erori: Defense Resources Management in the 21st century

18th edition of the International Scientific Conference

Defense Resources Management in the 21st Century
09 - 10 november 2023, Brasov, Romania

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS


                          

                          

                          


PICTURES FROM THE EVENT


                 

                 

                 

                 







ARTICLES


ASPECTS CONCERNING THE EMPLOYED PERSONS WITH ICT EDUCATION IN EU COUNTRIES

ANTONOAIE Cristina

Regional Department of Defense Resources Management Studies, Brasov, Romania
Abstract
Nowadays is mandatory to have at least a basic ICT education in order to perform adequately at your workplace. In this paper we have analyzed the situation of the employed persons with ICT education in EU countries enterprises. The ICT education statistics are part of the ICT training domain, which is one of the domains in the wider concept of Digital skills. ICT education indicators are based on the EU Labour Force Survey (EU-LFS) microdata.
Key words
index; indicator; evolution; ICT education; EU-27; Romania.
Up

CURRENT INITIATIVES AND CHALLENGES OF DEFENCE RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION

BĂLAN Silviu

Ministry of National Defence, Romania
Abstract
This paper aims to present the current status and challenges of Defence Research & Development and Innovation domain for NATO and EU members, as well as from national perspective, in a world characterized by profound changes due to the crisis generated by the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and increasingly strong competition in the Research and Development and Innovation field. All kind of implications, ranging from lack of raw materials, reduced mobility for researchers, high energy prices, to increased demand for security and defense equipment have been generated by the current situation. Occurring right after the pandemic context, when the need for increasing the budgetary allocations and the cooperation between research entities has already been demonstrated, this new challenge is underlining the need for immediate action to harness and coordinate the research capabilities at European Union and NATO level. In the last years we have witnessed the intense development of China’s defense-industrial and technological base. China is gaining access to important dual-use technologies, for example artificial intelligence, augmented reality, robotics and self-driving technologies. It comes as no surprise that the 2017 International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Military Balance argued that “in some capability areas, particularly in the air domain, China appears to be reaching near-parity with the West”. This very complex spectrum of challenges has to be addressed by the European and NATO Research and Development and Innovation structures in order to achieve their level of ambition and preserve the technological superiority status.
Key words
R&D; challenges; defense; innovation.
Up

CRITICAL RESEARCH ON AUDIT PRACTICES WITHIN THE DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL BASE

CAYMAZ Ebru

Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University,Canakkale, Turkey
Abstract
Being an essential management function, internal audit activity is a key element in determining the effectiveness of the control (internal control) environment created within the organization, which includes consultancy services, as well as classical auditing processes. Apart from its focus on compliance with the standards and contract requirements, finding irregularities such as internal control deficiencies, ineffective monitoring, complexity, and stability of the organizational structure are the key contributions of internal audit. On the other hand, while internal audit has become a management discipline fulfilled at international standards, the field of defense inherently contains a large spectrum of difficulties. At the nexus of practices, practitioners, and praxis of governance, audit practices within the defense industrial base necessitate a high level of profession combined with industrial experience in the defense sector. Accordingly, an internal audit process holds the potential to assist management in unveiling and controlling key risks while achieving financial regularity and legal conformity. Therefore, this study aims to critically examine the internal audit practices and portray dynamic and applicable methods for a successful process.
Key words
Audit, Internal Audit, Defense Auditing, Defense Industry.
Up

THE ECONOMIC SECURITY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA IN THE CONTEXT OF GEOPOLITICAL DISTURBANCES

CAZACU Vitalie

Armed Forces Military Academy “Alexandru cel Bun”, Republic of Moldova
Abstract
The current geopolitical situation directly threatens the economic security of the Republic of Moldova due to the fact that the country does not have natural resources that allow it to fully or in a significant proportion ensure its consumption needs, as well as the development process. Economic security refers to the ability of the economy to cope with internal and external shocks. The main external threats can be: global economic crisis, economic embargoes, uneven economic development. Economic security as a recent economic category began to be used in domestic economic literature. This is due, first of all, to the lack of similar use of this concept in economic theory abroad, where the term received spread under the more common term national security.
Key words
economic security; demographic situation; import; export; investment; re-export; agriculture.
Up

ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY AND ARMED CONFLICTS

CÎRDEI Alin HALMAGHI
Elisabeta-Emilia METEA
Ileana-Gentilia


„Nicolae Bălcescu" Land Forces Academy, Sibiu, Ministry of National Defense Romania
Abstract
In recent years, as a result of the reduction of non-renewable natural resources and excessive environmental degradation, environmental security has begun to be part of the agenda of high-level meetings, causing changes in the geopolitical and defense paradigms of the world's states. One of the current issues related to environmental security considers the interdependence between armed conflicts, the quality of environmental factors and people's health.
Key words
management, transparency, military, environment, Tunisia.
Up

WHAT DOES THE MIDDLE EAST CRISIS REVEALS ABOUT THE NEW GLOBAL ORDER?

CONSTANTIN-BERCEAN Ioana, PhD

“Ion I.C. Brătianu” Institute of Political Science and International Relations / International Relations / Bucharest / Romania
Abstract
United States (and to a lesser extent the European Union) and China will undoubtedly have a role to play in the war between Israel and Hamas. Also, the other regional powers, such as Russia, Türkiye, Iran or Saudi Arabia, will be part either of a diplomatic resolution, or of a conflict of attrition. Whether any of these powers will be able to resolve or contain that conflict is far less certain. The notion that great-power (or regional powers) competition defines geopolitics has comeback into vogue after it fell into obscurity at the close of the Cold War. Unspoken Cold-War-era assumptions, however, still shadow many contemporary claims about the nature of this competition. Great powers, analysts assume, will marshal immense resources to shape the international order. What they do will shape global affairs. Using their financial and military might for proxy wars, they will remain intensely focused on each other. Wherever one acts, the others will respond in kind. Drawing from structural realism and constructivism, as theoretical bechmarks, this paper will introduce the reader in the regional and international consequences of Hamas’s terrorist attack on Israel and will put into discussion the way this unfortunate event might affect the dynamics of the new Global Order.
Key words
Middle East; New World Order; Great Powers; foreign policy; proxy wars; diplomacy.
Up

ENHANCING ENERGY SECURITY IN EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

CONSTANTINESCU Maria
DUMITRACHE Vlad
POPA Brîndușa


Regional Department of Defense Resources Management Studies, Brasov, Romania
Abstract
Energy security is a critical concern for nations worldwide, as it directly impacts national economies, geopolitics, and environmental sustainability. This paper explores the relationship between energy security and the national economy, shedding light on the multifaceted dynamics that shape this nexus. The paper underlines the need for a holistic approach to energy security that balances economic imperatives with environmental sustainability and geopolitical stability. It underscores the importance of proactive policies, investments in renewable and sustainable energy sources, and international cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by energy security. In an era marked by energy transitions, this research paper provides an analysis of the critical link between energy security and national economies, offering insights and recommendations for policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders aiming to navigate the evolving energy landscape while safeguarding economic stability and growth.
Key words
energy, security, challenges, recommendations.
Up

CHALLENGES IN THE MANAGE MENT OF DEFENSE RESOURCES LIFE CYCLE COST ANALYSIS FOR A MILITARY CAPABILITY (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System HIMARS)

DANȚIȘ Ion

Ministry of National Defence, Romania
Abstract
Life cycle cost (LCC) represents all the costs that will occur during the life of a piece of equipment from the moment it is acquired, the period of time it is operate and maintained and finally its disposal. The aim of this paper is to present the importance of developing a life cycle cost analysis for a HIMARS BDE, especially since this capability is new in our military. Nevertheless, there must be emphasized the fact that this kind of system has never been used by any Eastern Europe countries, therefore, there is scarce reference regarding the total costs of using it. Another issue that must be addressed upfront in the fact that, since Romania has the latest version we can only speculate the life cycle cost since no system of this kind has been dispose yet.
Key words
HIMARS, LAROM, Life cycle cost, acquisition, defense planning, capability.
Up

CHALLENGES OF NATIONAL DEFENSE RESOURCES MANAGEMENT

DANȚIȘ Maricel

Ministry of National Defence, Romania
Abstract
Defense resources management is a very difficult field to deal with especially in today’s geopolitical environment. Although this specific sort of management is performed during the peace time the parties involved must comprehend it as if it was under war conditions. Through this paper I want to emphasize the fact that there is no management that is perfect but, nevertheless, management must be done. Also, the inability to produce viable war plans that could be integrated with other countries’ plans raises the sensitive issue regarding the acknowledgment that some of the current planning methods need to be revised. Last but not least, another question is raised, namely what exactly could ever be accomplished without the involvement of the political factor and to what extent their involvement should be.
Key words
defense resources management; cost awareness mentality; technological progress; decision making process.
Up

STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION IN THE MILITARY

DUMITRACHE Sorin

Ministry of Defence, Romania
Abstract
The aim of the paper is to present the role of military leadership in Strategic Communication (StratCom). The contents of the paper include the major shift in understanding military operations and their environment, the main idea of StratCom and its evolution, and the essential StratCom functional areas. Having the background established, the paper discusses the principle of the key leaders’ involvement (engagement). The principle is a fundamental prerequisite for effective StratCom, which proves the importance of military leadership in this field. The paper also includes the practical and theoretical implications referring to the assumptions of the positive management concept.
Key words
strategic communication, military leadership, information environment, principles, key leaders’ engagement, positive management.
Up

HOW CAN ROMANIA BECOME A NATO PROVIDER FROM A NATO CONSUMER

Vlad Ionuț DUMITRACHE , PhD, Assistant Professor
Maria CONSTANTINESCU, PhD, Assistant Professor
Brîndușa Maria POPA, PhD, University Lecturer


Regional Department for Defense Resources Management Studies/ Department of Management/National Defense University ”Carol I”/Brașov/ Romania
Abstract
The war in Ukraine has triggered a number of Eastern Flank states like Poland, Hungary and the Baltic States to increase their military spending and develop their national armies in the face of more prominent threats. While Romania has increased its defense budget to 2% since 2017 and has promised to further increase it to 2.5% after the start of the Russian invasion in Ukraine visible results in developing the national army are not yet present. The Romanian army is the only one in the Eastern Flank that has difficulties in providing retention among its personnel, major acquisition projects are stagnant if not postponed and while the Black Sea region is now present in the NATO Strategic Concept the Romanian Navy has been the force structure with the least investments in recent years. The purpose of this paper is to therefore address the many issues and challenges for why at this moment Romania is a NATO consumer and how through different measures, reforms and potential solutions in can translate from this role into a NATO provider that consolidates the strategic partnership in the Eastern Flank beyond its current possibilities.
Key words
defense expenditures; burden share, military capabilities; manpower.
Up

INTERNAL AUDITING IN THE DEFENSE RESOURCE MANAGMENT

GRECU Ciprian

Ministry of National Defence, Romania
Abstract
In this paper is presented the role of the internal auditing in the MoND, accentuating the idea that internal audit is not an oppressive activity, but a helping one, guiding entities in achieving their objectives. The first paragraphs present the concept of risks used in establishing the way the internal audit will be performed. The next chapter expresses the role of internal audit in the decision-making processes at the level of MoND. The last chapter focuses on evaluation of the performances of the entities in the MoND with the help of the internal public audit.
Key words
Internal Audit, internal managerial control, evaluating the quality.
Up

DEVELOPING A NATO CAPABILITY A CASE STUDY: JOINT LOGISTIC SUPPORT GROUP

GRIGORE Ciprian

Ministry of National Defense, Romania
Abstract
Due to the consistent security environment deterioration, NATO has shifted its focus in capability development, focusing on Collective defence. Military forces that will participate in Collective defence, including the National defence forces, need to maintain a high level readiness posture now and in the future, both for domestic operations and for missions abroad. The build-up of the Joint Logistic Support Group (JLSG) command structure was defined as one of the most important projects. The main purpose for creating and utilizing the JLSG is to enable greater cooperation in logistics across NATO, optimize the logistic footprint for any given NATO operation, and reduce the overall expense of logistics to NATO and the contributing nations. The JLSG is an organization that supplements and eases the burden on national logistics, increases the overall unity of effort, and achieves greater economy of effort by optimizing the available forces and creating a single logistics command that can support the JTF commander. The most obvious advantage of this capability is the fact that the JLSG could be a single headquarters that can coordinate and synchronize all logistics functions throughout an entire Joint Operations Area (JOA). people.
Key words
Joint Logistic Support Group (JLSG); NATO Capability; NATO Logistic; Joint Support Element Command (JSEC); Standing Joint Logistic Support Group (SJLSG); Logistic support.
Up

THE ECONOMIC AND MILITARY FACES OF EU INTERVENTIONISM: BALANCING HUMANITARIAN GOALS AND SOVEREIGN INTERESTS

GROSARU-FILIP Liliana, PhD

Political Research Group / International Relations / Bucharest / Romania
Abstract
The study discusses the EU's role as an international actor and its increasing focus on security and defense, acknowledging the Union's origins in economic agreements while underscoring the growing importance of ensuring citizen security. Through the lens of recent EU missions and operations, the research illustrates how European interventionism is manifesting within a tightly regulated yet potentially restrictive framework. Notably, the EU's trajectory of interventionism appears to be the inverse of traditional models, gradually transitioning from 'soft' diplomatic and economic measures to embracing the 'hard' aspects of military engagement.The article concludes that the EU's interventionism, while still adhering to value-based principles, is increasingly influenced by pragmatic considerations, including commercial interests, counter-terrorism, and border security. This shift represents a significant evolution in the EU's approach, reflecting a complex blend of humanitarian concerns and strategic interests that define its role on the global stage.
Key words
Interventionism, Security Strategy, Strategic Autonomy, EU Missions, Soft Power, Hard Power, Economic Tactics, Military Engagement, Interoperability, NATO Complementarity, Humanitarian Principles.
Up

TRENDS IN MILITARY SPENDING AND SHIFTS OF THE KEY PLAYERS IN THE GLOBAL SMART WEAPONS MARKET

HARUTYUNYAN Gayane

Public Administration Academy of the Republic of Armenia, Yerevan, Republic of Armenia
Abstract
The widespread use of artificial intelligence in the military domain may have significant consequences not only for economic development and the specifics of the work activity of human society, but also for the global strategic balance. Thus, geopolitical actors of great and small weight in different regions cannot stay aside from the mentioned developments and strive to equip their military-political “arsenal” with weapons considered “smart” or to accumulate the necessary potential for their own development and production. In both cases, the increase in military spending is the primary factor that can contribute to the achieve of such goals. However, if in the first case it was a question of the acquisition of “smart” weapons, then in the second case, it is about the financing of scientific research activities in military domain. The research paper explores what policies different states have chosen to address the issues caused by these dilemmas, and how it has affected the economic development in these countries, solving defense and security problems, changing their geopolitical role and weight in the global security system.
Key words
artificial intelligence; defense industry; “smart weapons”; defense expenditures; economic development; sociotechnical imagination.
Up

PERSPECTIVES ON RISK IN DEFENSE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN A GEOSTRATEGIC CONTEXT

IANCU Dumitru
DINICU Anca


”Nicolae Bălcescu” Land Forces Academy form Sibiu, Sibiu, Romania
Abstract
The management of resources for defense, as a process, is under the influence of a significant number of phenomena or factors against which a certain probability of occurrence can be identified, i.e. risk. The analysis of the evolution and dynamics of the security situation, as the sum of the specific influencing factors, provides the best indications for identifying risks and, subsequently, their treatment/monitoring alternatives.
Key words
risk; management; defense; conflict; geostrategic context.
Up

NATO SECURITY INVESTMENT PROGRAM CONSIDERATIONS

IONIȚĂ Adrian

Ministry of National Defence, Romania
Abstract
The NATO Security Investment Programme (NSIP) is the long-term investment programme supported by funding from all NATO Nations. Based on the requirements identified by the NATO Defence Planning Process (NDPP), NSIP delivers common funded capabilities required to fulfil the Alliance’s Level of Ambition. The NSIP objectives are to enhance peace, security, and stability, through reinforcement and maintenance of a solid transatlantic link demonstrating a strong affirmation of NATO solidarity and to continue the successful practice of sharing roles, risks, responsibilities, costs, and benefits that bind the Alliance together. In making the commitment to fund common investments for the Alliance, the Allies have agreed several essential principles that must be applied before any expenditure can be authorized. The most important principle is that of "Over and Above" which refers to the provision of a capability required by the Alliance that is "over" what is currently available within the Nations’ inventories and "above" what would be considered reasonable for any single Ally to deliver. Moreover, the range of facilities eligible for common funding has generally been limited to NATO Command Structure Static Facilities, Permanent Installations, Deployable Assets, Communication and Information Systems and Crisis Response facilities. The Nations have also agreed that only Minimum Military Requirement (MMR) to fulfil any particular capability is eligible for common funding. Therefore, MMR is defined as "the most austere facility required to fulfilling a NATO military need identified by the NATO military authorities".
Key words
Organization, infrastructure, solidarity, cohesion, effectiveness, objectives.
Up

A FUNCTIONAL ORDER EUROPEAN UNION STRATEGIC COMPASS FOR SECURITY AND DEFENSE CONSIDERATIONS

IURESCU Cristian

Ministry of National Defence, Romania
Abstract
The world is changing every day and new challenges appear everywhere. The returning of war in Europe, the growing strategic competition and the complex security threats are disrupting the global-rules based order, violates international law, the principle of the UN charter and undermine European and global security and stability. This paper intends to present the evolution of the European Union (EU) Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP) and of the EU Security and Defense Strategy, as well as the EU structures, instruments and agencies involved in the implementation of the CSDP. In addition to this, the author will focus on the 2022 EU Strategic Compass on Defense and Security, which attempts to set the strategic vision of the Union in response to the current challenges and to enhance EU capacity to protect its citizens, values and interests and to contribute to the international peace and security.
Key words
Common Security and Defense Policy; EU structures, instruments and agencies involved in CSDP; EU Security and Defense Strategy; EU Strategic Compass for Defense and Security.
Up

DEFENSE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN PAKISTAN

JANJUA Tamoor Ahmad

Ministry of Defense, Pakistan
Abstract
The study focused on Challenges in Defense Resource Management in Pakistan and this study highlights the different challenges faced in defense resource management in Pakistan, as well as the require to balance defense and financial realities, the difficulties of modernization attempts, reliance on foreign allies, internal and external threats, territorial disputes, and the expected increase in defense investment. The study highlights the significance of strategic planning, efficient resource allocation, and the execution of reforms in defense resource management to conquer these challenges.
Key words
Challenges; Defense Resource Management, strategic planning.
Up

MILITARY DIPLOMACY AS A TOOL FOR ACHIEVING FOREIGN POLICY GOALS (THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN A S A CASE STUDY)

KHAYAL ISKANDAROV Ibrahim
ELNUR GOJAYEV Novruz


National Defence University, Republic of Azerbaijan
Abstract
Small states like Azerbaijan, which are strategically located between huge and ambitious neighbors, are forced to implement effective strategies that involve using all opportunities to ensure their vital interests. One such possibility is the realization of successful military diplomacy. The article examines the place of military diplomacy in international relations, analyzes the approaches of various researchers about military diplomacy, and justifies the role of military diplomacy in the implementation of foreign policy.
Key words
military diplomacy, military attache, “soft power”, foreign policy, “hard power”.
Up

SUSTAINABLE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

MANCIA Mircea Sebastian*
POPOVICIU Gabriela A.**
PAINA Liliana***


*Faculty of Civil Engineering, Cadastre and Architecture / Department of Cadastre / University of Oradea / Oradea / Romania
**Faculty of Environmental Protection / Department of Agriculture-Horticulture / University of Oradea / Oradea / Romania
***Faculty of Civil Engineering, Cadastre and Architecture / Department of Cadastre / University of Oradea / Oradea / Romania
Abstract
The present paper tries to bring to the attention of the initiated or less initiated reader those elements of regional development and environmental protection through which the economic, natural, and human resources should be grouped according to the needs and possibilities of each individual state, reported to our days. In this sense, the work will reveal the events of the last 3 years show that the interdependence of the economic, cultural, and development processes of the states of the world can be disrupted for various reasons. At the same time, we will try to understand through this paper, that satisfaction of the population's needs must be achieved respecting the principles of environmental sustainability.
Key words
globalization; regionalization; natural resources; sustainability; economic development; technical progress.
Up

OBSTRUCTING THE DECEPTION IN HUMINT THE OBSERVER’S ROLE IN CONVERSATION

MUNTEANU Lucian

NATO HUMINT Centre of Excellence / Concept Development & Experimentation / ORADEA / ROMANIA
Abstract
Everybody lies, but the reason differs from person to person, and from context to context. We daily deal with our lies and others’ lies but when you must face the enemy’s lies in a military operational environment, this becomes a life-and-death problem. In HUMINT domain, the enemy’s lie appears within conversation therefore generating a big paradox because the very same conversation concomitantly constitutes the weapon of choice. To identify lies and obstruct deception, HUMINT uses an observer – human being. The dynamics of conversation when somebody plays the role of observer has its particularities psychologically analyzed within this article. Besides the HUMINT related insights, the article’s underpinning idea is to provide an explanation why we all, no matter the environment, civilian or military, are more cautious with our words when we talk with two persons than with only one.
Key words
HUMINT; behavioral; human; intelligence; deception; source; language, baseline.
Up

HOW THE QUADRILATERAL SECURITY DIALOGUE SHOULD DEVELOP IN THE CONTEXT OF CHINA’S AMBITIONS IN THE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND THE ROMANIAN NON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS (NGOS)

Silvia Elena Nițescu*
Ileana Tache**


*Faculty of Economic Sciences/Lucian Blaga University/Economics/Sibiu/Romania
**Faculty of Economic Sciences and Business Administration/Transylvania University/Brașov/Romania
Abstract
This paper addresses the social responsibility concept in Romania, with some historical references and key numbers of corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity of the Romanian companies, including the associated results. At the same time, some key aspects of social responsibility of public institutions are taken into consideration, along with their outcomes. Using various case studies, the link between social responsibility and Romanian NGOs is then analyzed, emphasizing the advantages and disadvantages of the parties involved. The paper concludes with presenting some concrete results for the final beneficiaries of social responsibility activities and ends with the final conclusions.
Key words
social responsibility; CSR; NGOs; public institutions; beneficiaries, best practices.
Up

ALLOCATING NATIONAL SECURITY RESOURCES (THE 2% FROM THE GDP)

NOUASRIA Ouanas

Ministry of National Defense, Algeria
Abstract
This essay is to provide a survey on the allocation of resources to the national security, within a complicated and an unstable environment (national and international actors, incomplete data and limited resources). The paper focus, first, on the definition of the term national security and a clarification of its fields that can closely affect the allocation of resources and the implemented process to meet with fixed objectives and goals. The paper introduces, also, the way to properly allocate resources and how it is related to the budgeting system with an eye kept on policymakers struggling regarding the priorities of each field. The presentation takes as case study, the 2 percent of the GDP decision made by North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies, in Wales Summit in 2014, to be allocated to the military development.
Key words
defence; expenditures; allocation; security; GDP.
Up

CRITICAL THINKING IN THE MILITARY DECISION MAKING PROCESS

PAVLOV Petre

Ministry of National Defence, Romania
Abstract
Romanian Naval Forces are proud to be a rational and hierarchical organization, in which critical thinking is encouraged. More than that, it is expected that officers to respond promptly to all the command exercise challenges. Whether we are talking about making decisions in a short or long period of time, the commanding officers must possess the critical thinking skills whereby the solution found to be the most effective. Therefore, the lack of critical thinking of the commander in the decision-making process (MDMP) is an important failure factor at all levels, whether strategic, operational or tactical. This is why it is necessary to analyse the impact of critical thinking on intuitive and analytical decisions, to determine and demonstrate certain barriers that threaten critical thinking as well as to propose practical ways of using critical thinking in the decision making process. This paperwork comes to assist officers who will be in charge of certain command positions or will participate in operations planning groups and, implicitly, will have an important role in the decision-making process.
Key words
critical thinking; the decision-making process (MDMP); intuitive decision; analytical decision; barrier to critical thinking; practical ways to use critical thinking in the decision-making process.
Up

INTELLIGENCE IN THE ERA OF DATA AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES: IMPACT ON SECRECY, SOVEREIGNTY AND INFORMATION SHARING

PĂIUȘ Ioana Hermina

Doctoral School of International Relations and Security Studies, „Babeș Bolyai” University Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Abstract
Intelligence plays a critical role in the functioning of governments, societies, and companies. It is the process of collecting, analyzing, and distributing information to inform decision - making. Historically, intelligence was generally kept unseen and undisclosed by nations and organizations. However, with the emergence of new technologies and their capacity to generate tremendous amounts of data, the nature of intelligence is swiftly evolving. This essay further investigates how this transformation is affecting secrecy, stability, and collaboration. Secrecy has been a cornerstone of intelligence operations since their very beginning. It has been imperative to protect sensitive information and techniques from foreign adversaries and other potential risks. However, the development of new technologies is challenging this longstanding tradition. Above all, big data, AI, and machine learning are creating an abundance of accessible intel that is making it tough to keep intelligence activities fully concealed. For instance, social media platforms create massive amounts of data like personal info, location data, and connection networks - all of which can be used by intelligence agencies to detect threats and evaluate their behavior. On the other hand, the usage of this type of data for surveillance purposes has been heavily contested due to its intrusive nature and possible misuses of personal information. Sovereignty and intelligence have a close relationship - states have typically defended their right to gather and examine data within their borders, without foreign interruptions. Today, however, new technologies are complicating this concept. Cyberattacks and cyber espionage can be conducted remotely, while the web's anonymity allows it hard to discern who is behind an offence. For that reason, nations are demanding more international regulations and standards concerning the use of technology in intelligence collection - rules designed to guard their autonomy. Sharing of intelligence has long been an integral part of the information-gathering process, restricted to a few close entities. But with the help of modern technologies, such as cloud-based platforms, it is now possible to broaden this circle and share data in real-time. This evolution brings with it both advantages, such as increased collaboration, and risks like privacy and security issues as well as misuses of sensitive information. To sum up, data and new tech advancements are transforming the nature of intelligence by presenting fresh obstacles as well as opportunities for governments, societies and agencies. Despite the convenience that these creations bring when collecting and analyzing data, there is still concern about privacy, security, and morality issues. For this reason, it is essential to fashion a complete system that properly weighs the advantages of modern technologies against the safeguarding of personal privacy, safety and human rights.
Key words
Intelligence; Secrecy; Sovereignty; Information; Emerging Technologies; Security.
Up

THE HIDDEN DISADVANTAGES OF PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Brîndușa Maria POPA, PhD, University Lecturer
Maria CONSTANTINESCU, PhD, Assistant Professor
Vlad Ionuț DUMITRACHE , PhD, Assistant Professor


Regional Department for Defense Resources Management Studies / Department of Management / National Defense University ”Carol I”, Brașov, Romania
Abstract
Measuring organizational performance is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of an organization's strategies, processes, and overall health. There are various methods and metrics that can be used to measure organizational performance, and the choice of these methods often depends on the organization's goals, industry and specific context. However, even when we know what should be measured we should make sure that we are measuring the right dimension, “the length” or “the width”, in order to obtain the correct and appropriate assessment of the situation. This paper will present some common approaches to establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) as well as, the pitfalls management should be aware of during this process.
Key words
key performance indicators (KPIs); lagging KPIs, leading KPIs, performance; results; organization; benefits; advantages; disadvantages.
Up

THE IDEA OF WAR IN THE CULTURE OF THE RUSSIAN NATION

SOBOŃ Andrzej

National Security Faculty / War Studies University / Warsaw / Poland
Abstract
This paper is devoted to the mentality as the result of social processes by shaping of life experiences, but in case of Russia with special understanding of spirituality play a key role in shaping national identity and thus the perception of war. The aim of this paper will be to analyse the idea of war in Russian culture, considering its relationship to Russian nihilism, its roots, and the consequences it entails. Understanding the place of the archetype of war and the enemy in the self-awareness of Russians is not only important from a research perspective. This paper is also about aspects of the treatment of the bodies of fallen soldiers fighting on the side of the Russian Federation. The first objective of this study was to analyse the idea of war in Russian culture. Next, understanding the place of the archetype of war and the enemy in the self-awareness of Russians. This paper is also about aspects of the treatment of the bodies of fallen soldiers fighting on the side of the Russian Federation. Author used following research procedures: 1. Literature review; 2. Collection of qualitative and quantitative data; 3. Analysis; 4. Formulation of conclusions. The article presents original scientific research an alternative view of the idea of war in Russian culture, describing the characteristics of a nation's mentality with various aspects of an ethnic group's spiritual life, as well as understanding of Russia's lack of respect to bodies of fallen soldiers fighting on the side of the Russian Federation.
Key words
security; mentality; nihilism; war; Ukraine; bodies of soldiers.
Up