JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

CADASTRAL AND REAL ESTATE REFORM AND THE INTEGRATION OF EUROPEAN STANDARDS - THE EXPERIENCE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA IN RELATION TO THE MODELS OF ROMANIA AND THE NETHERLANDS

Viorica Ursu — 2026-01-15

The Republic of Moldova regards European integration as a strategic pillar of development, with the cadastral-real estate sector playing a key role in strengthening legal security, administrative transparency, and territorial governance. Between 2023–2025, major reforms were implemented: the establishment of the Public Institution “Real Estate Cadastre,” the digitalization of registers, the introduction of the Real Estate Price Register, and the modernization of the normative framework (Civil Code, Land Code, Cadastre Law, Condominium Law). These measures mark the transition toward a European model of efficient and transparent property administration. A comparative analysis with Romania and the Netherlands highlights convergences such as the cost-recovery principle, the digital integration of land and cadastre registers, and the interoperability of geospatial systems (eTerra, MyEterra, PDOK), while also revealing differences in institutional maturity, financial autonomy, and full digitalization of processes, which are more advanced in Western Europe. The research is based on comparative legal analysis and is supported by international benchmarks and policy frameworks developed by United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and United Nations (UN) reflecting contemporary approaches to digital governance and sustainable land administration.

LAND REFORM IN SOUTHERN AFRICA: ADDRESSING POLICY GAPS AND IMPLEMENTATION FAILURES

Neo Mokone — 2026-01-15

Land reform remains a critical challenge in Southern Africa, with efforts to address historical land injustices often falling short. Despite the adoption of progressive policies, gaps in policy frameworks and poor implementation hinder meaningful transformation. The paper examines land reform policies in Southern African countries, with a focus on South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. It focuses on the disconnect between policy formulation and execution, arguing that the lack of coherent, context-specific policies has led to slow progress and entrenched inequalities. Using a qualitative research approach, the paper analyzes secondary data, including policy documents, government reports, and academic literature employing thematic analysis to identify key themes. Policy Implementation Theory was used to analyze the gap between policy design and execution, while Institutional Theory explored how governance structures and socio-economic contexts shape land reform outcomes. The paper finds that weak governance, political resistance, resource limitations, and fragmented institutional structures hinder effective land reform. Additionally, socio-cultural factors, including gender inequality and elite capture, further complicate the process. Ultimately, the paper concludes with actionable recommendations for strengthening policy frameworks, emphasizing the need for context-specific policies, robust governance, stakeholder engagement, and post-settlement support to ensure the success of land reform.

SUSTAINABILITY IS ALL THE RAGE: CAN FIRMS HAVE THEIR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO? A LITERATURE REVIEW

Loredana Pamfile — 2026-01-15

This study reviews the literature on environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and their impact on corporate behavior and financial performance, highlighting the challenges of standardizing ESG data and aligning regulatory efforts with market needs. Market participants use ESG information; thus, a solid framework is essential for understanding its effect on financial outcomes. The lack of standardization creates uncertainty, reduces disclosure reliability, and limits investors’ informed decision-making. This paper addresses three key themes: the impact of ESG on corporate financial performance, inconsistencies in ESG disclosures and ratings that create data ambiguity, and the influence of evolving global ESG regulations. Drawing on numerous academic articles from reputable journals covering trends in emerging and mature markets, the review employs a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify themes and gaps. Findings indicate that ESG integration generally produces positive or neutral financial outcomes, though regional differences exist, and inconsistent data affects ratings. The study contributes by examining ESG frameworks, categorizing their effects on companies and investments, and emphasizing the need for standardized ESG data to enhance transparency, reduce greenwashing, and support informed, sustainable investment decisions.

DOMESTIC AND INBOUND TOURISM AS VECTORS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND INTERNATIONAL IMAGE PROMOTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

Elena Nirean — 2026-01-15

In the course of the research, the relationship between inbound tourism and domestic tourism was analyzed as complementary pillars of the tourism market in the Republic of Moldova, as well as their joint contribution to economic growth, social cohesion, and the promotion of the national image. The motivation for the research stemmed from the increasingly important role of tourism in sustainable development and from Moldova’s recent international recognition, having been ranked among the Top 10 best-performing European tourist destinations in 2025. The main hypothesis formulated on the basis of the research results assumes that the expansion of inbound tourism, supported by domestic demand, strengthens the country’s international visibility and contributes to the growth of the Gross Domestic Product and employment. The purpose of the study was to analyze the dynamics of inbound and domestic tourism and to assess their impact on the socio-economic development of the Republic of Moldova. The methodology applied combined quantitative analysis of statistical indicators for the period 2015–2024 with qualitative interpretation of policy measures and promotional outcomes. The research findings indicated a steady postpandemic increase in tourist flows, a 62% rise in international arrivals compared to 2019, and an increase in tourism’s contribution to the formation of the Gross Domestic Product to 1.8% in 2024. The conclusions highlighted that the synergy between domestic and inbound tourism enhances the competitiveness of the tourism sector and strengthens the image of the Republic of Moldova as an authentic and sustainable European destination.

DATA JUSTICE IN FOOD MARKETING: WILL ALGORITHMS ELIMINATE DATA BIAS ON PLATFORMS?

Shanshan Shi — 2026-01-15

The increasing reliance on algorithmic systems in food marketing creates both opportunities and risks for equity and accountability. This study is motivated by concerns that algorithms, while promising personalisation and efficiency, may also reproduce biases and obscure power relations. The objective is to examine whether and how existing research addresses three facets (nutrition disclosure, misinformation, and big data/AI) and to assess the relationship between data justice, algorithmic decision-making, and marketing practices. Methods include a systematic literature review of studies published between 2013 and 2023, resulting in twelve works meeting defined criteria, combined with a one-month monitoring of 3,300 social media posts across major platforms. Findings indicate that algorithms enable more targeted and personalised marketing yet frequently amplify biases due to flawed inputs and limited training diversity. Only a small share of studies integrate all facets, while platform monitoring shows substantial reach and enduring visibility via news/blogs, with topical salience around “food,” “nutrition,” “data,” and “precision nutrition.” The results suggest algorithmic “nutrition labels,” diverse datasets, and transparent governance mechanisms are essential innovations to align data-driven marketing with principles of justice and public interest.

TEXTILE BIO-COLORING – VEGETAL AND BACTERIAL PIGMENTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

Aliona Raru — 2026-01-15

This paper explores sustainable methods of textile dyeing using natural pigments, taken from plant sources (walnut leaves and hibiscus) and pathogenic pigments bacteria. The theoretical section provides an overview of natural dyes, their chromatic and functional potential, and bio-dyeing techniques. The experimental research involved the preparation of textile samples made of cotton, linen, wool, and silk, followed by the application of natural pigments under varying conditions of time, temperature, and pH. Significant differences in pigment absorption were observed depending on the fibre composition, exposure time, and colour modifiers used. Animal-based fibres demonstrated higher colour intensity, while plantbased fibres yielded softer, pastel tones. Solid powdered pigments were also extracted and preserved for potential reuse. Additionally, bacterial dyeing was applied to create spontaneous and organic visual prints with promising applications in artistic and bio-inspired textile design. The results confirm the viability of bio-coloration methods in contemporary textile practices and support the transition to environmentally responsible solutions. Future research directions include testing light and wash fastness, expanding the bacterial pigment palette, and integrating these innovative dyeing methods into functional and smart textiles.

STRENGTHENING HIGHER EDUCATION THROUGH COHERENT AND SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC POLICIES: JAPANESE EXPERIENCE AND IMPLICATIONS FOR THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

Larisa Savga — 2026-01-15

Higher education is the main pillar for innovative economic, technological, and social development. Japanese universities have become not only centers of education but also hubs of research and innovation. Although the Republic of Moldova and Japan are in different economic and cultural contexts, the Japanese experience offers a valuable model for the strategic integration of higher education into socio-economic development processes. The purpose of the research is to analyze the performance, policies, and evolution of the higher education system in Japan in order to identify good practices that can be transferred to the Republic of Moldova to improve the quality and efficiency of university education. Methods used: documentary and statistical analysis, comparative-descriptive analysis, policy analysis, benchmarking and policy transfer framework. The research reveals that the success of higher education in Japan is due to consistent performance-oriented policies and universities' commitment to excellence. Transferring Japanese experience to the Republic of Moldova can support the modernization of the university system and contribute to increasing the performance and relevance of higher education in relation to societal challenges.

THE ROLE OF UNIVERSITY EDUCATION IN FORMING THE ARCHITECT'S SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Laura-Francesca Tofan — 2026-01-15

In the context of accelerated urbanization, sustainable development, and cultural heritage protection, fostering ethical conduct and social responsibility in architecture becomes essential for adequately addressing the challenges of contemporary society. The lack of effective integration of ethical and social principles in university education can limit the ability of future architects to make responsible decisions and respond to community needs. Research objective: To analyze the role of university education in developing architects’ social and moral responsibility, emphasizing the importance of the responsibility dimension in shaping students’ ethical and civic competencies. The study is based on an analysis of both local and international specialized literature and highlights the integration of ethical and social principles into the curriculum, as well as the role of professors in shaping moral conduct. The focus is on developing creativity, social responsibility, and the ability to make decisions that positively impact the community and the built environment. The results confirm that university education is a determining factor in strengthening the social and professional responsibility of architects, preparing them to face professional challenges within an ethical and responsible framework.

TEACHING IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS TO LEARNERS OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Corina Tintiuc — 2026-01-15

The present study underscores the pedagogical significance of teaching idiomatic expressions in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom—an aspect frequently overlooked or undervalued in language instruction. Some educators perceive idioms as excessively challenging for novice learners, while others fail to extend the idiomatic repertoire of intermediate and advanced students in pedagogically meaningful ways. Consequently, this article seeks to encourage English language teachers to integrate idiomatic expressions systematically into their instructional practice by selecting items that correspond to learners’ proficiency levels and communicative needs. The paper further aims to elucidate the concept of the idiom by examining diverse taxonomies and exploring how these classifications can inform the development of effective teaching strategies in the EFL context. Mastery of idiomatic language not only facilitates greater fluency and more nativelike expression but also enhances learners’ understanding of the sociocultural and pragmatic dimensions of English. Furthermore, engagement with idiomatic expressions promotes linguistic awareness and cognitive flexibility, prompting learners to reflect critically on their own language use. Although the acquisition of idioms presents notable challenges, their pedagogical value remains undeniable, as idioms are often regarded as the “soul of the language,” enriching communication with cultural depth, expressiveness, and stylistic sophistication.

FUNCTIONAL TEACHING STRATEGIES FOR DEVELOPING SPECIALIZED LANGUAGE IN MEDICAL EDUCATION

Aliona Busuioc — 2026-01-15

The article includes an analysis in order to ensure the formation of specialized language among foreign medical students, practical application and deep understanding of concepts in the medical field are necessary. Functional teaching strategies are essential because they place medical terms in real contexts, allowing students from the Faculty of Medicine no.2 (international students) to associate them with clinical manifestations, treatment decisions, and patient interactions; they encourage foreign students to think beyond the simple name, they must analyze, compare, evaluate, and synthesize information to master the specialized language. Functional teaching strategies train students to use terms correctly, precisely and unambiguously; they help foreign students practice interacting with the patient, transforming them from a passive receiver of information into an active participant in the learning process. Functional teaching strategies transform learning specialized language from a rote memorization activity into a dynamic, contextualized process essential for the development of future healthcare professionals, capable of thinking critically, communicating effectively, and ensuring patient safety.

DIGITALIZATION OF THE WORKFORCE: CHALLENGES FOR EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES

Aliona Șaptefrați — 2026-01-15

The article analyzed the challenges faced by employees and employers involved in the process of workforce digitalization. The challenges arising from workforce digitalization, job task transformations, the complexity of professional skills and the quality of jobs were highlighted. The issues related to how workforce digitalization has affected the business environment, in terms of planning, management, coordination and control of work within the economic entity were addressed.

DIGITALISATION OF THE TRANSNISTRIAN REGION HEALTH SYSTEM AS A REGIONAL COMPONENT IN THE DNIESTER RIVER ECOSYSTEM

Corina Kaushan — 2026-01-15

The European Union provides unprecedented support to developing regions and autonomous territorial communities in the Republic of Moldova through the “Economic Recovery Plan for Moldova,” emphasizing the need to implement ambitious reforms for the benefit of citizens and to strengthen health systems in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examined the current state of the healthcare system in the Transnistrian region and highlighted the urgent need to integrate it into the European digital ecosystem. The digital transformation of the economy and the healthcare sector in the Eastern Partnership (EaP) regions constitutes a strategic objective, with significant implications for interregional cooperation, the development of small and medium-sized enterprises, and community wellbeing. In this context, the implementation of the Living Lab concept was proposed through an innovative public–private partnership model aimed at modernizing “Family Medicine Centers” and facilitating electronic interactions of the G2C, G2B, and G2G types. Such an approach would enhance the interoperability of information systems and strengthen cooperation among universities, local administrations, businesses, and civil society. The study’s conclusions underscore the considerable potential of digital transformation to improve healthcare service delivery and economic collaboration, highlighting its role in promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life in the region.

DATA GOVERNANCE IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR WITH LEXCHAIN: A HYBRID BLOCKCHAIN-CLOUD ARCHITECTURE PROPOSAL

Anatolie Alexei — 2026-01-15

As public administrations at the EU, national, regional, and municipal levels increasingly rely on digital systems to deliver public services, the need for secure, interoperable, and policy-compliant data exchange becomes critical. This paper presents LexChain, a decentralized data-sharing framework designed to address the technical and governance challenges of multi-level e-Governance. Built on a permissioned Ethereum-based blockchain, LexChain combines smart contracts, a decentralized identity system (LexID), and client-side encryption with data fragmentation to enable secure, auditable, and autonomous collaboration between institutions. By storing encrypted file fragments across public cloud providers and recording all metadata and access events on-chain, LexChain ensures that public sector entities can exchange information with full control, without relying on central intermediaries. The system supports interoperability across administrative levels while preserving compliance with privacy and audit requirements. This contribution demonstrates how blockchain-based architectures can strengthen digital trust, transparency, and coordination across multi-tier governance structures.

THE INFLUENCE OF ISLAMIC IDEOLOGIES ON TERRORISM AND TERRORISM FINANCING

Monsurat Isiaka — 2026-01-15

Despite extensive counter-terrorism and financial control measures, Nigeria continues to face violent Islamist insurgency. The persistence of terrorist groups including Boko Haram underscores a critical gap in national counter-terrorism strategy: the absence of coordinated, state-led faith-based de-radicalization programs. This study argues that the lack of institutionalized religious de-radicalization initiatives has contributed to the endurance of Islamist terrorism by enabling doctrinal reframing that legitimizes violence and sustains terrorism financing. Drawing on Social Movement Theory, the study employs a theorybuilding qualitative synthesis and iterative thematic analysis of peer-reviewed literature, official reports, investigative journalism, and primary doctrinal texts. (a) It examines how Boko Haram reinterprets zakat, sadaqah, hawala, taghūt, takfīr, and jihad to construct diagnostic, prognostic, and motivational frames, and (b) evaluates ideological gaps in Nigeria’s counterterrorism programs. Evidence reveal that doctrinal reframing underpins recruitment and fundraising through unregulated charitable and hawala networks, while existing state responses remain largely kinetic and theologically disengaged. The study recommends integrating well-resourced, state-led faith-based de-radicalization programs anchored in credible theological counter-narratives, clerical partnerships, and regulated charitable flows to complement security efforts, strengthen community trust, and achieve measurable prevention outcomes.

DYNAMICS OF COMMUNICATION IN THE CURRENT SOCIAL CONTEXT: THE LANGUAGE CHOICE IN MOLDOVA AND UKRAINE

Inga Galben — 2026-01-15

The study examines the preferences of communication in current in Republic of Moldova. It includes some of the references to a survey conducted online in September 2025, on Romanian-speaking professionals in multinational organizations, investigating how speakers navigate between Romanian linguistic structures and international terminology. The research employs quantitative survey methodology to analyze communication preferences, motivations for borrowing, and attitudes toward linguistic adaptation. Findings reveal that more than 40% of professionals prefer moderate hybridization, with the codeswitching, maintaining Romanian structures, while incorporating English technical terminology. This change is driven primarily by “terminology gaps”, as mentioned in the survey. Some respondents declare incorporating English constructions being driven by the prestige and under the senior professionals’ influence. Workplace social networks exert stronger influence than external factors, supporting that socially accepted norms are the main change mechanisms. Domain-specific compartmentalization emerges as professionals accept hybridization professionally and transfer these linguist habits in the personal communication. Comparative analysis with Ukraine's post-2022 language shift illuminates distinct pathways: identity-driven rapid replacement versus necessity-driven stable hybridization. The study validates theoretical frameworks for digital-age contexts, demonstrating that professional language hybridization represents strategic adaptive competence rather than linguistic degradation, with implications for organizational communication policy and language education in globalized professional environments.