The Journal is from the field of Law, Political Science and Sociology, and accepts professional and scientific papers. The languages of publication are Macedonian, English, Russian, Serbian, Bulgarian, Croatian and Italian language. The Journal has an international editorial board and is open for foreign students. The SSSJ is published two times a year. The Student’s Social Science Journal is publishing original research papers, review papers, short communications, professional papers, presentations and book reviews in the field of teaching, scientific and application activities of the Faculty of Law at the University Goce Delcev – Stip (Macedonia). The manuscripts should be prepared completely according to the instructions. Submission of a manuscript implies that: the work described has not been published before (except in the form of an abstract, or a part of a published lecture, or thesis); it is not under consideration for publication anywhere; its publication has been approved by all co-authors, if any. Publication has been approved as well as by the responsible authorities at the institute (institution) where the work has been carried out. The publisher will not be held legally responsible in case of claims for compensation and reimbursement of authors’ rights. Manuscript must confirm strictly to the instruction for authors and sent to the editor. Incoming manuscripts are initially judged by the editor. Manuscripts may be rejected without peer review if they do not comply with the instructions to author or are beyond the scope of the journal. If the manuscript is acceptable in principle, it will be forwarded to referees for evaluation. All manuscript are reviewed by independent reviewers. After final edition and approval by the editorial board, the manuscript will be accepted for publication. The editor reserves the right to make editorial changes. Authors agree, after the manuscript’s acceptance, with the transfer of copyright to the publisher.
Goce Delcev Unviersity - Stip, Faculty of Law
Copyright (c) 2026 Student's Social Science Journal
THE PROCESS OF RESOCIALIZATION AND REINTEGRATION OF FORMERLY CONVICTED
This thesis examines the factors influencing resocialization, treatment for resocialization purposes, and education, vocational training, and employment in the context of resocialization. The role of correctional treatment in the process of resocialization and social integration, examined through the prism of various types of correctional treatment, is the focus of this thesis. This research investigates the factors influencing successful reintegration into society, such as social support, education, employment, and others. The thesis also identifies the obstacles faced by these individuals, such as stigma, limited opportunities, and the lack of adequate resocialization programs. The acceptance of convicted persons is analyzed, with a particular emphasis on preparing for social integration into society, types of post-penal assistance for convicted persons in the Republic of North Macedonia, and the social integration of convicted persons. The aim of this thesis is to investigate the impact of factors influencing the resocialization of former convicts in the Republic of North Macedonia. A qualitative approach was used in the research, allowing for an in-depth understanding of the experiences and attitudes of the convicts. This thesis explores the resocialization of convicts during and after their prison sentence by analyzing the challenges and opportunities faced by former prisoners when reintegrating into society. The conclusions highlight the importance of a complex approach involving multidisciplinary cooperation, individualized resocialization plans, and long-term support for the successful reintegration of previously convicted individuals into the community.
resocialization, prisoner, prison sentence, society
ABUSE OF OFFICIAL DUTY AND AUTHORITY IN THE LAW OF THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA
The subject of this paper is the criminal offense of abuse of official position and authority as a basic criminal offense against official duty in the legal system of the Republic of North Macedonia. The paper aims to analyze the concept, elements, forms and legal consequences of the offense, as well as an analysis of official statistical data on reported adult children in the period 2018-2024. The research examines the significance of the lawful and efficient conduct of officials and responsible persons and the consequences arising from their unlawful actions on the functioning of public services and citizens' trust in the legal order. The paper applies the normative-legal method, the analytical-descriptive and statistical method, as well as an analysis of relevant legal literature and case law. The results indicate the continued presence of this crime in practice, with a predominance of reports against known perpetrators and a significant number of dismissed reports, which points to the complexity of proving and the need to improve prevention mechanisms and the crime.
official duty, crime, abuse of official position and authority, legal system, punishment
THE CONCEPT OF ILLEGAL PRODUCTION AND ILLEGAL TRADE ACCORDING TO MACEDONIAN POSITIVE LAW AND PRACTICE
This paper analyzes the concept of illicit production and illicit trade as significant forms of economic crime within the framework of Macedonian positive law. Special emphasis is placed on their definition, theoretical foundations, and position within business criminal law. The paper examines the normative framework established by the Criminal Code and related special laws in order to identify the legal basis for the criminalization and sanctioning of these offenses. Through an analysis of judicial practice, the most common forms of occurrence, evidentiary challenges, and trends in penal policy are identified. Particular attention is given to the role of inspection and customs authorities as key actors in detecting and prosecuting these criminal activities. The findings indicate that illicit production and trade pose a serious threat to economic security, fiscal stability, and consumer protection. framework exists, its practical implementation faces certain challenges, especially regarding evidence and the liability of legal entities. The paper highlights the need for improved institutional coordination and strengthened capacities to ensure a more effective fight against economic crime.
illicit production, illicit trade, economic crime, customs authorities, corporate liability, consumer protection.
CRIMINOLOGICAL AND VICTIMOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE OFFENDER AND THE VICTIM IN CHILD TRAFFICKING IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA (2010–2024)
This paper presents a criminological and victimological analysis of the relationship between the offender and the victim in the criminal offence of “Child Trafficking” in the Republic of North Macedonia during the period from 2010 to 2024. The analysis is based on the conceptual and normative definition of this criminal offence, as well as on the significance of international documents and standards that have been accepted and incorporated into the national legal framework. Through the analysis of the legal framework, relevant academic literature, and official reports, the key characteristics of this criminal phenomenon are identified, thereby indirectly providing a basis for understanding its phenomenological and etiological aspects. In this context, particular attention is devoted to the offender–victim relationship and to the process of victimization of children as an especially vulnerable category within criminal interaction. The paper is based on a descriptive–analytical approach, through which an attempt is made to highlight the complex nature of child trafficking as a criminal phenomenon that develops within broader social, economic, and institutional conditions.
child trafficking, criminology, victimology, offender–victim relationship, victimization, Republic of North Macedonia.
PROFILING OF FEMICIDE VICTIMS IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE PERPETRATOR (2017–2025)
Femicide, defined as the killing of women because of their gender, represents the most extreme form of gender-based violence against women. In most cases, the perpetrator is a male person who is in a close relationship with the victim, most often an intimate partner or a family member. Femicide does not occur suddenly and, therefore, should not be viewed as an isolated act, but rather as the final outcome of prolonged violence and disturbed relationships between the victim and the perpetrator.The subject of this research is the analysis of the characteristics of femicide victims in the Republic of North Macedonia during the period from 2017 to 2025, as well as their relationship with the perpetrator. The research focuses on the basic social and demographic characteristics of the victims and on the nature of their relationship with the perpetrator prior to the commission of the crime. The analysis is not conducted in terms of the victim’s contribution to the criminal offense, but aims to provide a better understanding of the circumstances preceding femicide and to identify the factors that lead to its occurrence.The purpose of this paper is to identify certain typical characteristics in the relationship between the victim and the perpetrator that may be significant for early risk recognition and for the improvement of preventive mechanisms. The research is based on the analysis of court practice and relevant sources, with the aim of contributing to a better understanding of the phenomenon of femicide in the Republic of North Macedonia.
femicide, killing of women, gender-based violence, domestic violence, prevention
INTERNATIONAL LEGAL ASPECTS OF INTERVENTIONS AND SANCTIONS IN CONTEMPORARY MIDDLE EASTERN CONFLICTS
This paper analyzes the international legal aspects of interventions and sanctions in contemporary Middle Eastern conflicts. Particular attention is devoted to the legal frameworks governing the use of force, the principle of sovereignty, and the right to self-defense, as well as to the legality and effectiveness of sanctions as instruments of international policy. The paper employs a comparative analysis of various cases in the region, including conflicts in Syria, Libya, and Yemen, as well as the current example of Iran, in order to illustrate contemporary challenges in the application of international law. The research identifies similarities and differences in the interpretation and implementation of legal norms, as well as geopolitical factors influencing decisions on intervention and sanctions. The paper concludes by assessing the role of international law in regulating armed conflicts and proposes potential directions for further research, including possible development at the master's level.
international law, intervention, sanctions, Middle Eastern conflicts, sovereignty, right to self-defense, use of force.
THE ROLE OF RELIGION IN INTERNATIONAL CONFLICTS: AN ANALYSIS OF THE NAGORNO-KARABAKH CONFLICT THROUGH THE LENS OF THE SECURITY DILEMMA AND STRUCTURAL REALISM
This paper analyzes the role of religion as a significant and constitutive factor within the framework of the Theory of the Security Dilemma, with a particular focus on its manifestation in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Although dominant neorealist literature conceptualizes the security dilemma as a phenomenon arising from the anarchic structure of the international system and the material distribution of power, this study demonstrates that religion, as a non-material category, fundamentally influences how states interpret the intentions of other actors and perceive strategic signals in an environment marked by deep mutual distrust. The historical religious identities—Armenia’s Apostolic tradition and the Shi’a Islamic cultural matrix of Azerbaijan—create stable cognitive frameworks that shape political processes, security expectations, and feelings of existential vulnerability, thereby intensifying the persistent instability of the conflict. The research further indicates that religion plays a significant role in the symbolic marking of territory, complicating the prospects for compromise and reinforcing the perception that territorial loss constitutes a loss of spiritual, historical, and cultural continuity. The findings confirm that religion is not a passive cultural marker but an active variable that deepens strategic misinterpretations, intensifies fears, and fuels escalating confrontation. The conclusion emphasizes that integrating religious and identity-based dimensions into contemporary theoretical models of the security dilemma is essential for a more accurate understanding of instability, recurring escalation processes, and the limited prospects for peaceful resolution of conflicts such as the one in Nagorno-Karabakh.
security dilemma, religion, Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenia, Azerbaijan, threat perception, identity
COLLECTIVE RIGHTS OF PUBLIC SERVANTS –ILO CONVENTIONS AND THE CASE-LAW OF THE ECtHR
This paper analyzes the collective rights of public servants through an examination of ILO conventions and the case-law of the ECtHR. First, the paper examines the specific position of public servants, with reference to the definitions of public servants in national legislations, in light of the until recently prevailing view that the field of civil service law represented an area of the inviolability of state sovereignty. In analyzing the collective rights of public servants, the focus is placed not only on the evident absence of their proper regulation, but also on the historical context of the subsequent recognition of the importance of granting collective rights to this category of employees, as well as on the standards that have emerged through the gradual interpretative activities based on the general principles of the ILO.The collective rights of public servants constitute a set of rights that enable employees in public service and other institutions of public importance to protect their interests collectively, with a certain limitations arising from the public nature of their functions. Collective labour rights are the essence of modern democratic societies. In accordance with this statement, it is considered that international legal standards developed through the interpretation of ILO conventions and relevant regulations by the ECtHR, are of exceptional importance for the regulation of the legal status of public servants and may serve as a suitable starting point for future initiatives and more detailed international regulations.
public servants, International Labour Organization, European Court of Human Rights, collective rights, strike, trade union association
CRIMINAL-LEGAL ASPECTS OF ILLEGAL BUILDING IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA: LEGAL REGULATIONS, JUDICIAL PRACTICE AND THE ROLE OF LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT
The issue of illegal construction represents one of the most complex urban planning and legal challenges in the Republic of North Macedonia, which for years has undermined legal certainty, urban order, and the rule of law. Illegal buildings frequently emerge as a symbol of corruption, administrative inefficiency, and political tolerance toward unlawful conduct. For this reason, the phenomenon warrants thorough scientific and professional analysis, particularly from the perspective of criminal law. This paper examines the existing positive legal framework, judicial practice, the role of local self-government, and the practical challenges faced by prosecutorial authorities and urban planning inspections. It analyzes the application of Article 244-a of the Criminal Code and assesses whether the current system enables the effective suppression of this type of criminal activity. At the same time, the paper addresses issues related to prevention, restitution, and the role of the public and civil society in combating illegal construction.
illegal construction; unlawful building; Article 244-a of the Criminal Code; local self-government; urban planning; governance.
Copyright (c) 2025 Student's Social Science Journal
ETHNOCENTRIC ELEMENTS IN PEDAGOGICAL SCIENCES
Ethnocentrism, as the perception of one’s own culture as superior to others, represents a significant sociocultural phenomenon with profound implications for the educational process. This paper focuses on identifying and analyzing ethnocentric elements in pedagogical sciences and their impact on educational practice. The aim is to highlight the presence of ethnocentric content in curricula, textbooks, and teaching approaches, which often unconsciously contribute to the creation of cultural hierarchies and limited intercultural sensitivity among students. The research was conducted through a qualitative analysis of relevant pedagogical literature and teaching materials, using descriptive and comparative methods. The results indicate that ethnocentric elements are most prominent in subjects within the fields of humanities and social sciences, where the national perspective tends to dominate over intercultural dialogue. Such educational models may lead to the development of narrow attitudes, stereotypes, and intolerance toward diversity.
ethnocentrism, pedagogical sciences, intercultural education, teaching practice
A MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH TO UNDERSTANDING TERRORIST VICTIMISATION: ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, AND POLITICAL ASPECTS
Numerous factors may influence the rate of terrorist victimisation, and due to the scarcity of research in this area, this paper provides insights into a broader spectrum of determinants by analysing conditions in the ten most affected countries worldwide those that recorded the highest number of victims of terrorist attacks in 2023. The findings indicate that the most prominent risk factors for terrorism and elevated levels of terrorist victimisation include poor economic conditions, reinforced by inequality, unemployment, poverty, and overpopulation; political instability and corruption; as well as religion and specific religious minorities. This paper highlights a range of serious challenges that states must address in order to reduce terrorism globally.
CHILD LABOUR – PREVENTION, IDENTIFICATION AND INTERVENTION
Child labour is not a new phenomenon. From the cotton mills and textile factories of England to the adoption of the first international regulations by the United Nations and the International Labour Organization, the global need to recognize and eliminate the worst forms of child labour has remained constant. A proper regulation in theory and statistical data that contradicts the effectiveness of implemented measures in practice highlight a clear need for constant efforts to harmonize law and to promote cooperation among the various institutions. Child labour is not far from our everyday lives – on a daily basis, we encounter children who beg, sell tissues..., and fighting this issue requires the active involvement of every individual.
child abuse, international regulation, harmonization of law
The subject of this research is the doctrine of piercing the corporate veil, which is applied in cases where the satisfaction of creditors’ claims against companies is jeopardized due to possible abuses committed by the manager or the members/shareholders of the company. In essence, the doctrine of piercing the corporate veil entails disregarding the separate legal personality of the company and extending liability for its obligations to its founders, members, or shareholders. In the following sections, this doctrine will be defined through the prism of several theoretical approaches, as well as its regulation under the Macedonian Company Law. Furthermore, we will examine the origins of the practice of piercing the corporate veil, its presence and regulation in the legal systems of the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, and ultimately focus on its regulation and application in Macedonian law. This will be illustrated through examples from Macedonian case law, with the aim of emphasizing its importance and practical application.
piercing the corporate veil, companies, extended liability, creditor protection
IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND COMPETITIVENESS OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES - A future that is just beginning
The application of artificial intelligence in the work of small and medium-sized enterprises and corporations is becoming increasingly popular due to the advantages that this technology provides. Artificial intelligence allows for the automation of processes, improving business efficiency and increasing the precision and accuracy of decision-making. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a field of computing that deals with the development of software systems and algorithms that can perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, such as image recognition, language translation, planning and decision-making. Artificial intelligence consists of various techniques and algorithms used to process data and learn from data. These techniques include machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing and others. Artificial intelligence is used in various fields such as healthcare, finance, business consulting, the automotive industry, marketing, government administration and others. For example, in healthcare, artificial intelligence is used to recognize symptoms and diagnose diseases, while in the financial sector it is used to predict market movements and manage risks. With the development of technology, artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly present in our lives, facilitating our daily tasks and bringing us new opportunities in various areas.
artificial intelligence, competitiveness, development, quality
PROCEDURAL RIGHTS OF THE ACCUSED IN CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS
Criminal law in the broadest sense consists of three components: criminal substantive law, criminal procedural law and the law of enforcement of sanctions applied against perpetrators of criminal acts. Criminal procedural law, as a positive scientific discipline, has a general character and contains abstract legal norms that find their concretization when taking specific procedural actions taken during the criminal procedure. The largest reform of criminal procedural legislation was made in 2010 with the adoption of the new accusatory Law on Criminal Procedure. The right of the state to punish is implemented through the decision to protect certain goods by imposing penalties and other measures against the perpetrators of the incriminated actions. We will concentrate on the rights and position of the defendant in criminal proceedings, who is considered a person against whom an indictment has been filed or an indictment has been issued. We will also consider the rights and position of the defendant in the context of criminal proceedings. The subject of this paper is the general procedural rights of defendants in criminal proceedings, with a special emphasis on the comparative analysis between national legislation (Criminal Procedure Act – CPC), international standards (European Convention on Human Rights – ECHR), as well as German and American law. The aim is to investigate how the fundamental rights of defendants are ensured and to point out the similarities and differences in the different legal systems.
Defendant, Criminal Code, Defendant's Rights, Process Subjects, International Instruments.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AS A RISK FACTOR FOR PERMITTING CRIMINAL OFFENSES BY CHILDREN
This research paper examines the relationship between domestic violence and the risk of children committing criminal offences. The central thesis posits that children's exposure to various forms of domestic violence (physical, psychological, sexual, and neglect) increases the likelihood of delinquent behavior through mechanisms such as normalization of violence, trauma, impaired emotional and social regulation, and disrupted educational and social development. Methodologically, the paper is based on a systematic literature review, analysis of national statistical data, and relevant international reports and legal documents.
aggression, psychological trauma, violent behavior, socio-emotional development, prevention, mental health, criminal behavior.
The Caucasus is a region of immense geopolitical significance, serving as a strategic crossroads between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. This paper explores the key geopolitical aspects of the Caucasus, focusing on its strategic location, territorial conflicts, economic importance, and the influence of major global and regional powers, including Russia, Turkey, Iran, and Western nations. The study also examines the role of international organizations in conflict resolution and regional development, as well as the future challenges and prospects for stability and economic integration. The complex interplay of historical rivalries, ethnic diversity, and resource-driven competition continues to shape the region’s political and economic landscape. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for assessing the region’s impact on global security and international relations
Caucasus Region, Armenia-Azerbaijan Conflict, Geostrategic Significance, Russia's Influence
SEGREGATION OF ROMA IN EDUCATION AS ONE OF THE MANIFESTATIONS OF ANTI-GYPSYISM
There is no doubt that racism and discrimination against Roma are manifested in European countries, and unfortunately, in many fields. Segregation in education is also rooted in the Macedonian education system, as confirmed by the results of many studies mentioned in this paper, led by the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights in Elmazova and Others v. North Macedonia (Applications No. 11811/20 and 13550/20). The analysis of this judgment explains in detail the process in our legislation that preceded the submission of the application to the ECHR, which highlights the very moments in which our system failed to protect Roma by discriminating against them and violating their fundamental human rights. This paper analyzes the concept of segregation as well as the types of segregation with a special focus on segregation in education in our country. I tried to investigate the roots of institutional discrimination in more detail as I analyzed the beginnings of the emergence of Anti-Gypsyism; which led me to the conclusion that nations / states are key culprits for creating discriminatory policies towards Roma, placing them in an inferior position compared to other citizens.
Institutional discrimination, Antigypsyism, Segregation, Education, Roma
THE PROCESS OF MEMBERSHIP OF THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA IN THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE AND THE IMMEDIATE LEGAL AND POLITICAL EFFECTS OF THE MEMBERSHIP
After the collapse of the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY), our country, under its back then constitutional name, the Republic of Macedonia, immediately began to take all the necessary steps to complete its statehood, starting with the decision to call a referendum on September 8, 1991, in which approximately 95.32% of the citizens voted for an independent sovereign state, which was followed by the adoption of the Declaration of Sovereignty of the Republic of Macedonia on September 17, 1991, which informed the domestic and world public that the Republic of Macedonia was taking responsibility for its destiny into its own hands, and the government in the country was constituted accordingly. This early phase was completed on November 17, 1991, when the first Constitution of the. Republic of Macedonia as an independent state was adopted, consequently beginning the process of its international recognition, which was its key challenge of the foreign policy, including its membership in all key international intergovernmental organizations, such as the UN, the Council of Europe, the EU, the OSCE, NATO, and the like. Without any ambition to comprehensively present all the attempts of the Republic of North Macedonia (RNM) for its full membership in the world of international intergovernmental organizations, which requires a very different approach and larger space, to achieve this goal, our country was forced to move along a very difficult path due to the continuous expressed opposition of the neighboring Republic of Greece to the international recognition of our country under its back then constitutional name of the Republic of Macedonia. This was confirmed already within the framework of the procedure after the first attempt of our country for its international recognition that it made within the framework of the then so-called EU Conference on the Disintegration of the Former SFRY (under the presidency of Lord Carrington), within which the special so-called Badinter Arbitration Commission, whose main mandate was to examine the fulfillment of the conditions and requirements set out in the "EU Guidelines for the Recognition of the New States of Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union" and the "Declaration on Yugoslavia adopted by the Council of the European Community on 16 December 1991" by each new state, including our country, which on 20 December 1991 formally requested its recognition by the EU member states back then.
Council of Europe, international recognition, Republic of North Macedonia
The subject of this research is the geopolitical significance of resources, and their impact in international relations, with the special emphasis on the geopolitical aspect of water. It is common knowledge that water is an important resource and supposition of life, technological and social advancement. Water resource scarcity is an environmental security issue that currently exercises considerable influence on regional stability, particularly in arid regions. Given assumed population growth, changes in climatic conditions and the imbalance of water resource supply and demand, the water will continue to be a source of tensions, it could become the determinant variable in future international conflict. This research provides an overview of several water conflicts and the ways in which they are resolved.
international relations, geopolitics, resource, water, conflicts
TRAFFICKING IN SYNTHETIC DRUGS IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA AND THE BALKANS
The increasing prevalence of synthetic drugs, often of clandestine origin, presents a multifaceted challenge to law enforcement agencies and legal frameworks. The following paper will present the legal implications surrounding the production, distribution and consumption of synthetic drugs, offering insight into the development of the prevalence of narcotics legislation in the Republic of North Macedonia and the Balkans. We will also focus on the routes used for smuggling synthetic drugs into and through the country, highlighting the country’s strategic location as a crossroads for drug trafficking between Eastern and Western Europe. In addition to the criminological analysis of the phenomenon that will set out the basic postulates of the problem, we will also review the legal frameworks for combating synthetic drug trafficking in the Republic of North Macedonia and the Balkans, which address issues related to drug production, trafficking, possession and related criminal activities. The importance of the work lies in the fact that it offers current, updated data on a living issue, both criminological, criminal-legal, and statistical, and enables monitoring of the results of the fight that the authorities wage daily, which is necessary to create a solid foundation for developing current and modern techniques for prevention and suppression.
Black market, drug trafficking, psychoactive substances, United Nations, Vienna Convention, Palermo Convention
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE PENETRATION SYSTEM OF THE REPUBLIC OF N. MACEDONIA WITH THE SYSTEMS OF MORE DEVELOPED EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
This paper aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the penitentiary system in the Republic of North Macedonia with some of the most developed European countries, such as the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden . The research focuses on key aspects of prison systems, including detention conditions, reception departments, rehabilitation programs, rehabilitation therapies, reforms, international cooperation, classification by degree of severity, management of institutions, and respect for human rights. Through the analysis of statistical data, the legislative framework, and international reports, the paper highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the Macedonian penitentiary system compared to some European models, which are known for their humanity, efficiency, and resocialization. The results indicate significant differences in infrastructure, staff training, and even the application of modern rehabilitation methods, highlighting the challenges faced by North Macedonia, such as limited financial resources and slow reforms. The paper concludes with recommendations for aligning the Macedonian penitentiary system with European standards, emphasizing the need for investment in training, modernization of facilities, and strengthening external oversight mechanisms. This comparison provides insights into possible directions for improving the system in accordance with the principles of justice and humanity, aiming to enhance the entire system in Macedonia.
penitentiary system, Republic of North Macedonia, Europe, rehabilitation, human rights, reforms
THE CHILD'S RIGHT TO EXPRESS HIS OPINION IN CIVIL PROCEEDINGS
This paper deals with the topic of the right to opinion and position of children in civil proceedings. Quite often, in our country, but also in other legal systems, when in a court procedure, a decision is made about certain rights of a certain child, the child himself is deprived of the opportunity to express his opinion, although the opinion of that child may be the most relevant in that particular procedure. In this paper, we will focus on this issue. First, we will briefly introduce ourselves in general with civil proceedings, as well as who can be a participant in it. The majority of this paper will be dedicated to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, as a very important leap forward in the field of children's rights. Specifically, we will focus on Article 12 of this Convention, which guarantees the child's right to an opinion.
children, litigation, participant in the procedure, best interest, right to opinion
The subject of this research is the unfair terms in contracts concluded between consumers and travel agencies. Unfair terms give rise to the need for consumer rights protection due to the violation of the principles of good faith and fairness in contract conclusion. These terms are integrated into the general terms and conditions of travel agencies and primarily serve the interests of the agencies, often to the detriment of the users of their services. The most common examples of unfair terms found in contracts with travel agencies include: limitation of the agency's liability, imposition of policies that exclude the possibility of refunds, as well as terms that allow unilateral changes to the conditions by the agency without consulting the consumer. This paper analyses the types and nature of unfair terms, their impact on consumers, and the legal provisions that regulate them. Through a comparative analysis of domestic and international legislation, the paper examines how consumers can be protected, with particular attention given to the role of international institutions in addressing this issue. Special focus is placed on the principles of unfair commercial practices in the provision of services offered by travel agencies. The aim is to highlight the problematic aspects of these contracts and propose measures to improve consumer rights, with an emphasis on the right to fair contractual terms and equality in the negotiation process preceding the conclusion of the contract. Additionally, this paper analyses unfair terms in the Anglo-Saxon and European legal systems, using a comparative method to explore the differences between them.
unfair terms, travel agencies, consumer protection, general travel conditions
THE BENEFITS OF INCOTERMS IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE OF GOODS
Incoterms play a vital role in international trade, providing standardized guidelines that define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in the transportation of goods. This paper explores the benefits of Incoterms in facilitating global trade by providing clarity, reducing risks, and promoting efficiency in the movement of goods across borders. By establishing clear delivery terms, risk allocation, and cost responsibilities, Incoterms help minimize misunderstandings, prevent disputes, and streamline logistics. The paper also examines how Incoterms is evolving to accommodate changing international trade dynamics, such as technological advances and new trade regulations. In addition, it highlights how businesses can use Incoterms to improve supply chain transparency and foster stronger commercial relationships. Through a comprehensive analysis, the paper highlights the importance of Incoterms as an essential tool for ensuring the smooth and secure exchange of goods in the global marketplace.
Incoterms, international trade, transport, goods, benefits
ASYLUM POLICY: THE CASE STUDY OF JULIAN ASSANGE AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
This paper examines the complex dynamics of asylum policy in the context of international relations through a comprehensive case study of Julian Assange. As the founder of WikiLeaks and a prominent whistleblower, Assange sought asylum in the Ecuadorian embassy in London to avoid potential extradition to the United States. The thesis analyzes the motivations behind Assange’s efforts to seek asylum, exploring the legal challenges he faced, including the Swedish allegations and the broader implications for government transparency and whistleblower protection. The study delves into the diplomatic implications of Ecuador granting Assange asylum, which strained relations between Ecuador, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It highlights the interplay of human rights considerations in Assange’s case and the global impact on asylum seekers' rights. Furthermore, the research examines the role of media coverage in shaping public opinion and the influence of international responses to Assange’s asylum request. With global media at the forefront, the case underscored the complexities surrounding asylum policy and its intersection with press freedom. Drawing from a comparative analysis of other high-profile asylum cases, this research explores the broader political context in which Assange’s case unfolded, shedding light on the intricacies of state interactions concerning whistleblowers and government transparency. Ultimately, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges of asylum policy in the realm of international relations, offering valuable insights into how nations respond to individuals seeking asylum in an ever-changing global political landscape.
Asylum; Ecuador; Human Rights; Whistleblower; Political Persecution
ANALYTICAL STUDY OF HATE CRIME MOTIVATED BY ETHNIC AFFILIATION IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA DURING THE PERIOD 2018-2022
This paper examines hate crimes motivated by ethnic affiliation in the Republic of North Macedonia during the period 2018–2022. The study relies on empirical data processed from reports by the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights, revealing that ethnic bias is the most prevalent motive behind hate crimes in the country. The findings indicate that such incidents predominantly involve young individuals from different ethnic backgrounds, primarily ethnic Macedonians and Albanians. Through quantitative analysis, the research identifies patterns of increase, stagnation, or decrease in hate crime occurrences, contextualized within broader social polarization and the institutional response. Furthermore, the paper addresses the normative legal framework and the role of law enforcement and the judiciary in tackling hate crimes, offering concrete recommendations for prevention, prosecution, and reintegration of offenders.
hate crime, ethnic affiliation, discrimination, bias, reintegration