War in Ukraine: perspectives from Ukraine

Regional Planning and Development Theories

The implementation of non-equilibrium development through non-balance policy among different regions is one of the most significant characteristics of China mode. The regional development mode supported by the regional plans and policies in China is stepping into regional coordination development after the stages of the initial development of the eastern area, development of the west, revitalization in the northeast, and rise of central region. Under the government-oriented market economy system, the orientation effect that local governments pursue the administrative achievements is the important interior motive for regional development. However, the performance appraisal mainly based on GDP will easily lead to the vicious competition together with similar structure among regions, the ignorance of interregional cooperation, and the friendly interaction with external environments. Meanwhile, the present regional development evaluation methods, which emphasize interior all-side elements and their quantity matching through the index setting in terms of dimensionality and weight, face the serious conflict against the real fact of regional division based on each advantage supported by resource endowment and regional cooperation based on exchange, inter-regional arrangement and hierarchical governments. Thus, it is quite necessary to construct a more reasonable method of regional coordination development evaluation. In this paper, according to system theory and coordination theory, a two-level and five-dimension analysis framework of regional coordination development is proposed, and a evaluation model for appraising the status of coordination development of both national level and regional level from the corresponding dimension is established.

Regional unbalanced development refers to a common phenomenon in the process of regional development. China is currently in the process of transitioning from regional unbalanced development to balanced development. Therefore, it is of theoretical and practical significance to sort out the theory of regional unbalanced development and China's practical experience. Representative regional historians and economists have explained the process of regional unbalanced development from the perspectives of historical reality and economic theory, and have developed relevant theories. Pero believed that the significant differences in the foundations of economic development among different regions led to the emergence of regional imbalances. Hirsch emphasized the necessity of imbalanced development in the early stages of economic development, while Myrdal further explained the reasons and mechanisms of uneven growth, as well as how it affects regional economic development. The main manifestations of unbalanced regional development in China currently include: uneven development in the four major regions, uneven development within regions, and uneven development between urban and rural areas. In response to the problem of unbalanced development in China, China has taken measures such as organizing and implementing the poverty alleviation campaign, deepening the implementation of regional coordinated development strategies, and promoting new urbanization centered on people to narrow the regional development gap.

In this two‐wave longitudinal study, we examined the sense of symbolic threat from the West and Russia as ideological roots of motivated belief in pro‐Kremlin conspiracy theories and the attribution of blame to Russia, the United States, and Ukraine for the war in Ukraine. Participants ( N = 690) completed questionnaires on symbolic threat from the West and Russia, belief in pro‐Kremlin conspiracy theories about the war in Ukraine as well as generic anti‐West and anti‐Russian conspiracy theories, and blame for the war in Ukraine. The sense of symbolic threat from the West and pro‐Kremlin conspiracy beliefs predicted each other in time and were substantially associated with increased blaming of Ukraine and the United States for the war in Ukraine. Conversely, symbolic threat from Russia along with the rejection of pro‐Kremlin conspiracy theories predicted increased blaming of Russia over time. Motivated reasoning analyses suggested that the ideological link between the symbolic threat from the West and belief in anti‐West conspiracy theories was stronger than the one between symbolic threat from Russia and belief in anti‐Russian conspiracy theories. This suggests an existence of self‐reinforcing relationship between the deep‐rooted sense of symbolic threat and anti‐West conspiracy theories which is exploited by various political actors.

B ENNER C. (2003) Labour flexibility and regional development: the role of labour market intermediaries, Reg. Studies 37 , 621-633. As contemporary labour markets have become more complex, volatile and unpredictable, labour market intermediaries (LMIs) have played an increasingly prominent role in shaping labour flexibility and regional development. Existing theories of regional development, however, do not adequately account for this prominent role. Using Silicon Valley as a case study, this paper contributes to developing a theory of intermediaries and regional development by highlighting the role LMIs play in three important labour market functions - reducing transactions costs, building networks and managing risk. In doing this, intermediaries play a critical role in shaping the speed and character of labour market adjustment, thus contributing directly to regional development, with significant implications for regional development policy. B ENNER C. (2003) La flexibilité du travail et l'amé nagement du territoire: le rôle des intermédiaires dans le marché du travail, Reg. Studies 37 , 621-633. Au fur et à mesure que les marchés du travail sont devenus plus complexes, plus précaires et plus imprévisibles, les intermédiaires dans le marché du travail (IMT) ont joué un rôle de plus en plus important dans la dé termination de la flexibilité du travail et de l'aménagement du territoire. Toujours est-il que les théories actuelles de l'amé nagement du territoire ne tient pas compte convenablement de ce rôle important. A partir d'une étude de cas, à savoir la Silicon Valley, cet article cherche à contribuer à la construction d'une thé orie des intermédiaires et de l'aménagement du territoire tout en soulignant le rôle des IMT dans trois fonctions importantes sur le marché du travail - la réduction des frais de transaction, la construction de réseaux et la gestion du risque. De cette manière, les intermédiaires jouent un rôle primordial dans la détermination de la vitesse et de la nature de l'ajustement du marché du travail, ainsi contribuant directement à l'aménagement du territoire, d'où d'importantes conséquences pour la politique d'aménagement du territoire. B ENNER C. (2003) Flexibilität der Arbeiterschaft und regionale Entwicklung: Die Rolle der Arbeitsmarktvermittler, Reg. Studies 37 , 621-633. Da die heutigen Arbeitsmärkte komplexer, unbeständiger und unvorsehbarer geworden sind, haben Arbeitsmarktvermittler (Labour Market Intermediaries=LMIs) eine zunehmend wichtige Rolle bei der Gestaltung der Flexibilität der Arbeiterschaft und der regionalen Entwicklung gespielt. Vorhandene Theorien der Regionalentwicklung geben jedoch nur unzulängliche Auskunft über die Bedeutung ihrer Rolle. Mit Hilfe einer Fachstudie von Silicon Valley trägt dieser Aufsatz zur Entwicklung einer Theorie der Vermittler und regionaler Entwicklung bei, indem er die Rolle hervorhebt, die LMIs in drei bedeutenden Arbeitsmarktfunktionen spielen: der Reduzierung der Abwicklungskosten, der Konstruktion von Netzwerken und der Absicherung von Risiken. In dieser Kapazität spielen die Vermittler eine kritische Rolle, indem sie Tempo und Charakter der Arbeitsmarktanpassung gestalten, und so direkt zur Regionalentwicklung beitragen; dies hat signifikante Implikationen für die regionale Entwicklungspolitik.

The impact of the war in Ukraine on the residential real estate market on the example of Szczecin, Poland

Disinformation, Ideas without Borders, and the War in Ukraine

Introduction. The problem of psychological support for students is always very relevant, especially in the conditions of military conflicts and crisis situations. War, conflict or other stressful events significantly affect the mental state of children and adolescents. It is important to investigate and analyze the peculiarities of psychological support of the participants of the educational process in the realities of the war in Ukraine. The relevance of this problem is manifested in the negative impact of excessive excitement, stress, anxiety and learning, the general development of children, the preservation of mental health and positive microclimate in the team. This requires a systematic response from educational institutions, government agencies and specialists in the field of psychology to provide support for children and adults who have experienced stressful situations due to military conflicts or other events. Purpose. Military conflict impact assessment on the mental health of participants in the educational process for the development and implementation of a psychological support program. Methods. The scientific research used the method of critical analysis of scientific and methodical literature, practical experience. The following methods were widely used: observation, interview, questionnaire, rating, modeling, survey, focus group, empirical experiment. Results. The study analyzed the impact of war events on the psyche and emotional state of participants in the educational process. The results of an empirical study of psychological indicators, which include an assessment of the level of stress, anxiety, depression and other mental reactions among students and teachers, are summarized; revealed their experiences, experiences and mental state during the war period. Based on the received data, a program of psychological support that meets specific needs has been developed. This program includes individual consultations, group sessions, stress resistance training and psychological meetings. Possible strategies of psychological support and methods of assistance for teachers in working with children during military operations are considered. Practical advice and recommendations for psychologists, teachers and parents are offered, which are aimed at ensuring effective psychological protection and support of participants in the educational process in the realities of the war in Ukraine. Originality. A program of psychological support for participants in the educational process in war conditions has been developed and adapted. The program includes individual consultations, group classes, stress resistance training and psychological classes. Conclusion. Methodical recommendations and tips for implementing a program of psychological support for participants in the educational process: ensuring safe and supportive climate in an educational institution, giving teachers and students the opportunity to consult with psychologists to discuss their emotions, stress and ways to overcome them; training of teaching staff. Organization and conduct of art therapy classes using game, simulation, role-playing methods; systems of trainings and classes aimed at developing stress management skills, self-help and self-regulation, increasing stress resistance. Creation of psychological support and discussion groups where participants can share their feelings, experiences and receive emotional help from each other. Information about free psychological counseling centers; distribution of textbooks, brochures and other materials that contain useful tips and strategies for emotional regulation in the conditions of the war in Ukraine. Involvement of parents, the public and local communities in supporting the psychological well-being of participants in the educational process.

Due to the unique characteristics of the innovation process, the government plays an important role in its stimulation. However, the adaptation of national innovative policies to regional and local conditions is the responsibility of regional and local authorities. Sustainable development of the region will be achieved only if its stakeholders such as business, R & D units and the relevant authorities are involved. The primary task of the public authority is to coordinate activities and to create a favorable climate for economic development in the region. Both primary and secondary regional development theories define multiple sources of economic growth. The main objective of this article is to show the role of local government in the development of regional innovation policy in accordance with the secondary theories of regional development. Secondary theories are based on the following primary theories: the economic base theory of W. Sombart, the growth poles theory of F. Perroux, the A. Marshall’s industrial districts theory, the theory of industrial clusters of M.E. Porter and the J.Coleman’s theory of social capital. Due to the limitations of this article, the text describes only some secondary theories of regional development. These theories come from the economic base theory of W. Sombart and the industrial districts theory of A. Marshall.

The recent upsurge of interest in regional development issues in the Czech Republic is hindered by a lack of understanding of the recent progress in regional development theories. This article provides a comparative analysis of the main theories. Several basic parameters are identified in each theory by means of which the regional development theories are classified into several groups and briefly discussed.

Objective: This study aims to analyze the contribution of Regional Development Banks (BPDs) to Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) and poverty reduction in Indonesia during the 2014–2023 period, with a focus on the role of third-party funds (DPK) and loan disbursement as financial intermediation mechanisms. The study is framed within the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Theoretical Framework: Grounded in the theory of financial intermediation and regional economic development, this study employs both supply-leading and demand-following approaches. Concepts of financial assets and macroeconomic indicators are used to explain the relationships among financial intermediation, economic performance, and poverty outcomes. Method: Using a quantitative approach, panel data from 34 provinces were analyzed through regression to assess the influence of DPK, total assets, and total loan on GRDP and poverty levels. Data were sourced from the Indonesia Financial Services Authority (OJK), Statistics Indonesia (BPS), and BPDs financial reports (2014–2023). Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that DPK positively influences loan distribution, while total assets show no significant effect. BPD loans have a positive impact on regional economic growth and contribute to poverty reduction. Economic growth also plyas a significant role in decreasing poverty, hihglighting the strategic role of BPDs in promoting inclusive and sustainable regional development in line with SDG targets. Research Implications: This study supports the institutional strengthening and digital transformation of BPDs to enhance financial efficiency, inclusion, and their contribution to sustainable development. The results offer policy insights for aligning regional banking practices with Indonesia’s national development agenda and the global SDGs framework. Originality/Value: This research presents comprehensive empirical evidence from all Indonesian provinces, revealing the causal relationships between BPD performance, economic growth, and poverty alleviation. By situating these findings within the SDGs context, the study contributes to the discourse on the role of subnational financial institutions in sustainable regional development.

The subject of this thesis was chosen from both a professional and an academic interest in the economic development of Oregon. Prompted by proposals made to the Oregon Legislature to initiate various forms of industrial subsidy programs to disperse economic growth and population away from congested areas, this research effort seeks to provide an evaluative analysis of the effectiveness of subsidy techniques in influencing industrial location and stimulating a sustained growth process in less developed areas. Research was undertaken in two primary subjects: 1) theory of regional economic development and the effects of subsidies on the growth process; and 2) empirical evidence of the effectiveness of industrial subsidy programs on regional development in other areas. Information was obtained from the following resources: The author’s library of reference literature on economic development and the bibliographies contained therein; Professional organizations, particularly the library of the American Industrial Development Council, as well as requests for literature from various members of those organizations; University library resources, including: Bureaus of Business Research, Bibliography, 1968-1970; Public Affairs Information Service, 1965-Jan. 3, 1973; Business Periodicals Index, 1965-1972; Journal of Economic Articles, 1967-Dec., 1972; Index to Economic Literature, 1966-1970; U.S. Library of Congress, National Union Catalog, 1960-1972; Council of Planning Librarians, Bibliographies; Colorado University, Public Catalog of Norlin Library holdings; Colorado Technical Reference Center. Using information obtained from these and other sources, a method was obtained for defining and measuring the economic and social welfare objectives of a regional development program in Oregon. Geographical patterns of economic health indicators were mapped for the state This is followed by an analysis of various types of subsidies and their effects on resource allocation and gross output. It was found that wage subsidies offer optimum benefits for labor-surplus areas with less distortion of capital efficiency than do capital or price subsidies. Justification for subsidies was found to be greatest using social benefits as criteria rather than maximization of economic output. The influence of industrial subsidies on location decisions is then examined. Following an analysis of effects of subsidies on the cost structure and profit potential for the firm, financial and tax incentives are separately reviewed in case histories of subsidy programs. It was found that capital investment subsidies have had considerably more location influence than tax subsidies. In any case, however, subsidies were determined to be marginal, rather than decisive, locational factors with more basic economic criteria, such as labor availability

Purpose: The purpose of the article is to identify the volatility of the rates of return, as well as the profitability of investments in precious metals in relation to traditional investments during the unstable epidemic and geopolitical situation, including the identification of the impact of the method of calculating the simple rate of return on investment decisions. Design/methodology/approach: The article uses literature analysis and a statistical research method as research methods. A review of the world literature on the changes taking place on investment markets in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine was carried out. The empirical part of the article presents the results of the analysis of the level of return on metals, compared to traditional investments, in the period 20.03.2018-21.03.2023. Findings: The level of annual rates of return differed from the level of average annual rates of return. Therefore, the conclusions about the profitability of individual investments depend on the chosen method of calculating simple rates of return. Research limitations/implications: This article does not exhaust the examined issue. In subsequent studies, it is worth reviewing the literature not only of the most recent publications, but also of older ones. It is also worth analyzing other types of alternative investments. In future analyses, it is also worth considering the use of statistical tests. Practical implications: Identifying changes in ores markets compared to traditional investment markets and indicating the impact of the simple rate of return calculation method on its value may be useful in making and evaluating investment decisions, as well as in better understanding of the changes taking place in these markets. Originality/value: The paper compares two methods of calculating the rate of return during an uncertain economic situation. The choice of the method of calculating the rate of return affects the results obtained, which translates into investment recommendations. Keywords: rate of return, alternative investments, precious metals, COVID-19 pandemic, war in Ukraine. Category of the paper: Research paper.

<p><strong><em>Research aim: </em></strong><em>to study the work experience of television correspondents / journalists covering the course of Russia’s large-scale invasion of the territory of Ukraine, and to find out what new challenges they face today while performing editorial tasks.</em></p><p><strong><em>Research methodology</em></strong><em>. A survey method was used to identify the specifics of the work of a correspondent / journalist who works directly in a conflict zone / frontline / especially dangerous areas. Its results were systematized and presented in the form of tables, charts with statistical (percentage) indicators. The descriptive method was used during the presentation of the research results.</em></p><p><strong><em>Results</em></strong><em>. The analysis of academic literature, publications of the Institute of Mass Information, the Commission on Journalistic Ethics, the publication «Detector Media», as well as a number of Recommendations and Rules for journalists, which were developed and published by the Department of Public Relations of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, made it possible not only to study the organizational aspects of the work of journalists covering the war in Ukraine, but also to analyze in detail the changes in their professional duties and mandatory security conditions dictated by the present. On the basis of these data, a questionnaire was created, the questions in which were formulated with an emphasis on identifying the respondents’ own experience during the execution of editorial tasks on the frontline / battle area / especially dangerous areas.</em></p><p><strong><em>Novelty</em></strong><em>. During the great war in Ukraine, the user’s demands for media are growing extremely, because news content about the course of this brutal and destructive confrontation is extremely important and in demand. Adhering to journalistic standards and conveying information to users has become a challenge for broadcasters, because the creation of audiovisual content (due to a number of circumstances) is not only a difficult process, but also extremely responsible. Difficulties in covering the war (when leading Ukrainian media resources and the government are silent) encourage users to look for information from dubious sources. This causes a number of problems in society, so explaining to the potential audience the specifics of the work of correspondents during martial law in the country and emphasizing the rules for publishing news from the battle area / frontline / especially dangerous areas is urgent and extremely important.</em></p><p><strong><em>Practical value</em></strong><em>. The results of the research can be used in the process of studying courses on the security of journalistic activity and war journalism in general. Certain provisions of the conclusions can serve as a kind of practical guide for media workers, based on practice-oriented cases regarding the performance of professional duties / editorial tasks during wartime (in conflict zones), in especially dangerous areas or places of combat operations. </em></p><p><strong><em>Key words:</em></strong><em> military television correspondent, journalistic standards, editorial tasks, security, media reality, challenges in professional activity.</em></p>

The conflict in Ukraine is characterised by extensive use of unmanned aerial vehicles, commonlyknown as drones, by various parties involved in the conflict. This article examines the evolvinglandscape of drone warfare in the context of the war in Ukraine and the corresponding changes inlegal regulations governing their use.Drawing upon a comprehensive review of existing literature, legal documents and news reports,this study explores the historical development of drone technology, its utilization in militaryoperations and its specific application within the Ukrainian conflict. It analyses legal frameworksgoverning drone warfare, including international humanitarian law (IHL), international humanrights law (IHRL) and domestic regulations, and assesses their effectiveness in addressing thechallenges posed by drones in armed conflict.Through detailed case studies and empirical evidence, the article examines specific incidents, tacticsand strategies involving drones in the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting their impact on militaryoperations, civilian population and compliance with legal regulations. Ethical considerations andhuman rights implications associated with the use of drones are also explored, with focus on issuessuch as civilian casualties, targeted killings and surveillance practices.The conducted research is predominantly of an applied nature – it enriches the existing sciencewith new conclusions resulting from the analysis of available research. The aim of the researchis to answer the complementary question in the title (what) is the impact of UAVs on the war inUkraine in terms of impact on armed conflict and legal challenges. In the conducted research usewas made of a number of scientific research methods in a holistic way, the main ones being: themethod of analysis and criticism of literature listed in the bibliography, the method of individualcases and document examination methods. This article contributes to scholarly understanding of the interconnections between technology,warfare, law and provides insights into the complex dynamics of modern conflict and the evolvingrole of drones in it. It underscores the importance of adapting legal regulations to keep pace withtechnological advancements and emerging security threats and calls for greater attention to theethical dimensions of drone warfare in shaping future policy and practice.The study identifies key challenges, debates and controversies surrounding the use of dronesin armed conflict, including questions of accountability, transparency and the protection offundamental rights and freedoms. It concludes with policy recommendations aimed at addressingthese challenges and ensuring the responsible and ethical use of drones in accordance withinternational legal norms and humanitarian principles.