The Membership of Bulgaria in the European Union: Thirteen Years Later
The Membership of Bulgaria in the European Union: Thirteen Years Later
Nineteenth International Scientific Conference, 16 October 2020, UNWE – Sofia, Big Conference Room
Contributor(s): Svetlana Aleksandrova-Zlatanska (Editor), Vesselina Dimitrova (Editor), Kaloyan Simeonov (Editor), Svetla Boneva (Editor), Alexander Hristov (Editor), Dobroslav Emilov Mollov (Editor), Georgi Marinov (Editor), Silvia Kirova (Editor), Elif Dağdemir Uçkan (Editor), Mirko Tripunoski (Editor), Duško Dimitrijević (Editor), Silvana Jovcheska (Editor), Maia Tripunoska (Editor)
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Economy, National Economy, Supranational / Global Economy, Business Economy / Management, Energy and Environmental Studies, Sociology, International relations/trade, Security and defense, Methodology and research technology, EU-Accession / EU-DEvelopment, Financial Markets, Public Finances, Transport / Logistics
ISSN: 2815-2727
Published by: Университет за национално и световно стопанство (УНСС)
Keywords: European Union; Bulgaria; EU Development; EU Policy; International Economics; European Integration; Innovations; Digital; Cohesion; Sustainability; Energy; Decarbonization; Marketing; Business; Trade
Summary/Abstract: The international scientific conference organized by International Economic Relations and Business Department at the University of National and World Economy was held for 19th time (13th since Bulgaria's accession to the European Union). Traditionally, it is dedicated to the Bulgarian membership in the European Union as well as the development of various aspects of the EU – policies, economy, internal market, trade, innovations, etc. Official welcome address to the participants was given by Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, UNWE Rector, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maria Bakalova, International Economics and Politics Faculty Dean, Prof. Dr. Milanka Slavova, International Economic Relations and Business Department Head, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Svetla Boneva, Secretary General for Scientific Research Projects, and Mr. Dragomir Stoynev, Chairperson of the Committee on European Affairs and Oversight of the European Funds.
- Page Count: 180
- Publication Year: 2021
- Language: English
EU-Mercosur Agreement: Developments and Prospects for Bulgarian-Brazilian Economic and Trade Relations
EU-Mercosur Agreement: Developments and Prospects for Bulgarian-Brazilian Economic and Trade Relations
(EU-Mercosur Agreement: Developments and Prospects for Bulgarian-Brazilian Economic and Trade Relations)
- Author(s):Juliana Hadjitchoneva, Daniel Moura da Costa Teixeira
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Supranational / Global Economy
- Page Range:5-35
- No. of Pages:31
- Keywords:Economic Relations; Trade; Mercosur; European Union
- Summary/Abstract:As the signature of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and Southern Common Market is a fact, the paper aims at disclosing the impacts and the prospects of it on the Bulgarian-Brazilian economic and trade relations. After presenting the EU-Mercosur trade context briefly, it discusses the dynamics of the bilateral trade flows both between the European Union and Mercosur and, Bulgaria and Brazil and, emphasises on the novelty of the features and opportunities. The prospects for future economic developments are stated.
The Development of Fiscal Councils in the European Union Within the Context of Budget Stability
The Development of Fiscal Councils in the European Union Within the Context of Budget Stability
(The Development of Fiscal Councils in the European Union Within the Context of Budget Stability)
- Author(s):Svetla Boneva, Filip Petkov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Supranational / Global Economy, Public Finances
- Page Range:36-49
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Independent Fiscal Institution; Fiscal Council; Fiscal Discipline; Fiscal Union; Fiscal Integration; European Union; Economic and Monetary Union
- Summary/Abstract:The objective of this paper has been to discuss the idea of better coordination between the national fiscal councils within the EU. An effective focal point would be feasible solution for limiting the impact of negative spillovers between the countries as some governments might have intentionally or unintentionally taken on policies which effect would be experienced negatively by other partnering countries. The institutional solution of this challenge was established back in September 2015, almost immediately after adopting the legislation for the establishment of independent fiscal councils in the member states. The formal agreement on EU Independent Fiscal Institutions network (EUIFI) was signed between 23 independent fiscal institutions from: Austria, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.
Gamification in Business Logistics Training
Gamification in Business Logistics Training
(Gamification in Business Logistics Training)
- Author(s):Maria Vodenicharova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management, Transport / Logistics
- Page Range:50-65
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Gamification; Training; Business Logistics; Supply Chains
- Summary/Abstract:Developing multifaceted contemporary individuals implies that they have to be constructed as one whole system, as well as provide for their creative realization. In order to improve the training of university students, innovative models for conducting lectures and seminars should be implemented. The change in curricula should meet the social requirements of the modern world and technologies used by students. Implementing gamification in the business logistics training should aim at studying and establishing logistics knowledge and skills activities and processes. The games included in the curriculum should take into consideration the changes and not only identify the state and progress students make and to provide opportunities for making business decisions, they should be motivating and correcting, generating ideas and alternatives. Gamification is the application of game-design elements in various systems which can be used in education. Within the education framework this can involve a number of game mechanisms. The possibilities to use these game-design mechanisms to facilitate training have become the object of increasingly more research and are ever so often included in practice. The report will focus on identifying how these game mechanisms can improve knowledge in business logistics and along with that strengthen efficiency and the provision of new opportunities for instructors.
Use of Chess Playing in International Logistics Training
Use of Chess Playing in International Logistics Training
(Use of Chess Playing in International Logistics Training)
- Author(s):Georgi Chankov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Sociology, Methodology and research technology
- Page Range:66-77
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Gaming Methods; Chess; International Logistics; Warfare; Simulation
- Summary/Abstract:The aim of the article is to justify the use of extraordinary game methods like chess in logistics training. The methodology of this approach is based on the historical experience - game methods are common in the ancient practice. Today, the potential of these methods is very high, incl. thanks to new technologies that enable fast connection and reliable simulation of case studies. By accurately reflecting life and, in particular, rivalry, chess is the game that offers the largest range of possibilities. His connection to military affairs makes him extremely suitable for training in international logistics, whose relationship with military affairs is indisputable. A number of examples from history show the importance of logistics in military campaigns. Key points in chess accurately reflect the importance of logistical factors for success. The complex rivalry of today to master key points in order to control important trade routes and supply lines can be successfully simulated with chess models. Especially the Three-player chess reflects best today’s reality – the rivalry between major players in a multipolar world. Hence the use of chess playing in international logistics training could be very useful. This conclusion is presented for the first time in Bulgaria.
The Pandemic as a Factor for Changes in Supply Chain Management
The Pandemic as a Factor for Changes in Supply Chain Management
(The Pandemic as a Factor for Changes in Supply Chain Management)
- Author(s):Herbert Streit
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Supranational / Global Economy, Transport / Logistics
- Page Range:78-104
- No. of Pages:27
- Keywords:Logistics; Supply Chain Management; Transportation; Game; Future; Students’ Training; Food Supply; Digitalisation; SARS COVID 19; Pandemic; European Union; Critical Infrastructure; Pharma Supply Chain
- Summary/Abstract:Logistics and supply chain management is subject to rapid change. The clear tendency in the past was continuous growth, adopting new trends and technologies. This couldn’t even be stopped by the actual SARS COVID 19 pandemic. Consequently, the training of logistics experts must always be adapted to the latest trends. For this purpose, the teaching of theoretical principles is an indispensable factor. A gamification approach would be a promising tool to achieve this. The first chapter of this study examines this approach in general. Internal and external factors that influence the character of logistics and supply chain management are analyzed and evaluated. The second chapter deals with the disruption of the supply chains in the health care sector with special emphasis on the EU region. The third chapter focuses on the food supply chain as one of the most important factors for human survival. The food supply chains in the EU have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of the crisis so far. Dealing with the supply chain problems this study shows how a gamification approach in logistics and supply chain management, especially for the food and health care sectors, could help to be better prepared for the next crisis.
Decarbonising the Danube Region: The Case of Bulgaria and Romania
Decarbonising the Danube Region: The Case of Bulgaria and Romania
(Decarbonising the Danube Region: The Case of Bulgaria and Romania)
- Author(s):Svetla Boneva, Filip Petkov, Atanas Atanassov, Maya Ivanova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Supranational / Global Economy, Energy and Environmental Studies
- Page Range:105-114
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:European Green Deal; Decarbonisation Actions; Danube Region
- Summary/Abstract:The objective of this research is to briefly present data on the decarbonisation progress in Bulgaria and Romania, members of the Danube Region. The significance of the European Green Deal implementation would lead to changes in the industrial models across the Danube Region and its labour market. The research methods include content analysis, comparative analysis, induction, deduction, synthesis as well as graphic representation of empirical data. As a result, author summarizes basic data on the decarbonisation trends for Bulgaria and Romania which leads us to the conclusion that further actions are required to decarbonise these economies, prepare the labour markets for the new climate agenda and generate carbon-less output.
Assessing the COVID-19 Impact on Bulgarian SMEs
Assessing the COVID-19 Impact on Bulgarian SMEs
(Assessing the COVID-19 Impact on Bulgarian SMEs)
- Author(s):Svetlana Aleksandrova-Zlatanska
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, National Economy
- Page Range:115-125
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:COVID-19; Asymmetric Shock; Resilience
- Summary/Abstract:The article examined the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on real economic activities and related effects for SMEs. The Bulgarian economic growth and business activity were affected and macroeconomic environment immediately has changed. The pandemic was unprecedented asymmetric shock for Bulgarian economy. The COVID -19 caused a major shock for SMEs because of their lower resilience to the external shocks. The Bulgarian government has responded to the crisis by adopting emergency economic and social measures focused on support liquidity of the economic entities and on preventing staff layoffs. The purpose of the paper is to identify the effects of measures taken on the efficiency of the SME in Bulgaria. The measures targeting to the survival of SMEs and social measures for preserving household incomes and for helping employees who are laid off are funded from national budget and EU programs. As a result of adequate and timely measures in terms of employment and income subsidies, the unemployment rate has not increased significantly and is lower than the EU average. The benefits of a package of the economic and social measures cannot been assessed accurately, as well as for the most affected sectors of the outbreak pandemic crisis because of insufficient empirical evidences and ongoing emergency.
Trade Finance and COVID-19
Trade Finance and COVID-19
(Trade Finance and COVID-19)
- Author(s):Vessela Todorova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Supranational / Global Economy, Financial Markets
- Page Range:126-136
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:Trade Finance; Documentary Credit; Documentary Collection; Cash-in-advance; Open Account
- Summary/Abstract:Being at the low-risk, high collateral end of the credit spectrum trade finance plays a significant cant role in 80% of world trade. The market proved to be vulnerable to financial shocks. The current COVID-19 crisis is additionally sharpening the barriers in trade finance and in a number of strategic and important directions from the economic development. The economists argue that the uncertainties as a result from the pandemic will provoke greater demand for trade finance products over the medium term. It is supposed that the effects will be stronger than the consequences following the global financial crisis due to the extensive and deep economic effects of COVID-19.
From Cross-Cultural Comparisons to a Comprehensive Intercultural Competence – Some Comments on the Issues of Intercultural Communication in International Business
From Cross-Cultural Comparisons to a Comprehensive Intercultural Competence – Some Comments on the Issues of Intercultural Communication in International Business
(From Cross-Cultural Comparisons to a Comprehensive Intercultural Competence – Some Comments on the Issues of Intercultural Communication in International Business)
- Author(s):Antoaneta Daneshka
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Business Economy / Management
- Page Range:137-145
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:International Business; National Culture; Cross-Cultural Management; Intercultural Communication; Intercultural Competence
- Summary/Abstract:The subject of the paper is the phenomenon of intercultural communication in international business. That is, a cross-point of culture, communication and international business is sought for. It is assumed that recognizing and managing cultural differences and similarities is instru mental for achieving effectiveness in international environment for the purpose of doing inter national business. Moreover, it is argued that the multidimensionality of the ‘culture’ concept and its situational and dynamic character in the context of international business substanti ate a reasonable transition from cross-cultural comparisons to the development of a compre hensive intercultural competence - that is, a transition from cross-cultural communication to transactional culture building for the purpose of doing international business. The paper is based on literature review, observation and analytical reasoning.
SWOT Analysis of the Common Security and Defence Policy for Being Better Prepared for “Black Swan Events”
SWOT Analysis of the Common Security and Defence Policy for Being Better Prepared for “Black Swan Events”
(SWOT Analysis of the Common Security and Defence Policy for Being Better Prepared for “Black Swan Events”)
- Author(s):Monika Panayotova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, International relations/trade, Security and defense
- Page Range:146-162
- No. of Pages:17
- Keywords:CSDP; Strategic Compass; European autonomy; European defence fund (EDF); Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO); EU Global strategy
- Summary/Abstract:This publication aims to look at the process of strategic rethinking of the Common Security and Defence Policy 5 years after the adoption of the Global Strategy for the Foreign and Security Policy. It is based on a SWOT analysis of CSDP and places special emphasis on the need of more flexibility and less time-consuming decision-making process, in order EU to be better prepared for the so-called “black swan events”. With no intention of being exhaustive, it provides an analysis of certain tendencies in the policy which aims at enabling the Union to take a leading role in the international relations. In this regard the article: i) on the one hand: focuses on the key elements of the SWOT analysis, revealing what the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the CSDP are; ii) on the other hand: draws attention to the concept of the “black swan events”, the new Strategic compass and the need for EU Global strategy transformation into a smart strategy, balancing between strategic vision and flexibility.
Current Challenges Facing the European Union Development as a System
Current Challenges Facing the European Union Development as a System
(Current Challenges Facing the European Union Development as a System)
- Author(s):Todor Kondarev
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, EU-Accession / EU-DEvelopment
- Page Range:163-170
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:European Union; EU; System; Challenges; Political System; Capacity; Institutions; Institutional System
- Summary/Abstract:The political and the institutional systems of the European Union (EC, the Union) are complicated system organized on many levels - regional, national and European. Many factors affect the organization and the functioning and the EC institutions. They face continuously in their work challenges and have to solve new arising problems in the current dynamic world. The normal work and the future development of EU as a unique political and economic organization of voluntarily joined European countries depends vastly on the institutional system abilities (capacity) to take on time efficient short-term and perspective decisions. In the present article we have tried to identify and to classify the most important challenges in the current development and the main factors - external (global) and internal, affecting the Union and as well as their complex effects and consequences.
Effects on Bulgarian Market from Parallel Trade of Medicines in the EU
Effects on Bulgarian Market from Parallel Trade of Medicines in the EU
(Effects on Bulgarian Market from Parallel Trade of Medicines in the EU)
- Author(s):Ralina Dobrinova Mircheva
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, National Economy, Supranational / Global Economy
- Page Range:171-180
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Parallel Import/Export of Medicines; Reference Pricing; Effects; Bulgaria; EU
- Summary/Abstract:The legislation on wholesale trade in medicinal products is the basis for the drug supply on all EU markets. In Bulgaria, the implementation of parallel trade in medicines has been allowed. This trade practice and its principles lead to both positive and contradictory effects affecting both, Bulgarian and European pharmaceutical markets. The aim of this study is to present the characteristics of the parallel trade of medicines in Bulgaria and to analyze the subsequent effects of this commerce activity. The study is also paid attention to the mechanisms which have the potential to mitigate more negative effects of parallel trade.
