<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

The study is divided in two major parts. First, a presentation of the history of the Greek legal order and the organization of the judicial system with a focus on the judicial system of control of constitutionality highlights the legal culture regarding the use of foreign precedents in constitutional cases, describes the complexities regarding the exercise of control of constitutionality, and justifies the reasons that the constitutional case law of the Council of State (CoS) is selected for quantitative measurement. Second, the study analyses from a quantitative and qualitative perspective the results of the measurement of the number of explicit citations in foreign precedents in the constitutional cases of the CoS. It is worth noting that the majority of the citations in German case law refer to the case law of the <italic>Existenzminimum</italic>, a finding that is being approached from a qualitative perspective too.
</abstract>

The adoption of foreign case law by the Greek courts and the emergence of the <italic>Existenzminimum</italic> doctrine by numbers - Between constitutional interpretation and legitimacy

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

This paper explores the pivotal role of structural assessment in enhancing energy efficiency within public buildings. Structural assessment, a systematic evaluation of building components and systems, is essential for ensuring safety, longevity, and sustainability. By identifying weaknesses and improvement opportunities, structural assessment provides valuable insights for stakeholders to enhance operational efficiency and compliance with safety standards.
The symbiotic relationship between structural integrity and energy efficiency underscores the significance of prioritizing structural considerations in sustainable building design. Material selection, design principles, and maintenance practices are crucial factors influencing energy performance. Structural assessments aid in pinpointing critical issues contributing to energy loss, such as air leaks, thermal bridging, and inadequate insulation. Recommendations derived from these assessments enable targeted interventions to improve energy performance and occupant comfort.
Case studies of three schools highlight the tangible benefits of energy efficiency retrofits informed by structural assessments. These retrofits result in significant reductions in energy consumption, enhanced indoor comfort, and a diminished carbon footprint. A structured strategy for conducting seismic structural assessments and subsequent energy efficiency improvements is proposed, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to building sustainability.
In conclusion, structural assessment serves as a linchpin for advancing energy efficiency in public buildings. By leveraging insights from structural assessments, stakeholders can drive transformative change towards a greener and more sustainable future, fostering environments that promote human well-being and environmental stewardship.
</abstract>

Structural Assessment for Improving Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

This study was conducted to determine and compare the factors influencing the increase in stress levels of students at German and Albanian universities. In addition to descriptive statistics to analyze the data, the authors used factor analysis, the Independent Samples t-Test, and bivariate correlation among others in the study. An online questionnaire divided into three sections was used as a tool for data collection. The description of statistics expressed in percentages and the data analysis were performed using SPSS software, Version 16. The results showed that students experienced a high level of stress, 44.1214, with some variations among them. The results confirmed a higher level of stress among Albanian students compared to German students. On the other hand, the results indicated that the “Fear of failing exams” factor had a greater impact on increasing stress levels among German students compared to Albanian students.
</abstract>

Differences in stress levels between Albanian and German students

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

Historical evidence highlights that regions characterized by the convergence and cohabitation of diverse cultures serve as primary drivers of development. Nowadays, the southern region of Albania stands as a vivid and enduring example of this phenomenon throughout history. Arguments that speak of integrative and at the same time differentiating processes in terms of cultural and ethnic identity include mythology and historical milestones such as Dodona, Pyrrhus of Epirus and Alexander the Great, to figures like Ali Pasha Tepelena and cultural hub of Voskopoja. Historically analysing, the establishment of the peace institutions and good understanding such as Bektashism, the ideology of national renaissance movement, are examples of differentiating analogy of the multicultural reality. The communist regime in Albania, the geographical isolation, the physical and cultural infliction resulting in the loss of contacts and communication with the world, the climate of ethnocentrism and the consequences in the way of judging and assessing oneself in relation to others and the opening of the country and mass emigration are other historical aspects. In this sense, main objective of this manuscript is the analysis of the positive and negative consequences with assimilative influence and the opposite:- juxtaposition to strengthen ethnocentrism.
</abstract>

A multicultural environment – A major development and integration factor

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

Financial transactions involving cryptocurrencies have seen significant growth in recent years. Individuals and companies are using cryptocurrencies as a medium of exchange. This unstoppable process has brought opportunities for the cost-effective performance of financial transactions, but at the same time challenges for law enforcement institutions. A significant portion of cryptocurrency transactions are conducted outside the conventional banking financial system. Such transactions are difficult for law enforcement authorities to trace. There is a high possibility that cryptocurrencies will be used by money launderers to hide their identity and launder their proceeds of crime. Offshore Financial Centers, which apply a high degree of anonymity, are widely using cryptocurrencies. Countries and international institutions should take coordinated action to tackle money laundering in the field of virtual currencies as it is very difficult for one country, alone, to fight the phenomenon of money laundering in the world of cryptocurrencies. The study focuses on the difficulties faced by financial institutions and law enforcement authorities in tracking cryptocurrency transactions in the context of prevention of money laundering, seen from the Albanian perspective.
</abstract>

Cryptocurrencies and Money Laundering

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The 2022 strategic report on international narcotics control of the United States Department of State, estimates that Albania remains a country susceptible to money laundering, due to corruption, the presence of organized crime networks, as well as deficiencies in legislation and supervision.1 Whereas, according to the Basel Index for the risks of money laundering and terrorist financing, Albania ranks 93rd out of 152 jurisdictions, with 4.75 out of 10 points.2
The main sources of money laundering are related to drug trafficking and other organized crime activities, while the most widespread methods of money laundering are construction, real estate and business development projects.3 Despite the reform of justice and efforts to improve the fight against money laundering, the country faces challenges in terms of capacities, insufficient supervision of some sectors, as well as the lack of cooperation between law enforcement and supervisory bodies. Albania is in the conditions of insufficient control mechanisms, in relation to the size of informal money.
Referring to the report of the European Commission for Albania of 2023, the problems related to money laundering in the country remains an area that requires attention and further results.4 Also, the report shows that Albania has made progress in terms of implementing the recommendations of the Committee of Experts for the Evaluation of Measures against Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism (hereinafter: Moneyval),5 as well as the action plan of the Special Financial Action Task Force (hereinafter: FATF),6 with the aim of improving effectiveness in the field of money laundering. Also, since February 2020, Albania is part of a political commitment to engage with the FATF and Moneyval, in the framework of the fight against money laundering and the financing of terrorism.
</abstract>

Money laundering - Harmonization of Albanian legislation in the framework of EU membership

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

The right to choose as a political right dates back to the ancient times of humankind. The right to choose in its beginnings was in a narrow circle of people. It did not include the entire political, economic and social spectrum, but different groups, classes and interests. The saying can be that there were no real elections.
Even Kosovo, in the history of its political development, dates the right to universal and equal suffrage after the Second World War. However, those elections were never free and not even based on the will of citizens to be elected and to vote. The candidates for election were the favorites of the occupying and monist power. The monistic one-party system, as such, by itself could not offer even an approximate opportunity to hold free and democratic elections.
In fact, the right to free and democratic elections for the first time was sanctioned and implemented in the first elections for the Republic of Kosovo institutions (Constitutional Framework, 2001).
This paper aims to explore different aspects of the complex phenomenon of criminal offenses against voting rights, in order to raise the level of treatment of this phenomenon in Kosovo’s society. The organization of free and democratic elections and their success is one of the key points of evaluation of new democracies, considering that free elections are the foundation of a democratic society. Conceiving that this process is related to the quality of life of the voter, to the perspective of society and the development of the country in general.
</abstract>

Criminal Offenses against voting rights

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

The Prosecutor’s Office is the only constitutional body that carries out criminal prosecution, when it becomes aware of a criminal offense.1 Within the framework of the exercise of this constitutional right, when it becomes aware of a criminal offense, it must not necessarily pursue criminal prosecution. In all cases where it verifies that at first sight, or prima facie, there are legal reasons that prevent it from pursuing criminal prosecution, such as the cases: when the fact does not constitute a criminal offense, the criminal fact does not exist, the suspect dies, there are reasons for impunity related to the offense and the author, or in all other cases provided for in the law, the prosecution takes the decision not to initiate criminal proceedings.2 The prosecution takes the decision not to initiate criminal proceedings, when prima facie, it is clear that there is no criminal offense, or there are circumstances that do not allow the criminal proceedings to continue and investigative actions to be carried out. Given the nature of this decision, in which the prosecutor’s office only verifies and does not carry out investigative actions, the prosecutor’s decision must be quick. With the changes made to Article 291 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the decision not to initiate criminal proceedings must be taken within 15 days from the moment of registration of the criminal report and not within 30 days as it was before the changes in 2017.
This time change seems to be in accordance with the nature of this decision, since its taking has only verification and not investigative reasons. But how has this deadline been implemented in practice? What are the consequences of not respecting this deadline, in relation to the decision made? All of these will be part of the analysis of this manuscript.
</abstract>

Legal changes of the decision not to initiate a proceeding in the Albanian criminal procedure code, their implementation in practice

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When we talk about the challenges of the European and Albanian legislation on the surrender of persons wanted by criminal justice, the picture of the Albanian law and the operation of the law comes to mind. But today more and more measures are being taken to develop the legislative power and its functioning. These measures have also been taken in drafting and in administrative and judicial execution.
Today, there is more and more talk about justice reforms; such are the challenges that Albania faces when it comes to cooperation with the EU in relation to the procedures for handing over persons wanted by law. It is such a challenge, because Albania’s legislation must be in line with that of the EU. When we talk about compliance or Acquis communautaire, we mean the interoperability that the legislative, judicial and executive powers must follow.
Talking about the justice reform in Albania, we understand and analyse more closely the issue of corruption. The globalization of criminal activities has created a need to strengthen international cooperation. The investigation, prosecution and control of crime cannot be confined within national borders.
</abstract>

The challenges of the European and Albanian legislation on the procedures for the surrender of persons wanted by criminal justice

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

Although the perception of state security differs from country to country, it tends to be a single document, addressing at least three basic themes: The role of the state in the international system; the challenges and opportunities perceived inside and outside the country and; the responsibilities of implementation actors to address these challenges and opportunities. The first theme seeks to define the state’s vision for the international system, as well as the role played by the state in that system. This requires to take into account the interests and values of the state, structures, management and decision-making processes. This usually culminates in a long-term vision where the future state and society belong. Another topic is risk assessment, current and future opportunities. In theory this should include both internal and external risks although in practice many National Security Policy focus on external risks and opportunities. Attitudes and preferences are also politically addressed as they connect with international security partners, which can lead to the emergence of opportunities for cooperation.
Historically speaking, national security as a concept is an idea of modern society, the first premises of the concept of national security date back to the 17th century during the Thirty Years’ War in Europe and the Civil War in England. In 1648, the Peace of Westphalia was concluded, in which the foundations were laid for the idea that the nation or state should have control and sovereignty not only in matters of religion, but also in external security. The idea of the nation state is common today, let’s say that all the countries of the world are nation states, however it would be wrong to assume that this is the only way to ensure national security in isolation from international security. The pre-Westphalian international system was based on the assumption that there was a universal principle governing the affairs of states led by emperors, popes, kings and princes. That was indeed the principle of the Holy Roman Empire. This idea was challenged by the German philosopher Immanuel Kant (1724–1804), who revived the idea of a universal principle not in the old religious context, but of a secular (non-religious) state inspired by the Enlightenment. National states must subordinate their national interests to universal interests for the common good and be guided by international law. Thus, was born a secular view of the institution of the state over the nation, through which international affairs are managed, which today is reflected in the global worldview of liberalism, internationalism and is more clearly manifested under the auspices of the United Nations (UN). The new idea of the nation state had a different approach. Peace and stability would be better served if people did not kill each other, but were guided by a universal principle. It would be far better to have an international system based on a balance of nation states committed to limited national goals. When we talk about the security components of the state, we need to know what the state actually is and what the security risk factors that threaten it are. In this sense, when it comes to security risks, the biggest threat is aggression. The state is the basic and most important form of organization of any class society. A state is a territory with its inhabitants, which the government holds under its authority in a uniquely compact way. The National Security Policy (NSP) is a framework document that describes how the country provides security for the country and its citizens and is often presented as a generalized document. This document can also be called a plan, strategy, concept or doctrine. NSP has a role for the present and for the future, because it outlines the basic interests of the country and defines guidelines for dealing with risks and current and future opportunities. Of course, NSPs are in a superior hierarchy to other security policies, such as military doctrine, internal security strategy, etc., which deal with agency-based national security or specific issues. The NSP is also distinguished by this policy from a number of topics it deals with and tries to outline both internal and external risks. Finally, it tries to integrate and coordinate the contributions of national security actors in relation to the interests and risks that are considered most important. Some countries, such as the United Kingdom, France and China, do not have a separate and unique NSP document, but rely on defense policy or in “white papers” - project policy documents, which focus only on national protection. Many states do not publish their policy documents or do not have written comprehensive policies for security or protection.
</abstract>

National security as a comprehensive notion, state security from the aspect of international law and its political manifesto

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Volume 10 (2024): Issue 1 (May 2024)

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Balkan Journal of Interdisciplinary Research

Balkan Journal of Interdisciplinary Research is a professional, double-blind, peer-reviewed, open-access journal. BJIR is published in English three times a year and provides a forum for disseminating and enhancing theoretical, empirical and/or pragmatic research across the social sciences and related disciplines. In this sense, we welcome papers that are interdisciplinary or focused on particular disciplines (e.g. economics, politics, geography, sociology, health, international relations, law etc), with an expectation that all work is accessible to readers across the social sciences. Acceptance for publication is subject to a double-blind peer-reviewing process. The journal expects authors to write clearly and accessibly for an international audience. No particular theories are favoured.  We invite researchers to submit their original papers via email at: bjir.journal@gmail.com   Archiving Sciendo archives the contents of this journal in Portico - digital long-term preservation service of scholarly books, journals and collections. Plagiarism Policy The editorial board is participating in a growing community of Similarity Check System's users in order to ensure that the content published is original and trustworthy. Similarity Check is a medium that allows for comprehensive manuscripts screening, aimed to eliminate plagiarism and provide a high standard and quality peer-review process. 