Nikolay I Tsonkov | UNWE - Sofia (original) (raw)

Regional Development by Nikolay I Tsonkov

Research paper thumbnail of MОDEL FOR ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF SUSTAINABLE CITIES IN BULGARIA IN THE CONTEXT OF LOCAL PUBLIC POLICY APPLIANCE

Public Policy and Administration Journal , 2024

In recent years, the digitalization of the economy and the increasing demand for resources have c... more In recent years, the digitalization of the economy and the increasing demand for resources have created several challenges for developing countries, their regions, and urban agglomerations. Therefore, many governments have undertaken significant changes in the policies applied to developing regions and cities. These new concepts are aimed at gradually building sustainable and smart cities. This is the response of countries to new challenges such as the digital environment, combating climate change, and maintaining favorable living conditions due to the strong environmental and socioeconomic degradation. In this regard, the authors set as their main research objective to analyze and assess the sustainability of cities and the surrounding territory by implementing sustainable development policies at all levels. A major task and difficulty for the authors is to build upon and refine a model that can be used to assess sustainable and smart cities. In this paper, the authors propose an approach to studying sustainable cities, thus evaluating the effects of policies implemented in this field. The model includes the main groups of indicators that are used to analyze the sustainable and smart development of municipalities in the Northeast region of Bulgaria. Based on these indicators, data is collected, and processed, and comparative and statistical analysis is carried out to assess their sustainability and intelligence. The authors reach important conclusions such as an unsatisfactory level of sustainable and intelligent development, although the environment and conditions at the national level are favorable. In fact, in Bulgaria, based on the assessment of the studied municipalities in the Northeast region, it is clear that we cannot talk about sustainable cities because Bulgarian municipalities are still at the beginning of this development path.

Research paper thumbnail of New trends searching for urban transport management in the context of the regional development of Stara Zagora municipality

New trends searching for urban transport management in the context of the regional development of Stara Zagora municipality, 2024

The paper proposes a methodology for the analysis and evaluation of the traffic scheme of Bulgari... more The paper proposes a methodology for the analysis and evaluation of the traffic scheme of Bulgarian cities. The authors combine spatial, network, and socioeconomic analyses of cities with transport operators' financial-economic evaluation, sociological studies of transport habits, and the possibilities of new information technologies for transport modeling (such as geographic information systems). The model proposes several approaches to optimize the municipality's transport scheme. It results from a new need to improve urban traffic, the quality of transport services, and the integration of urban transport into the regional economy of Stara Zagora municipality. It presents a description, analysis, and outline of the opportunities for developing urban transport connectivity and mobility in Stara Zagora municipality. The research results show a deficit of transport connectivity between the different parts of the city, reflecting on the regional economy's development and the efficiency of the environment and the population.

Research paper thumbnail of KEY ASPECTS OF STRATEGIC INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

KEY ASPECTS OF STRATEGIC INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT, 2024

The strategic infrastructure is the backbone of every transport network. The development in the l... more The strategic infrastructure is the backbone of every transport network. The development in the last several years changed its course following the geopolitical situation and the enormous growth of electrical and self-driving cars. It is no longer enough to connect borders, we need to connect them in a certain way to ensure that the transport from one country will not face difficulties to the final point. For example, in the current situation if we travel between the farthest points in Europe we will cross different roads, with different characteristics and different rules, but we will reach the final point. If we consider traveling with the electric car it will be impossible as we will need a charging station every few hundred kilometres. To meet society's needs we need to reorganize the ways we are thinking of the strategic infrastructure.

Research paper thumbnail of NEED FOR CHANGE IN THE SYSTEM OF TERRITORIAL-ADMINISTRATIVE  PLANNING AND PLANNING DISTRICTS OVERVIEW OF THE REGIONAL  DEVELOPMENT OF BULGARIA

NEED FOR CHANGE IN THE SYSTEM OF TERRITORIAL-ADMINISTRATIVE PLANNING AND PLANNING DISTRICTS OVERVIEW OF THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF BULGARIA, 2024

The administrative and territorial structure of the Bulgarian state is inextricably linked to geo... more The administrative and territorial structure of the Bulgarian state is inextricably linked to geographical, economic, demo-
graphic, socio-economic, and transport peculiarities and administrative traditions. The territorial organization determines
the regional specialization of the national economy. On the other hand, the regional structure of the country determines
the implementation of regional policy and the balanced territorial development of the regions. Bulgaria's territorial and
administrative units, such as districts and municipalities, are also subject to regional policy. After the country acceded to
the EU, planning regions were introduced, linked to the districts and the regional demographic development. All these
factors lead to the relevance and necessity of changes in the administrative-territorial structure of Bulgaria. This paper anal-
yses the actual and proposed changes in territorial planning. The author examines the administrative-territorial structure
of Bulgaria in the context of the new socio-economic and demographic realities. They change the municipalities, which
in these new conditions do not perform their functions or provide basic services (educational, infrastructural, administra-
tive, social, health, etc.). The findings presented are supported by statistical data and the results of a sociological survey
conducted by the author. The author analyses the possibilities of changes in the planning areas, which will eventually
lead to changes in the territorial organization of the districts. These changes should be linked to the completion of the
decentralization process and the actual introduction of a second level of government, also enshrined in the Constitution
of the Republic of Bulgaria.

Research paper thumbnail of Vol. 1 (2022): Journal of Management Sciences and Applications

Vol. 1 (2022): Journal of Management Sciences and Applications, 2022

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty o... more Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty of Management and Administration at the University of National and World Economy - Sofia, Bulgaria.

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in November and May.

The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behavior, Organizational theory and Earth sciences. Our task is the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) to publish scientific empirical, theoretical and review articles of young scientists and distinguished specialists working in the field of Management and Administration around the world.

Research paper thumbnail of Journal of Management Sciences and Applications

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications , 2023

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty o... more Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty of Management and Administration at the University of National and World Economy - Sofia, Bulgaria.

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in November and May.

The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behavior, Organizational theory and Earth sciences. Our task is the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) to publish scientific empirical, theoretical and review articles of young scientists and distinguished specialists working in the field of Management and Administration around the world.

Research paper thumbnail of Journal of Management Science and Application

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty of Management and Administration at the University of National and World Economy - Sofia, Bulgaria. The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that h..., 2022

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty o... more Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty of Management and Administration at the University of National and World Economy - Sofia, Bulgaria.

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in November and May.

The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behavior, Organizational theory and Earth sciences. Our task is the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) to publish scientific empirical, theoretical and review articles of young scientists and distinguished specialists working in the field of Management and Administration around the world.

Research paper thumbnail of JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT SCIENCES AND APPLICATIONS

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications, 2024

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles tha... more The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in December and June. The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behaviour, Organizational theory and Earth sciences.

Research paper thumbnail of Dynamics in the regional development of municipalities

Dynamics in the Regional Development of Municipalities with a Population Between 10 and 30 Thousand in Eastern Bulgaria, 2023

The Black Sea region is an economic, trade, transport, energy, geostrategic and political crossro... more The Black Sea region is an economic, trade, transport, energy, geostrategic and political crossroads. The interests of the European Union, the United States, Russia, China, Turkey, and the Balkan countries are intertwined here. Over the decades, several initiatives have been organized to satisfy the interests of global and regional players and to improve the economic, environmental, social, and transport situation, including connectivity through the construction of strategic transport infrastructure (regional and interregional). The analysis of past policies concludes that a high degree of coherence, coordination, and implementation of a strategic approach to solving regional problems and creating integrity, connectivity, and regional connectivity has not yet been achieved. Within the Bulgarian Black Sea coast and looking at the wider context, there is no successful cooperation and economic interconnection between the municipalities on and near the sea. This is done through regional connectivity, building strategic transport infrastructure, and intermodal transport. The above argues for the need to plan and develop the Black Sea region in Bulgaria considering it in a broader context of strategic transport infrastructure development. It is the basis for the subsequent improvement of connectivity, economic links, and socio-economic development, including in this part of the Bulgarian territory. The relevance of the research stems from the contemporary processes in the Black Sea region. These processes are related to increasing tensions and strengthening a wide range of interests in inland sea control.

Research paper thumbnail of GIS-BASED MODEL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF THE SMART SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MUNICIPALITIES OF NORTHEAST BULGARIA

GIS-based model for the assessment of the smart sustainable development of municipalities of Northeast Bulgaria, 2023

In recent years, Bulgarian municipalities have introduced smart development systems. The Bulgaria... more In recent years, Bulgarian municipalities have introduced smart development systems. The Bulgarian state is at the top of the world rankings regarding household internet access and connection speed. The authors develop and validate a GIS-based model for the analysis and evaluation of sustainable cities. The authors conclude that in a global digital economy and society, Bulgarian regions need to improve the accessibility of WI-FI networks to meet the challenges of Smart Development. In recent years, the authors have observed a growth of Smart Cities initiatives in large areas of Northeast Bulgaria. However, Bulgarian municipalities in the study area are lagging in deploying smart governance systems.

Research paper thumbnail of On the need for connectivity and a new strategic approach to building road infrastructure in the Balkans

On the need for connectivity and a new strategic approach to building road infrastructure in the Balkans, 2023

The Bulgarian state is characterized by its geostrategic location. However, the country has not t... more The Bulgarian state is characterized by its geostrategic location. However, the country has not taken advantage of its natural localization. The main reasons for this are the lack of strategic thinking and implementation of a targeted and active transport policy within Bulgaria and the Balkans. This policy includes the planning and realization of projects in the field of strategic infrastructure. The policy is adopted in the context of the trans-European transport corridors. This will create conditions for connectivity between Bulgarian regions and conditions for stimulating cross-border cooperation. In this direction, the authors analyze the transport sector and infrastructure in Bulgaria to highlight the important areas where the Bulgarian state needs to take urgent action. In this regard, it is necessary to formulate the major priorities that will take place in a new strategy for the transport sector. The strategy is related to the reconducting of political activities, measures, and acceleration of the investments in Bulgaria's strategic road infrastructure.

Research paper thumbnail of Possibilities for the construction of a parallel route of the European transport corridor No 9 through Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece

Possibilities for the construction of a parallel route of the European transport corridor No 9 through Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece , 2023

The Bulgarian state is significantly behind in the development of its strategic road infrastructu... more The Bulgarian state is significantly behind in the development of its strategic road infrastructure. This circumstance is complemented by the deteriorated state of the already-built infrastructure in the Bulgarian state. There is a need to change the policy philosophy for managing and maintaining the strategic infrastructure in Bulgaria. It is necessary to strongly link this policy with the regional development policy, due to the similar objectives they must achieve. They are aimed at bringing Bulgarian regions closer together, and their economic and regional development based on improved connectivity between them. Achieving all this, however, is hampered by a significant deficit in the system. There is a lack of connectivity and development of the transport axes in the North-South direction. In this regard, the authors set as their main objective to analyze and assess the possibilities for the construction of a parallel route of the European transport corridor No. 9 through Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, which includes the construction of a tunnel between the town of Troyan and the village of Karnare in the central part of the Balkan Mountains. The implementation of this project will bring economic, social, transport, and financial benefits to the Bulgarian state. The construction of the project ensures connectivity between the Balkan countries, the formation of a single European market, stimulating the development of Northern Bulgaria, and a targeted impact on the North and South-Central planning regions.

Research paper thumbnail of TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE RURAL AREAS OF THE STARA ZAGORA URBAN AREA IN BULGARIA

TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE RURAL AREAS OF THE STARA ZAGORA URBAN AREA IN BULGARIA, 2023

The paper explores the possibility of transport development as a factor for the rural integration... more The paper explores the possibility of transport development as a factor for the rural integration of a population of over 100,000 using the example of the city of Stara Zagora in Bulgaria. The analysis showed that improving the access of the rural population to the agglomeration areas can be done through the combination of inter-urban transport that connects the villages with the nearby city The purpose of developing this process is to increase the access of the rural population to the cities and, accordingly, to bring out the problems that the people of the villages have in terms of urban transport. Based on a proposed methodology, we propose to highlight the main public transport problems of the rural population. On the other hand, to propose different views and models to achieve higher efficiency of urban transport and its implementation in rural areas. In this paper, quantitative and qualitative analysis is used and the results are also used to assess the impact of price fluctuations on vegetable marketing channels including vegetable processing enterprises. Data on vegetable prices were extracted from the tempo on line database and the analysis was also based on interviews with key stakeholders in the vegetable processing chain. The results reveal a high coefficient of variation at the farm gate stage, which is also transmitted to the distribution and commercialization stage. The analysis was also carried out at the processing level and the results also show a rather high coefficient of variation.

Research paper thumbnail of Agricultural and Resource Economics: International Scientific E-Journal https://are-journal.com

Integration perspectives for improving regional policy in rural areas of Bulgaria, 2024

Purpose. The purpose of the research is to determine the degree of implementation of specific reg... more Purpose. The purpose of the research is to determine the degree of implementation of specific regional policies in rural areas in the context of Bulgaria's integration into the European Union through the prospects of the changing economic situation and new trends in the implementation of regional policy. Methodology / approach. The focus of the research is the need for a working regional policy that gives importance to the development of rural areas and influences the demographic and socioeconomic processes in Bulgaria. The study is defined by comparative analysis, reference to expert assessment, use of statistical data, and analysis of strategic documents and programs related to regional development. Results. This research has shown that the applied regional development policies within the European Union have partial success. At the same time, the problems and emerging deficits are successfully defined, but it is more difficult to find optimal solutions that can be applied in more than one municipality. In this direction, regional policy has its achievements in its development, but new solutions are still being sought for several spatial and territorial problems in connection with integration into a common European market. This means a comprehensive process of functional impacts in the socioeconomic development of nearly 281 regions. In Bulgaria, the situation is even more complicated, because it is necessary to have a dual approach in regional politics. On the one hand, the development of the most urbanised regions, and on the other hand, the development of the rural areas, which are decisive for the development of the greater part of the territory of Bulgaria. Originality / scientific novelty. The regional development policy carried out in the years after 2007 has a static and spontaneous character, the new approach of the measures and programs after 2023 are based on new concepts and elements in line with information technologies, development of intelligent systems, economic connectivity to overcome the backward development of rural areas. New approaches and moments are proposed in the construction of a regional policy, which has a new framework and provisions for the development of the European economic space. In this direction, the need for expert decisions related to the management of regional development comes to the fore. Practical value / implications. It is necessary to make regional development a national priority. In addition, governments should facilitate access to young people and medium-sized businesses for the use of inputs and the promotion of projects. Access to financing, strategic, and planning activities, which have their characteristics at different levels, must be further developed.

Research paper thumbnail of SECTION OF HUMANITIES AND PHILOLOGY

ASSESSMENT OF REGIONAL DISPARITIES AND DYNAMICS OF MUNICIPALITIES WITH A POPULATION FROM 10,000 TO 30,000 IN EASTERN BULGARIA, 2024

The journal is registered and published in Czech Republic.

Research paper thumbnail of GIS-BASED MODEL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF THE SMART SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MUNICIPALITIES OF NORTHEAST BULGARIA

GIS-BASED MODEL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF THE SMART SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MUNICIPALITIES OF NORTHEAST BULGARIA, Dec 1, 2023

In recent years, Bulgarian municipalities have introduced smart development systems. The Bulgaria... more In recent years, Bulgarian municipalities have introduced smart development systems. The Bulgarian state is at the top of the world rankings regarding household internet access and connection speed. The authors develop and validate a GIS-based model for the analysis and evaluation of sustainable cities. The authors conclude that in a global digital economy and society, Bulgarian regions need to improve the accessibility of WI-FI networks to meet the challenges of Smart Development. In recent years, the authors have observed a growth of Smart Cities initiatives in large areas of Northeast Bulgaria. However, Bulgarian municipalities in the study area are lagging in deploying smart governance systems.

Research paper thumbnail of ANALYSIS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN THE LARGEST CITIES IN BULGARIA

ANALYSIS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN THE LARGEST CITIES IN BULGARIA, 2023

In this paper, we analyze the development of intelligent transport systems in the largest cities ... more In this paper, we analyze the development of intelligent transport systems in the largest cities in Bulgaria. The focus is on the possibility to implement new information technologies and smart solutions to improve the urban environment. In this direction, a brief analysis of smart proposals or features of regional development in the context of information technology development is presented. Solutions and visions are proposed to take into account the particularities of the urban development of urban systems. The necessity of the practical application of information technologies in the development of territorial systems is also highlighted. Intelligent transport systems are characterized and the opportunities they provide for increasing the quality of transport service and improving the lives of the population, especially in urban settings. Intelligent systems use a mechanism to analyze their environment, as a result of which, they initiate actions to achieve predefined goals.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Bulgarian municipalities in providing basic services and shaping the local business environment Hodnotenie poskytovanie základných služieb a formovania miestneho podnikateľského prostredia bulharskými municipalitami

Assessment of Bulgarian municipalities in providing basic services and shaping the local business environment, 2023

Socioeconomic processes in Bulgaria in recent decades have led to demographic collapse. This coll... more Socioeconomic processes in Bulgaria in recent decades have led to demographic collapse. This collapse is expressed in the reduction and concentration of the population in certain places. This process leads to the shrinkage of cities, with small municipalities being the most affected. Normally, after the next census, an inventory of the localities should be made in terms of the basic services they provide to the population and the implementation of territorial development policies, including forming a favorite local business ecosystem. The author's main purpose is to evaluate Bulgarian municipalities' performance, which is the key to establishing good living conditions and a friendly business ecosystem for investment attractiveness. In this regard, the author proposes the regional investment index for municipalities' evaluation. The present research is completed with a sociological survey on the attitudes of businesses, the population, branch organizations, and other civil structures towards the state and the functioning of municipalities in the Bulgarian state. The regional investment index applies to two Bulgarian municipalities (Balchik and Pomorie) in Bulgaria's Black Sea region. With the help of the assessment model, the conditions and business environment in the municipalities can be measured, individual municipalities can be compared and it has practical-applied value for local authorities and citizens as well as for the state and business.

Research paper thumbnail of INTELLIGENT DEVELOPMENT AND CONNECTEDNESS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

INTELLIGENT DEVELOPMENT AND CONNECTEDNESS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2022

At present spatial development, the focus of the research, is directed to the regions' developmen... more At present spatial development, the focus of the research, is directed to the regions' development and establishing competitive environment of their territory. In this exposition the authors explore innovations and their influence on regional development improvement. The purpose of the research is the potential of the investment policies and innovative environment for creating terms of life quality increasing in regions. The authors try to create a methodology for enforcing the process of the regions' intelligent development. The authors outline the tendencies related to regional intelligent development and influence on national territory development.

Research paper thumbnail of СИГУРНОСТ И ОТБРАНА

Security and Defense, 2022

Nations do not trust each other because they are armed, and they are armed because they do not t... more Nations do not trust each other because they are armed, and they are
armed because they do not trust each other. The security dilemma is a major problem of
the international state system, which is a result of its "anarchic" structure. Lack of trust
is the main thing that brings uncertainty and stress and turns mutual fears and suspicions
into a self-fulfilling prophecy. Every country needs sufficient and well-trained human
resources to enhance its national security. Education must provide the appropriate
competencies in every aspect of the national security

Research paper thumbnail of MОDEL FOR ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF SUSTAINABLE CITIES IN BULGARIA IN THE CONTEXT OF LOCAL PUBLIC POLICY APPLIANCE

Public Policy and Administration Journal , 2024

In recent years, the digitalization of the economy and the increasing demand for resources have c... more In recent years, the digitalization of the economy and the increasing demand for resources have created several challenges for developing countries, their regions, and urban agglomerations. Therefore, many governments have undertaken significant changes in the policies applied to developing regions and cities. These new concepts are aimed at gradually building sustainable and smart cities. This is the response of countries to new challenges such as the digital environment, combating climate change, and maintaining favorable living conditions due to the strong environmental and socioeconomic degradation. In this regard, the authors set as their main research objective to analyze and assess the sustainability of cities and the surrounding territory by implementing sustainable development policies at all levels. A major task and difficulty for the authors is to build upon and refine a model that can be used to assess sustainable and smart cities. In this paper, the authors propose an approach to studying sustainable cities, thus evaluating the effects of policies implemented in this field. The model includes the main groups of indicators that are used to analyze the sustainable and smart development of municipalities in the Northeast region of Bulgaria. Based on these indicators, data is collected, and processed, and comparative and statistical analysis is carried out to assess their sustainability and intelligence. The authors reach important conclusions such as an unsatisfactory level of sustainable and intelligent development, although the environment and conditions at the national level are favorable. In fact, in Bulgaria, based on the assessment of the studied municipalities in the Northeast region, it is clear that we cannot talk about sustainable cities because Bulgarian municipalities are still at the beginning of this development path.

Research paper thumbnail of New trends searching for urban transport management in the context of the regional development of Stara Zagora municipality

New trends searching for urban transport management in the context of the regional development of Stara Zagora municipality, 2024

The paper proposes a methodology for the analysis and evaluation of the traffic scheme of Bulgari... more The paper proposes a methodology for the analysis and evaluation of the traffic scheme of Bulgarian cities. The authors combine spatial, network, and socioeconomic analyses of cities with transport operators' financial-economic evaluation, sociological studies of transport habits, and the possibilities of new information technologies for transport modeling (such as geographic information systems). The model proposes several approaches to optimize the municipality's transport scheme. It results from a new need to improve urban traffic, the quality of transport services, and the integration of urban transport into the regional economy of Stara Zagora municipality. It presents a description, analysis, and outline of the opportunities for developing urban transport connectivity and mobility in Stara Zagora municipality. The research results show a deficit of transport connectivity between the different parts of the city, reflecting on the regional economy's development and the efficiency of the environment and the population.

Research paper thumbnail of KEY ASPECTS OF STRATEGIC INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

KEY ASPECTS OF STRATEGIC INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT, 2024

The strategic infrastructure is the backbone of every transport network. The development in the l... more The strategic infrastructure is the backbone of every transport network. The development in the last several years changed its course following the geopolitical situation and the enormous growth of electrical and self-driving cars. It is no longer enough to connect borders, we need to connect them in a certain way to ensure that the transport from one country will not face difficulties to the final point. For example, in the current situation if we travel between the farthest points in Europe we will cross different roads, with different characteristics and different rules, but we will reach the final point. If we consider traveling with the electric car it will be impossible as we will need a charging station every few hundred kilometres. To meet society's needs we need to reorganize the ways we are thinking of the strategic infrastructure.

Research paper thumbnail of NEED FOR CHANGE IN THE SYSTEM OF TERRITORIAL-ADMINISTRATIVE  PLANNING AND PLANNING DISTRICTS OVERVIEW OF THE REGIONAL  DEVELOPMENT OF BULGARIA

NEED FOR CHANGE IN THE SYSTEM OF TERRITORIAL-ADMINISTRATIVE PLANNING AND PLANNING DISTRICTS OVERVIEW OF THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF BULGARIA, 2024

The administrative and territorial structure of the Bulgarian state is inextricably linked to geo... more The administrative and territorial structure of the Bulgarian state is inextricably linked to geographical, economic, demo-
graphic, socio-economic, and transport peculiarities and administrative traditions. The territorial organization determines
the regional specialization of the national economy. On the other hand, the regional structure of the country determines
the implementation of regional policy and the balanced territorial development of the regions. Bulgaria's territorial and
administrative units, such as districts and municipalities, are also subject to regional policy. After the country acceded to
the EU, planning regions were introduced, linked to the districts and the regional demographic development. All these
factors lead to the relevance and necessity of changes in the administrative-territorial structure of Bulgaria. This paper anal-
yses the actual and proposed changes in territorial planning. The author examines the administrative-territorial structure
of Bulgaria in the context of the new socio-economic and demographic realities. They change the municipalities, which
in these new conditions do not perform their functions or provide basic services (educational, infrastructural, administra-
tive, social, health, etc.). The findings presented are supported by statistical data and the results of a sociological survey
conducted by the author. The author analyses the possibilities of changes in the planning areas, which will eventually
lead to changes in the territorial organization of the districts. These changes should be linked to the completion of the
decentralization process and the actual introduction of a second level of government, also enshrined in the Constitution
of the Republic of Bulgaria.

Research paper thumbnail of Vol. 1 (2022): Journal of Management Sciences and Applications

Vol. 1 (2022): Journal of Management Sciences and Applications, 2022

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty o... more Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty of Management and Administration at the University of National and World Economy - Sofia, Bulgaria.

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in November and May.

The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behavior, Organizational theory and Earth sciences. Our task is the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) to publish scientific empirical, theoretical and review articles of young scientists and distinguished specialists working in the field of Management and Administration around the world.

Research paper thumbnail of Journal of Management Sciences and Applications

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications , 2023

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty o... more Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty of Management and Administration at the University of National and World Economy - Sofia, Bulgaria.

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in November and May.

The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behavior, Organizational theory and Earth sciences. Our task is the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) to publish scientific empirical, theoretical and review articles of young scientists and distinguished specialists working in the field of Management and Administration around the world.

Research paper thumbnail of Journal of Management Science and Application

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty of Management and Administration at the University of National and World Economy - Sofia, Bulgaria. The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that h..., 2022

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty o... more Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) is an electronic journal of the Faculty of Management and Administration at the University of National and World Economy - Sofia, Bulgaria.

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in November and May.

The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behavior, Organizational theory and Earth sciences. Our task is the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications (JOMSA) to publish scientific empirical, theoretical and review articles of young scientists and distinguished specialists working in the field of Management and Administration around the world.

Research paper thumbnail of JOURNAL OF MANAGEMENT SCIENCES AND APPLICATIONS

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications, 2024

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles tha... more The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in December and June. The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behaviour, Organizational theory and Earth sciences.

Research paper thumbnail of Dynamics in the regional development of municipalities

Dynamics in the Regional Development of Municipalities with a Population Between 10 and 30 Thousand in Eastern Bulgaria, 2023

The Black Sea region is an economic, trade, transport, energy, geostrategic and political crossro... more The Black Sea region is an economic, trade, transport, energy, geostrategic and political crossroads. The interests of the European Union, the United States, Russia, China, Turkey, and the Balkan countries are intertwined here. Over the decades, several initiatives have been organized to satisfy the interests of global and regional players and to improve the economic, environmental, social, and transport situation, including connectivity through the construction of strategic transport infrastructure (regional and interregional). The analysis of past policies concludes that a high degree of coherence, coordination, and implementation of a strategic approach to solving regional problems and creating integrity, connectivity, and regional connectivity has not yet been achieved. Within the Bulgarian Black Sea coast and looking at the wider context, there is no successful cooperation and economic interconnection between the municipalities on and near the sea. This is done through regional connectivity, building strategic transport infrastructure, and intermodal transport. The above argues for the need to plan and develop the Black Sea region in Bulgaria considering it in a broader context of strategic transport infrastructure development. It is the basis for the subsequent improvement of connectivity, economic links, and socio-economic development, including in this part of the Bulgarian territory. The relevance of the research stems from the contemporary processes in the Black Sea region. These processes are related to increasing tensions and strengthening a wide range of interests in inland sea control.

Research paper thumbnail of GIS-BASED MODEL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF THE SMART SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MUNICIPALITIES OF NORTHEAST BULGARIA

GIS-based model for the assessment of the smart sustainable development of municipalities of Northeast Bulgaria, 2023

In recent years, Bulgarian municipalities have introduced smart development systems. The Bulgaria... more In recent years, Bulgarian municipalities have introduced smart development systems. The Bulgarian state is at the top of the world rankings regarding household internet access and connection speed. The authors develop and validate a GIS-based model for the analysis and evaluation of sustainable cities. The authors conclude that in a global digital economy and society, Bulgarian regions need to improve the accessibility of WI-FI networks to meet the challenges of Smart Development. In recent years, the authors have observed a growth of Smart Cities initiatives in large areas of Northeast Bulgaria. However, Bulgarian municipalities in the study area are lagging in deploying smart governance systems.

Research paper thumbnail of On the need for connectivity and a new strategic approach to building road infrastructure in the Balkans

On the need for connectivity and a new strategic approach to building road infrastructure in the Balkans, 2023

The Bulgarian state is characterized by its geostrategic location. However, the country has not t... more The Bulgarian state is characterized by its geostrategic location. However, the country has not taken advantage of its natural localization. The main reasons for this are the lack of strategic thinking and implementation of a targeted and active transport policy within Bulgaria and the Balkans. This policy includes the planning and realization of projects in the field of strategic infrastructure. The policy is adopted in the context of the trans-European transport corridors. This will create conditions for connectivity between Bulgarian regions and conditions for stimulating cross-border cooperation. In this direction, the authors analyze the transport sector and infrastructure in Bulgaria to highlight the important areas where the Bulgarian state needs to take urgent action. In this regard, it is necessary to formulate the major priorities that will take place in a new strategy for the transport sector. The strategy is related to the reconducting of political activities, measures, and acceleration of the investments in Bulgaria's strategic road infrastructure.

Research paper thumbnail of Possibilities for the construction of a parallel route of the European transport corridor No 9 through Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece

Possibilities for the construction of a parallel route of the European transport corridor No 9 through Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece , 2023

The Bulgarian state is significantly behind in the development of its strategic road infrastructu... more The Bulgarian state is significantly behind in the development of its strategic road infrastructure. This circumstance is complemented by the deteriorated state of the already-built infrastructure in the Bulgarian state. There is a need to change the policy philosophy for managing and maintaining the strategic infrastructure in Bulgaria. It is necessary to strongly link this policy with the regional development policy, due to the similar objectives they must achieve. They are aimed at bringing Bulgarian regions closer together, and their economic and regional development based on improved connectivity between them. Achieving all this, however, is hampered by a significant deficit in the system. There is a lack of connectivity and development of the transport axes in the North-South direction. In this regard, the authors set as their main objective to analyze and assess the possibilities for the construction of a parallel route of the European transport corridor No. 9 through Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, which includes the construction of a tunnel between the town of Troyan and the village of Karnare in the central part of the Balkan Mountains. The implementation of this project will bring economic, social, transport, and financial benefits to the Bulgarian state. The construction of the project ensures connectivity between the Balkan countries, the formation of a single European market, stimulating the development of Northern Bulgaria, and a targeted impact on the North and South-Central planning regions.

Research paper thumbnail of TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE RURAL AREAS OF THE STARA ZAGORA URBAN AREA IN BULGARIA

TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE RURAL AREAS OF THE STARA ZAGORA URBAN AREA IN BULGARIA, 2023

The paper explores the possibility of transport development as a factor for the rural integration... more The paper explores the possibility of transport development as a factor for the rural integration of a population of over 100,000 using the example of the city of Stara Zagora in Bulgaria. The analysis showed that improving the access of the rural population to the agglomeration areas can be done through the combination of inter-urban transport that connects the villages with the nearby city The purpose of developing this process is to increase the access of the rural population to the cities and, accordingly, to bring out the problems that the people of the villages have in terms of urban transport. Based on a proposed methodology, we propose to highlight the main public transport problems of the rural population. On the other hand, to propose different views and models to achieve higher efficiency of urban transport and its implementation in rural areas. In this paper, quantitative and qualitative analysis is used and the results are also used to assess the impact of price fluctuations on vegetable marketing channels including vegetable processing enterprises. Data on vegetable prices were extracted from the tempo on line database and the analysis was also based on interviews with key stakeholders in the vegetable processing chain. The results reveal a high coefficient of variation at the farm gate stage, which is also transmitted to the distribution and commercialization stage. The analysis was also carried out at the processing level and the results also show a rather high coefficient of variation.

Research paper thumbnail of Agricultural and Resource Economics: International Scientific E-Journal https://are-journal.com

Integration perspectives for improving regional policy in rural areas of Bulgaria, 2024

Purpose. The purpose of the research is to determine the degree of implementation of specific reg... more Purpose. The purpose of the research is to determine the degree of implementation of specific regional policies in rural areas in the context of Bulgaria's integration into the European Union through the prospects of the changing economic situation and new trends in the implementation of regional policy. Methodology / approach. The focus of the research is the need for a working regional policy that gives importance to the development of rural areas and influences the demographic and socioeconomic processes in Bulgaria. The study is defined by comparative analysis, reference to expert assessment, use of statistical data, and analysis of strategic documents and programs related to regional development. Results. This research has shown that the applied regional development policies within the European Union have partial success. At the same time, the problems and emerging deficits are successfully defined, but it is more difficult to find optimal solutions that can be applied in more than one municipality. In this direction, regional policy has its achievements in its development, but new solutions are still being sought for several spatial and territorial problems in connection with integration into a common European market. This means a comprehensive process of functional impacts in the socioeconomic development of nearly 281 regions. In Bulgaria, the situation is even more complicated, because it is necessary to have a dual approach in regional politics. On the one hand, the development of the most urbanised regions, and on the other hand, the development of the rural areas, which are decisive for the development of the greater part of the territory of Bulgaria. Originality / scientific novelty. The regional development policy carried out in the years after 2007 has a static and spontaneous character, the new approach of the measures and programs after 2023 are based on new concepts and elements in line with information technologies, development of intelligent systems, economic connectivity to overcome the backward development of rural areas. New approaches and moments are proposed in the construction of a regional policy, which has a new framework and provisions for the development of the European economic space. In this direction, the need for expert decisions related to the management of regional development comes to the fore. Practical value / implications. It is necessary to make regional development a national priority. In addition, governments should facilitate access to young people and medium-sized businesses for the use of inputs and the promotion of projects. Access to financing, strategic, and planning activities, which have their characteristics at different levels, must be further developed.

Research paper thumbnail of SECTION OF HUMANITIES AND PHILOLOGY

ASSESSMENT OF REGIONAL DISPARITIES AND DYNAMICS OF MUNICIPALITIES WITH A POPULATION FROM 10,000 TO 30,000 IN EASTERN BULGARIA, 2024

The journal is registered and published in Czech Republic.

Research paper thumbnail of GIS-BASED MODEL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF THE SMART SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MUNICIPALITIES OF NORTHEAST BULGARIA

GIS-BASED MODEL FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF THE SMART SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MUNICIPALITIES OF NORTHEAST BULGARIA, Dec 1, 2023

In recent years, Bulgarian municipalities have introduced smart development systems. The Bulgaria... more In recent years, Bulgarian municipalities have introduced smart development systems. The Bulgarian state is at the top of the world rankings regarding household internet access and connection speed. The authors develop and validate a GIS-based model for the analysis and evaluation of sustainable cities. The authors conclude that in a global digital economy and society, Bulgarian regions need to improve the accessibility of WI-FI networks to meet the challenges of Smart Development. In recent years, the authors have observed a growth of Smart Cities initiatives in large areas of Northeast Bulgaria. However, Bulgarian municipalities in the study area are lagging in deploying smart governance systems.

Research paper thumbnail of ANALYSIS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN THE LARGEST CITIES IN BULGARIA

ANALYSIS OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTELLIGENT TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN THE LARGEST CITIES IN BULGARIA, 2023

In this paper, we analyze the development of intelligent transport systems in the largest cities ... more In this paper, we analyze the development of intelligent transport systems in the largest cities in Bulgaria. The focus is on the possibility to implement new information technologies and smart solutions to improve the urban environment. In this direction, a brief analysis of smart proposals or features of regional development in the context of information technology development is presented. Solutions and visions are proposed to take into account the particularities of the urban development of urban systems. The necessity of the practical application of information technologies in the development of territorial systems is also highlighted. Intelligent transport systems are characterized and the opportunities they provide for increasing the quality of transport service and improving the lives of the population, especially in urban settings. Intelligent systems use a mechanism to analyze their environment, as a result of which, they initiate actions to achieve predefined goals.

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Bulgarian municipalities in providing basic services and shaping the local business environment Hodnotenie poskytovanie základných služieb a formovania miestneho podnikateľského prostredia bulharskými municipalitami

Assessment of Bulgarian municipalities in providing basic services and shaping the local business environment, 2023

Socioeconomic processes in Bulgaria in recent decades have led to demographic collapse. This coll... more Socioeconomic processes in Bulgaria in recent decades have led to demographic collapse. This collapse is expressed in the reduction and concentration of the population in certain places. This process leads to the shrinkage of cities, with small municipalities being the most affected. Normally, after the next census, an inventory of the localities should be made in terms of the basic services they provide to the population and the implementation of territorial development policies, including forming a favorite local business ecosystem. The author's main purpose is to evaluate Bulgarian municipalities' performance, which is the key to establishing good living conditions and a friendly business ecosystem for investment attractiveness. In this regard, the author proposes the regional investment index for municipalities' evaluation. The present research is completed with a sociological survey on the attitudes of businesses, the population, branch organizations, and other civil structures towards the state and the functioning of municipalities in the Bulgarian state. The regional investment index applies to two Bulgarian municipalities (Balchik and Pomorie) in Bulgaria's Black Sea region. With the help of the assessment model, the conditions and business environment in the municipalities can be measured, individual municipalities can be compared and it has practical-applied value for local authorities and citizens as well as for the state and business.

Research paper thumbnail of INTELLIGENT DEVELOPMENT AND CONNECTEDNESS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

INTELLIGENT DEVELOPMENT AND CONNECTEDNESS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2022

At present spatial development, the focus of the research, is directed to the regions' developmen... more At present spatial development, the focus of the research, is directed to the regions' development and establishing competitive environment of their territory. In this exposition the authors explore innovations and their influence on regional development improvement. The purpose of the research is the potential of the investment policies and innovative environment for creating terms of life quality increasing in regions. The authors try to create a methodology for enforcing the process of the regions' intelligent development. The authors outline the tendencies related to regional intelligent development and influence on national territory development.

Research paper thumbnail of СИГУРНОСТ И ОТБРАНА

Security and Defense, 2022

Nations do not trust each other because they are armed, and they are armed because they do not t... more Nations do not trust each other because they are armed, and they are
armed because they do not trust each other. The security dilemma is a major problem of
the international state system, which is a result of its "anarchic" structure. Lack of trust
is the main thing that brings uncertainty and stress and turns mutual fears and suspicions
into a self-fulfilling prophecy. Every country needs sufficient and well-trained human
resources to enhance its national security. Education must provide the appropriate
competencies in every aspect of the national security

Research paper thumbnail of Administrative Regulation

Some problems of administrative regulation on economic activity in Bulgaria, 2013

Administrative regulation in Bulgaria is a key to improving the business environment. At the same... more Administrative regulation in Bulgaria is a key to improving the business environment. At the same time this public administration instrument for economic regulation is a new way of state interference in the national economy. It is very difficult to describe the public administration reform in the context of public influence on the national economy. The public administration changes its structure, nature and functions that requires new thinking and creates problems in regards to build a new regulation system for effective and efficient public economic governance. The old system was a complex of public property and its management, and administrative apparatus that improves this system with regulatory rules, their adoption and application in national economy. In the new system public administration has a major role in process of economic regulation through creating administrative rules, and controls their application

Research paper thumbnail of ON THE NECESSITY OF SHAPING BULGARIAN NATIONAL INTERESTS IN TERMS OF GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY

ON THE NECESSITY OF SHAPING BULGARIAN NATIONAL INTERESTS IN TERMS OF GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY, 2023

The global security system is undergoing a profound transformation. In this process, the internat... more The global security system is undergoing a profound transformation. In this process, the international community is seeking the shape of a new security architecture and international order. At the same time, the Bulgarian state is characterised by a lack of clearly articulated strategic interests. This circumstance is reflected in the weak role of the Bulgarian state in regional and international affairs. In this regard, it is necessary to formulate Bulgaria's main foreign policy interests that will position the country in the new global system.

Research paper thumbnail of Сигурност и отбрана - брой 1 октомври

УПРАВЛЕНИЕ НА КРИЗИ ИЛИ ЕФЕКТИВНО „НЕУПРАВЛЯЕМ“ ХАОС НА БЪЛГАРСКАТА СИСТЕМА ЗА НАЦИОНАЛНИ СИГУРНОСТ, 2022

Съвременните условия се характеризират с висока степен на несигурност, нестабилност, непредсказуе... more Съвременните условия се характеризират с висока степен на
несигурност, нестабилност, непредсказуемост и постоянни преходи към различни
по вид кризи. В подобна ситуация, дейността по гарантиране на националната
сигурност, посредством ефективно управление на кризи, става все по-важно и
приоритетно за държавата. За съжаление, анализите на състоянието и
предизвикателствата пред българската система за национална сигурност
показват критично ниво, породено от различни по характер и интензитет
обективни и субективни характеристики на икономическата, обществена и
административно-управленска система на държавата. Авторът си поставя за
цел да установи връзката на управлението на кризи и състоянието на
сигурността в България, и на тази основа да формулира възможностите за
преодоляване на дефицитите на системата на национална сигурност. Авторът
достига до изводите, че е необходимо да бъде формулирана национална доктрина
за дългосрочно развитие на българската държава и нова Стратегия за
национална сигурност на Р България.

Research paper thumbnail of ECONOMIC SECURITY AND REGIONAL POLICY

Economic security and regional policy, 2021

Economic security is very complex category. There is no common, acknowledged, scientific definiti... more Economic security is very complex category. There is no common, acknowledged, scientific definition. In new global context and conditions of regional globalization and integration process countries' economic security in very actual. Economic security can be measured at individual, local, regional, national, and international level. Form the other side regional policy is the key for regional development of regions. In this respect regional policy is an instrument for economic security increase of regions.

Research paper thumbnail of Defense Policy

SOME ASSUMPTIONS FOR BULGARIA'S DEFENSE POLICY IN THE CONTEXT OF DYNAMICS IN THE SECURITY ENVIRONMENT, 2020

The main feature that can describe the global system is a constant state of uncertainty and insta... more The main feature that can describe the global system is a constant state of uncertainty and instability. This trend is reinforced by the policy pursued by the USA on the one hand, and the new balance and equilibrium that are sought internationally on the other. These trends of great turbulence have intensified over the last year in the context of the new conditions in which all countries must operate. The spread of the new and little-known coronavirus (Covid-19) has imposed new rules on politics, economics and countries. Given the changed security environment and the ongoing Strategic Review of the National Security System, it is necessary to change the defense policy of the Republic of Bulgaria, as well as the Updated National Security Strategy. The new changes in the role and tasks of the Bulgarian Army must also have their adequate defense capabilities.

Research paper thumbnail of Security Environment and National Security

DYNAMICS IN THE SECURITY ENVIRONMENT AND THE NECESSARY CHANGES IN THE BULGARIAN NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY, 2018

In recent years, the international system and the world economy have emerged as independent subje... more In recent years, the international system and the world economy have emerged as independent subjects of action and impact. Many world processes take place in them, which change the political and economic relations between the countries. In practice, on the basis of economic relations, the ties between the countries begin, which is associated with a reduction of military risk and the degree of uncertainty in the regional aspect. Simultaneously with this process, there is an increase in asymmetric threats and the likelihood of global instability. Global political turmoil is leading to economic transformation. At the same time, political interests are shifting from economic ones, and on this basis states are committed and establish lasting cooperation.

It is stated that security requires a detailed analysis due to the changes in the structure of the international system. We are seeing an increase in military conflicts in different parts of the world. Both migratory pressure and the terrorist threat to the European continent are increasing. As a result of these processes, uncertainty has become an essential feature of the international system and economy. Political and economic opposition between individual major players is growing, which predetermines a high degree of uncertainty regarding the predictability of international relations. This circumstance calls into question the stability, reliability and security of the system of international relations.

In this regard, national security is closely linked to the security and preservation of the socio-political system of a country with other countries in the pursuit of national goals and interests, and thus enters into interstate relations that may facilitate or hinder the implementation of the goals.

Research paper thumbnail of Balkan and Regional Security

GEOECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR INCREASING BALKAN SECURITY, 2013

In the article, the author analyzes in detail the historical development of Balkan cooperation, o... more In the article, the author analyzes in detail the historical development of Balkan cooperation, outlining the main factors influencing it. Important prerequisites for deepening Balkan cooperation are the historical past of the countries and their relations, traditions, culture, language, which are the basis for the development of relations between the states. On this basis, economic cooperation could be built, covering large-scale joint projects in the fields of energy, transport and other types of common infrastructure. On this basis, trade relations between the Balkan countries could be deepened and intensified, which is an opportunity for the development of a Balkan union.

Research paper thumbnail of Nikolay TSONKOV, PhD, Associate Professor, UNWE, Department of Regional Development, Director of the Center for Regional Studies

ПРЕДИЗВИКАТЕЛСТВА ПРЕД ДИВЕРСИФИКАЦИЯТА НА ЕНЕРГИЙНИТЕ РЕСУРСИ НА БАЛКАНИТЕ И БЪЛГАРИЯ, 2019

Diversification of energy resources in the Balkans is an important part of improving regional eco... more Diversification of energy resources in the Balkans is an important part of improving regional economic relations and increasing regional security and development. It depends on the economic and social security of the countries and in particular of Bulgaria. The reason for this is the stability that is needed for a continuous supply process and, of course, the cost of delivering resources. A major part of economic security is social and energy. In order to analyze the challenges of diversifying energy resources, several factors have to be considered, such as: security environment; sources of energy resources; energy transport infrastructure; electricity production; energy market; alternatives. Under certain circumstances, the Bulgarian state could play the role of a regional energy center.

Research paper thumbnail of North America Economy

ECONOMOGEOGRAPHICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF NORTH AMERICA, 2013

The article attempts a detailed and complete description of the countries of the North American c... more The article attempts a detailed and complete description of the countries of the North American continent. The analyzes begin with a brief assessment of the natural and demographic potential, after which the factors for the economic development of the countries are described. Finally, some general summaries are made of the problems and obstacles to the growth and development of the NAFTA economy (North American Free Trade Agreement).

Research paper thumbnail of Regional Economy and Black Sea Region

CHALLENGES AND THREATS TO THE ECONOMIC SECURITY OF THE BLACK SEA REGION, 2012

The article aims to determine the level and determinants of economic security in the Black Sea re... more The article aims to determine the level and determinants of economic security in the Black Sea region. The concept of security environment is defined, which makes a brief analysis of the region and its importance in geoeconomic order. The economic security of the countries in the Black Sea region represents their capacity: to withstand the competitive pressure of other countries, to achieve symmetry in foreign economic relations, to control economic dependence on the international situation in the interest of citizens, taking into account and protecting national and private interests. systemic stability combined with a good business climate. The determinants for achieving and maintaining a high level of economic security in the region are defined, outlining the challenges facing the countries in the Black Sea basin. The various aspects of the economic security of the countries in the region are outlined, and finally proposals are made to increase the level of economic security in the whole region.

Research paper thumbnail of On the need for connectivity and a new strategic approach to building road infrastructure in the Balkans

The Bulgarian state is characterized by its geostrategic location. However, the country has not t... more The Bulgarian state is characterized by its geostrategic location. However, the country has not taken advantage of its natural localization. The main reasons for this are the lack of strategic thinking and implementation of a targeted and active transport policy within Bulgaria and the Balkans. This policy includes the planning and realization of projects in the field of strategic infrastructure. The policy is adopted in the context of the trans-European transport corridors. This will create conditions for connectivity between Bulgarian regions and conditions for stimulating cross-border cooperation. In this direction, the authors analyze the transport sector and infrastructure in Bulgaria to highlight the important areas where the Bulgarian state needs to take urgent action. In this regard, it is necessary to formulate the major priorities that will take place in a new strategy for the transport sector. The strategy is related to the reconducting of political activities, measures, and acceleration of the investments in Bulgaria's strategic road infrastructure.

Research paper thumbnail of GIS-based model for the assessment of the smart sustainable development of municipalities of Northeast Bulgaria

International Journal on Information Technologies and Security, Nov 30, 2023

Research paper thumbnail of Specifics and Problems in the Spatial Development of Stara Zagora Municipality

Journal of Management Sciences and Applications, Jun 29, 2023

Research paper thumbnail of Journal of Management Sciences and Applications

The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles tha... more The journal is committed to publishing scientific empirical and theoretical research articles that have a major impact on governance, administration, regional development and marketing. The journal encourages new ideas or perspectives on existing research. The publications are published twice a year in December and June. The journal publishes a wide range of topics in the fields of Management sciences, Strategic planning, Methodological research and Theoretical paradigms. Manuscripts that are suitable for publication in the Journal of Management Sciences and Applications may also include Regional policy, Entrepreneurship, Human resource management, Organizational behaviour, Organizational theory and Earth sciences.

Research paper thumbnail of Possibilities for the construction of a parallel route of the European transport corridor No 9 through Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece

The Bulgarian state is significantly behind in the development of its strategic road infrastructu... more The Bulgarian state is significantly behind in the development of its strategic road infrastructure. This circumstance is complemented by the deteriorated state of the already-built infrastructure in the Bulgarian state. There is a need to change the policy philosophy for managing and maintaining the strategic infrastructure in Bulgaria. It is necessary to strongly link this policy with the regional development policy, due to the similar objectives they must achieve. They are aimed at bringing Bulgarian regions closer together, and their economic and regional development based on improved connectivity between them. Achieving all this, however, is hampered by a significant deficit in the system. There is a lack of connectivity and development of the transport axes in the North-South direction. In this regard, the authors set as their main objective to analyze and assess the possibilities for the construction of a parallel route of the European transport corridor No. 9 through Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, which includes the construction of a tunnel between the town of Troyan and the village of Karnare in the central part of the Balkan Mountains. The implementation of this project will bring economic, social, transport, and financial benefits to the Bulgarian state. The construction of the project ensures connectivity between the Balkan countries, the formation of a single European market, stimulating the development of Northern Bulgaria, and a targeted impact on the North and South-Central planning regions.

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis of the Development of Intelligent Transport Systems in the Largest Cities in Bulgaria

2023 International Conference on Information Technologies (InfoTech)

In this paper, we analyze the development of intelligent transport systems in the largest cities ... more In this paper, we analyze the development of intelligent transport systems in the largest cities in Bulgaria. The focus is on the possibility to implement new information technologies and smart solutions to improve the urban environment. In this direction, a brief analysis of smart proposals or features of regional development in the context of information technology development is presented. Solutions and visions are proposed to take into account the particularities of the urban development of urban systems. The necessity of the practical application of information technologies in the development of territorial systems is also highlighted. Intelligent transport systems are characterized and the opportunities they provide for increasing the quality of transport service and improving the lives of the population, especially in urban settings. Intelligent systems use a mechanism to analyze their environment, as a result of which, they initiate actions to achieve predefined goals.

Research paper thumbnail of On the necessity of shaping Bulgarian national interests in terms of global uncertainty

Research paper thumbnail of Possibilities for Adoption of E-governance in the Ministry of Finance and the Development of Electronic Services in the National Revenue Agency in Bulgaria

Economic Alternatives, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Communication Networks and Regional Entities

the author explores relation between regional entities and communication networks that are formed... more the author explores relation between regional entities and communication networks that are formed across regions. In this research the author ties to analyze the role of communication networks for regional development. The object of this research is regional entities. The author uses for his analysis system and territorial approach

Research paper thumbnail of Globalization Influence on Information and Communication Systems in Regions

the regions are the territory where regional development is realized. Globalization as modern pro... more the regions are the territory where regional development is realized. Globalization as modern processes reflects directly on regions and local entities. The author aims to analyze the influence of globalization processes on information and computer systems in regions. The structure of this paper consists two main parts - information and computer systems and social networks as special relations between people in different regional entities.

Research paper thumbnail of Water Sector Management and Sustainable Development of Bulgarian Regions

MEST Journal, Jul 15, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Challenges and opportunities for green economy transformation of Gabrovo District

SHS web of conferences, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Location of Higher Schools in Bulgaria in The Context of Labour Market Formation

Strategies for Policy in Science and Education-Strategii na Obrazovatelnata i Nauchnata Politika

In this paper the authors try to highlight some of the problems facing higher education in Bulgar... more In this paper the authors try to highlight some of the problems facing higher education in Bulgaria. The relevance of the problem and research attempts to analyze the system and its supporting elements are presented. The article is an attempt to take a picture of higher education in Bulgaria, in the context of the specialists prepared by it. Using a questionnaire survey, the authors derive the needs of the labor market and the regional focus of socio-economic development. Analysis and assessment of the opportunities for the formation of an online labor market is also conducted. The trends of the need for higher education specialists in the labor market are examined, drawing relevant conclusions and recommendations.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of Interconnectivity Between Higher Education and Business – Bulgarian Case

Journal of European economy, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Regulation of Economic Activity in the Regions as a Tool for Increasing Regional Competitiveness and Investment Attractiveness of Municipalities

Journal of European economy, Sep 1, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Bulgarian municipalities in providing basic services and shaping the local business environment

Ekonomika a spoločnosť

Socio-economic processes in Bulgaria in recent decades have led to demographic collapse. This col... more Socio-economic processes in Bulgaria in recent decades have led to demographic collapse. This collapse is expressed in the reduction and concentration of the population in certain places. This process leads to the shrinkage of cities, with small municipalities being the most affected. Normally, after the next census, an inventory of the localities should be made in terms of the basic services they provide to the population and the implementation of territorial development policies, including forming a favorite local business ecosystem. The author's main purpose is to evaluate Bulgarian municipalities’ performance, which is the key to establishing good living conditions and a friendly business ecosystem for investment attractiveness. In this regard, the author proposes the regional investment index for municipalities’ evaluation. The present research is completed with a sociological survey on the attitudes of businesses, the population, branch organizations, and other civil struc...

Research paper thumbnail of On the necessity of shaping Bulgarian national interests in terms of global uncertainty

International Journal on Information Technologies and Security

The global security system is undergoing a profound transformation. In this process, the internat... more The global security system is undergoing a profound transformation. In this process, the international community is seeking the shape of a new security architecture and international order. At the same time, the Bulgarian state is characterised by a lack of clearly articulated strategic interests. This circumstance is reflected in the weak role of the Bulgarian state in regional and international affairs. In this regard, it is necessary to formulate Bulgaria's main foreign policy interests that will position the country in the new global system.

Research paper thumbnail of Implementation of Smart Public Sector Governance Systems in the Large Cities in the Southeastern Planning Region of Bulgaria

2022 International Conference on Information Technologies (InfoTech)

The report presents the results of the authors from the analysis of the intelligent development o... more The report presents the results of the authors from the analysis of the intelligent development of the larger municipal centers in the Southeast planning region. The peculiarities in the spatial development of the SouthEastern region for planning and incorporation of the national space through the possibilities of imposing smart technologies are presented. Several aspects and problems in the regional development of the individual urban areas are outlined, which have an important importance and role for the attractive economic development of the region. Problems related to the provision of electronic services and the framework for the sustainable development of smart technologies within the public environment in the SouthEast Planning Region have been identified.

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis of the Implementation of Smart Cities Initiatives in Northeast Bulgaria’s Districts

2022 International Conference on Information Technologies (InfoTech), 2022

Bulgarian municipalities' smart development is the cornerstone for building regional inno... more Bulgarian municipalities' smart development is the cornerstone for building regional innovative ecosystems. In this respect, the report presents the authors' comparative analysis of the implementation of Smart City initiatives in Northeast Bulgaria's Districts. The purpose of the research is to give an original approach to the evaluation of Smart cities' building through ICT platforms incorporation. In the terms of a global digital economy and society need Bulgarian regions to improve WI-FI accessibility to meet Smart development challenges. For example, household access to the Internet in Northeast Bulgaria's Districts has increased from 60% to over 80% for the period 2016-to 2021. Currently, the Bulgarian state provides 348 electronic administrative services using the Unified Model for requesting, paying, and provision of electronic administrative services. Municipal administration provides 142 e-services. Last years the authors see an increase in Smart cities' initiatives in major Northeast Bulgarian Districts.

Research paper thumbnail of Regional Aspects and Development Opportunities in Bulgaria in the Context of the European Green Deal

European Integration Studies

This article is devoted to the problems and challenges in the implementation of policies for soci... more This article is devoted to the problems and challenges in the implementation of policies for socio-economic transformation of regions in Bulgaria about the European Green Deal. The conceptual change at the European level necessitates the definition of new priorities for the Bulgarian state in its path towards a more equitable transition to a green economy. The main objective of the authors is to analyze and assess the development opportunities and challenges for the Bulgarian economy on the path to a green and equitable transition. The authors examine the economic changes in the Bulgarian regions. The paper defines the methodology of the scientific approach to such research, using the system, network, geographical, cartographic, and comparative methods. The paper outlines the necessity of introducing smart systems at the city and region levels to manage the territory and its development more effectively. Special attention is paid to energy problems and the need for energy transforma...

Research paper thumbnail of Public Administration and E-governance

PUBLIC SERVICES IMPROVEMENT IN CENTRAL MILITARY ADMINISTRATIVE BODY IN MINISTRY OF DEFENCE THROUGH ELECTRONIC ARCHIVE BUILDING FOR DATA, 2014

In this research the author identifies problems related to electronic governance in the system of... more In this research the author identifies problems related to electronic
governance in the system of Defense ministry of Bulgaria. The result is that the
electronic services are missing. In fact the administrative body does not take
advantage of European programs in Bulgaria. And by this way it may improve
the Ministry public services provision. In the report Central military command
(CMC) project that was approved for implementation are introduced. The main
goal of this project is though documents’ scanning and digitalization to build
electronic data base. The second stage is related to electronic services
implementation. It is important to underline that the project will be extended to
the national level because it will include the eight structures of the CMC which
provides nine public services. By realizing this project it will achieve CMC
public services structure optimization and improving of interaction between
CMC, citizens and other administrative bodies.

Research paper thumbnail of E-Governance and Regional Development

E-MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES IN THE SYSTEM OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 2013

This paper analyses the present condition of the system of regional development according to elec... more This paper analyses the present condition of the system of regional
development according to electronic management adoption in public sector. The
author researches the system in three directions – electronic services in the
Ministry of Regional development and Facilitation, information system for
regional development building and geography information system adoption in
municipalities. The author analyses the normative documents in regard to
regional development. The main purpose of this survey is to give a real situation
of regional development electronic system and reveal weaknesses and
challenges against electronic management adoption in regional development
system.

Research paper thumbnail of E-government

POSSIBILITIES FOR IMPROVING THE E-GOVERNANCE IN NRA, 2012

The process of modernization and electronization of state sphere continue. Analysis shows that th... more The process of modernization and electronization of state sphere
continue. Analysis shows that the highest level of electronic service system development are registered in Ministry of Finance, and especially in National Revenue Agency (NRA). That is why the main purpose of this report is to explore application of electronic management in interaction of NAI with citizens and firms. The author uses different methods like expert opinion and estimation, and logical method. As a result of this research the author have a task to underline some weakness in application of electronic management system in NRA.

Research paper thumbnail of Electronic Services and Public Governance

ELECTRONIC SERVICES INCORPORATION PROBLEMS IN PUBLIC SPHERE , 2016

In years of transformation Bulgaria starts public administrative reforms which consider public ad... more In years of transformation Bulgaria starts public administrative reforms
which consider public administration and national economy. The major part of this reform is adoption, integration and commitment of central and local administration to European institutions. To achieve this goal it is decided to build electronic government, as a part of the program for optimization of public administration. The object of survey is problems that occur in building and application of electronic governance in
administration. The author uses descriptive and analytical methods, and expert opinion.
The main conclusions of author are that the Bulgarian state must proceed with administrative reform, as the state should accept government program for construction of integrated electronic communication infrastructure to face the new needs, including
supply of quality public services.

Research paper thumbnail of Knowledge Management and Regional Development

KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AS A FACTOR FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

In this research the author surveys the connection between knowledge and its management for achie... more In this research the author surveys the connection between knowledge and its
management for achieving a goal – positive and sustainable regional development. To reach
this purpose the author defines first importance of new knowledge, using for new information
society building, information flows regulation, which determines information infrastructure
of modern society and state. The sustainable regional development is the result of proper and
good knowledge and information management. In this regard it is important to try to find the
crossing points between education and science, and sustainable regional development.

Research paper thumbnail of Regional Development and Tourism sector

TOURISTIC SECTOR AS POSIBILITY FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF BULGARIA

The author researches the possibilities for economic development in Bulgaria using advantages of ... more The author researches the possibilities for economic development in Bulgaria
using advantages of touristic sector. The author analyzes strengthens, weaknesses,
possibilities and threats in touristic sector development. The author uses SWOT analysis to
achieve the main goal. The major aim in this research is through analyzing touristic sector
to find the key premises and good practices that will stimulate the touristic sector which will
be the key factor for economic development of Bulgaria.

Research paper thumbnail of Urban environment and Economic Development

POSSIBILITIES FOR URBAN AREA IMPROVEMENT AND MUNICIPALITIES’ ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EMERGING THROUGH SKY TRAIN BUILDING , 2014

: The author researches the possibilities for urban area improvement through sky train building. ... more : The author researches the possibilities for urban area improvement through sky
train building. Achieving this goal the author uses a complex of methods such analytical,
descriptive, inductive, deductive method, comparison and expert opinion citation. It is
analyzed the European good practice in sky train building and exploitation. The author tries
to analyze the positives by sky train building in some Bulgarian cities. In this context the
author divides three groups of municipalities according to four criteria.

Research paper thumbnail of MEANING AND ROLE OF HIGHER SCHOOL FOR BULGARIAN REGIONS' SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

MEANING AND ROLE OF HIGHER SCHOOL FOR BULGARIAN REGIONS' SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, 2022

This article is a partial picture of higher education in Bulgaria and the need to provide quality... more This article is a partial picture of higher education in Bulgaria and the need to provide quality educational services at the regional level. The exhibition presents the importance and role of higher education for the recruitment of the regional elite and the quality of staff. A methodological framework that is proposed, assumes the systematization of the accumulated theoretical and practical experience in the field of higher education. Some deficiencies have been systematized, which affect the quality of education and the mismatch between business expectations at the level of planning regions, as well as the impact on municipalities and the need for staff for higher education graduates in the country. The main trends and conditions in which higher education in Bulgaria is developing and the search for opportunities to increase its role within the Bulgarian regions are outlined. In practice, regional development can become a national priority by building a quality educational environment and having a balanced regional development.