineffective in achieving the objectives of these agreements. The critical study reveals that these legal frameworks face many challenges that affect the effectiveness of these texts, for example, there are issues such as national sovereignty, the lack of unified implementation at the state level, insufficient funding, and weak institutional frameworks. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analytical view of the factors that affect the effectiveness of these texts and frameworks. The issues of national sovereignty, insufficient funding, weak institutional frameworks, different levels of commitment, lack of political will, and global cooperation will be mainly discussed here. By focusing on the most important challenges facing international environmental law, this research aims to contribute to developing international environmental law to make it more effective.

State policy of sustainable development on the basis of the "green economy"

The article deals with issues of the state policy of sustainable development based on the principles of «green economy». The transition to sustainable development is a process of changing the value orientations of many people. The internationally recognized fundamental values of development are freedom, equality, solidarity, tolerance, respect for nature, and shared responsibility. It was determined that the national goals of sustainable development are based on political, economic, social, ecological, moral and cultural values inherent in Ukrainian society. They determine the focus of the strategy on caring for the common good and protecting the national interests of Ukraine. Radical changes related to today’s problems and the course towards European integration make it possible to build a new Ukraine based on the principles of sustainable development, rule of law, protection of human rights, democracy, solidarity, and proper governance. It was emphasized that the strategic vision of sustainable development of Ukraine is based on ensuring national interests and fulfilling Ukraine’s international obligations regarding the transition to sustainable development. Such development involves: overcoming imbalances in the economic, social and environmental spheres; building a peaceful and safe, socially cohesive society with good governance and inclusive institutions; transformation of economic activity, transition to the principles of «green economy», etc. A «green economy» can be defined as one that increases people’s well-being and ensures social justice, while significantly reducing risks to the environment and increasing poverty. Attention was drawn to the Recovery Plan of Ukraine (2022) and the main priorities were determined, namely the acceleration of the implementation of the European Green Agreement thanks to the development of low-carbon energy and the existing energy infrastructure and the possibility of green exports; availability of electricity at a price below the European price with a significant share of «green» energy; support for the transition to energy with zero carbon emissions: development of carbon-free energy (nuclear), increase in gas and biofuel production, development of the ecosystem; regulation of green tariffs; promoting the transition of the agro-food sector to «green» growth; removal of technical barriers to the integration of Ukrainian manufacturers into the Single European Green Market, in particular, by spreading the necessary certification procedures and confirmation of compliance, increasing the level of awareness of manufacturers in this area, supporting manufacturers of ecologically better products, expanding the capacity of Ukrainian manufacturers to participate in «green» (energy­efficient, sustainable) public procurement, etc.

Priority threats to the economic security system of Ukraine in wartime conditions: conceptual views on their nature and typology

The presented scientific study is devoted to the issues of seeing priority threats to the system of economic security of Ukraine in wartime conditions. It is emphasized and proven that the existing spectrum of threats to the economic security component, in practice, has undergone significant changes in terms of complexity and realism, as well as quantity, as a result of radical transformations in the middle of the country and the action of a number of external factors. Attention was drawn and the essence of the original term «threat», which forms the basis of the definitions in official circulation, was revealed. The conditions that should be considered threatening from the point of view of a typical worldview of security are defined and meaningfully characterized. Attention is focused on the concept of «threats to the economic security system of Ukraine», which is a legislative guideline for other aspects in this area. Its indisputable importance and value for law-making and law-enforcement activities is emphasized. It was found that such threats represent a large cohort of phenomena, processes, trends and factors of various origins, to which the state and society must respond effectively. It has been proven that the lack of a proper reaction, including in the case of inefficient use of personnel potential and other resource provision, is accompanied by the appearance of significant risks for Ukraine’s defense capability. It has been established that the national economic interests of Ukraine play a significant role in the identification and typology of priority threats to the analyzed security component. Taking into account the views of famous scientists and current legislation, the category of the same name was analyzed in detail. On the basis of the above, a typology of urgent main current threats to the system of economic security of Ukraine is proposed. Attention was drawn to the fact that the successful solution of tasks in these aspects will form a favorable basis for effective prevention and countermeasures against other factors of economic destruction. It was noted that there is an absolute need for systematic work in all the represented directions, based on considerations of the specifics of the named factors, including their destructive impact on all components of Ukraine’s national security.

Russia’s Patronage Over Post-Soviet De Facto States: Protecting Compatriots or Geopolitical Interest in Transnistria?

ABSTRACT Most de facto states have patrons. In Eurasia, Russia serves as such to Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and Transnistria, as it did to Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics. What motivates patronal politics? While constructivists look for answers by studying Russia’s identity, representations and ‘compatriot’ policies and discourse, realists infer Russia’s motives looking at Moscow’s geopolitical interests. As a result, there is no unambiguous answer: is it about moral obligation to protect the brethren or about securing national interests? This article tests it empirically by analysing Russia’s patronage over Transnistria between 2001 and 2009. It investigates the issue of Transnistrian external trade, which Moldova attempted to take control of – something that Transnistria considered as threatening its very survival. The analysis undermines claims about moral motivation as a driver of Russian patronage of de facto states, at least in Transnistria. Russia is clearly reacting to geopolitical changing game rather than to the compatriots’ cry for help.