SIPARUNTON - International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research
SIPARUNTON – International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research is a dynamic academic platform that fosters interdisciplinary dialogue and innovative research across a broad spectrum of subjects including legal regulation, sustainable development, local governance, economic issues, social studies, environmental science, and more. Launched in October 2011 (Vol. 1, Issue 1), the journal is published by University of Haxhi Zeka and CSARA Publishing under the auspices of the Center for Science, Academic Research and Arts (CSARA).
THE IMPACT OF WORKERS’ TRAINING IN ESTABLISHMENT OF THEIR PERFORMANCE
Every organization, irrespective of whether their final aim is realizing profit or not, wishes to have qualified staff in its structure, and they achieve this through recruitment and selection. Despite this, the need to learn new knowledge, development of skills as well as the need to achieve the goals of the organization makes managers apply staff training. Through implementation of this, managers try to realize the aforementioned objectives, but also raising the workers' performance and so, this is a factor that influences the improvement of workers' motivation in the workplace. All this effectiveness achieved through staff training application, inevitably affects the setting of firm performance, it makes firms possess competitive elements in relation to other firms, ie elements for safe walking towards success. It is important to note that the empirical data clearly demonstrate that the staff training permanently affects the establishment of workers' performance, but it also increases their effectiveness and efficiency. Continuity to different trainings results in high performance of the workers, whereas contrary to this, discontinuity to different trainings results in their low performance. So, based on what was mentioned above, we can point out that between staff training and employees’ performance there is a connection, where trainings affect increase of performance, and the opposite, by no means should be forgotten that a trained staff in this way, being on the cutting edge in terms of innovations in science and technology will reflect positively on all the tasks that the firm has towards their goals, in order to lead in terms of successes.
Draft legislation imposes criminal democratic request for the inclusion of legal instruments that help more in punitive role of the sentence given by the court, by adapting a number of factors and circumstances that cannot accept the classical severity of punishment. This will maximize the peaceful character of the law but also would affect levels significantly above sentence enhancers’ purpose. In other words, the criminal law has more need for legal flexibility, giving a considerable assistance and judicial bodies. This flexibility is achieved by using not only clearly defined penalties and stiffly but also creating an amalgam arising from the acquisition of qualitative elements of some types of penalties are available always maintaining sustainable character of the criminal sentence. This flexibility between types of sentences leads us first what is called alternative sentence. Must have a clear alternative that should not understand this notion of broad term for a criminal offense then you can choose punishment of imprisonment or fine, because this determines the choice of law without much skating, but we are dealing with a process which allows us to within a clearly defined type of punishment may be able to detach some other elements of criminal justice thus building a sustainable form of criminal punishment completely featured. Methods of her execution contain essentially what we call the social reintegration of morality offender. Resuming the alternative mentioned above for sentencing will give this definition: the alternative sentence of imprisonment shall mean those sentences given by courts for crimes when the law set distinct criteria which lie within the framework of prison sentences but due to certain circumstances, psychological, moral, family, ways of executing them rigorously regulated by means of isolation are common. Alternative sentencing is not excluded from the punishment. Based on these alternative sentencing court determines the extent of the general rules defined in the law. While suffering with conditional sentencing court a number of factors present as well as how you will behave in the future the prisoner. There are significant differences in terms of the way that making that final decision and the execution in respect of other fixed penalties. Regarding the mode of decision making unlike other court fines wider access in the provision of these convictions. For, although the law sets rigid criteria for these cases again the role of the court is crucial in analyzing and defining the specific circumstances that makes a decision necessary with such character. These circumstances can be very varied, character health, family, professional, moral, where the court must decide each case that when the elements of the relative usefulness for granting an alternative to imprisonment. While related to the form of execution of the sentence here we have a main difference with respect to the manner of execution of the sentence because although alternatives to imprisonment for a legal background has sentence to imprisonment, execution of sentence classical form far from this being done so original executed away from traditional insulation.
Tourist potential offered by coastal areas of the delta of Buna until Rodoni first geographic view
Our coast of the Adriatic Sea in general and in area Buna - Rodon in particular represents a special value and importance not only to the social-economic development of the country but also for many potential tourist offers, which are necessary for the development of sustainable tourism and why not Our coast of the Adriatic Sea in general and in area Buna - Rodon in particular represents a special value and importance not only to the social-economic development of the country but also for many potential tourist offers, which are necessary for the development of sustainable tourism and why not elitist. Today tourism sector is becoming one of the dominant sectors of the economy in our country. Albania although a small country has much to offer tourists in terms of its natural beauty, culture, heritage, and archaeological sites. It has a wonderful Mediterranean climate. Albania offers endless potential for investors who want to take advantage of unexplored opportunities in tourism and help in the development of this industry and to make this key sector in the economy of our country. In this context, the aim of the paper is the identification of potential values of this part of the coast which are numerous, starting from the existence of a broad line coastline with numerous beaches that is a very good premise for tourism development Alteration of these beaches with rocky coast serves not only for development balnear tourism but also for biological aspect marine fauna and their conservation protection. Therefore, in view geographical we will bring these potential importance of those present in the tourism sector as well as measures for their protection.
THE ROLE OF FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES IN EQUITY MARKETS
In this paper, we will analyse the role of brokers, dealers and investment banks in the equity markets. Special attention will be given in analysing the role of financial intermediaries at initial public offerings and secondary offerings, according to the legal framework in Serbia. Serbia, as other transitional economies, has problems in mobilising funds for its stock exchange. Especially local savers do not trust the local financial system, especially the stock exchange. One of the major reasons for this distrust, besides bad experiences in the past, is a lack of knowledge about the functioning of stock exchanges. On the other hand, companies in Serbia often rely on debt based financial instruments, where they have to pay high interest rates. However, equity financing with partners, especially with many partners is at a very low level. Therefore, we want to analyse the functioning of equity markets by explaining the concept of stocks, public offerings and the role of financial intermediaries in this process.
administrative dispute On the organization and functioning of administrative courts and administrative dispute
Law no. 49/2012 "On the organization and functioning of administrative courts and administrative disputes" represents a novelty in the justice system in the Republic of Albania. This paper will present the procedures and lawsuit time limits trial from Administrative courts through the three levels, the advantages of this judgment by the Administrative Court compared to the ordinary court judgment, the burden of proof in the trial process, by this law. Unlike the previous practice courts, the public body has to prove the lawfulness of the administrative act, administrative contract and any other administrative action issued, not at the request of the plaintiff, and the facts that it has submitted and has been at the core of the activity brought in court and in other cases, the parties have the obligation to prove the facts, which their claim is based on. Differently by the current court practices in execution of a court decision, ordinatory courts do not have an active role in the execution of the decision. While the law no. 49/2012 has provided a new way to control the execution of a final judicial decisions and the judge or the chair of the panel are charged with an active role which rendered the judgment, as set in motion at the request of the parties or bailiff, at counseling room, without the presence of the parties, orders to conduct special operations and other measures necessary, determining the terms and time schedules of the proceeding.
Good practice of curriculum development at the University of Prishtina (UP), Kosovo
The article describes the development of the study program, Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Health Management, at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Prishtina (UP). It gives an overview of: definition of the study program’s aim; definition of learning outcomes at program level; study program structure; comparability and internationalization of the program; cooperation with the labor market partners; gender fairness; accreditation and other modalities before the start of the program. In the end of the article, conclusions and recommendations have been made on successful introduction of teaching and learning process at the University of Prishtina, based on learning outcomes.
DIGITAL OILFIELD AND THE CYBER RISKS IN THE EVERYDAY WORK. MANAGING OILFIELD DATA IN A MORE UNSECURE WORLD
Industrial organizations operating in the oil and gas sector face greatest challenges today including the pressing need to find and exploit new energy supplies, greater regulatory pressures, new work requirements and the demands of a growing data management. At the same time, oil companies face a serious and growing risk from cyberattacks, malicious software, and other threats against their IT infrastructure, scientific and production data and intellectual property. Extracting value from the computers or networks of unsuspecting oil companies and government agencies has become a big business and a very profitable one. No oil company or agency can ignore network security today; it is the source of systematic risk that threatens long-term health, stability and profitability of any oil company. Cyber security is and must be part of any corporate strategy for managing risk and compliance. Cyber security risk management is becoming a high-level responsibility for any board of executives and one of the most difficult tasks to deal with. From the history of hacking and cyber attacking there are plenty of conclusions and results such as: It is not difficult at all to hack data from a oil company. More than 90% of successful breaches required only the most basic techniques to do. Only 3% of breaches were impossible or unavoidable without difficult or expensive actions. Outsiders were responsible for most network breaches. 85% of breaches took a lot of time to be discovered; the average time for discovering one is five to six months. 96% of successful breaches could have been avoided or prevented if the victim (oil company) had put in place simple or intermediate controls. 75% of network attacks use publicly known vulnerabilities in commercial software that could be prevented by regular patching. One study found that most of antivirus software missed as much of 95% of malware in the first few days after its introduction. Another study on internet and network security found that 25% of malware is not detected by current antimalware or software techniques. In this paper we will look at how oil and gas organizations can measurably improve their security posture – not only by deploying sophisticated technologies or strategies, but mostly and instead by simply following the basics of commonsense and effective cyber security.
oilfield, data, security, cyber risk, hacking, management
THE ROLE OF THE RESTAURANT SECTOR IN PROMOTING THE LOCAL CUISINE. THE CASE OF SHKODRA CITY
One of the key components in the development of gastronomic tourism is the promotion of the local cuisine. The use of the local food by restaurants is a significant way of promoting the local cuisine as well as establishing collaborative relationships with the local producers. This alternative leads also in the increase of the local production and in the improvement of the returns of their investment. Restaurants which use the local cuisine in their menus face an opportunity of marketing their menus, potentially leading to ongoing purchase of the local food. Shkodra as a touristic destination holds great potentials in the development of gastronomic tourism. This destination owns a large heritage in cuisine, in local food production, techniques of productions and a variety of recourses. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the willingness and ability of the restaurant managers to use and promote the local cuisine in their menus. Research was carried out through a questionnaire delivered in 39 restaurants registered in Shkodra region and in-depth interviews with chef restaurants and managers. The questionnaire was divided in two parts. The first part investigated the extent to which managers and chefs of restaurants assess the role of local food in their business. The second part of the questionnaire evaluates how much do local food affect tourists in the choice of a destination, according to managers and chefs restaurants. This was done to explore the possibility that Shkodra destination has to develop gastronomic tourism and the effect that tourism has in their business. The conclusion of this study was that the restaurants are integrating in their menus the local food because there is an increase in the demand for local produce. This study indicate that restaurants need to cause much more attention to this relationship as a better way to raise authentic experiences.
restaurants, local cuisine, authenticity, tourism quality management
Real Strategy as a Foundation Document to Guarantee Quality Management and Assurance in the “Haxhi Zeka” University
Currently, the institutions of the government of the Republic of Kosovo have taken concrete actions to decentralize the Higher Education by opening new universities in the regional centers and by setting the conditions for a competitive intercollegiate environment where the true principles and a condition for a contemporary institution will, above all, be the academic quality management assurance. For this vision, the relevant institutions have issued a series of strategic and legal documents which will provide for an acceptable legal and academic base for all higher education providers and with the proper view of the situation and current needs, they will be drafting and implementing strategic documents. Initially, these documents will guarantee the mechanisms for providing necessary information on all weaknesses, risks, opportunities and priorities of the segments for the university academic development, analyzing these up to the adoption of managerial actions which will ultimately result in a strategic document that guarantees quality and quality only. Although established two years earlier, ‘Haxhi Zeka’ University has made progress in organizing academic activities but has not yet taken any serious and substantive steps to mobilize all segments within the university and on the basis of shared responsibilities to draft and implement the document with normative and academic force to assure the management of the university’s quality. It is considered that the academic quality is related to the well composition of the variables of competencies in teaching and students learning, intercollegiate cooperation, scientific research and adopting programs according to the market requirements and conditions both inside and outside the country. These objectives may be achieved only by specialized managers who are prepared for changes, respectively with a modern manager profile.
Higher education, quality, management, university, strategy
THE FINANCIAL CRISIS AS MANIFESTATION OF THE SO CALLED “THE POLITICAL TRILEMMA OF THE WORLD ECONOMY
Over the centuries, have been many financial crises, which occurred in cycle shaken the world's largest economies. In general, crises are more or less similar in appearance, the appear occasionally. The same case is also the recent financial crisis of 2008, known as the global financial crisis, considered biggest crisis since 1930s, which create financial, economic and social problems. Financial and economic crisis later was transformed into a social and political crisis. Macroeconomic indicators analysis shows that the economic crisis has interrupted the positive trend of development. The most important lessons that the financial and economic experts and the biggest political leaders of the world took out of this unprecedented crisis, is that the “phenomenon of globalization” already is a constant challenge, whose economies of countries should adopt and also create mechanisms to deal with it. Through this paper, referring to scientific literature I will analyze what are the main causes of the financial crisis and what are their effects on the economy. Will be treated consistently as well as political trilemma, which shows the need of sacrificing one of the three pillars of Trilemma as: economic globalization, political democracy and national sovereignty who are reciprocally incompatible with one another.
Financial crisis, trilemma, crisis symptoms, crisis causes, crisis effects.
PREVALENCE OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE: PRELIMINARY FINDINGS FROM A FIELD ASSESSMENT IN SIX SHELTERS IN KOSOVO
Gender-based violence(GBV) is a term describing any harm perpetrated against a person that results from unequal power relationships determined by social roles ascribed to males and females.While recognizing that boys and man may be exposed to gendered violence,the inequality of power that is the foundatione of GBV ,coupled whith women's inferior status in virtually all societies,means that women and girls are the primary targets of GBV around the globe.As such ,the term GBV continues to be used principally in reference to violence against women and girls.ln a definition put forth 1993 that is stilo widely referenced today.the United Nationes classified violence against women as "any act of gender -besed violence that result in,or is likely to result in,physical,sexual,or psychological harm or suffering to women ,including threats of such acts,coercion,or arbitrary deprivation of liberty.wether occurring in public or private life"(United Nationes 1993). This definition highlights that violence against women encompasses a broad range of abuses,from assault to emotional and institutional abuse or the thread of such abuse.As such,manifestations of GBV might variously include,exploitation,trafficking of women and girls,denial of rights,exclusion from social benefits and other forms of discrimination,and cultural practices that have harmful implications for women and girls. Source: Alwesson, Mac & Billing Yvone Duet 1997 (Understanding Gender and Organizations)
THE ROLE OF THE GOVERNMENT POLICY FOR SUPPORT THE SME-s
This paper describes the important role of the government policy for support the SME-s. In Albanian economy, a transition market economy, SME-s, constitute the main source of the national income. The Albanian economy, like the other countries in our region is challenging a lot of problems. As far as we know most of the problems stem from the transition period. This paper presents the contributions of the SME-s sector to total employment. SME-s play a vital role in the economy, they have a crucial importance in developed and especially in developing countries. According Analoui & Karami (2003), SME-s are important contributions in creation of the new jobs and in the growth of the economy. Contemporary global economy deals SME-s slowly with the impact of economic problems, that's why we want to bring here the important role that the government has to protect, to create facilities for business, making them to operate in the right ways. The aim of this study is to accent and to underline that government can change and improve the SME-s conditions with their policies. These policies could help them to performance growth and in this way lasting competitiveness in the market. To verify how much do the business feel the government support. There is done a study in one of the main cities in Albania, Shkoder. Based on the data gathered by the questionnaires, on some of the SME-s in this city, there is done an regression analysis. This analyze is done to understand the situation. Based on the results of the analyses are done conclusions and recommendations.
government policy, SME-s, management, performance, economic growth, regression analyses.
EMPLOYEE SKILLS, A VERY IMPORTANT FACTOR IN TOURISM GROUTH
We all face every day with the movement of a new era, and the era of knowledge economy. Employees need continuously for high level of education, acquisition of different and new behaviors, which helps to adapt to the changes of social environment which constitutes a challenges for development of tourism. The grouth of enhancement in the work environment affects positively in the development of a tourist economy. They form the basis of knowledge that are required to do the job, for the agreement between customers and managers and to increase the quality in tourism services that offers this sector. Job skills are not equal to the skills of the labor environment of the tourist sector. As Bob Nelson (2001) says ’’Never say that we don’t need learning. New day is born and something new for us to continue the flow absent. ’’ Reading, writing, math are the base of skill increase. Talking, speaking, listening, suitability are the basis of good communication and these help for problems solving, thinking creatively, effective work group which increases quality work group and interpersonal skills or influenced skills, for example the leadership and understanding the dynamics of a group. These are some items that makes tourism more attractive. We can never say that we know everything, because the development of technology is moving toward new technology and innovations. Years ago these skills are defined by being divided in 3 categories: basic skills, personal menagement and teamwork skillsevery day we got comments from employees about their salary and their dissatisfation is clear. it brings non eficance to employees who work in a turism sector. They are worry becouse for the same job they salary is in a same level like the other non qualified employees have. This comes from incompetence of leaders to identify their skills. All these things make up a complex type, that makes you feel “less than. . . ”. In the end we create several problems that tourism is facing nowadays. No matter how much power, brilliance or energy you have, if you dont use it and dont focus on a specific target you wont reach your goals Ziglar, 1985, p. 25).
Employee skills, the tourist sector, social environment
CORRUPTION IN PRIVATIZATION PROCESS AND CONSEQUENCES
In order to understand what the risks of corruption in countries consist of and where they come from, one should first take a look at how communist economies and entire societies were functioning. Privatization in post-communist countries is unprecedented not only because this is a process of changing ownership on a scale and at a rate unheard of before but also because the process is evolving in a social space that is substantially distorted, both economically and spiritually, morally and ethically. It investigates the implementation of the privatization process and valuation methodology in a developing economy where the market system and its associated institutions are not fully developed… In post-comunist economies after privatization under the assumption that theft is possible, that those who have stolen assets cannot be fully protected under a change in the legal regime towards rule of law. In many instances, privatization has been accompanied by widespread corruption. Jozeph Stiglitz, ex-chief Economist at the World Bank, admits that “it has proved difficult to prevent corruption and other problems In privatizing monolpoies” The “horrors" come about partly because of the in exible and hasty deadlines set by the IMF and World Bank. Public services are privatised without enough time being allowed to set up workable frameworks for regulation. As the recent External Evaluation of the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility (ESAF) noted with some puzzlement: In most. . . ESAF countries undertaking programs of public sector reform, the privatization process has always begun before an appropriate legal framework in the form of a divestiture implementation or state enterprise law is passed. The results are many-fold: • Governments are often unable to arrange transparent and open bidding processes or promulgate needed regulatory laws; ================================================================================== = 767 = • Managers and employees, fearful for their future and condent of their ability to escape punishment, commonly strip the assets of the entities undergoing privatisation; • Many interested parties are able to engage in insider dealing and political manipulation of the process for their own profit; • Many state enterprises do not have the time to become economically viable before being sold off, leading to frequent sales of industries at below market value despite heavy government spending on recapitalisation. For multinationals, bribery enables companies to gain contracts (particularly for public works and military equipment) or concessions which they would not otherwise have won, or to do so on more favourable terms. Every year, Western businesses pay huge amounts of money in bribes to win friends, in uence and contracts. These bribes are conservatively estimated to run to US$80 billion a year roughly the amount that the UN believes is needed to eradicate global poverty.
Privatization process, corruption, economy, assets, government, valuation error.
ATM NETWORK MARKET STRUCTURE AND ITS EFFECTS ON THE NUMBER OF ATMS AND ON CASH IN CIRCULATION IN KOSOVO
New knowledge are important factor of economic and social development of a country. Technological progress is the result of research and development efforts at the national and global level and poses great influence in all spheres of life : lifestyle , habits in consumption and living standards in general. Developing a strong banking system is a image of each state. With the distinguished shortcomings and advantages of a place in the monetary system. As an independent Kosovo is strongly felt the need of creating its distinct identity and affirmation. Although at first ATM was not well expected and left a long time use, it is nevertheless one of the most valuable devices that could hold one. In early cardholders not charged a fee, but with this network expansion became necessary because customers now can use their cards abroad. ATMs are simple electronic devices that allow people to withdraw money and check their accounts without having to go to the bank . Using ATMs is indisputable significance for the development of the banking system of the Republic of Kosovo, even though we all know that Kosovo as a transition state has numerous and specific in terms of infrastructure , the issue of security , law infrastructure, political and more other .
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN ALBANIA THROUGH STAKEHOLDERS INVOLVEMENT
Tourism is an important subsystem of the Albanian economy, considering a key factor of regional development and economic growth. To ensure the long – term success of the tourism destination on the international tourism market, it has to operate according to the principles of sustainability. The focus of many contemporary studies from the tourism development literature has been on the need of implementing development policies that are based on the principles of sustainable development. The destination can be sustainable and competitive if it attempts to reach a compromise regarding the interests of all the stakeholders. Stakeholder engagement and participatory practice is increasingly becoming a part of mainstream practice and central public policy decision making and delivery related to sustainable tourism. Sustainable development and the application of its principles to Albanian tourism are more important now than ever. It should be examined from the points of view of the key stakeholders: tourists, the local people, the tourism businesses and the professionals involved in the tourism industry. Sustainable tourism development ensures guest satisfaction,steady profit coming from tourism related activities for tourism oriented businesses and growth of tourism in region, rise in standard of living of local people and protection of the environment. Partnership building in Albania is in its infancy and partnership work is essential to get the greatest benefits from the holistic sustainable tourism approach. Hall discussing policy issues regarding tourism states that: often, the problems of developing coordinated approaches towards tourism planning and policy problems, such as the meta problem of sustainability, are identified in organizational terms, e.g the creation of new organizations or the allocation of new responsibilities to existing ones. However, such a response does not by itself solve the problem of bringing various stakeholders and interests together which is an issue of establishing collaborative processes (Hall 1999, 278). The article examines the competitiveness of the Albanian destination from the viewpoints of the tourists, tourism business, local people and tourism experts. Considering each stakeholder`s role and protecting the interest of the target groups contributes in achieving and maintaining of sustainability in the tourism sector in Albania. The study aims identifying their attitudes towards sustainability and their points of connection as well that assist with promoting the interests of the target groups. It is critical to note that the participatory engagement of stakeholders is perhaps the most important component of the planning and development of the Albanian destination. It can be described as a process of maturity from initial stages to more developed and self-sustaining stages. Questionnaires were used for gathering data. They were designed for all four target groups. The questionnaires included both open-ended and closed questions.
Sustainable tourism, stakeholder, destination, Albania
TRAINING STUDENTS IN THE PRACTICAL REALIZATION OF ELECTRONIC CIRCUITS BY SIMULATING CIRCUIT COMPONENTS IN VIRTUAL-LAB
This paper provides an overview of the research-project on training students in the realization of electronic circuits. They presents the selection of study subjects, the appropriate instruments, describe the collecting procedure and analyzing data. So, this paper studied the possibilities of the students to use modern technology, such as using the internet for absorbing information necessary resources to help the argumentation of solutions to problems that will arise, specifications provided by the lecturers developing attitudes towards technology, use online reference resources. The following issues are also included: How to use IT encyclopedias for projects and scientific research. Also present an initiative applied for the preparation of future applied informatics experts, through electronic portfolio development. In this part of the conclusions drawn in summary, form each matter dealt with in the paper, the study research questions to be answered, presented necessary recommendations, limitations of the study and implementation options.
virtual- laboratorysimulation, realization of electronic circuits, training students
THE REASONS THAT COMPANIES PREFER CERTAIN MEDIA PROMOTIONAL ASPECTS
The preferences and the credibility are some of the aspects that companies take into consideration in planning periods and promotions campaigns. Although in most of the cases the budget is predetermined of media selection, marketers express their beliefs for promotion ways and also media selection. The print and electronic media as two generalized unitsthat include within them a variety of advertising forms, all with special specifications which are relate to the audience targeted by the company. What are the major reasons why companies prefer TV as a medium to advertise their products or services? Why small companies prefer social media respectively internet less than large companies?What is a decisive moment in the selection of media by the companies? These are some of the research questions of this research which aims to identify the media that in this case are more preferred by companies in Kosovo to promote their products and/or services. On the other side, the present research will also identify the problems that companies in Kosovo face during the selection of media, and the obstacles faced by these companies during the advertising process. The importance of advertising in determining the success of the company is related to the selected media. The coordination between the company and the media is made by the marketers which aim to increase the audience in general notwithstanding the audience of these media.
Media, promotion, advertising,company, product.
HARMONIZED CODIFICATION OF GOODS USING INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES IN SEE COUNTRIES
Considering the importance of creation of Knowledge Management Environment in SEE countries, comparable with the EU Environment, trends and situation in EU countries,and the variety of available Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Solutions on the market, it is a difficult and challenging task of deciding what type of ICT solutions to use in support of creation of Knowledge Management Environmentin SEE. This paper aims to research the state of harmonized codification using the Information and Communication Technologies in SEE countries by investigating the role of ICT in creation of the successful Environment for Knowledge Management. Codification of Knowledgeusing information and communication technology (ICT) have made it easier to acquire, store, or disseminate knowledge than ever before, many organizations are employing IT to facilitate sharing and integration of knowledge. SEE countries are being advised that to remain competitive, they must efficiently and effectively create, locate, capture, and share their knowledge and expertise, and have the ability to bring that knowledge to bear on problems and opportunities. SEE countries are showing a serious interest in implementing knowledge management processes and technologies, and are even beginning to adopt knowledge management as part of their overall development strategy. With the codification approach, more explicit and structured knowledge is codified and stored in knowledge bases. Examples of such IT tools are knowledge expert directories and video-conferencing tools. Both these Knowledge Management approaches are fundamental to understanding the importance of ICT in creation of Environment for Knowledge Management. Positive samples will be useful to be implemented within SEE countries, and as an impact, the contribution of the paper will be shown as a possible model of managing and motivating an environment that supports Knowledge Management Environment in SEE countries, through harmonized codification using Information and Communication Technologies.
RISK MANAGEMENT AND ITS IMPACT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF INSURANCE COMPANIES - THE CASE OF KOSOVO
Experience of successful businesses in the insurance field has shown that risk management provides wealth preservation and growth, enhancing reputation regardless of scope, taking into account the fact that the risk is not only a threat, but it also presents opportunities if the insurance company is prepared in time to handle it adequately. International studies show that insurance companies with good risk management have better return on equity and better performance in other key business indicators in comparison with competitors who do not give great importance to risk management. This study will use structured questionnaires to explore the extent of the application of risk management in insurance companies in Kosovo and its impact on their business performance. Also, the annual reports of companies are used to see the financial performance of companies. The hypothesis of this study relates to the impact of risk management in the financial performance of companies participating in the study. Thus, it can be understood that the information provided may present the situation of the sector and behavior of the insurance market in Kosovo in terms of risk management policies and how they influenced modern risk management in the company's financial performance in the insurance market of Kosovo. Hence, these data can be of great interest to any other local companies to prompt them to put risk management at the top of their agenda when it is known that in this area remain behind shell companies in the region and EU 's.
Tourism potential of Prespa as an opportunity for investment
Changes in global tourism characteristics of world acquirement and numerous challenges have prompted many countries to plan their strategies for making tourism one of the most powerful and sustainable economic development. This paper aims to present the natural potentials, to highlight the cultural and historical reasons (cultural heritage). Consequently, we present all possible shapes of tourism, which have the opportunity to develop, to analyze data with a tourism resort with the same potential, to identify problems why it is not developing at the same level. Further we present investment opportunities, and needed measures for a sustainable tourism in Prespa as primary economic branch. Natural potentials are of a great and decisive importance in the development of tourism. Cultural and historical motifs in Prespa are numerous, especially in rural areas with values and opportunities of using but there is a lack of a good job by the central and local governments for identifying and processing these values. Various forms of tourism are an opportunity for gathering tourists throughout the year and not just during the summer season. Comparison of touristic data with another touristic area with potentials approximately the same highlights the defects encountered in the area concerned. The attraction of the area is an opportunity for foreign and domestic investors in the establishment of a tourist area with tourist contemporary models. By sustainable development of tourism we understand the management of all resources in order to meet economic needs, social and aesthetic, which preserves cultural integrity, basic ecological processes, biodiversity and life support systems wich is entirely possible in Prespa.
tourism, potentials, cultural-historical, economic development, investors
THE EXPOSURE OF CONSTRUCTION FIRMS IN SHKODRA REGION TO THE EXCHANGE RATE RISK AND ITS HEDGING
The high scale of dependency of Albanian businesses with neighbor countries and broader, makes them face a high exchange rate risk. Most of them import the raw materials and very often set their prices in foreign currency like euro or US dollar in order to hedge from the exchange rate risk. Hedging from this risk is difficult due to many reasons where the most three important are: the nonfunctioning of Tirana stock exchange, the commercial banks still do not offer hedging instruments to be traded and used widely, and the lack of financial knowledge from our businesses’ representatives on hedging instruments. Construction is one of the industries that is most exposed to exchange rate risk. This is due to the large amounts of raw material importing, the large amount of capital involved in, etc. In this paper we aim to show to what extend the constructing firms operating in Shkodra region are exposed to exchange rate risk and what they do to hedge from it. We will also give some ways on how they can improve their hedging mechanisms. This paper ends with some recommendations on how these firms can hedge from this risk.
DILEMMA: AMERICANIZATION OR GLOBALIZATION
Abstract Today we live in a world which Americans conceived and created as "their future", which we call globalization." Fatos Tarifa For many authors globalization is one of the forms of U.S. hegemony and the process of globalizing today is nothing more than a Americanization of the globe. But can we put the sign of equality between these two phenomens? Could the globalization be considered an American creation? In fact, The United States of America have historically struggled to spread their values throughout the world, self-proclaimed as universal nation whose values should be applied to all mankind. Products and American cultural norms in the age of globalization, have become global in a much greater extent than those of other countries. But such an attitude can not pass without challenge and becoming subject to the criticism of those nations that have historically "compete for the title" having the same aspirta. Indeed, the idea that America is different from other countries and that it belongs the mission of preaching its values around the world, found on all sides of American politics, showing us clearly the elements of their national identity. The feeling of being a model for the rest of the world, lies deep in the American national consciousness. The problem lies in the fact that this national mission runs counter the interests of anti-American nations in Europe, which criticizeand denounce contradictory most of the latter ones see as value. Therefore the aim of this paper is to make clear why globalization is fueled by the so-called "imperialism" of American values and culture, why some European countries are feeling the need to protect their values and culture and why for France, in contrast to Albania, has been so difficult to accept the spread of American values around the world? Researching the literature and documentation we realize that globalization and Americanization appear as two sides of the same coin, as very related phenomens to the development of the world. Globalizing model of "American type" has an impact on reducing the many traditions and cultures in the nations and regions of the world which occasionally manifest anti-American sentiments.The latter are not only a consequence of the foreign policy, hegemony or military force of the United States, they were born as a combination of these causes with which Joseph S. Nye has defined as sources of "soft power" in America, and include among others political values and cultural norms.
BANKING RISK MANAGEMENT OF KOSOVO’S COMMERCIAL BANKS
Risk management is one of the processes and main strategies used by companies. Through better risk management can be avoid the negative outcomes and be ensured the company’s success in the area it operates. This strategy can be achieved through the use of appropriate methodologies and processes. Commercial banks in Kosovo are being followed and implemented this strategy and therefore they invest on new developments and innovations. The object of this study is investigation of banking risk management of commercial banks in Kosovo. For elaboration of this theme is designed a questionnaire through which are received financial and operational data from six commercial banks operating in Kosovo. During the research process are applied qualitative and quantitative methods, especially statistical analysis. Regarding the findings of the research revealed almost everything that is stated in the literature review and analysis of the concept of risk management around secondary data which already exist.
Financial Environment in Kosovo Case Study of Commercial Banks and Financial Organizations
Among the major achievements of the post-war Kosovo is building of financial institutions, or the stable banking system and microfinance, functional for just created conditions. Important role in the development of a financial environment within a national economy is the existence and functioning of a developed institutional structure and financial, that this structure is composed of central banks and banking institutions (which entered the banking network and microcredit institutions), non-banking institutions ( microfinance) to offer loans in Kosovo, insurance companies and pension funds, exchanges, money transfer agencies, which create a financial system with a good organization and proper, creating conditions for businesses to operate successfully, both ,within and out of the country.
ANASI Teuta - The shrinking remittances from Albanian migrants and the special Greek case The shrinking remittances from Albanian migrants and the special Greek case
Abstract Remittances from our migrants abroad are still of great importance to Albanian economy. Our migrants facing Greek economic crises is a case at issue. ILO data show they are facing job losses, less working days per month and even loss of social benefits which in turn affect their status as legal emigrants. This study shows how their remittances to their families in Albania are shrinking fast. Special attention is paid to the fact of some of them evaluating a return in Albania to open a private activity with their meager savings instead of just surviving in Greece. Shrinking remittances and personal savings of the migrants as an additional source of investments in Albania constitute the main target of this paper. Through statistics, interviews, facts and figures we illustrate one of the aspects of the influence of the Albanian migrants plight on our national economy.
Promotion and Integrated Marketing Communication as a process With influence in Consumer Behavior
We need to have in mind the fact that combination of promotion element as part of marketing mix of the company, and knowledge for consumer shall be an efficient mean available to marketers. Expenses for promotion in majority of cases are a biggest part of marketing activities as process, and we are a witness that budget for promotion in many companies are up to millions. We link the matter of knowing of consumer and its needs as a manner to relief promotion activities management as good as possible. If there is no knowledge on behavior regarding the subject of consumers and decisions taken by him during purchase then as a result there is inefficient consumption of huge sums of budget dedicated to promotion. Project reviews combination of two parts of marketing process, (however not separately from other process activities) as very important, and explicates different theoretical concepts and practical situations on which the company should use the knowledge for consumer and promotion elements in order to achieve marketing objectives.
Managing hospitality through ICT services. Case of Albanian tourism industry
The definitions of tourism innovation (e.g. product, service and technological innovations) remains unclear, with the exception maybe of the internet. New technologies can produce an essential contribution to tourism development. For tourism businesses, the Internet offers the potential to make information and booking facilities available to large numbers of tourists at relatively low costs. It also provides a tool for communication between tourism suppliers, intermediaries, as well as end – consumers. OECD (2000) revealed that the advent of Internet – based electronic commerce offers considerable opportunities for firms to expand their customer base, enter new product markets and rationalize their business. WTO (2001) also indicated that electronic business offers SMEs the opportunity to undertake their business in new and more cost-effective ways. According to WTO, the Internet is revolutionizing the distribution of tourism information and sales. An increasing proportion of Internet users are buying on-line and tourism will gain a larger and larger share of the online commerce market. Obviously, the Internet is having a major impact as a source of information for tourism. However, the SMTEs are facing more stringent impediments to the adoption of new information technology, in particular, e-business. Part of the problem relates to the scale and affordability of information technology, as well as the facility of implementation within rapidly growing and changing organizations. In addition, new solutions configured for large, stable, and internationally-oriented firms do not fit well for small, dynamic, and locally-based tourism firms. Despite these challenges, SMTEs with well developed and innovative Web sites can now have “equal Internet access” to international tourism markets. This implies equal access to telecom infrastructure, as well as to marketing management and education. According to a UN report (2001), “it is not the cost of being there, on the on-line market place, which must be reckoned with, but the cost of not being there.” It is certain that embracing digital communication and information technology is no longer an option, but a necessity. Thus, one of the most important characteristics of electronic commerce is the opportunity and promise it holds for SMTEs to extend their capabilities and grow.
THE ECONOMIC POLICY TRENDS IN KOSOVO, CHALLENGES AND GROWTH
Abstract Our coast of the Adriatic Sea in general and in area Buna - Rodon in particular represents a special value and importance not only to the social-economic development of the country but also for many potential tourist offers, which are necessary for the development of sustainable tourism and why not elitist. Today tourism sector is becoming one of the dominant sectors of the economy in our country. Albania although a small country has much to offer tourists in terms of its natural beauty, culture, heritage, and archaeological sites. It has a wonderful Mediterranean climate. Albania offers endless potential for investors who want to take advantage of unexplored opportunities in tourism and help in the development of this industry and to make this key sector in the economy of our country. In this context, the aim of the paper is the identification of potential values of this part of the coast which are numerous, starting from the existence of a broad line coastline with numerous beaches that is a very good premise for tourism development Alteration of these beaches with rocky coast serves not only for development balnear tourism but also for biological aspect marine fauna and their conservation protection. Therefore, in view geographical we will bring these potential importance of those present in the tourism sector as well as measures for their protection.
The modernization process in Albania: education and the political stability of the country
Modernization, as a process involving multidimensional changes in the social, economic and political systems of a community, has also had a significant impact in the post-communist Albania. Besides the obvious political changes that this country went through following the end of the 80’s and early 90’s, other sectors of the social system were also subject to substantial reforms in the framework of democratization. The latter has had a determining impact in the whole political system starting by the change of the political regime to the reconfiguration of political institutions, the review of political procedures, etc. The success of all this political process of change, as well as all the other changes in the social and economic systems of Albania depend considerably on the levels of the political stability of the country. That is why, this paper focuses on the study of education in Albania, as an aspect which accompanied the modernization process and its impact on the political stability. Therefore, the rationale that this paper uses considers education as an important indicator closely related to the overall political stability. In other words, this means that an educated youth, with much more opportunities to attend higher education is more likely to get organized in order to fulfill its aspirations and expectations. It is this forms of organization that become determinant to the political stability of a country. The paper makes use of quantitative and qualitative data in trying to analyse the role of the education system and especially of higher education on the Albanian political stability. These two types of data are used in: first, providing a general framework of the modernisation process in education; second, presenting the role that the youth has had in Albania during the post-communist period focusing on the different forms of political participation and the ways how their expectations and aspirations have been answered by the political system, third, analysing the political stability of the country and the relationship between education and the political stability.