Archibald Reiss Days

ENVIRONMENTAL CRIME AND THE GEOPOLITICS: PROVING RESPONSIBILITY IN GLOBAL CHAINS OF POWER

2025-10-28T12:23:47+01:00

Purpose: Environmental crime today represents one of the most complex forms of modern criminal activity, as it transcends the boundaries of classical law and encompasses economic, political, and scientific dimensions. The paper aims to explore how these interconnections shape legal and institutional responses to environmental offenses and to highlight the growing importance of scientific evidence in proving responsibility.

Design/Methods/Approach: The paper is based on a qualitative and analytical approach, combining theoretical, legal, and ethical perspectives. It does not include empirical measurement or field data but analyzes the role and potential of scientific methods, such as forensic ecology, satellite monitoring, and data analysis; in establishing environmental responsibility. The approach is conceptual and comparative, focusing on international cases, institutional frameworks, and the epistemological limits of scientific evidence.

Findings: The analysis shows that environmental crime functions as a transnational and institutionalized phenomenon, in which responsibility is often diffused among corporate and governmental actors. Control mechanisms remain fragmented, and the causal links between actions and consequences are frequently indirect or obscured. Based on a review of legal frameworks and international practice, the study concludes that proving responsibility requires the integration of scientific verification models, stronger institutional cooperation, and a global approach to environmental accountability.

Originality/Value: The conclusion is based on the thesis that researching and proving environmental crime requires a new paradigm founded on scientific integration and the ethics of responsibility, in which scientific institutions, states, and international organizations share joint accountability for preserving sustainable justice and global security.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN PERPETRATION OF CRIMINAL OFFENCES

2026-01-05T10:33:02+01:00

Purpose: Artificial intelligence is in huge expansion in recent years. It is therefore expected that its development will be significantly accelerated in the coming years, and that different forms of artificial intelligence will find their application in very diverse areas. What is also to be expected is that certain forms of artificial intelligence may be used for criminal purposes, in other words to commit criminal offenses either using AI or some of its forms. Various criminal legal consequences may arise from this, and the most complicated issue will be related to the determination of the form of responsibility for a criminal act committed independently by a certain form of artificial intelligence. This will be particularly interesting and significant when it comes to militarized forms of artificial intelligence, such as the various types of drones that are already used in current wars and armed conflicts. The criminal law analysis concerning such means may also refer to other conceptually and essentially similar combat means, such as submarine drones, ship/boat drones, armoured vehicle/other vehicle drones, etc. In addition, this analysis can even concern drone soldiers - as a special type of robots and a vision of artificial intelligence, which is still, at least to some extent, in the realm of science fiction, but it is very likely, practically certain, that the future will bring it. Such means can be used to commit crimes in ordinary life circumstances, not only in wars and armed conflicts.

As long as it is the man who manages the specific militarized form of artificial intelligence, it does not lead to major criminal law problems, as in this case the man is the perpetrator of the specific criminal act, and the form of artificial intelligence, such as a drone/unmanned aircraft, etc. is a mere means of committing a criminal offence. However, in some situations, which are probably a matter of the near future, it is possible to operate completely autonomous forms of militarized artificial intelligence, which would act independently of the direct influence of the people who created them, which leads to the need to develop new concepts of criminal responsibility for such situations. In certain situations, the criminal law concept of indirect perpetration could be implemented. This, however, would not be entirely adequate, because the immediate perpetrator would not be a man, i.e. a human being. It seems that this problem could be most adequately solved by extending the concept of command responsibility to these situations as well, which would require appropriate legal changes, that is, it comes down to the idea in the sense of de lege ferenda.

Design/Methods/Approach: In the introduction of the text the main characteristics will be explained of artificial intelligence connected with some possibilities of using AI for criminal purposes. The text will have the following basic parts: 1)Basic criminal law consequences of using artificial intelligence, 2) Forms of artificial intelligence as a means of committing a criminal offense or as a segment of the way of committing a criminal offense, 3) Forms of artificial intelligence as the creator of the criminal act, 4) Forms of artificial intelligence as generally dangerous means and an essential element of committing the criminal offense of causing general danger, 5) The use of militarized forms of artificial intelligence such as robot drones and the criminal law concept of command responsibility, 6) Some grounds for the exclusion of illegality and artificial intelligence, 7) Conclusion that explains both the possibilities of applying the existing criminal law norms in relation to the use of artificial intelligence to commit crimes, and the need to observe the connection between artificial intelligence and criminal law at de lege ferenda level.

All common methods of research in the field of criminal law will be used, starting from the dogmatic method, normative method, and comparative method.

Findings: Rapid development of AI in various areas of life will lead to its use in a whole range of life situations, including those which are legal and legitimate, the aim of which is to suppress crime even. However, there is, of course, the other side here as well, and therefore, the use of artificial intelligence for criminal purposes is no longer a matter of some distant and uncertain future,

As already hinted at (and probably their development is well under way), the routine use of various advanced forms of militarized artificial intelligence, such as fully autonomous drones, make it necessary to solve certain criminal law problems in relation to that issue, especially the form and basis of responsibility for international criminal acts, and above all war crimes, arising from the effect of such types of combat equipment. In this regard, the existing criminal law rules can only be applied to a certain extent, and only on the basis of a relatively broad, but still legitimate interpretation. However, in relation to some aspects of the action of drones as a form of artificial intelligence in war/armed conflict (and this basically applies to other types of artificial intelligence in the service of war/armed conflict, such as, for example, robot-soldiers, etc.), some specific and special criminal law rules should be prescribed, which would be relatively similar in some aspects and the existing/current conceptions of command responsibility.

Originality/Value: As it has already been noted huge expansion of AI is expected in the nearest future, that it will lead to enormous social change and leave significant consequences, as well as that it will probably be used for both good and bad, it is of utmost importance to analyse all relevant connections between the use of artificial intelligence for criminal purposes and the resulting criminal law consequences.

In general, from the use of artificial intelligence for criminal purposes, which means either as a means/tool of committing a criminal act, or as a specific ‘perpetrator’ of a criminal act, different criminal legal consequences can arise, and certainly the most complicated issue will be related to the determination of the form of responsibility for a criminal act that was independently committed by a certain specific form of artificial intelligence. Apparently, at the current level of development of criminal law, this issue can hardly be definitively explained in the de lege lata sense, but it can mostly be resolved at the de lege ferenda level, which will be given special attention in the text.

POSITIVE OBLIGATION OF THE STATE TO PROPERLY VET A POLICE OFFICER BEFORE ISSUING HIM OR HER A FIREARM

2025-10-16T11:08:48+02:00

Purpose: The paper argues that Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) imposes a positive obligation on states to properly vet a police officer before issuing him or her a firearm.

Design/Methods/Approach: To explain the content of the state’s obligation to properly vet a police officer before issuing him or her a firearm the paper applies qualitative content analysis of judgments of the European Court of Human Rights selected as illustrations in the Guide on Article 2 of the ECHR (as updated on 31 August 2024) published by the Strasbourg Court.

Findings: The analysis of the judgments provided in the paper shows that the state is obliged to put in place and apply a system of adequate and effective safeguards designed to prevent police officers from making improper use of firearm. Article 2 of the ECHR also requires the state to subject the selection of agents allowed to carry firearm to particular scrutiny. The national authorities are expected to set high professional standards within the police. As the paper explains even a harmful action taken by the state agent outside his or her duties in certain circumstances may be imputable to the state.

Originality/Value: The findings of the paper, as summarized in the conclusion, contribute to ongoing academic debate about the scope and content of the state’s obligation to protect life under Article 2 of the ECHR. By identifying the content of the state’s obligation to properly vet a police officer before issuing him or her a firearm the paper also contributes to the existing literature on police vetting process.

TECHNOLOGICALLY FACILITATED VIOLENCE: CRIMINOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF TECHNOLOGY ABUSE IN FAMILY AND INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS

2025-12-02T08:47:52+01:00

Purpose:

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the growing phenomenon of technologically facilitated violence (TFV) in the context of family and intimate partner relationships. Technology has slowly penetrated every pore of social life, so no matter how much it facilitates everyday life, it inevitably becomes an integral part of human deviant behavior. The study aims to discover how digital tools are used to exercise psychological, emotional and coercive control over victims and to explore the criminological implications of this new form of abuse. Technology can leave room for new forms of violence but also help in carrying out existing ones. Therefore, the main goal is to investigate new trends in the abuse of technological and digital opportunities in this direction. A special focus will be placed on the Republic of North Macedonia, the emerging forms, cases and legal amendments that will be considered to what extent they offer protection from this phenomenon.

Design/Methods/Approach:

The research employs a qualitative, criminological approach supported by legal analysis. It draws on secondary data from academic literature, international documents and reports, alongside selected case studies and statistics from national stakeholders. Macedonian criminal law is critically examined to identify legislative gaps, while practices from developed countries and trends are reviewed as models for reform.

Findings:

The study identifies several key forms of technology abuse in intimate settings, including cyberstalking, online tracking, control via social media or smart home devices, etc.. It highlights how these acts often remain invisible to traditional legal definitions of violence and are frequently underreported. The paper finds that existing criminal law provisions in North Macedonia offer limited direct protection against TFV and that there is an urgent need for digital-specific legal mechanisms, institutional training, and cross-sectoral coordination.

Originality/Value:

This paper contributes to the limited regional scholarship on technology-facilitated domestic abuse by providing a criminological lens to a globally emerging issue. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing digital abuse as a legitimate and serious form of victimization and offers evidence-based recommendations for legal and institutional reform, especially in the context of harmonizing national legislation.

COUNTERING TRANSNATIONAL CRIME ON THE BALKAN ROUTE: THE ROLE OF INFORMATION SHARING AND CROSS-BORDER INVESTIGATIONS

2025-10-06T08:29:55+02:00

Purpose:

Criminal networks continue to use the Balkan Route to smuggle drugs, firearms, migrants, and other goods into and across Europe, taking advantage of its geostrategic position and other conditions that make smuggling easier. At the same time, they constantly adapt and refine their tactics to stay ahead of law enforcement and avoid being detected. That's why law enforcement has to advance the intelligence gathering and cross-border investigations to detect and suppress these illicit flows. Therefore, this paper aims to assess how transnational law enforcement cooperation contributes to more effective responses to the criminal networks operating along this route.

Design/Methods/Approach:

This study uses a qualitative research design. It includes two methods: desk research of academic literature, including relevant institutional reports by international organisations and regional law enforcement initiatives, and case studies presenting successfully conducted regional operations. Also, the operational use of Joint Investigation Teams (JITs), regional intelligence-sharing platforms, and real-time data exchange mechanisms is analysed to evaluate their functionality and results.

Findings:

Important improvements in the regional coordination and intelligence-sharing among the countries along the Balkan Route through different law enforcement initiatives are evident. This means that Western Balkan countries can be considered as credible participants in the international operations. Many examples of successful joint cross-border investigations have shown that intelligence-led operations significantly increase their efficiency and impact. However, certain gaps in national legal harmonisation, operational capacities, interoperability, and mutual trust among agencies still exist and limit the broader effectiveness.

Originality/Value:

This paper contributes to the academic literature linking intelligence-led policing and cross-border investigations with transnational crime control along the Balkan Route by providing a regionally specific analysis. The findings and conclusions from the study show that international law enforcement cooperation through information-sharing and conducting joint operations is vital for detecting and suppressing transnational crime along the route.

POLICE SCIENCES BETWEEN THEORY AND PRACTICE: AN EVALUATION OF SCIENTIFIC GROUNDS THROUGH THE PRISM OF THE CONSTITUENTS OF SCIENCE

2025-10-07T16:29:14+02:00

Police science encompasses a range of specialised disciplines focused on the study of policing and policing activities in a science-based manner. Although these disciplines emerged from the practical needs of police work, today they have all the key constitutive elements characteristic of each scientific field: a clear subject of study, a developed methodology, specific terminology, a coherent theoretical system, a strong empirical basis, an internal logical structure, a defined value system, an institutionalized framework, a recognizable social context and a prominent educational function. This paper theoretically analyses each of these determinants to demonstrate that the scientific disciplines of police science are grounded in scientific principles. By applying the analysis of relevant literature and comparing it with scientific standards, the paper determines that disciplines such as police organisation and tactics, police ethics, traffic safety (social aspect), police-criminal topography, and special physical education for the police meet the criteria of science. The results indicate that police sciences have a clearly defined subject of research, use valid scientific methods, develop their own terminology and theoretical models, rely on empirical research, build a logical structure of knowledge, promote professional values, are institutionally supported and reflect the needs of the social context with a significant role in the education of personnel. The paper concludes that the scientific disciplines of police science can be considered full-fledged scientific disciplines. This justifies their equal treatment with other sciences, which is essential for the advancement of police education, research and practice.

THE “KLIMT AFFAIR” AND THE CHALLENGES OF COMPLEX CULTURAL HERITAGE PROTECTION

2025-10-17T14:28:36+02:00

Purpose: This study examines the shortcomings of the current system of cultural heritage protection in Hungary, based on the analysis of the “Klimt case”, which hit the international press in the spring of 2025, with the aim of exploring the interrelationship between the protection of a state's own cultural heritage and the security of the country. The authors make recommendations to inspire a more effective management of the challenges identified, highlighting the need for a systemic approach to the problem as outlined above. By analysing the “Klimt case”, they highlight the sensitive nature of the ownership and export of works of art as an area of cultural heritage protection.

Design/Method/Approach: The study focuses on Gustav Klimt's “The African Prince”, an unknown work from Hungary, which was released onto the international market, where it took only one year to be exhibited at TEFAF (The European Fine Art Foundation) art fair in Maastricht in March 2025 as Gustav Klimt's portrait of a West African prince. The painting was subsequently offered for sale by the Viennese art dealer Wienerroither & Kohlbacher for €15 million. The paper uses both general and specific scientific methods and procedures of logical conclusion, statistical, as well as a positivist legal method. The manner of research includes the selection and application of scientific methods, the selection of data and the scope of research.

Findings: The background to this is that the Hungarian authorities allowed the “unknown painting” to be delivered without recognising the significance of the painting and the “Gustav Klimt Nachlass” stamp on it, and without taking into account the results of the identification and examination of the artwork by the Painting Research Laboratory that verified the authencity of the painting. The laboratory carries out scientific research and documentation of paintings. The case is par excellence contrary to the Hungarian Heritage Protection Act (Act LXIV of 2001), which states that all works of art older than 50 years are subject to an export permit, and in the case of outstanding cultural value, the authority may refuse to grant a permanent export permit. The painting clearly fell into this category, but the painting examination file was not attached, which highlights the anomalies arising from its incompleteness.

Originality/Value: Going further, the Klimt case is not only noteworthy from a heritage protection perspective, but also from a restitution perspective, as it highlights the problematic nature of Hungarian restitution practice and the possibility of circumventing the system.

THE CHALLENGES OF COMBATING CORRUPTION THROUGH A SYSTEMIC/STRATEGIC APPROACH IN THE EU LAW

2025-10-22T21:58:02+02:00

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to underscore the sluggish pace of corruption’s conceptualisation, as governments have long been unable to comprehend its gravity and the catastrophic consequences it has on human rights and democratic systems. Conversely, it is a social and cultural phenomenon and a crime that needs to be combated on a global and local level. Despite the numerous regulatory measures implemented at the European and international levels, it still confronts many obstacles in its discovery and repression.

Design/Methods/Approach: The battle against corruption has now expanded to a global scale and, in the European regional context, has taken on systemic significance for the stability of the EU legal system itself. In light of this, this article will analyse the global response to the phenomenon/crime, with a particular emphasis on the European Union’s stance, following a brief reconstructive meditation on the various forms of corruption. It will look at the Union’s latest strategy, which combines internal and external action to combat corruption in order to take a systematic approach that safeguards the Union’s and its Member States’ democratic systems.

Findings: The findings will highlight the challenges of a crime that is affected by differing approaches across Member States, as evidenced by the difficult adoption of the Anti-Corruption Directive proposed by the European Commission in March 2023 and the subject of widespread debate in Member States. Its complexity necessitates a multifaceted approach, combining law enforcement and public authorities’ efforts with social initiatives aimed at prevention and emergence of conducts.

Originality/Value: Its critical interpretation of the systemic/strategic approach that the European Union advocates in the fight against corruption is what makes the work unique and valuable. In actuality, this strategy needs to include the different legal traditions in the Member States’ criminal justice systems. By acknowledging these, the analysis highlights how different legal orders and cultural attitudes towards corruption can influence the effectiveness of EU policies

INTEGRATING KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO OVERCOME CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES IN DETECTING AND PROVING CRIME

2025-12-02T11:20:38+01:00

This study explores how integrating knowledge management (KM) systems with artificial intelligence (AI) can effectively address contemporary challenges in detecting and proving crime, particularly concerning increasingly sophisticated criminal activities.

The research employs qualitative analysis of recent case studies and literature review, focusing on existing KM frameworks and rapid AI-based analytic tools. This approach allows for swift assessment and immediate application in practical investigative contexts, suitable for short-term investigative requirements.

Preliminary results demonstrate that AI-driven KM systems significantly improve crime detection and evidence-gathering processes. Enhanced data analytics, predictive modeling, and automated evidence correlation provided by AI augment traditional investigative techniques, enabling quicker response times and improved accuracy in criminal investigations.

This paper uniquely bridges the gap between KM practices and contemporary forensic investigation methodologies by introducing AI capabilities as a central element of criminal justice frameworks. The approach presented here not only extends theoretical understandings but also offers practical implications for law enforcement agencies facing advanced crime threats, thereby contributing to safer communities.

INVISIBLE HARMS, ELUSIVE JUSTICE: UNMASKING THE EVIDENTIARY AND LEGAL CHALLENGES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CRIME PROSECUTION

2025-08-29T14:06:18+02:00

Purpose: The paper explores the multifaceted challenges associated with detecting and proving environmental crime in Serbia, set against the backdrop of evolving European standards and good practices. It aims to identify legal, procedural, and institutional weaknesses that hinder effective enforcement. Despite its growing prevalence and severe ecological and societal impact, environmental crime remains chronically under-investigated and under-prosecuted worldwide and in Serbia.

Design/Method/Approach: The paper combines doctrinal legal research with comparative legal methodology. It examines Serbia’s caselaw, legal instruments, and prosecutorial practices, and institutional setup in Serbia, and compares these with selected European models. Sources include legal instruments, policy documents, interviews with practitioners, and data from enforcement agencies.

Findings: The research reveals persistent weakness in Serbia, including vague definitions of environmental crimes, lack of prosecutorial specialization, poor use of environmental forensics, and limited cross-sector coordination. The low number of indictments and convictions points to an enforcement gap. In contrast, European good practices demonstrate the value of multidisciplinary investigative teams, specialized environmental units with prosecution services, and the use of scientific expertise to establish causality and harm.

Originality/Value: The paper offers a focused, context-specific analysis of Serbia’s challenges in prosecuting environmental crime, enriched by comparative insights from the EU. It provides actionable recommendations, including legislative amendments, capacity building for prosecutors and inspectors, and the adoption of mechanisms for joint investigation and expert collaboration.

THE ROLE OF THE POLICE IN COUNTERING THE ILLEGAL POSSESSION AND TRAFFICKING OF FIREARMS IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA

2025-10-06T19:17:57+02:00

Purpose

A prerequisite for successfully combating the illegal possession and trafficking of firearms is to encourage individuals who illegally possess firearms to hand them over to the police as part of legalization campaigns and to identify perpetrators under Article 348 of the Criminal Code through the use of modern proactive policing models. The aim of the research is to assess the outcomes of both approaches by the competent authorities, that is, the effectiveness of prevention and repression in this area of crime.

Design/Methods/Approach

The research refers to the period from 2018 to 2024. Normative and statistical methods, content analysis, formal and logical analysis, and comparative methods were used. Statistical data and verdicts related to the criminal offense from Article 348 of the Criminal Code obtained from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia, the Ministry of Interior, and the courts, were analyzed.

Findings

Greater efficiency and effectiveness in combating crime related to the illegal possession and trafficking of firearms is achieved through a combination of preventive measures and the implementation of appropriate investigative strategies based on proactive policing in detecting and prosecuting the criminal offense under Article 348 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Serbia. The results of the investigations carried out show that in Serbia the quantity of firearms and ammunition voluntarily surrendered during legalization campaigns was significantly higher than the amount confiscated through criminal proceedings.

Originality/Value

Such researches have not been carried out on the territory of Serbia so far, and they can point out to the scientific and professional public the advantages of applying modern proactive police work models.

CIRCUMSTANCES TO BE PROVEN IN CRIMES COMMITTED THROUGH THE USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES

2025-10-20T13:59:29+02:00

Məqalədə informasiya texnologiyalarından istifadə etməklə törədilmiş cinayətlərin sübut aspektləri araşdırılır və bu cür sübut tələblərinin əhatə dairəsi müəyyən edilir. İnformasiya texnologiyaları vasitəsilə həyata keçirilən cinayət əməllərinin xüsusiyyətlərini və fərqləndirici xüsusiyyətlərini sistemli şəkildə müəyyən edir. Tədqiqat kibercinayətlərlə bağlı işlərdə sübutların xüsusiyyətlərini, o cümlədən rəqəmsal izlərin axtarışı, aşkar edilməsi, qeydə alınması və götürülməsi, o cümlədən rəqəmsal sübutların toplanması və araşdırılması, bu proseslərin taktiki, kriminalistik və prosessual aspektlərini işıqlandırmaqla təhlil edilir. Məqalədə həmçinin müəyyən istintaq hərəkətlərinin, xüsusən də rəqəmsal məhkəmə ekspertizalarının təşkili və aparılmasına toxunulur və müxtəlif növ rəqəmsal məhkəmə-tibbi prosedurlarda istifadə oluna bilən rəqəmsal cihazlar və aparat-proqram vasitələri haqqında ətraflı məlumat verilir. İnformasiya texnologiyalarından istifadə etməklə törədilən cinayətlərin əsas növlərini və müasir şəraitdə bu cinayətlərin törədilməsində istifadə olunan üsulları sistemləşdirir.

THE CRIMINAL OFFENCE OF “QUACKERY” IN THE MACEDONIAN LEGISLATION AND PRACTICE

2025-12-30T15:26:53+01:00

Purpose
The Paper shall focus on one of the criminal acts within the Chapter 21 of the Macedonian Criminal Code, i.e. the criminal act titled “Quackery” (in Macedonian language “Надрилекарство”). Although its object of protection is human health, it can be noted that not enough attention is given to this criminal act by practice and scientific thought. In essence, the Quackery is performed by a person who, without the prescribed qualification, deals in treatment or in providing medical assistance.
Design/Methods/Approach
The Paper shall pay attention to the relevant literature, legal acts, statistical data and court practice. Concerning the legal acts, the focus shall be on the Criminal Code, but at the same time the other legal acts addressing the issue of human health shall not be neglected. Furthermore, а comparative analysis of the legislation of other countries shall be conducted as well. In addition, the Paper shall provide scientific analysis and description of the statistical data disposable to the Macedonian authorities and shall elaborate specific cases in which a Quackery was established.
Findings
From the references used, the Paper shall make an effort to determine why the Quackery is not receiving enough attention in the literature. By analyzing the Macedonian Criminal Code as well the other legislation, the important characteristics of this criminal act shall be determined, and at the same time, through the comparative analysis, it shall be possible to compare how Quackery is regulated in other countries. Furthermore, the review of cases in which Quackery was established shall allow to acknowledge the ways of its performance in practice, including what type of sentences have been imposed to the convicted persons.
Originality/Value
The Paper shall try to emphasize that the human health is an extremely important object of protection, it is an area in which there should no improvisations allowed to be performed by unqualified persons, and that there must be strict rules about who can engage in treatment or provide medical assistance. All of this implies that the Macedonian relevant stakeholders must take a more serious approach when it comes to Quackery.

PREVENTION AND SUPPRESSION OF ARMS SMUGGLING IN THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA

2026-01-19T19:09:27+01:00

PURPOSE

This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms for countering arms smuggling in the Republic of Serbia through normative, institutional, and operational frameworks. Special emphasis is placed on identifying existing challenges in inter-institutional coordination, operational efficiency of competent authorities, as well as evaluating current legal solutions in terms of their compliance with international standards and obligations arising from the European integration process.

The aim of the paper is, through an interdisciplinary approach, to contribute to the improvement of security strategy and operationalization of measures for more effective prevention and suppression of arms smuggling, in accordance with contemporary security challenges and the international obligations of the Republic of Serbia.

DESIGN/METHODS/APPROACH

The research will be conducted as theoretical, which is why it will employ a combination of philosophical, general scientific, and logical methods. Among the philosophical methods, the study will utilize dialectical, positivist, and structuralist approaches. Among the general scientific methods, the research will apply historical-comparative analysis, comparative methods, statistical methods, and modeling. Within the corpus of logical methods, the study will employ analysis and synthesis, specialization and generalization, concretization and abstraction, induction and deduction, as well as definition and classification. The method of content analysis (both qualitative and quantitative) will be applied to relevant scientific and expert works available in scientific monographs, journals, and conference proceedings; documentation from relevant scientific research projects; and appropriate doctrinal and formal-legal sources.

FINDINGS

Arms smuggling represents a complex and multidimensional security challenge with significant implications for national and regional security. The geopolitical position of the Republic of Serbia, located at the crossroads of key Balkan and pan-European routes, makes it particularly vulnerable to flows of illicit arms trafficking, both as a transit and as a destination country. The analysis also includes quantitative indicators regarding seizures and detected smuggling attempts, modalities of smuggling routes, as well as profiles of participants in these criminal activities. Furthermore, the paper discusses the importance of international police and intelligence cooperation, including engagement within mechanisms such as EUROPOL, SELEC, and FRONTEX. Based on identified weaknesses, guidelines are proposed for enhancing the strategic and tactical response of the state, which involve strengthening technical capacities, developing specialized units, improving criminal law legislation, and continuous training of personnel engaged in the prevention and suppression of arms smuggling.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE

This paper presents an innovative and interdisciplinary approach to studying the mechanisms for preventing and suppressing arms smuggling in the Republic of Serbia, integrating normative, institutional, and operational dimensions. Special attention is given to identifying and analyzing key challenges in inter-institutional coordination and evaluating the compliance of the national legal framework with international standards, particularly within the context of European integration processes. The study contributes to the development of scientific literature by providing a systematic and theoretically grounded analysis based on a combination of philosophical, general scientific, and logical methods, as well as the application of qualitative and quantitative content analysis.

The scientific contribution of this paper lies in expanding existing theoretical frameworks in security studies and criminology through a specific analysis of arms smuggling in a geopolitically sensitive region, as well as in developing practical recommendations for improving state security policies. The research findings provide a basis for further empirical studies and enhance the understanding of the complexity of contemporary security threats.

The social contribution of this work is reflected in raising awareness about the seriousness of the arms smuggling problem and its impact on national and regional security, as well as promoting more effective prevention measures that can contribute to societal stability, strengthening the rule of law, and protecting citizens.

This paper holds significant practical value for improving security policies and operational measures and represents a relevant contribution to the further development of academic and professional discourse in the fields of security studies and criminology.

DISSOLUTION OF ETA AND CONTINUATION OF THE STRUGGLE OF SPANISH INSTITUTIONS IN THE AREA OF JUSTICE SYSTEM

2025-10-02T09:33:36+02:00

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to enable an overview of the new situation in Spain regarding decision of ETA’s liders to stop with armed strugle and activities of institutions in Spain to continue with persecution and procesuing members of ETA who committed crimes.

Design/Methods/Approach

Deductive-inductive and analytical methods are the main methods that will be used in the paper, which will enable understanding of whole process from ETA’s first actions to its decision to stop with violent activities, as well as decisions and actions of Spanish institutions to continue with law enforcement related to committed acts of ETA’s members in the past.

Findings

Better understanding of the nature of ETA as an organization and committed terrorist acts, but more importantly politics and methods which institutions in Spain are using in order to satisfied justice regarding acts that ETA committed in the past.

Originality/Value

ETA was terrorist organization that several decades conducted armed struggle through terrorist acts with the goal of Basque gain independence. Still, ETA gave up armed struggle and disbanded in 2018, but Spanish institutions don’t give up of finding and prosecuting ETA’s members who were involved in terrorist acts. ETA and work of Spanish institutions will be analyzed through ETA’s organization and functioning, as well as through policy which Spanish institutions adopted after ETA was disbanded. Subject of the research is ideological terrorist organization that used certain methods in order to fulfil its goals and whose disband positively influenced on political and social stability in Spain. Also, important part of the paper is presentation of the activities and measures of Spanish institutions in the area of law enforcement which goal is to bring perpetrators of criminal acts to justice. The goal of these institutions is satisfaction of justice and respect of the laws that existed at the time of committing terrorist and other violent acts.

CULTURE OF MEMORY AND IMAGE OF SERBS IN THE PUBLICATIONS BY ARCHIBALD REISS

2025-12-01T10:35:46+01:00

Analyzing the spiritual structure of Serbian society in the period before, during and immediately after the First World War, the Swiss criminologist Archibald Reiss responsibly and competently offered the general public the image of a small, libertarian people paying a high price by sacrificing for the geopolitical interests of great powers. Reiss made an undoubted contribution to communication and political science with such views, because his precise and authentic reports on crimes against certain nation significantly shaped the perception of European as well as global population at the time. As an exceptional psychologist, he observed that people in states of war prefer to believe in what they wish rather than in the reality in which they live and which they themselves shape. In the fractures of periods of social stratification, all the flaws and virtues of a nation surface, and by careful observation and analysis of their consequences, Reiss left a legacy of Serbian characterology, which is also important from the perspective of contemporary political sociology. Starting from his interpretation that the human mind is the center of social action from which the character of individuals and nations further develops, in this paper we also explore the phenomenon of the “captured state” that arises when the political elite loses its moral compass, unaware that it is thereby endangering its own survival. Reiss was among the first to notice how the traditional values of an entire nation, integrated into propaganda patterns, represented fertile ground for the emergence of crisis situations, but also for the permanent instability of the political system. He found the solution in a permanent culture of remembering the heroic past, and through frequent advertising in the Belgrade newspaper Politika, as well as in certain reputable European newspapers, Reiss managed to change the perfidious image of a "barbarian state" into a truthful narrative about a "loyal European ally" and a nation that had become victim of ethnic cleansing.

THE CONNECTION BETWEEN ENVIRONMENTAL CRIME AND CORRUPTION

2026-03-09T11:37:44+01:00

Environmental crime brings big profits to organized criminal groups. This is especially present in the area of trade in illegal waste. In doing so, the legal sector is often used in order to make a profit in an illegal way. The connection with corrupt activities is particularly pronounced due to the transnational nature of environmental crime. Corrupt public officials, weak institutions and state bodies responsible for various issues in the field of environmental protection additionally contribute to this. As some of the examples of corruption in the field of hazardous waste disposal, corruption in the procedure of licensing waste disposal facilities or granting a permit for transporting hazardous waste can be cited. In addition, in the process of detecting illegally dumped waste, regulators can be offered incentives to ignore illegal dumping.

Criminal acts against the environment cause enormous damage to the environment, thus endangering the life and health of citizens. Therefore, corruption in the field of environmental protection can be considered particularly dangerous. That is why it is necessary to take preventive measures, especially in the field of corruption prevention. This attitude is also expressed in the new Directive on environmental protection through criminal law 2024/1203.

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to point out the emerging forms of corruption in the field of environmental protection, as well as the need for its prevention. Considering that the Republic of Serbia needs to harmonize its legislation with Directive 2024/1203, it is necessary to keep in mind that this does not only imply harmonization of the provisions of criminal procedural and substantive legislation, but also other regulations that prevent corruption. Considering that the aforementioned directive emphasizes the importance of whistleblowers in the field of environmental protection, it is necessary to improve their position through national legislation.

Design/Methods/Approach

Apart from the introductory part, which indicates the causes and phenomenology of the environment, the paper analyzes the content of both the EUROPOL and INTERPOL reports, as well as Directive 2024/1203 on environmental protection through criminal law. However, in that part we focus exclusively on the connection between corruption and environmental crime, with the aim of providing recommendations for its prevention in the aforementioned area.

Findings, Originality/Value

Based on the analysis, we try to give recommendations for harmonizing national legislation, but also practices with European standards in the field of combating corruption related to environmental crime.

RETURN OF FOREIGN TERRORIST FIGHTERS AND THEIR FAMILIES TO EUROPE AS A POTENTIAL SECURITY PROBLEM

2025-12-25T12:22:10+01:00

Purpose: This paper examines the return of foreign terrorist fighters and their families from Syria to Europe, that is, their countries of origin. For several years now, dozens of thousands of terrorists have resided with their families in camps (such as Al Hol and Al Roj) previously controlled by the Kurdish forces, with the financial and logistical help of the US. After the fall of the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad and the arrival of Donald Trump as the head of the United States, the attitude towards this phenomenon changed. There is an intention to disband the camps and return the terrorists with their families to their countries of origin. The fundamental research question is: Are the European countries ready for their return?

Design/Methods/Approach: Using the content analysis of the existing deradicalization and disengagement programs, the author examines to what extent Europe is prepared for the return of these people. Further, relevant studies were also used, with a special reference to the Western Balkans. The author also used in-depth interviews to collect relevant data.

Findings: The conclusion is that the return of terrorists and their families represents a serious security risk and a threat to European countries. Even though a vast number of programs with the participation of multi-sectoral teams (social workers, political scientists, psychologists, psychiatrists, criminologists, and the security sector, etc.) were created, Europe will be able to speak of the success of deradicalization only after conducting an evaluation, and this takes time. One of the biggest challenges in the return process can be a disbalance between human rights and security measures.

Originality/Value: The importance of this paper is to identify all potential security problems posed by the return of terrorists (and their families, children, and women) from the battlefield. In addition, the author's intention is to point out certain advantages and disadvantages of modern deradicalization programs through existing examples.

MAINTANCE OF PUBLIC ORDER (AND PEACE) IN SERBIA: BRIEF HISTORICAL-LEGAL REVIEW

2025-10-08T19:09:54+02:00

Purpose

Public order (and peace) as an area of social life in Serbia is currently a very important topic in the context of organizing various types of protests where the police have a very important role in maintaining order (and peace). The aim of the research is to answer questions such as what the incrimination of certain human behaviors that threaten public order looked like throughout history, what the decriminalization of certain human behaviors looked like in the context of protecting public order (and peace) depending on social development, moral values, etc.

Design/Methods/Approach

The authors use the historical-legal method to analyze the development of legal protection of public order maintaining, and use the normative method to analyze the norms of regulations.

Findings

The authors identified four periods in the development of legal protection of maintaining order as a public service: the Middle Ages, the period after liberation from the Turkish occupation, the period after World War II, and the modern period, in which certain peculiarities but also similarities in the legal regulation of public order are observed. The analysis of the regulations identified the basic variables of the legal regulation of public order and peace, which were analyzed. In the legal regulation of maintaining order as a public service, the substantive and procedural aspects are emphasized. Through substantive law, the legislator issues acts of misdemeanors and defines some segments that were important for the area of public order at that time. The procedural part of the legislation regulated individual actions of state bodies, primarily the police, which had the ultimate goal of maintaining public order (and peace) as a public service.

Originality/Value

The scientific approaches of exploring public order’s history can lead toward better investigating and proving contemporary forms of crime and misdemeanor. Researching the history of maintaining public order in Serbia leads to a better understanding of the contemporary legal regulation of this area of social life. The next step is to better understanding of the public order maintenance as a form of policing, which will achieve better results in investigating and proving violations of public order as a form of crime.

TRENDS OF CONTEMPORARY CRIME: ETHNOCRIMINOLOGICAL APPROACH AND INTERPRETATION OF GENDER DIFFERENCES, SOCIAL CLASS AND MIGRATION

2025-09-08T13:01:58+02:00

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to point out the importance of the ethnocriminological interpretation of crime in relation to these characteristics. In the division of criminology into phenomenology and etiology, general and clinical, ethnocriminology is a part of general criminology because the scope of its study includes the characteristics of ethnicity, that is, the characteristics of certain marginalized social groups, by race, gender, certain religious characteristics and the influence of these characteristics on the occurrence of crime, as well as the ways of social reaction to these phenomena according to the ethnic characteristics of the perpetrator or victim.

Design/Methods/Approach: The main methods that will be used in the paper are description, historical method and analytical method in the theoretical observation of phenomena, in a cause-and-effect sense, related to the ethnocriminological concept, as well as in the analysis of individual cases of media reporting in which elements of the ethnocriminological or ethnovictimological approach can be observed.

Findings: As early as the 19th century, the term criminal saturation was used in anthropological theory, and in the synthetic concept of modern criminology, it is possible to single out a series of phenomena that are described and directly related to race and ethnicity and crime, which also includes explanations related to interactionism and labeling, as well as parts of critical criminology in relation to the crime of marginalized social groups.

Originality/Value: The ethno criminological approach, in a cognitive and methodological sense, indicates that when it comes to issues of ethnicity in criminology, it is noted that in older sources this concept is most often linked to a critical attitude towards discrimination expressed in relation to certain ethnic groups and their characteristics and in terms of criminal etiology, i.e. a direct causal connection with certain types of crime. It is noticeable that attention is drawn in detail to the position of minority groups, critically reviewing various forms of discrimination committed against them. It links ethno features to ethnic minorities, and before that it writes about segregation, as well as minority groups in relation to race, ethnicity, religion. Criticism of ethnocentrism is a mandatory way of noticing certain ethnological characteristics of the population, potential perpetrators or victims of crime in order to prevent and combat crime. Rigidity of attitudes is ethnocentrism, and the concentric circles of knowledge about customs, with their rules, with their trappings do not represent their abolition, but rather an understanding and introduction of modern forms of combating crime while respecting diversity. Movements of migrants in the first quarter of the 21st century represent an additional reason for drawing attention to ethno-criminology. In the literature, it is possible to find a connection between ethnocriminology and the criminology of colonialism. In particular, the questions of epistemology and research methodology were critically observed because this would achieve a critique of the social and historical denial of colonialism and racism.

Keywords: ethnocriminology; method; victimology; gender; class; racism.

OBSTACLES FOR MIGRANT WOMEN TO OBTAIN REFUGEE STATUS

2025-10-06T14:21:35+02:00

Purpose

The text identifies the discriminated position of women as refugee seekers in the context of international law, which for decades has been stereotypically recognized male refugee seeker who comes from the area of current armed conflicts. This leads to difficulties in recognizing women who came in equally serious danger due to the existence of structural, gender-based violence.

Design/Methods/Approach

A desk analysis of international and domestic regulations is to be applied, which recognize gender-based violence as a basis for obtaining refugee status. Data from the reports of the Commissariat for Refugees of Serbia, international organizations, non-governmental organizations and media reports on the situation of "women on the move" (migrant women and refugees) in Serbia are used. The European Union set standards in directives from 2011 and 2013 so that gender-based violence, including rape, sexual violence, domestic violence, female genital mutilation, and forced marriage, can be recognized as a form of legally relevant persecution. Serbian policy and practice are presented

Findings

It is pointed out how women victims of structural violence (not)fit into the provisions of international public law when they have to prove that they are threatened with persecution of serious human rights violations or serious physical injuries in their country of origin. Apart from the difficulties in proving and accepting the existence of gender-based violence, the trend of introducing migration restrictions is becoming more and more intense globally, what made women’s situation even worse.

Originality/Value

At a high international level, the connects the issue of the urgently needed demographic renewal of Europe with the issue of realizing the dignity of all migrants. The reception of migrants alleviates the problems associated with the accelerated aging of the population in the developed countries of the West. Employers recognize the value of diversity in the workforce, while the integration of immigrants into the education system and the labor market increases overall productivity and reduces social frictions.

WHAT IS A TERRORIST ORGANIZATION?

2025-12-30T22:13:30+01:00

Purpose

The problems of defining terrorism have been widely discussed for decades within the academic community, political decision-makers, and legal scholars and practitioners alike. While some elements in the definition are more or less agreed upon, for example, political motivation and violence or the threat thereof, others are still disputed. Among these is the issue of perpetrators of terrorism, in several ways. One of them is certainly the question, “Can a state commit acts of terrorism?” More pressing, taking into account transformations of terrorism in the 21^st century, may be the need to explore whether individuals can commit terrorism, or is the presence of an organization as a perpetrator a necessary feature of the very definition of the concept. The primary aim of this paper is to re-examine the concept of a terrorist organization and its implications for both the theoretical understanding of terrorism and the practical countermeasures against this threat. This will be done primarily, but not exclusively, from the perspective of political science.

Design/Methods/Approach

Drawing from an abundant body of scholarly literature on terrorism and terrorist organizations, this paper will endeavor to answer three separate research questions:

What constitutes a terrorist organization, that is, when is it justified to qualify a group as a terrorist organization?
Was there ever a scholarly consensus about the defining features of a terrorist organization, and has it changed in the 21^st century?
Is the presence of a terrorist organization behind the act of violence a necessary component of the definition of terrorism?

Findings

The main finding of this paper is that there is no universally accepted definition of a terrorist organization, nor is it clear that only acts of violence perpetrated by organizations can or should be designated as terrorism. The evolving nature of terrorism itself, perhaps accelerating in this century, suggests that the concept of terrorist organization and its relation to the concept of terrorism must be re-examined and re-conceptualized, for two main reasons. The first is the shift in the landscape of Islamist terrorism after 9/11 and subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, from tightly knit and hierarchical organizations such as al-Qaeda to more or less decentralized groups sharing ideology and goals but not operational data (increased accessibility and parallel evolution of the Internet has played significant role in this). While the concept of leaderless resistance was not invented by Islamists, it was widely adopted by them, as well as by violent groups with very different ideological backgrounds and political objectives. The other reason is the emergence and increase of so-called lone wolf terrorism, that is, a growing number of attacks perpetrated by individuals with no obvious link to any organization.

Originality/Value

The theoretical conceptualization of the terrorist organization as a distinct phenomenon is somewhat lacking, with empirical research and case studies accounting for the vast majority of scholarly literature on the subject. However, the answer to the question “What counts as a terrorist organization in the 21^st century?” is not of strictly academic interest. Given that many national penal codes list membership in a terrorist organization as an offence per se, it has serious practical implications. Moreover, to efficiently counter contemporary terrorism, it is necessary to understand its actors and the ways in which they organize and operate.

CONTEMPORARY CRIME TRENDS AND THE ETIOLOGY OF CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR IN THE CONTEXT OF GLOBAL CRISES

2025-10-05T13:14:40+02:00

Purpose:

This paper aims to explore how global crises, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic and the processes of globalization, have influenced the structure, frequency, and nature of contemporary forms of crime. The focus is on identifying etiological factors behind the rising trends in specific types of crime, such as domestic violence, cybercrime, and transnational organized crime.

Design/Methods/Approach:

The study applies a qualitative methodology rooted in criminological theory, supported by analysis of secondary data and international reports. A multidisciplinary perspective is adopted to contextualize the societal, economic, and psychological triggers of modern criminal behavior.

Findings:

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a marked increase in domestic violence, largely due to imposed isolation, financial hardship, and stress. Parallel to this, cybercrime spiked globally, exploiting digital dependency during lockdowns. Additionally, globalization facilitated the expansion of transnational criminal networks that exploit legal loopholes and operate beyond national jurisdictions.

Originality/Value:

This paper offers a timely and comprehensive analysis of how macro-social stressors contribute to criminal behavior, reinforcing the importance of responsive, adaptive, and socially-aware criminal justice policies. The findings serve legal scholars, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to modernize prevention strategies and develop more holistic models of criminal justice in times of systemic disruption.

PREVALENCE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: INSIGHTS FROM NATIONAL STUDY IN SERBIA

2026-01-29T11:23:35+01:00

Purpose

This study aims to determine the prevalence and characteristics of domestic violence on national level in Serbia.

Design/Methods/Approach

We conducted cross-sectional study on Serbian population using retrospectively data from January 2018 to December 2024. We included all events of domestic violence reported to the Ministry of internal affairs, Direction of police in Serbia during study investigation period. We examined prevalence of domestic violence, characteristics of the violence by its type, characteristics of victims (children and adults) and perpetrators, as well as lethal outcomes. All of data was examined by each year and altogether, using descriptive statistics in SPSS software. Study received approval by the Ethics Committee.

Findings

During study examination period, there were 199200 events of domestic violence reported to the police in Serbia. The highest prevalence belonged to psychological violence with 66.56% of all domestic violence events, followed by physical, economic and sexual violence. There were 228683 victims during examination period, out of which 29.82% males and 70.18% females. Out of all victims, 8.55% were children. There were two minor perpetrators among 208850 of them. Out of all perpetrators, 80.83% were men, 19.7% were women. During study period, there were 316 lethal outcomes, being 0.16% of all reported domestic violence events.

Originality/Value

Domestic violence is a global problem and public health issue, affecting mainly women. Its prevalence varies from region to region. This is the first study of this type examining data on national level, after the implementation of the Law on combatting domestic violence. The results of this study demonstrate the need for continuous monitoring, better preventive measures and targeted policies that will contribute to reducing both the frequency and the most serious (qualified) forms of domestic violence in Serbia.

CONSTRUCTION AND REDESIGN OF THE SERBIAN NATIONAL IDENTITY: ARCHIBALD REISS’S ROADMAP

2025-12-01T10:37:25+01:00

Purpose

The Development of the Serbian National Identity began, even in its early phase during the monarchist period at the start of the 20th century, to encounter specific challenges of the same or similar nature as those in this field today. These are identity-related issues that are, to a significant extent, caused by the ambivalent character of the Serbian national being. This refers to a specific character structure or collective mentality of the people.

It is important to emphasise that this is not unique to the Serbian people. Based on historical development, what can be singled out as characteristic of the Serbian nation is that its positive traits come to full expression primarily in difficult times. In contrast, quite the opposite occurs in peace and social stability periods. These manifest themselves across various areas of social life, and not only do they prevent the many potentials and capacities of the Serbian people from being realised to a fuller extent, but they also lead to society's polarisation.

Design/Methods/Approach

This research aims to show how Reiss’s precise mapping of the traits of the Serbian people provides insight into the two faces of the Serbian national character, while also serving as a foundation for creating a responsible and strategic identity policy. Such a policy would be directed toward overcoming identity-related deficiencies and flaws, while at the same time strengthening the positive characteristics. In this way, Reiss’s model will effectively serve as a basis for conducting a SWOT analysis—a methodological tool widely used today in strategic public policy development.

Originality/Value

The methodological framework is based on applying qualitative content analysis, primarily of Reiss’s crucial work Listen, Serbs! Beware of Yourself, other scientifically relevant studies, and certain media documents. Supplementally, a degree of discourse analysis will also be applied.

CRIMINALISTIC AND CRIMINOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF POLICE CORRUPTION IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA

2025-12-15T09:41:14+01:00

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the analysis of the criminological and criminalistic characteristics of police corruption in the Republic of North Macedonia, regarded as a distinct form of corrupt conduct perpetrated by employees within the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Through a theoretical examination, the research analyzes the conceptual definition of police corruption and researches the criminalistic characteristics of the crimes committed by employees within the organizational structures of the Ministry. The criminological characteristics are research through the scope, structure, and dynamics of criminal acts committed during the research period (2020–2024), alongside an exploration of the attitudes and perceptions of a part of police employees regarding the issue of corruption within their ranks. The indicators obtained from the study will be the basis for drawing conclusions and making recommendations for combatting this problem.

Design/Methods/Approach

The paper is systematized from several units: Definition of police corruption; Criminological characteristics of police corruption – scope, structure, and dynamics of crimes; Criminalistic characteristics of police corruption; Analysis of research conducted with employees within police structures; Conclusions and Recommendations. The research employs normative, statistical, and comparative methods, while the primary research instrument consists of a survey administered to employees within the police structures.

Findings

The results obtained from the conducted research are analyzed in order to gain insights into this issue, based on which recommendations have been formulated for the prevention and suppression of police corruption in the Republic of North Macedonia.

Originality/Value

This paper is original and constitutes a theoretical analysis of the research problem, presenting the results of independently conducted empirical research for the purposes of the study. It employs scientific methods and data collection instruments for data gathering, analysis, and comparison, and introduces a research instrument, a survey of police personnel aimed at obtaining insights into the attitudes and perceptions of employees within police structures regarding corruption within their ranks.

MOTOR VEHICLE ATTACKS ON CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN THE EU – POLITICAL HOMICIDE, ORGANIZED TERRORISM OR LONE WOLF TERRORISM

2025-12-23T17:07:02+01:00

Abstract

Purpose. The aim of our research is to provide the scientific and professional community with a contribution to explaining the occurrence of deadly attacks on civilians attending Christmas markets in the European Union. To fully achieve this goal, we will need to determine whether the aforementioned events fit the definition of political homicide, terrorism by organizations, or terrorism by individual perpetrators.

Design/methods/approach. Our paradigmatic approach to this research subject will be based on the political theory in the field of terrorism studies. We will use theoretical axioms from the field of political violence and the classification of terrorist organizations according to the actor criterion. We will use analysis as the basic analytical method, especially explanatory analysis. Scientific explanations of individual events will be carried out through case studies. Data collection will be carried out from open sources of information.

Findings. The outcome of this research will provide the professional and scientific community with another basis for creating policy papers in this area.

Originality/Value. The justification and value of the research stems from the outcome of the research, which is the creation of preconditions for more efficient prevention of terrorist acts that are the subject of this research. The scientific and social contribution is reflected in raising the awareness of the scientific and social community about the correct political qualification of the criminal act, from which adequate legal qualification can later result, and then adequate application of security measures.

SOCIAL MEDIA AS A CATALYST FOR RADICALIZATION: ETIOLOGY AND MODERN TRENDS

2025-09-18T10:49:38+02:00

Abstract

Purpose
To examine how social media platforms contribute to radicalization by exploring the mechanisms, factors, and trends that facilitate the spread of extremist content and influence contemporary crime. The paper will also analyse previous radicalization cases in North Macedonia, specifically assessing whether and how many individuals were radicalized online, and investigate if those convicted for foreign terrorist fighter (FTF) related crimes-most of whom have already served their sentences-continue to share their ideology online.

Design/Methods/Approach
The study utilizes recent case studies and empirical research to analyze the role of platforms like Facebook, Telegram, and YouTube in disseminating extremist content. It investigates extremist tactics and psychological vulnerabilities, focusing on digital echo chambers and targeted recruitment. Additionally, the research will include a review of official documents, existing research, and online content to identify patterns of radicalization in North Macedonia, with particular attention to FTF cases and ongoing online activity by former convicts.

Findings
Social media significantly accelerates radicalization through algorithm-driven content amplification and tailored extremist strategies, especially among youth. The study identifies challenges for law enforcement in differentiating between radical expression and actual threats and underscores the impact of digital echo chambers and online propaganda in normalizing extremist views. In North Macedonia, online media are a potent mechanism for radicalization, with unregulated environments enabling the spread of extremist narratives. Preliminary findings suggest that while religious radicalization is perceived as a higher risk, online channels play a significant role in both religious and political radicalization. The analysis of FTF cases will provide insight into the prevalence of online radicalization and the extent to which former FTF convicts remain active in disseminating extremist ideologies.

Originality/Value
This paper provides a comprehensive and contemporary overview of online radicalization’s etiology and phenomenology, integrating empirical evidence with case studies. By including a focused analysis of North Macedonian radicalization cases-particularly those involving FTFs and their post-release online activities-it offers valuable, context-specific insights into emerging trends and practical implications for prevention and intervention in the digital age

THE IMPORTANCE OF WOMEN'S PARTICIPATION IN DECISION-MAKING AS A RESPONSE TO CLIMATE CHANGE

2025-12-30T21:00:03+01:00

Summary: There is almost no country that does not face the consequences of climate change. Negative implications for human health, security, national security are some of the problems that most often burden developing countries. The participation of women in making important decisions, on the one hand, is undoubtedly a provocative topic, while on the other hand, there are more and more initiatives that strengthen and recognize the role of women in the decision-making process. Women are globally recognized as strong agents of change in the transition to sustainable solutions in energy, climate change and environmental protection. In order to use the potential of women, their skills and knowledge, as well as to encourage a new leadership model, it is important to include a gender perspective in policies, projects and development plans in the area of decision-making in the field of environmental protection. Respecting the opinions, distribution of work and power between women and men is crucial to understanding gender equality.

DATA-DRIVEN INTELLIGENCE IN DRUG CRIME PREVENTION: PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS, CASE STUDIES, AND ETHICAL PERSPECTIVES

2025-10-08T10:05:55+02:00

Abstract

Drug-related crime presents complex public health, security, and governance challenges. This paper synthesizes evidence on predictive analytics for drug crime prevention, integrating insights from criminology, data science, and policy. We review the distinct characteristics of drug markets; describe data sources and analytic foundations (e.g., near-repeat models, risk terrain modeling, spatio-temporal forecasting); and examine applications ranging from hotspot policing to online trafficking intelligence and overdose early-warning systems. Case studies from the United States, Europe, and Asia illustrate real-world implementation, including successes and failures. We critically assess ethical and legal concerns—bias, privacy, transparency, accountability—and situate them within evolving regulatory frameworks, notably the EU AI Act’s prohibition of predictive policing and governance requirements for high-risk AI systems. We conclude with practical safeguards and research priorities to ensure that predictive tools complement comprehensive strategies emphasizing public health, prevention, and community trust.

Keywords: predictive policing; drug markets; overdose surveillance; fairness; EU AI Act; risk terrain modeling; near-repeat; spatio-temporal forecasting.

Introduction

Illicit drug markets undermine public safety and well-being: trafficking fuels violence, corrodes institutions via corruption, and strains health systems (EMCDDA & Europol, 2024). Their scale and adaptability – new substances, shifting routes, rapid online coordination – challenge conventional enforcement. In response, many jurisdictions have experimented with data-driven methods, broadly referred to as predictive policing, to anticipate crime patterns and deploy resources proactively (Perry et al., 2013; Storbeck, 2022).

We first outline what makes drug crime different and why that matters for analytics. We then review analytic foundations and data sources, followed by application areas and illustrative case studies. We evaluate evidence of impact and examine ethical–legal implications, including fairness trade-offs (Kleinberg et al., 2017) and systemic bias risks (Barocas & Selbst, 2016; Lum & Isaac, 2016). We also connect policing to public health, highlighting overdose surveillance (ODMAP) and treatment-oriented interventions. Finally, we discuss governance and future directions under emerging regulatory frameworks like the EU AI Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/1689).

Predictive policing was a “magic word” for a long time. Many people expected a miracle from it and considered it a crystal ball that could tell the future with 100% accuracy. Unfortunately, this is not the case, which is why many people turned away from it (Mátyás et al. 2025).

The first predictive policing software was created in Hungary in 2004 and was able to predict five types of crimes (car breaking, car theft, robbery, burglary, tricky theft), followed later by American software, and then the Italian KeyCrime software. There was a great breakthrough in the field in the 2010s. Hundreds of software were created that could predict expected crimes with varying degrees of efficiency. Software was used to predict more and more different types of crimes, so many software were able to predict drug-related crimes as well. It seemed that predictive policing could revolutionize policing. Unfortunately, this did not happen.

In the late 2010s and early 2020s, human rights activists fought against the use of the software, and its use was discontinued in many countries. Even the first and largest American software, PredPol (later Analitica), suffered this fate. It was discontinued in Los Angeles a few years ago. According to human rights activists, the software performs ethnic profiling and operates in a discriminatory manner.

The authors have been working on the criminology of drug crime for years, as well as predictive policing, and in 2024 they even participated in the development of an accident prediction software. This inspired them to address the question – for now only in principle – of how drug crime can be predicted.

This study is the first stage of a research, laying the theoretical foundations. The second level of the research will be the review and processing of several hundred drug-related criminal cases in Hungary. Based on these, they would like to create an algorithm that may be suitable for predicting drug-related crimes.

Many modern predictive software uses camera recordings for predictions, which refine the probability of the prediction (Vári et al. 2025). If the authors receive permission to use camera recordings, they also intend to use them in the analysis. Many geographical factors also play a major role in the commission of drug-related crimes – e.g. settlement structure (Bói 2024) –, hot spot analysis (Vajda 2024), etc. All of these factors must be taken into account when making the prediction.

As mentioned above, the role of predictive analytics has decreased in many Western countries. On the other hand, there are several countries (e.g. China, India) where the role of predictive software is not only decreasing, but also increasing year by year.

According to the authors, a software cannot be considered racist, but obviously human rights, the right to human dignity, etc. must be taken seriously, and of course no one should be discriminated against based on skin color, origin, language, religion, etc. With the appropriate use of algorithms, various predictive software has a place in law enforcement.

PREDICTORS OF PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN ADOLESCENTS: THE ROLE OF EXTRAVERSION, NEUROTICISM, PSYCHOTICISM, AND ENVIRONMENTAL RISK FACTORS

2025-10-06T14:25:23+02:00

Purpose

Drug abuse refers to a range of behaviors that are regulated by criminal law in many countries. Due to their “social danger,” numerous studies have examined different aspects of this phenomenon. Among these, a significant number of works focus on the role of personality traits such as extraversion, psychoticism, and neuroticism in the initiation of drug use and the development of substance dependence. In contrast, studies focusing on drug abuse are relatively rare, especially those that examine the etiological role of personality traits and their involvement in preventive models.

This paper explores the role of personality traits in drug abuse, specifically the extent to which differences in such behavior can be predicted based on levels of extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism. The theoretical foundation of this research is Eysenck’s theory of crime, one of the most prominent biological–psychological theories explaining criminal behavior. According to this theory, criminal behavior arises through the interaction of hereditary predispositions and environmental factors, with socialization and classical conditioning playing a significant role.

Design/Methods/Approach

The sample in this research consists of 458 high school students from Belgrade, aged between 15 and 19. The average age of the participants was 17.72 years, with 67.7% being male and 32.3% female. To assess personality traits, the EPQ-R (Eysenck Personality Questionnaire – Revised), adapted for the Serbian-speaking population, was used.

In addition, a specific questionnaire was constructed to examine students' behaviors related to drug abuse, which includes questions of various types.

Canonical discriminant analysis was used to analyze the collected data.

Findings

Canonical discriminant analysis showed that there is one discriminant function that is statistically significant for both forms of substance abuse (use and distribution). Extraversion had a strong predictive contribution in discriminating both forms of abuse, while psychoticism had a significant impact, especially in the case of drug distribution. Neuroticism did not have a significant contribution to defining the discriminant functions in either case. Among the environmental risk factors, drug and alcohol abuse among peers, criminal behavior, changing schools, running away from home, and poor family relationships (in the case of drug distribution) significantly contributed to differences in substance abuse.

Originality/Value

Considering that the majority of adolescents begin experimenting with drugs during adolescence or even at a slightly earlier age, it is of utmost importance to implement preventive programs at this stage. The findings of this study, as well as those of other research conducted on adolescent populations, may serve as a foundational basis for the development and implementation of such programs.

the THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE OF COCAINE - DRUG MULES

2025-10-06T08:47:53+02:00

Purpose: International trade drugs represents one from the most profitable and the most dangerous shape organized crime, so women everything more often occupy specific roles inside quiet criminal network. One of the most represented role yes role so-called drug mules – person which serve as physical transmitters drugs over state border. Although are these women often presented as ordinary perpetrator criminal or even victims circumstances, deeper analysis reveals complex network social, economic and gender factor which affect on their participation on the occasion transport cocaine. This phenomenon not new, but in modern context mass migration, social status, gender subordination and economic insecurities gets new dimension.

Coordinates and methods in which this work will be carried out: Goal this one work is to analyze role woman like " mules" in within international shops drugs, with special focus on reasons their participation, their psychological profile and dilemma between their roles as perpetrator criminal works and victims. In work will to be analyzed ways on which women participate in the transmission and trade cocaine within international criminal network. Special attention being dedicated methods smuggling, including bodily transmission, hidden luggage and roles middleman in the chain distribution. Questions are asked: Are they women in this context exclusively criminals or are often and the product itself structural inequality, violence and economic necessities? What kind of role they have criminal organizations in recruitment and control woman as courier? How much are these women really perpetrators criminal works, and how many victims structural violence and social marginalization? Do exist effective programs of rehabilitation and resocialization for women convicted as "drug mules"? The methods used in the work include: descriptive method, analysis method, historical method, comparative method, as well as a critical analysis of the penal policy towards women in the role of " drug mules ".

Value: It examines an under-researched aspect of organized crime – the role of women not as organizers, but as instrumentalized actors. It provides a basis for further research on women in criminal structures and their treatment in the justice system.

Result: The value of the paper indicates that women as drug carriers often operate in the gray zone between complicity and victim. Although these women are legally perpetrators of criminal acts, their involvement in the drug trade is most often not the result of free choice, already a product of poverty, gender inequality, domestic violence, migration status or pressure from criminal groups. In this context, it is necessary to review the approach of the justice system, in order to ensure fairness, taking into account the specifics of gender, social background and personal circumstances of convicted women as " drug mules ".

Key words: women, drug trade, " drug mules" , criminal groups, victim, violence.

SECURITY CHALLENGES OF APPLYING ICT AND AI IN DIVERSIFICATION

2025-06-26T13:00:22+02:00

Purpose:
The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in diversification strategies has become crucial for economic and industrial development. However, this integration introduces significant security challenges that threaten sustainable growth. This study explores the security risks associated with ICT and AI in diversification, identifying vulnerabilities, threats, and potential mitigation strategies.

Design/Methods/Approach:
A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a comprehensive literature review, case studies from healthcare, finance, and manufacturing sectors, and expert interviews with cybersecurity professionals, AI ethicists, and ICT infrastructure specialists. The study systematically analyzes security challenges and proposes actionable solutions.

Findings:
The research highlights key security challenges, including data breaches, ransomware attacks, adversarial AI exploitation, ethical concerns (such as algorithmic bias), and vulnerabilities in legacy systems. Case studies demonstrate real-world impacts, while expert insights emphasize the need for proactive cybersecurity measures, ethical AI governance, and infrastructure modernization.

Originality/Value:
This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a holistic analysis of security challenges in ICT and AI-driven diversification. It offers practical mitigation strategies, such as enhanced encryption, AI adversarial testing, network segmentation, and security culture development. The findings are valuable for policymakers, industry leaders, and cybersecurity professionals seeking to balance innovation with risk management in digital transformation.

A PERSPECTIVE ON EPOXY/GRAPHITE-BASED COMPOSITES FOR ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE SHIELDING: FABRICATION AND APPLICATION IN SECURITY TECHNOLOGIES

2025-09-26T15:20:18+02:00

Purpose

The rapid advancement of technology brings numerous benefits, such as facilitating everyday processes in households, laboratories, and production environments. However, many modern electronic devices used in forensic laboratories and police units require electromagnetic compatibility for efficient operation. To overcome this challenge, an effective solution is the design of protective covers made from lightweight, high-efficiency composite materials.

Design/Methods/Approach

This study presents a method for modifying the surface of graphite particles by silver deposition and their implementation in epoxy-based composite materials. Graphite particles were treated with the prepared silver dispersion, while FESEM/EDS, XRF, and electrical conductivity analyses were conducted to assess the properties of the modified particles. The polymer characteristics were evaluated through viscosity determination and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. The study examined how the mechanical properties of composites relate to the mass fraction of modified graphite particles and the effectiveness of electromagnetic interference shielding (EMI SE) in the X-band.

Findings

Analysis of the modified graphite particles revealed a significant concentration of elemental silver on graphite surfaces to improve electrical conductivity. Increasing the conductivity of particles contributes to the formation of a Faraday cage, which can find application in increasing the electromagnetic compatibility electronic devices. The incorporation of the silver coating onto graphite particles` surface improved the physical and mechanical properties of the particles and composites. The average wave intensity attenuation increased by 21% with silver coating compared to samples without it.

Originality/Value

This paper presents a cost-effective method for modifying the surface of graphite particles via silver deposition following dispersion evaporation. A key advantage of this method is that it does not require expensive equipment, high energy consumption, and also does not generate large amounts of waste that would need special treatment. Moreover, the study explores the potential practical application of the composites for preventing electromagnetic interference in security technologies.

SPECIAL TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE IN THE FIELD OF DIGITAL CURRENCY AND MINING NECESSARY FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

2025-10-28T12:27:43+01:00

Purpose

This paper discusses the question of what special technical knowledge in the field of digital currency and mining is necessary to solve and investigate crimes committed using information and communication technologies. The examples highlight the special role of fundamental training in mastering advanced technologies, as well as the advisability of including relevant topics in the educational process of law enforcement educational institutions.

Design/Methods/Approach

For new technologies, the degree of usefulness is almost impossible to assess: since the technology is new, there is no experience in its application. It turns out that the so-called Lindy effect is observed: the longer a technology exists, the more likely it is to continue to exist. The Lindy effect leads to a paradoxical conclusion: in order to be successful in information and communication technologies, one should not chase after "fashionable novelties", but study the fundamental patterns underlying a large class of such novelties at once.

Findings

Modern information technologies, including those related to cryptocurrency, are based on fundamental knowledge in the field of mathematics (number theory, graph theory, cryptography) and electrical engineering.

Originality/Value

Thus, modern trends in the development of information technologies and their penetration directly into the sphere of legal regulation of public relations at the level of laws require improving the training of lawyers and law enforcement officers.

With regard to technologies related to digital currency and blockchain, it is necessary to focus on a combination of fundamental training and the usefulness of the taught material for students.

CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES OF THE DIGITAL TRACE IN THE ERA OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND DEEPFAKE TECHNOLOGIES

2025-10-14T11:05:14+02:00

The study investigates the effects of artificial intelligence, specifically deepfake technologies, on the conceptual meaning, usability, and credibility of the digital trace in criminalistics. It provides both normative and useful solutions while highlighting the primary risks related to the preservation and assessment of digital trace as evidence. The paper offers an analytical and normative overview of the problem by fusing criminalistic theory with modern criminalistics and forensic techniques methods, benchmark datasets like FaceForensics++ and DFDC, and European regulatory tools. It adds synthetic, hybrid, and pseudo traces to the typology of digital traces and presents a Digital Authenticity Framework (D-AUTH)[1] for assessing them. In addition to creating new machine-produced artifacts, artificial intelligence also questions accepted ideas of causality and authenticity. Three layers must be integrated for an assessment to be effective: provenance assurance (such as C2PA), criminalistics/forensic content analysis with cross-verification, and procedural integrity through chain-of-custody documentation and cryptographic hashing, all of which are backed by probabilistic and transparent reasoning. Ongoing benchmarking projects like NIST Open MFC are crucial since detection models are still susceptible to compression, out-of-distribution data, and new generative approaches. The article presents a cogent strategy for maintaining the evidential credibility of digital traces for criminal proceedings by tying together criminalistic theory, operational methodology, and the European legal framework (AI Act and Council of Europe Convention).

CAN FURANOCOUMARINS BECOME THE NEW PLATFORM FOR HIGH-ENERGY MATERIALS?

2025-09-13T09:43:06+02:00

Purpose: Furanocoumarins such as angelicin and psoralen, modified by the introduction of nitro groups, were investigated as potential high-energy materials (HEMs). Their structure has been recognized as a suitable basis for the development of new explosive compounds. In the research of high-energy materials, reducing the risk of explosion is desirable, which has led to the use of computational tools for investigating structure–property relationships and designing advanced HEMs by predicting key parameters such as stability and detonation performance prior to synthesis.

Design/Methods/Approach: In this paper, a computational research approach has been applied, which includes molecular modeling, quantum chemical calculations, and comparative analysis of energetic and stability parameters.

Findings: Key properties for the evaluation of the modified furanocoumarin explosives were the detonation velocity and detonation pressure, estimated using the Kamlet–Jacobs equations. DFT methods provided reliable molecular geometries and electronic parameters necessary for the prediction of energetic performance. The obtained results showed that the detonation characteristics of nitro-substituted furanocoumarins are comparable to those of conventional commercial explosives, highlighting their potential as promising candidates for further development.

Originality/Value: In this paper, nitro-substituted furanocoumarins are investigated as potential high-energy compounds, and their properties are compared with those of commercial explosives.The study provides insights into the structural modification of furanocoumarins for the development of energetic materials and lays the foundation for future research.

ARMED SECURITY GUARDS IN HUNGARY: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT, LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND OPERATIONAL CHALLENGES

2025-09-25T08:54:43+02:00

Purpose: The aim of this study is to present the institution of armed security guards in Hungary, outlining significant historical events, the evolution of protected assets, and tracing the development of technological support used in security.

Approach: Every country has a vested interest in protecting objects of critical importance for state operations, public welfare, irreplaceable cultural heritage, and assets vital to national defense, national security, and law enforcement. Certain sectors, such as nuclear energy and international air transport security, are governed by international regulations, though their organizational forms are determined by national legislation. Typically, police and military forces undertake these responsibilities. However, uniquely at a global scale, Hungary has established armed security guards for these purposes. The minister responsible for law enforcement, defense, and national security has the authority to mandate the protection of these assets and to require their owners or operators to finance their own security measures. Traditionally, armed security guards protect, among others, international airports, nuclear facilities, critical infrastructure vulnerable to disasters, and public utility systems essential for the population.

Previously, only the police were authorized to mandate armed security protection. Since 2011, this authority has been extended to the leaders of relevant ministries, allowing them to order security measures for organizations and facilities under their jurisdiction. This includes directives from the Minister of Defense and the Minister overseeing intelligence services. A governmental decree introduced in 2024 regulates the issuance of specialized personal and asset protection certificates, defining state requirements for explosive detection measures to protect specific facilities and events.

Findings: Expanding on this framework, there is growing demand—particularly from institutions under state responsibility—for enhanced security regulations in public and higher education institutions, healthcare facilities, and hospitals. Professional advocacy groups and academic communities propose that security could be strengthened through armed security guards.

Value: The competencies of armed security guards have expanded into areas such as corrections, border protection, and immigration detention facilities. To enhance their technical capabilities in these roles, armed security guards need broader authorization regarding the use of surveillance cameras, drones, and non-lethal weapons (tasers).

Key words: private, security, public security, armed security guard

RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY IN FORENSIC SCIENCE: DEVELOPMENTS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS IN CANNABINOID ANALYSIS

2025-09-17T14:15:21+02:00

Raman spectroscopy has become a central, non-destructive tool in forensic science, valued for its chemical specificity, operational simplicity, and compatibility with evidentiary procedures. This review surveys its application to cannabis, covering plant material characterisation, detection of cannabinoids in human samples, and recent methodological advances. In the domain of plant analysis, Raman methods encompass a range of applications, from cellular-scale microscopy to portable, field-based classification systems. These methodologies facilitate varietal discrimination, chemotype verification, and the early detection of abiotic and nutrient stress. In human matrices, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) has been demonstrated to enable sensitive, minimally invasive detection in saliva, plasma, and blood, with chemometric processing serving to strengthen the detection process. Emerging trends in the field, such as chemometrics, computational modeling and artificial intelligence, are leading to significant advancements in the areas of classification, quantification and spectral interpretability. Furthermore, the development of specialized approaches, including alternative excitation regimes and advanced sampling geometries, is extending the utility of analytical methods to complex or concealed materials. Collectively, these advancements establish Raman spectroscopy as a rapid, portable, and legally robust platform for cannabis-related forensic work in both laboratory and field settings.

MECHANICAL TESTING WITH MODELLING OF STRESS DISTRIBUTION IN NICKEL THIN COATINGS ON DIFFERENT SUBSTRATES AS A METHOD FOR ASSESSING ADHESION QUALITY

2025-10-10T08:35:07+02:00

Covering materials with thin coatings is often necessary for protecting them from wear and
corrosion, ensuring electrical conductivity, and in planar technologies for forming the structural
elements of MEMS components too. For the coating and substrate composite system to be of intact
integrity, it is necessary to know and coordinate their mechanical properties. The most important
property that evaluates the integrity of the composite systems is adhesion strength between the
substrate and coatings. Poor adhesion can lead to the deterioration of the protected material or the
failure of a component. Still, it can also lead to more serious accidents resulting in significant
property damage, serious injuries, or loss of life. Therefore, the analysis of material adhesion
problems and causes of their failure is of great importance for forensic engineers.

Thin foils of brass and stainless steel were chosen as the substrate materials. Nickel coatings with
different thicknesses were deposited from sulphamate electrolyte using DC-electrochemical
deposition with optimal current density. Two methods were selected for the mechanical testing of
materials adhesion: the bidirectional bending test and the cross-hatching adhesion test. A special
structure was made for the bidirectional bending test. The critical number of bending cycles until
material failure, i.e. adhesion loosening, is determined. In addition to the experimental testing of
bi-directional bending, numerical stress modeling was performed in ANSYS, using the actual
dimensions and mechanical properties of the nickel-coated samples. By applying the finite element
method (FEA), a detailed stress distribution analysis was carried out, which enabled the
identification of critical zones. These results contributed to a better understanding of the
mechanical behavior of the system during bending and assisted in the interpretation of the
experimental data, particularly in areas with high stress concentrations that may cause damage.
After performing the crosshatch test, the area of the remaining coating on the substrate was
evaluated, and the adhesion quality was assessed according to a standardized category. The
measurement results of the methods are compared and systematized. A relation was made between
adhesion quality criteria.

When we talk about the quality of adhesion in a material system, many factors that affect the
strength of adhesion must be considered. The crystallographic and mechanical properties of both
the substrate and the coating must be known, the deposition process parameters must be carefully
selected, and the thickness of the coating must be taken into account. Thinner coatings and
matching substrate and coating crystallographic properties enable better adhesion. Mathematical
modeling and simulation of mechanical tests facilitate monitoring of the testing process and
facilitate easier selection of optimal materials and parameters.

In scientific and engineering practice, many tests for adhesion evaluation indicate that it is a severe
problem and task. Connecting the results of adhesion testing for systems that are different in their
properties with the analysis of stress distribution in the systems will contribute to a better
understanding of the phenomena that occur in complex composite systems. Based on the
measurements made by different methods, a quantitative relationship was established between the
adhesion criteria defined by the methods.

Keywords: coating adhesion, nickel electrodeposition, bidirectional bending test, the critical cycle
number, crosshatch adhesion testing, stress distribution analysis

REGULATORY CHALLENGES TO INVESTIGATING AI-DRIVEN CYBERCRIMES

2025-10-17T10:02:42+02:00

The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has changed many sectors, but it has also created new and complex cybercrimes. Criminals now use AI for deepfakes, automated phishing, ransomware, and botnet attacks that are harder to detect and prove in court. This research looks at the main regulatory challenges that block effective investigation and prosecution of AI-driven cybercrimes. The study uses a doctrinal legal method, supported by comparative analysis of international and domestic laws, and reviews open-source legal materials. Findings show that laws today are not ready for AI’s unique risks. There is confusion about liability when AI systems misuse data, as seen in US copyright lawsuits against OpenAI and Microsoft. Deepfake cases, such as the false video of Scarlett Johansson, show how AI tools threaten reputation, trust, and legal evidence. A striking example came in April 2025, when a New York court faced an AI-generated avatar trying to argue a case, which raised serious concerns about authenticity and accountability in legal settings. These cases show gaps in law, weak rules for evidence, and unclear standards for cross-border crimes. This paper argues that legal systems must adapt quickly. It calls for clear definitions of AI in crime, new liability rules for autonomous systems, strict checks on AI-generated evidence, and stronger global cooperation. The value of this study lies in showing how fast AI is reshaping crime and law, and in offering reforms that can build stronger, fairer, and more secure legal frameworks for the digital age.

DOSIMETRIC EVALUATION OF NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL RADIOACTIVITY IN ENVIRONMENT USEFUL FOR FORENSIC PURPOSES

2025-10-13T12:15:24+02:00

Purpose: The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanism of exposure to ionizing radiation through different pathways with a focus on both external and internal exposure scenarios. By examining the behavior and distribution of natural and artificial radionuclides in different matrices, the research aims is to quantify absorbed, equivalent, and effective doses relevant to human exposure. Special emphasis is placed on the forensic relevance of radiation dose assessment and its application in identifying sources and situations of exposure using radiation detection methods. The use of radiation detectors and dosimetric methods ensures accurate detection and analysis, making the results applicable to radiation protection.Design/Methods/Approach: This paper presents a study about dosimetric quantities that can be derived from radionuclide concentration data in various matrices. The focus is placed on understanding the relationship between radionuclide activity concentrations and the calculation of key dosimetric quantities, including absorbed dose, equivalent dose and effective dose. The approach involves reviewing existing methodologies and mathematical models used for dose estimation based on internal and external exposure scenarios.

Findings: Various dosimetric quantities, such as absorbed dose, equivalent dose and effective dose can be estimated based on radionuclide activity concentrations in different media. These quantities are essential for assessing both external and internal exposure to ionizing radiation. This framework enables dose assessments based on contamination data. The findings underline the importance of combining radiological measurements with dose modeling tools in order to support health risk assessment.

Originality/Value: This paper provides a structured overview of how key dosimetric quantities can be determined from radionuclide concentration data, without direct dosimetric measurements and emphasis on the role of nuclear techniques and dose assessment methodologies as fundamental tools in forensic analysis, in the context of radiological or nuclear emergencies. This study provides a valuable reference for professionals involved in dose assessment and ionizing radiation protection.

IMPROVEMENT OF NEURAL NETWORK MODEL FOR PPG SIGNAL ANALYSIS

2025-10-21T14:40:03+02:00

Purpose

This paper proposes to improve the method of predicting the age of the subject based on the recorded PPG signal.

Design/Methods/Approach

The PPG signal was obtained by the photoplethysmography method. The prediction method is based on the concept of a neural network, which uses wavelet transformation coefficients of the recorded PPG signal for training. The paper uses an RNN (Recurrent Neural Network) network, which was designed on five different architecture models. The focus of the work is on the comparison of the test results of these five different models and the selection of the model with the most acceptable results for further work. These five RNN models differ in the number of hidden layers. The first model has one hidden layer, the second has two hidden layers, etc., the fifth model has five hidden layers. A database with 500 recorded PPG signals is used to train the network.

Findings

The results of this paper open the discussion whether a larger number of hidden layers affects the prediction results and to what extent. There is also a discussion about whether to use RNN architecture or perhaps CNN (Convolutional Neural Network), which is again the topic of some future work in which a comparison of the results of these two architectures should be made.

Originality/Value

The use of wavelet transformation in the analysis of PPG signals can determine in a compromise way when certain changes occur in the signal and what their frequency content is. The goal of this work is in the domain of development, testing and addition of software solutions in the analysis of PPG signals, application of these solutions in artificial NN modeling and analysis of prediction results obtained by this method.

Keywords: photoplethysmography (PPG), wavelet transformation, neural networks, machine learning, characteristic parameters.

About the author

Zlatko Radovanović is a doctoral student at Alfa BK University - Faculty of Information Technologies. He graduated in electrical engineering in the field of automation. Areas of interest are signal analysis, system modeling and development and improvement of NN, AI.

Vojkan Nikolić, PhD is a Associate Professor on University of Criminal Investigation and Police Studies, Department of Information Technology, Belgrade. Areas of interest are information sistems, BI, data mining, NLP.

ADVANTAGES, RISKS AND DUAL‒USE CHALLENGES OF NANOTECHNOLOGY IN CBRN’S BIOLOGICAL SCENARIOS

2025-09-25T16:54:16+02:00

Purpose: CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) threats, particularly biological agents, are inherently volatile and difficult to control. Their early detection, identification, mitigation and neutralization, specifically of those that are novel, engineered, or intentionally released, represent a major challenge. Nanotechnology offers promising, new tools and approaches to address these issues, with applications ranging from highly sensitive and selective detection platforms to smart materials and devices for identification, protection and mitigation, as well as advanced decontamination methods and technologies that could strengthen the preparedness and response in CBRN settings.

Design/Methods/Approach: A comprehensive scientific literature review was conducted using systematic content analysis and comparative assessment, emphasizing the advantages, risks, and dual-use implications of nanotechnology in the context of CBRN security.

Findings: The use of nanotechnology in CBRN systems can significantly improve the early threat detection, agent identification, treatment, environmental monitoring, safety and functionality of personal protective equipment, filtration systems, etc. Nonetheless, the same features that make these prevalent technologies beneficial, also, raise ethical dilemmas and safety concerns about their potential misuse. The engineered nanomaterials, for instance, could potentially be repurposed for hostile applications, including targeted delivery of biological toxins or gene-editing agents. Therefore, the implementation of nanotechnology in CBRN landscape must be balanced with responsible oversight and ethical considerations.

Originality/Value: The paper provides a multidisciplinary and integrative perspective of nanotechnology applications in CBRN scenarios, synthesizing the most notable and important scientific reports and discussions regarding the emerging capabilities, associated risks, and the need for strategic planning for the safe and ethical use of advanced materials and nanotechnology in CBRN.