ITEMA 2024 / 8 – Recent Advances in Information Technology, Tourism, Economics, Management and Agriculture - SELECTED PAPERS
ITEMA 2024 / 8 – Recent Advances in Information Technology, Tourism, Economics, Management and Agriculture - SELECTED PAPERS
Contributor(s): Andreea Grecu (Editor), Snežana Štetić (Editor), Viktoria Kundi (Editor)
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Economy
ISSN: 2683-5991
Published by: Udruženje ekonomista i menadžera Balkana
Keywords: Information Technology; Tourism; Economics; Management; Agriculture
Summary/Abstract: The 8th International Scientific Conference ITEMA 2024 – Recent Advances in InformationTechnology, Tourism, Economics, Management and Agriculture presents a curated selection ofpapers that examine how digital, managerial, and sustainability transitions are reshaping industriesand public life. This Selected Papers volume spans rigorous empirical studies, comparativeanalyses, and conceptual contributions that link evidence to practice across Europe and beyond. A significant strand of the collection addresses digital transformation and its organizational andsocietal effects. Contributions assess Europe’s readiness for digitalization, the role of digital tools in SME internationalization, the geography of digital nomadism, and AI-enabled personalization in e-commerce, while also paying careful attention to ethics, bias, and governance inAI and HRM systems. Methodologically, authors employ bibliometric mapping, clustering, and structural equation modeling to connect technology adoption with performance, communication quality, and customer outcomes. Tourism and place development feature prominently. Studies investigate resident perceptions in smaller UNESCO sites, city branding through cultural events, the authenticity of influencer-created content, leisure constraints for solo student travelers, spectator satisfaction at large sports events, and shifts in consumer behavior during adverse events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These papers offer concrete guidance for destination managers seeking to balancegrowth, authenticity, and resident well-being. Economic performance, finance, and sustainability form a third pillar. Research explores material efficiency within the circular economy and its growth effects, eco-innovation patterns across the EU27, links between environmental certification and financial results in transport companies, financial stress amid a new wave of AI investing, and capital-market knowledge among younger cohorts. Additional work examines workforce dynamics, work involvement and affective commitment, Generation Z’s entry into labor markets, and expatriate well-being during natural crises, highlighting human factors that underpin resilient organizations. Finally, the volume extends to agriculture and environmental stewardship. Papers assess the phytoremediation potential of Datura stramonium, connecting agricultural science with practical remediation of heavy-metal-contaminated soils, and reinforce how green innovation supports broader sustainability targets. Together, these studies reflect ITEMA’s mission: to connect disciplines, methods, and stakeholders;to evaluate what works and why; and to translate findings into actionable insights for policy makers, practitioners, and researchers. We thank all authors, reviewers, and partners whose efforts made this volume possible, and we hope the results will inform future research and responsible innovation across information technology, tourism, economics, management,
and agriculture.
- Print-ISBN-13: 978-86-80194-90-5
- Page Count: 210
- Publication Year: 2024
- Language: English
Is Europe Ready for Digital Transformation? A Comparative Analysis in the Field of Digitalization
Is Europe Ready for Digital Transformation? A Comparative Analysis in the Field of Digitalization
(Is Europe Ready for Digital Transformation? A Comparative Analysis in the Field of Digitalization)
- Author(s):Julianna Csugany, Tamas Tanczos
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:1-11
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Digitalization; European Union; DESI; Innovation performance
- Summary/Abstract:The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly accelerated digital transformation, compelling economic actors to rapidly adapt to evolving conditions. In response, the European Union has set ambitious digital targets for 2030 as part of its vision for Europe’s Digital Decade, aiming to empower businesses and individuals to exploit the benefits of digitalization. The Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) serves as a valuable tool for identifying the key drivers and challenges in achieving the EU’s digital transformation goals. This research focuses on comparing EU member states across various dimensions of digitalization, including digital skills, infrastructure, business transformation, and the digitalization of public services, using DESI indicators. It is hypothesized that significant disparities exist between member states, which may be correlated with their levels of innovation performance. By employing multivariate statistical methods, the comparative analysis seeks to highlight the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with digital transformation in Europe.
Living in Smaller UNESCO Sites – Paradise or Hell? Factors Influencing the Perception of Residents
Living in Smaller UNESCO Sites – Paradise or Hell? Factors Influencing the Perception of Residents
(Living in Smaller UNESCO Sites – Paradise or Hell? Factors Influencing the Perception of Residents)
- Author(s):Zuzana Kvítková, ZDENKA PETRŮ
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:13-20
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:Small UNESCO sites; Tourism; Residents´ life; Socio-economic factors
- Summary/Abstract:UNESCO sites are objects of extensive research. Generally, research concentrates on the tourists´ perspective. The small UNESCO sites are specific in several ways (smaller towns, seasonal demand, lower capacities, lower staff capacities in municipalities and DMOs, lower budget, etc.). Tourism is often the most visible phenomenon in these towns despite not being a major employer or income generator. Tourism´s impacts are divided into three areas – the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental ones. There are a total of 16 items representing them in the research. The Likert scale was used for impact evaluation. Research collected 258 questionnaires in 5 smaller UNESCO sites in the Czech Republic. Correlation analysis, reliability tests, and structural equation modelling (SEM) are applied to the dataset. The research results can help the municipalities and DMOs argue tourism’s positive impacts and focus on and manage the relevant aspects of being a tourism site.
Branding the City Through Events: The Influence of Cultural Events on Reputation from the Residents’ Perspective
Branding the City Through Events: The Influence of Cultural Events on Reputation from the Residents’ Perspective
(Branding the City Through Events: The Influence of Cultural Events on Reputation from the Residents’ Perspective)
- Author(s):Lidija Bagarić, Iva Krečak, Daniel Dragičević
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:21-28
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:City branding; Cultural events; Tourism marketing; Brand dimensions
- Summary/Abstract:This study examines the contribution of cultural events to the development of a city’s brand identity. The case study focuses on Šibenik in Croatia. A survey was conducted to ascertain the perceptions of local residents regarding the impact of these events on the city’s brand, across four dimensions: functional, social, mental and spiritual. The results of the statistical analyses, which included correlation and regression analyses, indicated that there is a statistically significant relationship between the cultural events and all four dimensions of the city’s brand. The findings emphasise the strategic value of events for the development of city branding and provide practical guidance for those responsible for formulating policy and planning, as well as those involved in the promotion of tourism. By aligning the management of events with the objectives of branding, cities can foster a stronger identity, improve their competitiveness and create long-lasting value for communities and tourism. This research provides a practical framework for integrating events into cities’ branding strategies.
Analyzing the Influence of Commercial Partnerships on the Authenticity of Tourism Content Created by Influencers
Analyzing the Influence of Commercial Partnerships on the Authenticity of Tourism Content Created by Influencers
(Analyzing the Influence of Commercial Partnerships on the Authenticity of Tourism Content Created by Influencers)
- Author(s):Ivana Ercegovac, Mirjana Tankosić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:29-38
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Influencer marketing; Tourism; Authenticity; Commercialization; Digital platforms, YouTube
- Summary/Abstract:With digital platforms like YouTube increasingly shaping travel choices, influencers play a valuable role in promoting destinations. However, as influencers engage in sponsorships and paid collaborations, questions arise about the impact of commercial interests on the authenticity of their content. The study employs a qualitative content analysis of 30 videos created by five prominent tourism influencers on YouTube. The analysis focuses on key elements such as personal storytelling, sponsorship disclosure, brand alignment, and audience engagement. The findings reveal that influencers adopt subtle strategies to blend personal experiences with brand promotions, often using storytelling techniques and transparent sponsorship disclosures to maintain credibility. The study identifies key factors that influence audience perceptions of authenticity, such as alignment between the influencer’s personal brand and the sponsored content. These insights offer valuable implications for tourism marketing, highlighting how influencer-driven content affects consumer behavior and destination branding. The research provides actionable guidance for influencers, tourism boards, and marketers aiming to balance authenticity with commercial demands in an increasingly commercialized digital environment.
Leisure Constraints and Negotiating in Tourism: Case Study of Croatian Students as Solo Travelers
Leisure Constraints and Negotiating in Tourism: Case Study of Croatian Students as Solo Travelers
(Leisure Constraints and Negotiating in Tourism: Case Study of Croatian Students as Solo Travelers)
- Author(s):Kristina Devčić, Ivana Tonković Pražić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:39-47
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Negotiation; Tourism; Consumer behavior; Statistic methods
- Summary/Abstract:When deciding to consume a tourist service or product, tourists sometimes go through a process of negotiating with their perceived constraints. The sources of those constraints may be interpersonal, intrapersonal, structural or other, and they present a deterrent to making a decision. A tourist’s ability to successfully negotiate those constraints may be the deciding factor that determines whether one chooses to travel or not. This paper aims to add to the scientific literature on the constraint-negotiation process of tourists by investigating the constraint-negotiation strategies and processes of Croatian students when deciding about solo travel. The research was conducted using a structured questionnaire developed based on relevant literature and with a sample of Croatian students. Collected data was analyzed with different quantitative methods, using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. The results point to the constraints Croatian students face when deciding to travel solo as well as negotiation strategies they use when trying to overcome those constraints. Recommendations for tourist business subjects as well as limitations and future directions for research are also presented in the conclusion of the paper.
Evaluating the Impact of Material Efficiency in the Circular Economy on Economic Growth in European Countries
Evaluating the Impact of Material Efficiency in the Circular Economy on Economic Growth in European Countries
(Evaluating the Impact of Material Efficiency in the Circular Economy on Economic Growth in European Countries)
- Author(s):Andrija Popović, Andreja Todorović, Žarko Rađenović
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:49-58
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Circular economy; Material efficiency; Economic growth
- Summary/Abstract:This research evaluates the impact of material efficiency within the circular economy (CE) framework on economic growth in European countries from 2012 to 2021. Focusing on key indicators - Recycling Rate of Municipal Waste, Resource Productivity, and Domestic Material Consumption per Capita - the research employs panel data analysis and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The findings reveal that Resource Productivity significantly contributes to GDP per capita growth, particularly in EU27 countries, underscoring the importance of efficient resource use in driving sustainable economic development. Conversely, Resource Productivity and Domestic Material Consumption per capita exhibit a more complex relationship with economic growth, lacking statistical significance in the main models. The research highlights the necessity for policymakers to prioritize resource efficiency strategies to foster economic prosperity while advancing CE practices. These insights are crucial for designing targeted policies that balance material efficiency with broader economic objectives across diverse European contexts.
Eco-Innovation R&D-Oriented Initiatives: EU27 Two-Step Clustering
Eco-Innovation R&D-Oriented Initiatives: EU27 Two-Step Clustering
(Eco-Innovation R&D-Oriented Initiatives: EU27 Two-Step Clustering)
- Author(s):Ivana Janjić, Miljana Talić, Žarko Rađenović, Milica Đokić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:59-67
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:R&D; Eco-Innovation Index; Eco-innovation; Eco-innovation performance
- Summary/Abstract:In today’s business environment, research and development (R&D) and eco-innovation are crucial in determining success on micro and macro levels. This study aims to analyze the significance of R&D for achieving some eco-innovation performance (eco-innovation inputs, eco-innovation activities, eco-innovation outputs) of the EU countries evaluated by the Eco-Innovation Index. Data from the Eco-Innovation Scoreboard is utilized to investigate the average value of eco-innovation performance among EU member states throughout two periods of time 2013-2017 and 2018-2022. Authors have used two-step cluster analysis for grouping similar EU27 countries and gathering outcomes that precisely depict the EU members’ migration among R&D-oriented clusters. The highest indicators’ values in the first period (2013-2017), whereas the lowest share, has the cluster consisting of Denmark, Finland and Sweden. In the second period, the most R&D dominant cluster comprises the same countries as in the first one, including Germany. Other countries such as Bulgaria, have lost their position in the second analyzed period and should put more stress on the R&D policy improvement.
Digitalization and Its Influence on SMEs Performance in International Expansion: A Bibliometric Analysis
Digitalization and Its Influence on SMEs Performance in International Expansion: A Bibliometric Analysis
(Digitalization and Its Influence on SMEs Performance in International Expansion: A Bibliometric Analysis)
- Author(s):Laura Benchea, Raluca Georgiana Robu, Ioan-Radu Petrariu
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:69-78
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Digitalization; Internationalization; SMEs; Global scaling; Bibliometric analysis
- Summary/Abstract:Given the rapid and complex shifts in the international business sphere, companies leverage advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), cloud computing, or Big Data analytics, to optimize their operations, conduct businesses at the international scale, and, ultimately, to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive business environment. Digitalization stands at the forefront of the process of integrating new technologies into business operations, being instrumental in how companies grow and expand internationally. Within this framework, the purpose of this paper is to explore the complex role digitalization plays in the international expansion of SMEs (with a focus on the strategic selection of the most appropriate entry modes), and their performance in scaling up, by capitalizing on new opportunities through cross-border market entry. The methodological approach consists of a bibliometric analysis - to assess the impact and productivity of research outputs, in order to identify trends and measure the influence of scholarly works related to digitalization and its effects on the internationalization of SMEs.
Environmental Certification and Financial Performance in Road Passenger Transport Companies: A Comparative Analysis
Environmental Certification and Financial Performance in Road Passenger Transport Companies: A Comparative Analysis
(Environmental Certification and Financial Performance in Road Passenger Transport Companies: A Comparative Analysis)
- Author(s):Jose Antonio Cavero Rubio, Monica Gonzalez Morales, Jorge Ripoli Soriano
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:79-87
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Environmental certification; Financial performance; Road passenger transport companies
- Summary/Abstract:This research examines the relationship between environmental certification and the financial performance of road passenger transport companies during the period from 2010 to 2019. Through a comparative analysis of certified and non-certified companies, key financial ratios including return on assets (ROA), asset turnover (AT), net operating income per employee (NOIPE), and revenue growth (RG) are evaluated. The findings indicate that certified companies consistently outperform their non-certified counterparts in terms of profitability, revenue growth, and employee productivity. These results suggest that the implementation of environmental certifications can enhance competitiveness and financial outcomes, supporting the notion that environmental regulations can benefit both companies and society. It is anticipated that these findings will guide policymakers and managers in the transport sector towards more sustainable practices.
Financial Stress and Its Role in the New Trend of AI Investing
Financial Stress and Its Role in the New Trend of AI Investing
(Financial Stress and Its Role in the New Trend of AI Investing)
- Author(s):Sandra Matušovičova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:89-97
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Financial stress; AI investing; Stock market
- Summary/Abstract:Investment asset prices are increasingly more determined not only by economic fundamentals, but also by non-financial behavioral factors, such as the investor sentiment and emotions. One of key emotions in investing is financial stress, which tends to be high during economic crises and low during periods of growth. This paper aims to identify how strong is the impact of financial stress on the growth of technology stock prices during the current AI boom. Using regression analysis and econometric modeling, including a proxy variable of Financial Stress Index (FSI) from the Federal Reserve System of St. Louis, the results showed at 5% level of significance (p < 0.05) a negative correlation with a coefficient of ß1=-605,67 between financial stress and AI stock prices. These findings confirm that lower levels of stress contributed to AI investment growth and provide investors implications to incorporate not purely economic factors in decision-making and investment strategies.
Knowledge of Capital Market Products: Initial Insights for Austrian and German Students of Generations Y & Z
Knowledge of Capital Market Products: Initial Insights for Austrian and German Students of Generations Y & Z
(Knowledge of Capital Market Products: Initial Insights for Austrian and German Students of Generations Y & Z)
- Author(s):Dominika P. Galkiewicz, Mario Situm, Lukas Hartleif
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:99-107
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Financial literacy; Literacy; Knowledge; Instruments; Financial markets; Survey
- Summary/Abstract:Many international studies focus on financial literacy, but there are still many open questions in the research field that require further exploration. In this study, students of generations Y and Z from Austria and Germany were asked about their experiences and knowledge of capital market products. Male students and students belonging to Generation Y traded in securities significantly more often than their counterparts. Regarding the knowledge of selected capital market products, there is only a significant difference between male and female students for real estate investment funds and ex-change-traded funds (ETFs). Products like shares, bonds, and cryptocurrencies are wellknown to both genders. Thus, only a partial “gender gap” could be detected. Overall, there is a lack of knowledge about several capital market products observable. Appropriate didactically prepared courses within the framework of university curricula and beyond could enhance the financial literacy level of the Austrian and German population.
Discrimination in AI-Driven HRM Systems: Ethical Implications and Solutions
Discrimination in AI-Driven HRM Systems: Ethical Implications and Solutions
(Discrimination in AI-Driven HRM Systems: Ethical Implications and Solutions)
- Author(s):Goran Pavlović, Vladimir Škorić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:109-117
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Artificial Intelligence; HRM; Ethics; Diversity
- Summary/Abstract:The implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Human Resource Management has gained significant traction, offering efficiency and precision in recruitment, performance evaluation, and employee management processes. However, concerns regarding the potential for discrimination and bias within AI-driven HRM systems have become a pressing issue. AI systems, while designed to be neutral, can perpetuate or even exacerbate discriminatory patterns based on race, gender, age, or socioeconomic status due to biased training data or flawed algorithmic designs. The research examines the key factors contributing to discriminatory outcomes in AI-driven HRM systems, including the lack of diversity in training datasets, the reinforcement of historical inequalities, and the absence of transparency in AI decision-making processes. It further analyzes the ethical challenges that arise when these biases result in unequal treatment of job candidates and employees, thus undermining fairness and inclusivity within organizations. To address these issues, the study proposes solutions to mitigate bias and discrimination in AI-enhanced HRM. These solutions include developing more diverse and representative datasets, implementing auditing mechanisms to identify and rectify biases, and increasing transparency in AI systems to ensure accountability in HR practices.
Geography of Digital Nomadism – How Digital Nomads Choose Their Destinations and How the Destinations Attract Them
Geography of Digital Nomadism – How Digital Nomads Choose Their Destinations and How the Destinations Attract Them
(Geography of Digital Nomadism – How Digital Nomads Choose Their Destinations and How the Destinations Attract Them)
- Author(s):Žikica Milošević, Andrea Ivanisevic, Minja Bolesnikov
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:119-126
- No. of Pages:8
- Summary/Abstract:Remote work, which existed even before the Covid-19 pandemic, although as an exotic practice and a distant prospect for the future, suddenly became mainstream in the period 2020-2022. With the withdrawal of lockdown practices, some employees continued with full remote work, some switched to a hybrid way of working, and others switched to remote work, not from their home but from distant destinations, realising that in remote work, location is irrelevant and that they can “tailor” it according to their needs. This type of employees, who are now very present, especially in the creative industries, are called digital nomads, and although research about them is more and more numerous, very little has been discussed about the geographical dimension of digital nomadism, i.e. how they choose destinations for work and life, and how, in a new environment, destinations try to attract them. Digital nomads choose their destinations for life and work according to numerous parameters, such as connectivity, climate, working conditions, vacation conditions, cultural and entertainment events, infrastructure, traffic connections, visa regime, real estate rental prices, the possibility of finding coworking space, connection with other digital nomads, living expenses and travel expenses to the home country or main office country. Destinations quickly realised that, as in tourism, they could become interesting to digital nomads by granting special visas, building coworking spaces, advertising their benefits, etc. because digital nomads bring financial gain to the destination. This paper will try to explain how digital nomads choose destinations and how the destinations try to attract digital nomads.
Effects of High Work Involvement on Employees’ Affective Organizational Commitment
Effects of High Work Involvement on Employees’ Affective Organizational Commitment
(Effects of High Work Involvement on Employees’ Affective Organizational Commitment)
- Author(s):Tamara Jevtić, Jelena Jevtić, Mira Vidaković
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:127-133
- No. of Pages:8
- Summary/Abstract:In the context of modern human resource management theories, the analysis of high employee work involvement and affective organizational commitment is essential for understanding the dynamics between employees and organizational performance. This paper analyzes the concepts of human resource management based on modern paradigms, such as high employee involvement and affective organizational commitment. The primary goal of the research is to examine the interaction between high work involvement and affective organizational commitment of employees. The key research question was posed in the context of the impact of high work involvement on the affective commitment of employees. The paper consists of a theoretical and an empirical segment. As part of the theoretical part, a systematic review of previous research on the topic of high work involvement and affective organizational commitment was carried out. Empirical research was conducted on a sample of 139 employees, including managers and professionals, within the IT sector in the Republic of Serbia. Data collection was carried out through an electronic questionnaire during May 2024. Data analysis was conducted using the PLS-SEM method within the Smart PLS software to test the postulated relationships. The research results indicated the existence of a direct positive influence of high work involvement on affective organizational commitment. Employees who are actively involved in decision-making and problem-solving processes showed significantly higher commitment and loyalty to the organization, which suggests that high involvement can be a key factor in improving organizational commitment.
The Impact of ESG Frameworks and AI Technologies on Communication Satisfaction, Job Satisfaction, and Job Performance in the Retail Sector: An SEM Approach
The Impact of ESG Frameworks and AI Technologies on Communication Satisfaction, Job Satisfaction, and Job Performance in the Retail Sector: An SEM Approach
(The Impact of ESG Frameworks and AI Technologies on Communication Satisfaction, Job Satisfaction, and Job Performance in the Retail Sector: An SEM Approach)
- Author(s):Sweta Saurabh, Sachi Dwivedi
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:135-147
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Communication Satisfaction; Job Satisfaction; Job Performance; ESG; Artificial intelligence in retail
- Summary/Abstract:Purpose: This study explores how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies influence communication satisfaction, job satisfaction, and job performance in the retail sector. Design/Methodology/Approach: Using a structured questionnaire, data was collected from 656 customer-facing employees in Delhi via convenience sampling. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were conducted using IBM AMOS 21.0. Findings: Communication satisfaction positively affects job satisfaction and job performance. Job satisfaction mediates this relationship, while ESG and AI act as moderators, strengthening these effects. Originality/Value: The study introduces ESG and AI as moderating variables in a less-explored communication-performance framework.
Understanding the Psychological Well-Being of Expatriates in Times of Natural Crisis, the case of Albania & Montenegro
Understanding the Psychological Well-Being of Expatriates in Times of Natural Crisis, the case of Albania & Montenegro
(Understanding the Psychological Well-Being of Expatriates in Times of Natural Crisis, the case of Albania & Montenegro)
- Author(s):Albana Borici, Ardita Borici, Arjola Halluni, Jetmir Muja
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:149-159
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Expatriates; Natural crisis; Psychological stressors; Situational stressors; Perceived organizational; Family and social networks support; Psychological well-being
- Summary/Abstract:Expatriates, or “expats,” are a key segment of the global workforce, working abroad through employer-arranged or self-initiated assignments. International Human Resource Management (IHRM) research has highlighted the challenges expatriates face, including cultural adaptation, role performance, and personal relationships, as well as their vulnerability to crises. While the impact of humanmade crises like political instability has been studied, natural crises’ effects on expatriates’ psychological well-being remain underexplored. The Covid-19 pandemic emphasized the need to understand expatriates’ psychological resilience during natural crises. Building on Bader and Berg’s (2014) terrorism-related stress model, Tripathi and Singh (2022) proposed a framework identifying stressors expatriates may face during natural crises and their impact on well-being and performance. This study applies their framework to expatriates in Albania and Montenegro during the pandemic, using a survey to: a) assess the relevance of psychological and situational stressors; b) evaluate the relevance of perceived organizational, family, and social network support as support factors; and c) analyze relationships between stressors, support factors, and expatriates’ psychological well-being. The findings enhance understanding of expatriates’ experiences during natural crises and inform improved support mechanisms.
Relevance of Generation z’s Entry Into the Labour Market in the Context of Economic Performance
Relevance of Generation z’s Entry Into the Labour Market in the Context of Economic Performance
(Relevance of Generation z’s Entry Into the Labour Market in the Context of Economic Performance)
- Author(s):Adriana Grenčíková, Kristína Kozová, Jozef Habánik
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:161-169
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Generation Z; Labour market; Economic performance; Generational change; Slovakia; Czech Republic; Romania; Finland
- Summary/Abstract:Skills, knowledge, and abilities represent attributes of the workforce that influence its performance. With ongoing intergenerational exchange, many questions arise that need answers. The most debated question concerns the integration of Generation Z into the labour market. Given the unfavorable demographic trend in Slovakia, where the workforce’s growth rate is significantly declining, the sustainability of the economy becomes a pressing issue. The present study aims to analyse the links between the entry of Generation Z into the labour market and the performance of the economy and, based on the findings, to formulate recommendations for the needs of the labour market. Additionally, a comparison of selected data from four EU states—Czech Republic, Romania, Slovakia, and Finland—was conducted. Observing selected indicators allows for better determination of recommendations for the needs of the Slovak labour market. Generation Z is highly educated and motivated, has strong digital skills and is open to new challenges. These characteristics enable them to adapt to changes in the labour market and contribute to its development. To harness and fulfill this potential, it is necessary to create suitable conditions that allow for fully utilizing the abilities of this generational cohort. In the conditions of the Slovak Republic, the population size of this generation, technological changes, changes in preparation for entering the labour market, and legislative changes related to migration policy are all acute issues.This study applies their framework to expatriates in Albania and Montenegro during the pandemic, using a survey to: a) assess the relevance of psychological and situational stressors; b) evaluate the relevance of perceived organizational, family, and social network support as support factors; and c) analyze relationships between stressors, support factors, and expatriates’ psychological well-being. The findings enhance understanding of expatriates’ experiences during natural crises and inform improved support mechanisms.
Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic: Consumer Behavior During Adverse Events
Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic: Consumer Behavior During Adverse Events
(Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic: Consumer Behavior During Adverse Events)
- Author(s):Lenka Veselovská
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:171-179
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Consumer behavior; Adverse events; Risk management; COVID-19 pandemic; Factors influencing consumer behavior; Consumer age
- Summary/Abstract:The COVID-19 pandemic created unique conditions in societies with various implications for the future. A research study based on empirical research conducted on a sample of 1172 consumers explores the consumer behavior changes that occurred during the pandemic. It was discovered that the consumers in the age group 30 – 39 years old living alone to the greatest extent decreased the amount of products they bought during the pandemic. In 2021, the most significant impact of the shop availability factor was recorded, from the point of view of consumers aged 50 to 59. Consumers aged 40-49 were most likely to be influenced by expert information in their purchasing decisions and they were the ones who most trusted the official government information on pandemic development. Fear was an important factor that influenced consumer behavior during the pandemic. The fear of job loss manifested itself in higher savings among consumers in the 40-59 age group. On the contrary, lower age categories of consumers were more concerned about the health of their loved ones, which was mainly reflected in the tendency to shop in brick-and-mortar stores unaccompanied. Guidelines were formulated based on these findings in order to predict how the consumers will adapt their behavior during the next adverse event that may occur in the future. By explaining in detail what changes occurred and why they occurred it is possible to predict consumer behavior during adverse events in the near future.
Exploring Spectators’ Satisfaction and Behavioral Intentions: The Case of World Rally Championship Croatia
Exploring Spectators’ Satisfaction and Behavioral Intentions: The Case of World Rally Championship Croatia
(Exploring Spectators’ Satisfaction and Behavioral Intentions: The Case of World Rally Championship Croatia)
- Author(s):Danijela Ferjanić Hodak, Oliver Kesar, Ema Roginić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:181-189
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:WRC Croatia Rally; Spectators’ satisfaction; Mega event
- Summary/Abstract:This study focuses on the WRC Croatia Rally, currently the largest sporting event in Croatia. The purpose of this research was to assess spectators’ satisfaction with the event and their intention to revisit the event in the future. A total of 727 respondents participated in an online survey conducted in April 2024. The findings indicate that respondents were highly satisfied with the general appearance of the event, while the lowest-rated aspects were related to the sanitary facilities and the entertainment in the area. When evaluating the destination, respondents were satisfied with the friendliness of the hosts and the climate, while the main area of dissatisfaction was the price level. Importantly, most respondents expressed a strong intention to re-visit the event in the future. Overall, the research shows that visitor satisfaction is relatively high, though some areas could be improved to enhance the spectator’s overall experience.
Enhancing Customer Experience in Electronic Commerce: Role of Artificial Intelligence in Personalization and its Ethical Implications
Enhancing Customer Experience in Electronic Commerce: Role of Artificial Intelligence in Personalization and its Ethical Implications
(Enhancing Customer Experience in Electronic Commerce: Role of Artificial Intelligence in Personalization and its Ethical Implications)
- Author(s):Marija Smilevska, Nadica Jovanovska Boshkovska, Ilijana Petrovska, Ivona Mileva
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:191-200
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:E-commerce; Artificial intelligence; Personalized recommendations; Customer experience; Ethics
- Summary/Abstract:The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed electronic commerce (e-commerce), with AI-powered personalization becoming essential for enhancing customer experiences. This paper explores the impact of AI-driven personalization on e-commerce, enhancing customer experience and the ethical implications. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from 78 participants show that personalized recommendations significantly boost shopping efficiency and brand loyalty, with 97.4% of respondents noticing personalization and 56.4% finding it highly useful. However, 51% expressed concerns about data privacy. The findings highlight the need for transparency and strong data protection to maintain consumer trust. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to AI personalization, where e-commerce platforms can leverage AI’s benefits while addressing ethical concerns and privacy issues. The research offers valuable insights for both academic and industry professionals seeking to improve customer experience through responsible AI use.
Potential of Datura Stramonium for Phytoremediation of Soils Contaminated with Heavy Metals
Potential of Datura Stramonium for Phytoremediation of Soils Contaminated with Heavy Metals
(Potential of Datura Stramonium for Phytoremediation of Soils Contaminated with Heavy Metals)
- Author(s):Violina Angelova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences
- Page Range:201-210
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Datura stramonium; Heavy metals; Fatty acid composition; Phytoremediation; Polluted soils
- Summary/Abstract:Comparative studies have been carried out to determine the amounts of toxic metals and nutrients in the vegetative and reproductive organs of Datura stramonium, the composition and quality of the oil, and to establish the possibilities for phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils. The field experiment was conducted on an agricultural field contaminated by the Non-Ferrous Metals Plant near Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The Datura is tolerant to heavy metals and can be grown on highly contaminated soils (2423.9 mg/kg Zn, 2509.1 mg/kg Pb, and 63.7 mg/kg Cd). Pb, Cd, Zn, Ni, Fe, Mn, Cu, K, and Mg accumulate in the leaves, Cr in the root system, and P accumulates in the seeds. The D. stramonium can be classified as a potential accumulator of Cd, an indicator for Pb, and an excluder of Zn. It can also be successfully used in phytoremediation of soils contaminated with heavy metals. The oil is a rich polyunsaturated linoleic fatty acid source with potential beneficial therapeutic activity.
