bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking CEO pay to firm performance: empirical evidence from the electric utility industry
Authors: Duru Augustine I. , Iyengar Raghavan J.
Published: June 2007

Outlines previous research on the relationship between CEO compensation and firm performance, arguing that in regulated industries the executive skills sought and performance measures used might differ from those in un‐regulated firms. Uses 1992‐1995 data on the US electricity industry to investigate the interaction between four compensation components (salary, bonus, long‐term compensation and stock options) and five performance measures (market returns, return on assets, earnings per share, operating cash flow per share and sales growth). Presents the results, which suggest that changes in bonuses and stock options are closely related to changes in market return and sales growth respectively. Considers the reasons for this, the limitations of the study and some avenues for further research.
The relationship between research & development expenditure and executive compensation in high‐technology industries
Authors: Persons Obeua S.
Published: June 2007

Outlines previous research on the links between R&D expenditure, firm value and executive compensation; and presents a study of the relationship between R&D expenditure and total cash executive compensation in the US pharmaceutical and computer/telecommunications industries between 1979 and 1996. Uses pooled cross‐sectional time series regression to find a positive link between compensation, R&D and accounting earnings for both industries over the whole period (although the significance varies for each in different sub‐periods); but mixed results for the relationship with cash flow. Discusses consistency with other research and the implications of the findings.
The relationship between pay‐for‐performance contracting and external monitoring
Authors: Traichal Patrick A. , Gallinger George W. , Johnson Steve A.
Published: June 2007

Identifies three approaches to controlling the agent‐principal conflict for CEOs (market discipline, compensation structure and monitoring mechanisms) and reviews previous relevant research. Develops a mathematical model of the relationship between pay‐for‐performance sensitivity and external monitoring; and tests it on 1971‐1993 US data. Presents the results, which suggest that the sensitivity is significantly affected by monitors, growth opportunities and CEO share ownership. Considers consistency with other research and the implications of the findings.
Banking on the Euro: changes and challenges
Authors: Templeton William K. , Anne Bond Charlotte
Published: June 2007

Considers the likely effects of EMU and the introduction of the euro on the “fragmented” European banking industry. Recognizes that transition to the euro will be expensive in terms of equipment, training, customer care etc.; and that some new products and services will be demanded (e.g. cross‐border cash management systems, euro‐denominated bonds etc.) while others will decline (e.g. foreign exchange hedging, commercial loans etc.). Refers to US experience to identify growth opportunities and discusses the current and future impact of increased competitition in the new market; and strategies for surviving it.
The euro impact on European financial markets
Authors: Holder Mark
Published: June 2007

Considers the implications of EMU and the introduction of the euro for European financial institutions and markets. Discusses the likely effects on interest rates, banks, stock/futures exchanges, asset allocation and the markets for bonds, equities and derivatives. Warns that financial markets and institutions must adjust to these changes in order to survive, but believes that European economies will benefit in the long run.
The firm‐level effects of European monetary unification
Authors: Barrett Christopher B. , Turongpun Wichai
Published: June 2007

Considers the likely microeconomic effects of European Monetary Union (EMU) and the European Central Bank (ECB), i.e. impact on firm‐level incentives and performance. Believes that firms’ uncertainty will be reduced by “a more stable and prudent macroeconomic environment”, and that a strong euro will lead to lower interest rates, reduced transaction costs, the elimination of exchange rate risk within the EMU and therefore increased output, investment and competition. Accepts that firms may find transition costs expensive and that opportunities for fraud and errors will increase in the transition period. Identifies the sectors and types of firm most likely to benefit in the short term and recognizes the possibility of longer term problems which may reverse the competitive advantages.
Empirical applications of the Ohlson [1995] and Feltham and Ohlson [1995, 1996] valuation models
Authors: Stober Thomas L.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the key features of the Ohlson (1995) and Feltham and Ohlson (1995, 1996) models, which relate share values to current accounting numbers, and reviews research on their empirical application. Identifies some inconsistencies in results and directions for future research.
Fundamental and macroeconomic information for the security prices valuation: the French case
Authors: Martinez Isabelle
Published: June 2007

Summarizes previous research on the links between share prices, accounting earnings and fundamentals (i.e. financial variables); identifies value‐relevant fundamentals used by analysts and assesses their usefulness by using principal components analysis on 1992‐1996 data for 50 French industrial firms. Finds three important factors (profitability ratios, returns/leverage and working capital/financial balance) which can be used in conjunction with two macroeconomic variables (inflation and change in real gross national product) to explain return variability.
Economic sanctions: obstruction or instrument for world trade?
Authors: Ali Abbis J. , Camp Robert C.
Published: June 2007

Relates Adam Smith’s invisible hand to present day globalization and considers the impact of US trade and economic sanctions on the world economy. Discusses the political roots of these sanctions, their objectives (both overt and covert), costs and incompatibility with free trade. Puts forward eight ideas to minimize the damage they do to individuals and to free trade; and calls on governments to aim at “constructive dialogue and cooperative relations with other nations” instead.
Shariah and the evolution of property rights: special reference to South Asia
Authors: Farooque A.J.M.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the evolution of the idea of private property in the West and in early Islamic states; and its practical translation into property rights in land in the UK, Islamic territories and South Asia. Provides a glossary of terms which may be unfamiliar to Western readers and argues that the East India Company’s Permanent Settlement Regulation in South Asia recognized existing rights and did not create new ones. Believes that understanding this is important for any evolutionary theory of the South Asian economy.
The day of the merchant: a comment on economic thought in a national order
Authors: Karkensson Lewis
Published: June 2007

Places the concept of “national order” in the context of seventeenth century Europe, describes its characteristics and relates it to mercantilism, i.e. using economic activity to serve the interests of the nation. Outlines the ideas of one merchant of this time, quoting from his writings to illustrate his beliefs in the need for a favourable balance of trade, use of idle resources, minimization of consumption etc. Contrasts his “patriotic economics” with modern ideas (e.g. the principle of comparative advantage) but sees some similarities, e.g. in the recurring trade disputes between the USA and Japan.
“Inspiring Readers”: a cross border reader development project
Authors: Peoples Anne , Ward Trisha
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a major reader development initiative delivered by a cross‐border partnership, involving two public library authorities (one in Ireland and one in the UK). It aims to outline the strategies and activities developed to support the wider political agenda of building a peaceful and stable society.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an introduction to the context within which the project was developed and an overview of the project delivery. It focuses on the development of project activities to address the peace and reconciliation agenda and draws on the external evaluation report findings.

Findings

The project demonstrates that public libraries are well placed to develop and deliver community‐based programmes to address sensitive and contentious issues, through the provision of reading activities and opportunities for meaningful discussion.

Originality/value

This paper is based on the experience of two public library services, operating in different countries, in communities divided by physical borders and sectarian divisions. It shows how libraries can capitalise on their local presence, and the imaginative space provided by books and reading, to move from their traditional role as a neutral space to a more dynamic role, in which the promotion of reading supports inclusion and diversity.
Your place or mine? Face‐to‐face reference services across campus
Authors: Del Bosque Darcy , Chapman Kimberly
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study which describes reference and instruction outreach programs promoted by the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Library. Direct‐2‐U Reference, Crash Courses, and Drop‐In Tours reached out to students in innovative ways to encourage non‐library users to see what they were missing and to give current library users even more choices. Direct‐2‐U Reference provided opportunities for students to get research help on their own turf. Librarians offered assistance at several locations across campus, combining the benefits of face‐to‐face reference with the convenience of getting help without going to the physical library. Library Crash Courses promoted subject‐specific assistance without the formality of in‐class instruction. Drop‐In Tours allowed curious students to figure out the layout of the library and get answers to their questions.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study describes researching alternative services, and includes practical information on how services were implemented. Information is presented about ongoing evaluation of the outreach programs that improved the direction, marketing, and overall success of the programs.

Findings

The outreach programs promoted by the library reached additional users, provided more options for patrons, and improved the visibility of the library campus‐wide.

Originality/value

This case study will be of interest to other academic librarians wanting to provide library services outside the library. It builds on the existing literature regarding library outreach services.
The role of courts in maritime arbitration in Greek, and US law
Authors: Zekos Georgios I.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the meaning of arbitration and the legal characteristics it possesses under Greek Law. Looks at the type of cases subject to arbitration, the arbitration agreement and the use of the civil court. Compares the situation to US Law, again outlining the legal stance and covering areas such as the methods employed with the courts, conduct of the hearing, limitations of the arbitrator’s power and the judicial review of awards made. Concludes that both systems rely on the courts to make vital decisions and advocates a secondary system without such reliance.
A voluntary alternative route for unfair dismissal claims: arbitration
Authors: Carby Hall Jo
Published: June 2007

Attempts to describe, comment, analyse and evaluate the various facets of the voluntary arbitration scheme. Provides brief information showing the development towards the present situation and provides some explanation. Details the arbitration system, at some length, including structure and proceedings, then attempts to evaluate and analyse the situation in order to draw some conclusions. Suggests that an alternative method of individual dispute resolution is now imperative due to the rise in volume and associated costs. Proffers the use of the ACAS Arbitration Scheme.
An overview of US Supreme Court decisions in sexual harassment cases
Authors: Applen Heather , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Provides a background to the development of sexual harassment legislation through the Supreme Court. Examines the characteristics of sexual harassment laws and how the Supreme Court has implemented and expanded these rules in specific cases. Concludes that it is imperative that employers understand their liability for sexual misconduct in the workplace and use the presented cases to formulate and enforce an effective anti‐harassment policy.
New developments concerning wrongful termination in academic institutions
Authors: Giano Steve V. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Considers the reasons under which contracts can be terminated under the “at will” clause and discusses the misuse of this term leading to wrongful termination. Looks at the different rights in law of some institutions that operate as “religious entities”. Outlines the principles of wrongful termination and academic tenure, providing case law history. Concludes that there are areas where wrongful dismissal is difficult to prove under present guidelines.
New developments concerning perjury
Authors: Nasir Yaqub Mohammad , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Looks at the historical development of the “oath” before discussing developments in organizational behaviour and the atmosphere of the justice system. Considers the law and psychology and the cross examination of witnesses. Looks at the difference between perjury and deception.
The use of the four‐fifths rule in discrimination cases
Authors: Ismail Rashid , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the four fifths rule in discrimination cases citing areas of its use in personnel actions. Provides case laws examples. Considers in particular a case against Pepsi‐Cola. Concludes with some criticisms of the concept.
New developments concerning negligent supervision
Authors: Chan Angus , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the general reasons behind negligent supervision such as lack of training, lack of communication and lack of understanding. Outlines a case study regarding a corporate law department in some depth. Provides three other case studies before proceeding to consider the effects on employees and suggest solutions to prevent negligent supervision. Concludes that supervisors have significant roles to undertake and sufficient training must be provided, together with professional recruitment to minimize unsuitable candidates.
Administrative exemptions in paying overtime
Authors: Khorsandi Daniel , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the reason for the creation of the US Department of Labor in order to promote improvements to working conditions and looks at the development of the Fair Labor Standards Act 1938. Discusses the types of employment that can be exempted from the act and the criteria used to establish these. Describes each of the four classes that qualify for exemption status and the provisions applied within the state of California. Provides pros and cons for each.
New developments concerning jury strategy
Authors: Huong Nguyen Thanh , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Provides a general survey of four issues of contemporary litigation: preliminary jury instruction, juror note taking, juror notebooks and questions from the jury during testimony. Looks at each in turn and evaluates their merits. Considers further ways in which jury involvement can be enhanced.
Analysing jobs to determine exempt or non‐exempt status
Authors: Lusinsky Elizabeth , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Provides a historical perspective on the US Fair Labor Standards Act. Discusses how to ascertain exemption status and outlines exempt job classification. Gives case studies as examples. Considers the implications for the future of exempt and non‐exempt status.
New developments concerning the occupational safety and health act
Authors: Pao Te‐Hsin , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the current situation with regard to protection of workers in the workplace in the USA. Discusses the reforms that are currently being discussed in the new congress. Gives details of the proposed new OSHAA industry wide ergonomics standard covering purpose, scope identification and training. Looks at the importance of ergonomics in the workplace in minimizing musculoskeletal disorders. Considers ergonomics compliance with Federal OHSA and concludes that if these proposals are introduced, it would mean sweeping changes with employers forced to review and evaluate almost every job undertaken within a company.
“Measure for measure”
Authors: Carby Hall Jo
Published: June 2007

Examines the situation in the UK in some detail with regard to three aspects of the Charter of Fundamental Human Rights of the European Union. Looks at the aims, together with an analysis and appraisal. Considers, first, information and consultation rights with regards to the transfer of undertakings and redundancies, followd by the right to collective action and, lastly, protection in the event of unjustifiable dismissal. Presents case law throughout as examples. Concludes that the UK has attempted to prevent social and economic rights for workers from being included in the final charter despite fierce opposition. Compares this view together with the UK suspicion of Europe against the views of the other member states.
The internal grievance process and grievance arbitration in Quebec: an illustration of the North‐American methods of resolving disputes arising from the application of collective agreements
Authors: Trudeau Gilles
Published: June 2007

Presents the legal framework and functioning of grievance arbitration in Quebec, demonstrating how this method of conflicgt resolution emerged and, with time, has managed to free itself from both civil law and the court of general jurisdiction. Presents an overall assessment of the grievance and arbitration procedure. Takes account of the three objectives that are traditionally sought in establishing alternative mechanisms of conflict resolution in the field of labour, accessibility, speed and expertise. Summarises the merits and drawbacks of the system.
The judge and social law: jurisprudential policies in interpreting and making laws
Authors: Carby‐Hall Jo
Published: June 2007

Attempts to analyse the role of the judge in interpreting statute law. Looks at the traditional British rules of interpretation, presumptions and jurisprudential policy in the construction of statutes. Examines the dramatics change of attitude by British judges necessitated by European law and provides some thoughts on the interpretation and construction of enactments by judges. Continues by covering the judge’s interpretation of common law through the doctrine of judicial precedent, with regard to the hierarchy of the courts and persuasive precedents. Cites a number of case examples.
The evolution of anti‐fraud policy in the European Community from a constitutional law perspective
Authors: Nikodem Andras
Published: June 2007

Cites the fight against fraud as a high priority for European citizens, European institutions and national parliaments. Asks what path the European institutions follow since the adoption of the founding treaties in order to combat fraud and its inevitable effects. Overviews the connection between the allocation of competence and the legal basis principle concerning anti‐fraud policy. Follows by tackling the effects of budgetary mechanisms and finishes by attempting to shed light on the development of internal anti‐fraud structures within the Commission. Allows the reader to understand the conflict between the acquisition of powers for the Community institutions to fight fraud and the protection of criminal law jurisdiction as the prerogative of the national state.
Bullying at work – the legal position
Authors: Porteous Janette
Published: June 2007

Explores the existing law in relation to bullying in the workplace and attempts to determine how effective it is in offering legal redress and protection to the victim. Considers whether it is time that the UK introduced specific legislation to deal with such behaviour, citing other European countries, particularly Sweden and Norway as possessing examples of potential legislation. Seeks to answer the question, should the UK follow their lead and legislate in this area?
The future of nuclear energy in Europe: questions, problems and perceptions
Authors: Ryland Diane
Published: June 2007

Asks whether nuclear power is viable as a clean source of energy and an independent energy source and whether it should be used to attain targeted reductions in fossil fuels or as a method of electricity generation. Also considers whether nuclear energy should be used in preference to energy from a third country. Discusses problems such as technological safety, nuclear waste, costs and the individual energy policies of Member States. Cites the main issue as public perception as the subject is regarded as dangerous and secretive. Outlines how the debate in Europe is being re‐evaluated and with the evolution of new science and technology, the positive contribution of nuclear energy to sustainable development is a factor to be weighed in the balance.
Penal law in confrontation with the nightmares of the past and challenges of the present day
Authors: Kochanowski Janusz
Published: June 2007

Considers the penal law in Poland since the change in regime from totalitarian to democratic state. Discusses the different approaches used and the change in crime over the decade. Gives some statistics. States that Polish law will have to change to comply with European law as it strive to join the economic community. Concludes that the reader should “ponder anew the sense and role of penal responsibility” on an international scale.
New developments in Californian OSHA laws
Authors: Hogan Suzanne , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Outlines the requirements of the Californian Occupational Safety and Health Act 1973 with particular reference to the updates, additions and reforms. Covers areas such as illness and injury prevention programme, budget constraints, workplace violence, ergonomics and smoking and ventilation. Looks at the plans for a new OSHA and concludes that this area will always be subject to change as attempts are made to keep pace with new hazards.
Understanding defamation in the workplace
Authors: Rojas Victor M. , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Briefly defines defamation. Outlines the classes of defamation and the elements which must exist before action can be called. Considers particular defamation including opinion; humour, satire, epithets and fiction; inducement colloquium and innuendo. Lists the most common reasons encountered in claims of defamation. Covers the types of damages which may be awarded: special, general and punitive and what mitigation may be used. Concludes that this is an area which is often overlooked and training is required to ensure it is avoided.
How to differentiate essential job duties from marginal job duties
Authors: Ming Chow Chi , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Briefly outlines why it is necessary to distinguish between marginal and essential job duties before providing definition for both. Covers the need for job analysis and the techniques which may be employed to assist line managers. Discusses the need for job descriptions and gives brief details of areas which such a description should include. Looks at the requirements of the American with Disabilities Act in relation to this subject.
Issues in employment litigation
Authors: Doyle Tanya , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Cites that discrimination, wrongful termination and sexual harassment account for over 60 per cent of all claims. Looks at the Title VII of the Civil Rights Act 1964 and considers the position particularly in California. Discusses preventative measure including the statutory defences which employees must claim have been breached in order to make a claim. Covers alternative dispute resolution and provides a brief case study of a frivolous claim.
The contractual nature of social law
Authors: Carby‐Hall Jo
Published: June 2007

Proposes to treat social law contracts by covering the two most important aspects of the contract of employment, and also the collective agreement. Covers the contract of employment in full with all the integral laws explained as required, including its characteristics, written particulars, sources or regulations, with regard to employers, are also covered. Lengthy coverage of the collective agreement is also included, showing legal as well as moral (!) requirements, also included are cases in law that are covered in depth.
International framework agreements in the global textile, garment and footwear sector
Authors: Miller Doug , Grinter Steve
Published: June 2007

Seeks to outline the policy and practice of the International, Textile, Garment and Leather Workers’ Federation, with respect to multinationals in the sector. Explains there is an anti‐union stance on the part of some multinationals, a plethora of existing regulatory frameworks and possible joint employer resistance to such a development. Concludes that while the Federation is in line with other global unions, the negotiation of agreements is a much harder object to realise.
Regulations in the field of social protection in Romania
Authors: Tinca Ovidiu
Published: June 2007

Highlights social policy in Romania and how it has changed from pre‐1990 to its situation today (from nil to 9 per cent unemployment!). Covers the Laws and Acts therein in great detail, showing how they are used and when. Concludes the “social pact” signed between the government and the unions, to which no other social category takes part, is proof that social policies are influenced by the work contract.
Maritime safety culture in Europe
Authors: Thébault Lucie
Published: June 2007

Evaluates the effects of shipwrecks and peoples’ reactions following them, with regard to their feelings of preventability on someone’s part. In particular to the Erika in 1989, and the Prestige in 2002. The European Union (EU), which theretofore seemed to be neglecting maritime safety appears to have developed a maritime culture. The EU seems to have adopted the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) attitude regarding safety protocols, which must be a right and proper thing to do. Concludes that shipping has needed, and is now receiving, a proactive approach with regard to safety from the EU which should limit, as far as possible, disasters of both a human and ecological kind for the maritime world.
Implementation of judicial independence in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in the rule of law context
Authors: Shin Marina , Zhanuzakova Madina , Kim Stanislav , Mirzalieva Lada
Published: June 2007

Proposes this research is seeking to combine the theory and practice of judicial independence based in Western notions of the “Rule of Law”, modern developments of this doctrine in the documents and laws of both Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
Human security in South Asian paradigm
Authors: Hussain Shaheed Soherwordi Syed
Published: June 2007

Posits an effort has been made to discuss transitions from traditional security to human (or comprehensive security) in South Asia. Concludes that some light has been thrown on the United Nation’s (UN’s) role in security‐shift phenomenon, as the UN also needs some reform.
Collective representation in labour law in Germany
Authors: Weiss Manfred
Published: June 2007

Looks at the unique way Germany’s trade unions work, by the use of workers’ participation with elected representatives, which uses works councils in conjunction with management. Briefly sketches the structure and function of these very different and apposite ends of the spectrum.
Law and finance in a digital and global world
Authors: Zekos Georgios I.
Published: June 2007

Globalisation is generally defined as the “denationalisation of clusters of political, economic, and social activities” that destabilize the ability of the sovereign State to control activities on its territory, due to the rising need to find solutions for universal problems, like the pollution of the environment, on an international level. Globalisation is a complex, forceful legal and social process that take place within an integrated whole with out regard to geographical boundaries. Globalisation thus differs from international activities, which arise between and among States, and it differs from multinational activities that occur in more than one nation‐State. This does not mean that countries are not involved in the sociolegal dynamics that those transboundary process trigger. In a sense, the movements triggered by global processes promote greater economic interdependence among countries. Globalisation can be traced back to the depression preceding World War II and globalisation at that time included spreading of the capitalist economic system as a means of getting access to extended markets. The first step was to create sufficient export surplus to maintain full employment in the capitalist world and secondly establishing a globalized economy where the planet would be united in peace and wealth. The idea of interdependence among quite separate and distinct countries is a very important part of talks on globalisation and a significant side of today’s global political economy.
The United States, NATO and the role of alliances in international politics: Theoretical expectations and the empirical record
Authors: Kramer Mark
Published: June 2007

The power vacuum in Europe after World War II induced the United States and the Soviet Union to seek European allies against one another (an action that neorealists would describe as “external balancing”). The disparate geopolitical circumstances facing the two super powers were bound to have some effect on the types of alliances they sought. In the United States, many officials and legislators initially were reluctant to maintain a permanent military presence in Europe. They planned instead to help the West European states themselves acquire the wherewithal to sustain a viable balance against the Soviet Union. Not until after the outbreak of the Korean War in June 1950 did U.S. perceptions of the Soviet threat change enough to generate wide spread support for a huge increase in the U.S. military commitment to Western Europe. By that point, U.S. officials already sensed, from the Berlin crisis of 1948‐49, that the United States would need an extensive network of military bases in Western Europe if it wished to deter or rebuff Soviet probes on the continent. The increased deployment of U.S. troops and weapons in Europe from late 1950 on was geared toward that end, and was also intended to reassure the West Europeans of the strength of the U.S. commitment to their defense. That commitment had been nominally codified in April 1949 ‐ primarily at the West Europeans’ initiative ‐ with the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), but it was not until the early 1950s, after the shock of Korea, that the United States began putting up the resources needed to fulfill its military obligations to NATO.
The European social model and the social doctrine of the Catholic Church
Authors: Jacobs Antoine T. J. M.
Published: June 2007

I have chosen as title of my presentation “The European Social Model and the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church”, because, as we all know, the Catholic Church is a very influential force in the new EU Member State Poland. I would like to consider the question whether the European Social Model and the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church are in concordance with each other. The existance of such a concordance cannot be assumed a priori. Most European countries are nowadays pluriform societies, which values can deviate from those of the Catholic Church. We see this clearly on issues
like divorce, anticonception, abortion, euthanasia and homosexuality. On such items the divergence between the values of the EU and the Catholic Church are mean while so large, that even one year ago they led the European Parliament to dismiss the nomination of the Italian Buttiglioni for membership of the European Commission.
Social Security and the European Union
Authors: Laborde Jean‐Pierre
Published: June 2007

The impact of the European Union on Social Security is quite complex and enigmatic. At the starting point, there is a genuine paradox: whereas the construction of a large and unique market supposes, among many others prerequisites, the harmonization of social security systems, this harmonization is left to the good will of the member States since Social security is not truly within the competence of the Union. In these conditions, it is quite obvious that a thought and
organised harmonisation is absolutely unreachable. So we have yet very different systems from a State to an other and even the typology is very discouraging with at least four families of systems. As for the article 137 of the EC Treaty, which allows the European bodies to harmonize the different Social security legislations, without being completely vacuous, is extremely limited in its real reach by the rule of unanimity.
Freedom of competition and workers’ protection in conflict. Favour and Non Regression Clauses in EC
social directives
Authors: Carabelli Umberto , Leccese Vito
Published: June 2007

The paper aims to examine favor and non‐regression clauses, appearing ‐ in several occasions
jointly ‐ in European Community social directives, in order to underline the differences in their nature, function and effects on Member States’ legislation, also considering that the favour clause is now present in the article 137 of the Treaty.
Social protection in europe: What model, what rules?
Authors: Martin Philippe
Published: June 2007

Nowadays, most European welfare states have to face a crisis and to adapt themselves in the context of globalisation. This is true for most of the “original” European member states, so what a challenge for the European central and eastern countries that had to reform deeply their social systems in order to fit the rules of the market economy and join the European Union. So the point is to know in which direction the national systems of social protection are going by now.
European social charter: The right to strike
Authors: Marian Swiatkowski Andrzej
Published: June 2007

collective action in case of a collective labour conflict. Poland ratified the Charter in 1997, that is seventeen years after the world‐famous Polish Independent and Self‐Governing Trade Union Solidarity had been established. In order to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Union, I shall present a fragment of a monograph on the European Social Charter and, more specifically, on the right of workers to organise and participate in strikes. By means of the aforementioned regulation, both parties of collective employment relationships (workers and employers) were granted the right to take collective action
E‐commerce: managing the legal risks
Authors: Reinsch Roger
Published: June 2007

E‐commerce plays an important role in today’s business environment, and that role will continue to grow each year. eMarketer predicts that by “2004, world wide e‐commerce revenues are expected to total USD 2.7 trillion”. E‐commerce continues to grow in the United States. “The Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce announced today that the estimate of U.S. retail e‐commerce sales for the first quarter of 2004, not adjusted for seasonal, holiday, and trading‐day differences, was $15.5 billion, an increase of 28.1 per cent (±2.9 per cent) from the first quarter of 2003.” “According to a new study by RoperASW and AOL Time Warner, Europeans spent on average EUR430 on line between August and October 2002.” This compares with an average spend of EUR543 per head in the US over the same period.
The Evolution of Environmental Human Rights in Europe
Authors: Ryland Diane
Published: June 2007

There was no mention of ‘environmental rights’ in the Council of Europe, European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (ECHR) of 1950, comprised of civil and political rights. ‘In the 1950s, the universal need for environmental protection was not yet apparent.’ Environmental values have since evolved in response to societal change and increased public awareness. The turning point was the Stockholm Declaration on the Human Environment of 1972, which associated environ mental quality and well being with fundamental rights, and which declares that: ‘Man has a fundamental right to freedom, equality and adequate conditions of life, in an environment of a quality that permits a life of dignity and well being ...’
The Human Rights Movement ‐ Building Bridges through a Common Value System: Special Attention on Human Rights Education as a Strengthening Tool
Authors: Tucci Rosarie
Published: June 2007

In the summer of 1995, shortly after the UN launched the Decade for Human Rights Education,Henry Steiner, Director of Harvard University’s Law School Human Rights Program, provided added momentum for the campaign with these words of inspiration, “As little as two years ago, rare was the university whose curricula included human rights studies. Much has changed, to the point where one no longer questions why such studies should be offered but rather how they could be ignored.” While this is not entirely the case for the whole of universities spanning the globe, including Bulgaria, it does point favorably towards a growing mentality in the importance of human rights education. Grasping the significance of human rights education is an essential component for the full manifestation of human rights, and unfortunately, it is an element still missing. This, in a time when society should be moving to the next dimension‐beyond what we already know to be necessary to creating the reality that is, specific action towards implementation of human rights education. Perhaps then, it can only move us closer to fruition to question and unearth the road blocks to the realization of human rights education.
Hybrid Identities in the Information age: The Glocal in the World of Literature
Authors: Danova Madeleine
Published: June 2007

In his recent book Critique of Information, Scott Lash claims that contemporary times can better be understood as the information age rather than as postmodernism, the risk society, late capitalism, consumer society, etc. “Information society is, first, preferable to postmodernism”, he states, “in that the former says what the society principle is rather than saying merely what it comes after. Second, postmodernism deals largely with disorder, fragmentation, irrationality, whilst the notion of information accounts for both the (new) order and disorder that we experience.” He goes on to delineate the great difference that he sees between narrative and discourse, on the one hand, and information as it is presented by the media on the other. “Unlike, say, narrative or discourse or painting, the information in the papers comes in very short messages. It is compressed. Literally compressed. Narrative as in the novel works from a beginning, middle and end. The subjective intentions of the protagonist are the motor of the plot, the events follow from one an other as causes and effects. Discourse ‐ as in philosophic or social scientific texts ‐ is comprised of conceptual frameworks, of serious speech acts, of propositional logic, of speech acts backed up by legitimating arguments. Information is none of these.”. In fact, Lash suggests that, “the primary qualities of information are flow, disembeddedness, spatial compression, temporal compression, real‐time relations.” He ends his interpretation of our contemporary society with the conclusion that “informational knowledge is increasingly displacing narrative and discursive knowledge”.
The Cyprus Problem: International Politics Simulation
Authors: Dinkov Dinko , Stoyanov Stoyan
Published: June 2007

The Cyprus conflict is a classical case of protracted ethnic conflict with very obvious and important international dimensions. It is one of the major unresolved inter national conflicts, which for decades attracts the attention of the international community. The involvement of many countries and international organizations in the Cyprus conflict demonstrates the importance and seriousness of the conflict. During the last decades the conflict has cost a lot both for the Greek Cypriots and for the Turkish Cypriots. It claimed a lot of lives and caused serious economic damages and psychological destruction. The conflict began in the 1950s, erupted violently with blood shed at the end of 1963,and culminated in 1974 with the interventions of Greece and Turkey that led to the island’s current de facto division as the Greek Cypriot South and Turkish Cypriot North. Over the past 40 years many states have came out with various initiatives and have proposed various approaches for final settlement of the conflict. It also has been addressed by dozens of UN Security Council resolutions but all these have proved to be futile so far.
The Bulgarian Educational System and the Development of New Stereotypes and Group Representation
Authors: Todorova Elka
Published: June 2007

Fifteen years after the political changes, the educational system in Bulgaria is still searching the direction of its reformation. From a social psychological viewpoint this is a search for identity. The context of the educational reform being unknown has influenced the stakeholders to close themselves in their own groups and to refuse negotiations. A process of unbalanced interplay between internal and external representations of the main agents in education takes place. The paper compares the representations of own group and outer group of students, teachers, professors, professional educational staff focusing on the development of own mythology and self‐favoring biases. This illustrates the inoperative communication process taking place in the Bulgarian education.
Religion at Work: A Legal Quagmire
Authors: Morgan James F.
Published: June 2007

A religious revival is occurring in the United States today as the traditional wall preventing faith from entering the work place is crumbling. With workers increasingly practicing their religion at work, employers face a growing cavalcade of dilemmas, including those where employees discuss religious tenets, wear religious symbols, object to employer edits on the basis of faith, and proselytize. The faith/work challenge is made even more complex because of the greater number of religions practiced today (both traditional religions based on Judeo‐Christian principles and the so‐called “immigrant religions” that have blossomed during recent decades) coupled with the growing popularity of a host of “spirituality” movements. As the mixing of faith and work becomes common place, employers and employees naturally look to the law to establish concomitant rights and duties.
Educating Bulgarian Students for Both National and International Citizenship
Authors: Blackman Radha
Published: June 2007

What are the communication experiences associated with educating active citizens and activating youth to address social problems? How does this happen in the context of Bulgaria defining its national as well as European and global identity? This study conducted during the academic year 2003‐2004 specifically looks at how Bulgarian English language teachers are using democratic methods and projects to meet the goals of improved English language and citizenship skills to prepare their students to be active citizens of Bulgaria and future citizens of the European Union. Findings are still preliminary, and this paper will focus on background, methods, highlights and raw data.
My Place, Your Place, Our Place: Education for the Neighborhood and the World
Authors: Ross Glenda J. , Popova Diana , Ubben Gerald C. , Norris Cynthia
Published: June 2007

The curriculum and instruction model, My Place, Your Place, Our Place (MYOPlace), is a vehicle for implementing internationalization of teaching and learning in elementary and secondary schools by creating partnerships across borders to create learning projects to supplement existing local educational goals within a global con text. The model was developed at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee USA and Bourgas Free University in Bourgas, Bulgaria. It has been field tested in elementary and secondary schools in schools in rural Appalachia (a mountain region( of East Tennessee and in urban schools in Bourgas on the Black Sea coast.
Educating the Social Partners
Authors: Carby‐Hall Jo
Published: June 2007

At one of the European enlargement conferences the then Commissioner for Employment and Social Affairs said “social policy, from education to health and safety, from social protection to labour law, is the foundation stone of the EU’s successful political and economic progress, as political democracies and as market economies.” This statement puts in a nutshell the significance of the EU’s social policy programme. Within that programme the important function of the social dialogue between the social partners, namely the representatives of employers and representatives of employees, cannot be under estimated. The two way dialogue between the autonomous and independent representatives of each side of industry, as well as, where relevant, with governments, is not only of importance but is a key element of a meaningful social policy. Social policy is a primordial feature in the improvement of economic performance of any Member State and is central to a nation’s economic progress. The social dialogue, an important feature of European social policy, has not been with out its problems and has not always been easy to effectuate. In many cases employers are uneasy with this process; are reluctant to carry out a dialogue with unions; or simply refuse to recognise a union for collective bargaining purposes. In spite of these setbacks, there has been some progress made in the social dialogue field at European level.
Juan and Audrey–an environmental tale for transnational managers: corporate and individual culpability and liability under American environmental laws
Authors: Wyld David C.
Published: June 2007

Narrates the discussion between Juan (a corporate executive of a multinational company) and Audrey (an independent environmental consultant) when they sit next to each other on a flight. Explains, through the dialogue, some of the environmental pitfalls companies can encounter when basing operations in the USA, such as regulations relating to clean air, clean water, emissions, toxic pollutants, land use restrictions, species protection plans etc.). Makes the point that it is individuals who face civil and criminal penalties for breaking these regulations, not the company. Provides an overview of US environmental regulations and recommends that companies can avoid falling foul of the law through education, training and taking legal advice. Mentions ISO 14000 and 14001 environmental standards as a potential way forward, although they do not yet carry any weight under US law.