Table of Content:
Sylvain Paile-Calvo
EUROPEAN STRATEGIC CULTURE IN THE CITIZENS' EYES
Abstract: Numerous examples of the use of the term "strategic culture" applied to the European Union can be found in the scientific literature or in political statements. The High Representative and Vice-President of the European Commission himself, Josep Borrell, has stressed the need for the EU to have a "shared strategic culture and empathy". However, this quote is more of a political ambition than an objective reality. Similarly, it is often argued that the EU does not have its own strategic culture, but that only its Member States have one. This contribution proposes to explore the meaning of this term and its reality in the context of the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). If the construction or development of such a common strategic culture in Europe is defined as a clear political objective, it seems obvious to all that it can only be built through collective and convergent actions of all CSDP actors in the Union.
Keywords: European strategic culture, citizens, opinions, Strategic Compass, European Security and Defence College.
Mladen Mladenov
ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION AS A FACTOR FOR THE INTERNAL DIMENSIONS OF NATIONAL SECURITY
Abstract: The security of the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens (legal certainty) is an important component of the internal dimensions of national security because it is directly related to the law and order in force in the country. The legal system is a visible feature of the sovereignty of the state, expressing its power through the so-called "jurisdiction". It represents the entire set of powers of public institutions (such as creatures of the state or local authorities) in functions of legislature, executive, and judiciary. Alternative dispute resolution methods are applicable to solve disagreements of a different nature, leading not only to the closure of existing disputes but also to the prevention of future disputes. This provides a solid basis for legal certainty, understood as consistency and predictability, by setting clear contours of legal statuses and relationships. ADR should definitely be considered as part of the toolkit for the functioning of the national security system because it leads to conflict cessation, saving of financial resources and time, and as an ultimate result - a sense of confidence among the disputing parties, satisfaction with the idea of reliability and the integrity of their rights and freedoms, as well as a sense of general safety and security.
Keywords: national security, legal certainty, alternative dispute resolution, rights and freedoms of the citizens, judicial process.
Mihail Haralampiev
BIOLOGICAL CONVENTION AND THE PANDEMIC COVID-19
Abstract: Research procedures related to the Treaty on the Prevention and Control of Biological Weapons, as well as the emergence and development of the Covid-19 pandemic and the conflicting data surrounding the "patient zero" infected with it. This study examines the Biological Weapons Convention, including its Review Conferences and possible inspection activities, in light of the ongoing pandemic. It explores future developments and implications, considering the lessons learned from the Covid-19 crisis.
Keywords: Biological Weapons Convention, Review Conferences, possible inspection activities, future developments, Covid-19.
Zhivko Zhekov
Abstract: The current work focuses on new methods and technical means that facilitate the discovery of distant objects in the visible and infrared parts of the optical spectrum, even in varying background brightness. This is an important and contemporary problem of global significance that requires increasing attention, intellectual and technical potential, as well as financial resources. The methods and technical means discussed in this study are specifically designed to find distant objects in varying background brightness using optical, electro-optical, and optoelectronic appliances and apparatuses mounted on space flying machines.
Keywords: optical devices, distant objects, visible spectrum, infrared spectrum, background brightness, space flying machines.
Valentin Vasilev, Emil Stoilkov
Abstract: From the perspective of shifting and globalizing conditions, the development of human resources in modern businesses goes through a significant evolution. It is focused on innovative and realistically oriented actions with the primary objective of adaptation to the changing environment. The primary driving force behind the changes was the realization that improvements in organizational performance are positively associated with human factors, including practices of pay and hiring, selection, performance management, talent management, motivational policy, and other aspects of personnel management. On the contrary, the concept of "parallel thinking" offers a relatively new method for interpreting and processing data and arriving at wise judgments. Unlike traditional discussions that involve argumentation and defending personal positions, parallel thinking employs a cartographic technique where all viewpoints, alternative suggestions, criticisms, and emotional ideas are openly expressed and plotted on a shared plan. This method allows for the free expression of all opinions and viewpoints, facilitating the search for new solutions in crisis times.
Keywords: "Six thinking caps," "Parallel thinking," organizational development, crises, human resources, security sector, motivation.
Andrey Dzhunin
THE GREAT INEQUALITY IN THE DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME AS A RISK FOR THE NATIONAL SECURITY OF BULGARIA
Abstract: This article analyzes the negative consequences of excessively large income inequality and examines their direct and indirect impact on Bulgaria's national security. The author argues that income inequality can lead to economic and political instability, social tensions, unemployment, and an increase in crime, among other destructive processes for society. The article discusses potential measures to address the issue of high inequality, including changes to the tax system, which unfortunately face significant resistance from high earners and their lobbyists. Addressing income inequality is crucial for safeguarding the national security of Bulgaria.
Keywords: income, inequality, poverty, risk, national security.
Vladko Ivanov, Gergana Kresnaliyska
THE NATION AND THE STATE IN THE EPOCH OF DYNAMIC CHANGES
Abstract: This article aims to reevaluate the concepts of the state and the nation in the epoch of dynamic changes, influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The goal is to analyze and assess our understanding and application of governance principles during the transition to a new global state. The authors examine the conditions defined by the epoch and the situation, which are products of circumstances and governance. They propose several suggestions for governance principles and guidelines for managerial thinking and behavior. Furthermore, the article outlines emerging trends and challenges in the rapidly evolving security environment. In this context, the authors propose optimizing the Common Security and Defence Policy of the European Union.
Keywords: governance, nation, state, epoch, security.
Rumen Marinov
OBJECTIVES OF THE MANAGEMENT OF THE MILITARY SECURITY SYSTEM
Abstract: This article provides a theoretical analysis and evaluation of the management theory of the military security system. It explores the objectives and goals associated with managing military security, considering various theoretical experiences. The article aims to deepen the understanding of military security management and its implications.
Keywords: military security, governance, models, purpose.
Vladko Ivanov, Olga Chorbadzhiyska
THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS OF BORDER CONTROL MANAGEMENT
Abstract: This article aims to provide an initial principled vision of the theoretical foundations of border control management. It highlights the challenges faced by the peripheral security system of the European Union and Bulgaria, including military conflicts, migration escalation, space reconfiguration, hybrid wars, terrorism, and cross-border crime. Given these circumstances, it is evident that border control needs to be rapidly reconfigured, particularly on the eastern borders of the EU. This will necessitate the development of a new methodology, research efforts, and a competitive environment to generate the best ideas for effective border control management.
Keywords: border control, management, leadership, Ministry of the Interior, Border Police.
Gergana Yordanova
CIRCUMSCRIPTION BETWEEN "BLACK" AND "WHITE" HAWALA TRANSACTIONS WITHIN ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING CONTEXT
Abstract: The prevention of money laundering through the financial system involves addressing the distinctive nature of "Black" and "White" Hawala transactions. This article presents the author's perspective on defining these types of transactions as a securitized problem and explores potential approaches to de-securitizing them in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing. The article emphasizes the importance of tackling terrorism financing, proliferation, and money laundering, particularly in relation to organizations such as the "Islamic State".
Keywords: Terrorism Financing, Proliferation, Money Laundering, "Islamic State".
Ognyan Stoichkov
Abstract: This article provides a brief analysis of the organization of special services in Germany and France, as well as the coordination procedures in the United States and Russia for the appointment of managers. Drawing upon the successful model of the security system in the Republic of Bulgaria after 2015, the article proposes that when appointing heads of special services, there should be a broader public and institutional consensus through the involvement of the National Assembly in the appointment process.
Keywords: management of security services, intelligence, parliament, president, government.
Plamen Atanasov
PATTERNS IN THE FORMATION OF CONSPIRACY THEORIES. RUMOUR, FEAR, AND ACTIVE COMMUNICATION
Abstract: This article examines conspiracy theories as a communication phenomenon and their implications for state and societal security. It uncovers the pattern that the emergence of a conspiracy theory requires a specific combination of fear, rumor, and an appropriate communication environment. However, it acknowledges that these elements are necessary but not sufficient for a conspiracy theory to develop, as external factors play a role as well. The article concludes that conspiracy theories are ambivalent in terms of their categorization as beneficial or harmful, and that their emergence is an inevitable aspect of communication. It also emphasizes the need for specific approaches to debunk each conspiracy theory. The article presents a mechanism for intentionally manufacturing a conspiracy theory.
Keywords: conspiracy theories, content comparison, security, synthesized conspiracy theories.
Marieta Rabohchiyska
EUROPEAN UNION MISSIONS IN THE EASTERN PARTNERSHIP REGION
Abstract: The European Union actively participates in crisis management and peace-building efforts while promoting multilateralism and the respect for democratic values. Through the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), the EU possesses operational capabilities to deploy both civilian missions and military operations. In the Eastern Partnership region, the EU is involved in ongoing missions such as EUAM Ukraine, EUMM Georgia, EUBAM Moldova and Ukraine, EUMAM Ukraine, EUM Armenia, and EUPM Moldova. This article analyzes the specific characteristics, legal and political aspects of EU missions in Eastern Partnership countries, and their contribution to regional security.
Keywords: EU, Eastern Partnership, missions, security.
Yordan Bakalov
RUSSIAN NUCLEAR DOCTRINES, NUCLEAR FORCES, MODERNIZATION
Abstract: Russia's ongoing modernization programs for its nuclear forces have raised concerns about the increasing challenges Russia poses to the United States and its allies. Russia has been utilizing nuclear blackmail as a means to coerce the US and NATO into limiting their support for Ukraine. While Russia views nuclear weapons exclusively as a deterrent, its nuclear deterrence policy is defensive in nature. Russia acknowledges the "escalation for de-escalation" strategy, but it incorrectly assesses that the first use of nuclear weapons will lead to a "de-escalation" of a conflict with favorable conditions for itself.
Keywords: Russia, USA, nuclear weapons, escalation, de-escalation.
Vladimir Babanov
THE MILITARY CONFLICT IN UKRAINE – TOWARDS A NEW WORLD ORDER OR RUSSIA'S STRUGGLE FOR SURVIVAL
Abstract: This article explores the impact of the Ukrainian conflict on the global order and Russia's future. It considers the possibility that the conflict could trigger a chain reaction in other regions, leading to the collapse of the "American world" and the decline of the West. Alternatively, it examines whether Russia's challenges in Ukraine will intensify, creating uncertainty about its own destiny. Both scenarios have potential for development, but only one is plausible. Russia's actions in Ukraine have implications for the fundamental principles of modern international relations, either garnering support or setting a dangerous example that could disrupt global security. These issues are of great importance for Bulgaria.
Keywords: world order, international security, war, Ukraine, Russia.
Teodora Licheva
BLOCKCHAIN IMPLEMENTATION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR AND INFORMATION SECURITY
Abstract: This research focuses on the implementation of blockchain technology in the public sector and its implications for information security. It presents a three-layer framework for blockchain implementation, emphasizing the importance of ensuring security, integrity, and reliability of information within the public sector. The study explores how blockchain can enhance information security measures and contribute to more efficient and transparent governance.
Keywords: blockchain, public sector, information security.