bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Online Security and Optimization Powered by Fingerprint in Online Voting System
Authors:   Lecturer in Computer Engineering, Central Polytechnic College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, M G Saji , Kalarikkal Renju ,   Lecturer in Computer Engineering, Central Polytechnic College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Published: February 2025

Election is a process in which voters choose their
representatives and express their preferences for the
way that they will be governed. Using the decade old
voting system to collect votes is no longer considered
efficient due to the various recurring errors. The
advancement of information and telecommunications
technologies allow for a fully automated online
computerized election process. An electronic voting
system defines rules for valid voting and gives an
efficient method of counting votes, which are
aggregated to yield a result. Moreover, electronic
voting systems can improve voter identification
process by utilizing biometric recognition which
provides more security. Biometrics is becoming an
essential component of personal identification
solutions, since biometric identifiers cannot be shared
or misplaced, and they represent any individual’s
identity. Fingerprint matching is a significant part of
this process. The value of democracy is voting. The
importance of voting is trust that each vote is recorded
and tallied with an accuracy and impartiality.
Key Words: Anti-spoofing measures, Feature
extraction, online voting system, Image acquisition.
Credit Risk Classification Using Discriminant Analysis for Punjab National Bank Customers
Authors:   Professor, Marketing at Prin. L. N. Welingkar Institute of Management Development and Research (PGDM), Mumbai, Kasbekar Dr. Mangesh Prasad
Published: February 2025

The way investors evaluate credit risk must change as India's financial markets grow more dynamic and the country's economy continues to change and diversify. Credit rating agencies' ratings are a reliable source of information and a conventional indicator of credit risk. Assessing credit risk usually entails speaking with management teams and examining the company's financial data. A purposeful consultation approach forms the basis of the ratings process, which is intended to provide a long-term credit assessment. Understanding the Credit Risk Associated with PNB Customer Classification is the foundation of this study. The study was conducted among 354 PNB customers falling under SEC A1 & A2 category households in the region of Thane. The study aids the bank to take an informed decision on classifying the group of customers with regards to their credit risk.

Keywords: Discriminant Analysis, Credit Risk Analysis, Punjab National Bank
An Analytical Study of use of UPI Payment Gateways among Post Graduate students in PCMC
Authors:   *1  Asst Prof. International Institute of Management Science, Pune, India, Deshpande Dr. Madhura
Published: February 2025

— This analytical study investigates the usage patterns, preferences, and perceptions surrounding the adoption of UPI (Unified Payments Interface) payment gateways among postgraduate students. With the rapid proliferation of digital payment solutions in India, understanding the dynamics of UPI adoption among this demographic group is crucial for promoting financial inclusion and driving the transition towards a cashless economy. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive insights into postgraduate students' experiences with UPI payment gateways. Key findings reveal a high level of awareness and adoption of UPI among postgraduate students, driven by factors such as convenience, security, and accessibility. Certain UPI platforms emerge as preferred choices, influenced by transaction speed, user interface design, and additional features. However, challenges such as security concerns and technical issues persist, warranting targeted interventions to enhance user education and address usability issues. The study underscores the importance of tailored strategies to promote UPI adoption among diverse student populations and highlights the potential of digital payment solutions to drive financial literacy and empower the youth. Recommendations for UPI service providers, educational institutions, and policymakers are provided to optimize the adoption and usage of UPI payment gateways among postgraduate students, contributing to the advancement of India's digital payment ecosystem.

Keywords— UPI Payments, Students, Online Payment
Object Detection Using YOLOv5: A Deep Learning Approach
Authors:   Department of Computer Science and Engineering, MGM’S College Of Engineering, Nanded, India, Thombre Sakshi
Published: February 2025

Object detection is a fundamental task in computer vision that involves identifying and localizing objects within images or video frames. This research focuses on implementing and evaluating the YOLOv5 (You Only Look Once version 5) model for real-time object detection. YOLOv5 is known for its efficiency, accuracy, and speed, making it a preferred choice for various applications such as autonomous driving, surveillance, and medical imaging. In this study, we explore the architecture, training process, and performance evaluation of YOLOv5 on benchmark datasets. The results demonstrate that YOLOv5 achieves high precision and recall, outperforming traditional object detection methods in terms of speed and accuracy.

Keywords: Object Detection, YOLOv5, Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Real-Time Processing, Neural Networks.
Womens Safety App
Authors:   Student, Computer Engineering, Mahavir Polytechnic, Nashik, Sonawane, Mr. Anup D.
Published: February 2025

Imagine you're a woman commuting back home late at night. You're in an unfamiliar area, and you're feeling a bit uneasy. You pull out your smartphone and open the Women Safety System Android app. Instantly, you share your real-time location with your close friends and family, so they can keep an eye on your journey.

You notice that the app suggests a safer route based on live data, helping you avoid potentially risky areas. As you walk, you come across an unexpected situation that makes you uncomfortable. With a single tap, you send an emergency alert to your trusted contacts, who receive your location and a distress signal, ensuring immediate assistance.

Moreover, the app provides you with useful tips on self-defense and safety, empowering you with the knowledge to protect yourself. This app becomes your trusted companion, helping you feel more secure and confident in navigating various situations.

Key Words: A one-touch feature that immediately alerts predefined contacts and shares the user’s location for immediate assistance. This applications can use to recognizes current location message send to predefined numbers.
Improving Human Resource Quality and Cultural Values to Foster Community Independence in the Gayo Coffee Agrotourism Area, Bener Meriah Regency
Authors: Faisal Rahmad , Ginting Ginta , Asnawi Said Kelana
Published: February 2025

This study aims to analyze the quality of human resources (HR), community culture, and economic independence in the Kopi Gayo Agrotourism area, Bener Meriah Regency, and how these factors contribute to community self-sufficiency. Using a mixed-method approach, the findings showed that the quality of HR in the area remains low, particularly in terms of knowledge, skills, and capabilities in managing coffee agritourism. Most respondents disagreed with the current quality, reflecting a limited understanding of the economic potential of coffee agritourism. The community's strong cultural value of gotong royong (mutual cooperation) has not been fully utilized in agritourism management because of a lack of coordination and collective awareness. Furthermore, the community's independence in facing competition and running agritourism businesses is low, as indicated by a lack of confidence and reluctance to innovate. This study recommends intensive training and continuous mentoring for the community, as well as strengthening local leadership to encourage collaboration. It is also suggested that the government and NGOs play an active role in improving access to information and global markets while also fostering more organized business groups. Enhancing HR quality, utilizing the gotong royong culture, and developing economic independence are key to improving community welfare in the Kopi Gayo Agrotourism area.
Information Security of Management System Using ISO 27001: 2013 in the Industrial Revolution 4.0
Authors: Lusmitasari Lusmitasari , Agustina Tri Siwi
Published: February 2025

The design of the Information Security Management System that is made includes all existing processes in a company. Organizations such as universities or institutions need to have a clear security management system. One of the standards that can be used to analyze the level of information security within an organization is ISO 27001:2013. This standard is continuously being developed for the purpose of completing the requirements in terms of implementation of a security system. This study aims to find out how ISO 27001 works and its benefits for an organization. The study employed a literature review methodology. Sources included books, academic papers, internet resources, and personal experiences related to the topic. This study is also expected to be able to help provide a reference for companies to determine the most appropriate security system for the company. In conclusion, the integration of ISO 27001 into an organization's security management system is crucial in today's complex digital landscape. Embracing ISO 27001 not only enhances the overall security framework within an organization but also instills trust among stakeholders and customers in the organization's dedication to data protection.
The Influence of Promotion, E-Wom and Trust on Purchasing Decisions on E-Commerce Lazada in Batam City
Authors: Shellen Shellen , Husein Alice Erni
Published: February 2025

The primary objective of this investigation is to examine how promotion, electronic word of mouth (e-WOM), and trust impact buying choices on Lazada e-commerce in Batam City. This quantitative study used a replication approach and statistical methods to analyse primary data obtained from 100 participants through online questionnaires, sampled using non-probability techniques based on specific criteria. Utilising the SPSS application, the data was analysed to determine the impact of the independent variables on the dependent variable. The results indicated that promotion, e-WOM, and trust individually have a favourable and significant effect on buying decisions. Furthermore, these three factors collectively have a notable impact on purchasing decisions on Lazada e-commerce. The outcomes suggest that successful promotional strategies, positive feedback from consumers, and consumer trust are critical factors influencing purchasing decisions on e-commerce platforms. Based on these results, researchers suggest that Lazada increase the frequency of promotional campaigns such as Harbolnas or flash sales, provide incentives for consumers to leave product reviews, and strengthen consumer trust through guarantees of product authenticity and transparency of payment security systems. This strategy is expected to strengthen consumer trust and increase purchasing decisions on the Lazada platform.
Dermatological Manifestations of COVID-19: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Violet Munarov  , Jonathan Munarov  , Ahmad Naeem  , Phagoora Jaskomal , Domaldy De Jesus  , Sukhpreet Saini  , Annika Marie Van Hell
Published: February 2025

Background:COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, manifests in multiple organ systems, including the skin, presenting a range of dermatologic symptoms. Recognizing these cutaneous signs is essential, as they often appear early or alongside respiratory symptoms, aiding in diagnosis and management. Key skin manifestations include pernio-like lesions (COVID toes), maculopapular rashes, urticarial eruptions, vesicular lesions, and vascular-related signs, each potentially valuable for prognostic assessment.
Methods:A systematic review of major databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, was conducted. Studies published between 2015 and 2024 were included, focusing on the prevalence, pathophysiology, and clinical significance of COVID-19-related skin lesions. Selection criteria prioritized case reports, case series, cohort studies, and systematic reviews reporting quantitative data on cutaneous presentations.
Main Findings:COVID-19-associated dermatologic symptoms vary in prevalence and severity, with maculopapular rashes and COVID toes being among the most common. Notably, vascular lesions are linked to severe cases and may serve as indicators of coagulopathy or cytokine storms. Cutaneous signs can often precede or appear in the absence of respiratory symptoms, offering clinicians a window for early detection. Histopathological findings reveal immune-mediated mechanisms, suggesting skin lesions could signal systemic inflammation in COVID-19.
Conclusion:The diverse skin manifestations of COVID-19 underscore the need for dermatologic assessment in patient care. These findings support the integration of dermatology into COVID-19 care teams, especially for severe cases, where skin signs may correlate with systemic complications. Further research on pathophysiology and long-term effects is essential for advancing diagnostic and prognostic approaches, reinforcing the role of dermatologic indicators in comprehensive COVID-19 management.
Cultures de l’eau / Wasserkulturen / Water Cultures
Authors: Martino Davide , Rothenberger Eva , Ladevèze Charlotte
Published: February 2025

À l’image du cultivateur parcourant les terrasses submergées d’eaux aux reflets multicolores de Walking on the palette (voir l’illustration de couverture), les contributrices et contributeurs au volume « Cultures de l’eau » ont exploré la riche palette chromatique des eaux douces et salées à travers le monde. Issus de différentes disciplines des humanités, les spécialistes ont plongé dans les méandres des mythes, romans, textes historiques et techniques portant sur l’élément liquide, depuis la Renaissance jusqu’à nos jours, et ont mis en commun leurs méthodologies, leurs terminologies et leurs savoirs locaux et globaux concernant l’eau. En proposant une immersion au cœur d’époques, de langues, de cultures et de disciplines variées, cet ouvrage interroge l’eau non seulement comme ressource naturelle, mais aussi comme acteur central de nos représentations et identités collectives, façonnant à la fois nos paysages extérieurs et intérieurs.
Cultures de l’eau invite le lecteur à plonger dans un monde où l’eau, fluide et changeante, devient le fil conducteur d’une réflexion scientifique, littéraire et symbolique, offrant une compréhension renouvelée de cet élément vital.
The Value, Challenges and Path of Integrating Chinese Culture into Higher Foreign Language Teaching from the Perspective of Students
Authors: Chen Fengxian , Cheng Jiaxue , Huang Xiaotong , Zhao Weimei , Zhuo Xiaodie , Zhao Yueyi
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on students from Guangzhou City University of Technology and investigates their views on the value and challenges of integrating Chinese culture into higher foreign language teaching, as well as their preferred pathways for this integration through a questionnaire survey. The findings are as follows: 1. Students have a positive attitude and willingness to introduce Chinese culture in English, but their abilities need enhancement; 2. Over half of the students face issues such as superficial understanding and low learning motivation, with challenges arising from the disconnect between foreign languages and local contexts in teaching; 3. Students prefer pathways such as storytelling in class, increasing traditional cultural content, and engaging in extracurricular cultural practices. To achieve effective integration, it is essential to tackle these issues comprehensively by focusing on student development and improving teaching, thereby enhancing the positive role of Chinese culture in higher foreign language teaching.
De ISD-maatregel in wetshistorisch perspectief
Authors: Struijk S.
Published: February 2025

The ISD-measure in a legal history perspective

This article focuses on the current measure for persistent offenders (ISD-measure), by taking into account three equivalent penal sanctions that have been developed in the Netherlands from 1886 onwards. First, the penalty of a labour colony for vagrants and the like for three years at most. Second, the measure to keep the habitual offenders in additional, preventive custody for five to ten years. Finally, the measure of two-year detention for drug addicted offenders. In the article it is argued that in spite of the differences in (judicial) elaboration, all three former existing sanctions have the same legitimating fundamental principle as the ISD-measure. That is, the notion that certain offenders are a danger to society, due to their persistent criminality and nuisance causing lifestyle. The primary objective of all these penal sanctions is therefore a long term protection of society from this danger. In this sense, the ISD-measure makes clear that present state-policy is above all one of sheer deprivation of freedom.
Tussen hoop en vrees
Authors: Beijers W.M.E.H. , Rutjens L.S.M.
Published: February 2025

Between hope and fear; ISD detainees interviewed

The authors report on a content analysis of semi-structured interviews with twenty-two offenders who had been placed under a special measure in an Institution for Persistent Offenders (ISD). While the sample cannot be considered representative for all ISD offenders, the majority consider the ISD measure useful, mainly for utilitarian reasons. Most offenders want to break with their old life. Prominent in their reports is the relevance attached to proper housing arrangements. Those placed in wards with regular detainees where (hard) drugs are reportedly easily available, regard ISD as less useful.
De uitvoering van gerechtelijke beslissingen in Europa
Authors: Eshuis R.J.J.
Published: February 2025

The execution of court decisions in Europe

This article deals with chapter 13 of the CEPEJ report European judicial systems on the execution of court decisions. Unfortunately the report doesn't answer the question how far court decisions are being executed. The report does give information on organisations and agents involved in the enforcement of court decisions. The author gives an impression of the big differences existing between European countries in this field. Most important is the distinction between states where the responsibility for enforcement lies with public authorities and those where this responsibility is left to private agencies. The CEPEJ report seems to suggest that various European countries do a lot more than the Netherlands to guarantee that the law actually takes its course. In the Netherlands state responsibility is limited to the maintenance of means which can be used by parties - for their own cost and risk - in order to compel the execution of a court decision.
De verdrijving van Hulanda
Authors: Guadeloupe F.
Published: February 2025

Exorcizing Hulanda; how Sabans have mustered the courage to face the future as a BES island

In the ongoing effort to create a post-imperial Dutch Kingdom, one in which colonial categories have no place, preparations are underway to reorganize this transatlantic political entity. The BES islands, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, will be granted the status of overseas municipalities of the Netherlands. Such welcoming efforts by mandarins in The Hague must however be based upon a sound understanding of how the cultural sensibilities of many Caribbean Dutch continue to be impacted by the lingering memories of the colonialism. Throughout the Dutch Caribbean isles, these lingering memories have given rise to Hulanda, a collection of fantastic spectres supposedly representing the benevolent and malevolent mindsets of the European Dutch to whom the future allegedly belongs. By specifically focusing on Saban imaginings of Hulanda, as well as offering modes to exorcize these specific spectres, this essay seeks to contribute to the process of mutual recognition within the Dutch Kingdom.
Spelen met financiële risico's in een onzekere wereld
Authors: Wolters W.G.
Published: February 2025

Playing with financial risks in an uncertain world

The concept of risk and the practice of financial risk management are important factors in the present-day financial world. Handbooks explain this focus on risk as a reaction to increased volatility of prices, interest rates and exchange rates since the early 1970s. Financial economists have developed mathematical models and quantitative techniques to hedge the risks of financial transactions. The financial innovations developed in this process, so-called derivatives, are derived from older forms of intertemporal transactions, such as options, futures, forwards and warrants. The use of derivatives has grown rapidly since the early 1970s. A number of authors has pointed out that the widespread use of these financial instruments to hedge risks at the level of banks and corporations has increased systemic risk at the macro-level. Some authors think that risk management is principally impossible, as uncertainty reigns the world. Others have pointed out that financial organizations have used derivatives not only for risk management, but also for other less lofty organizational purposes, such as creating excessive credit and taking highly leveraged positions. While this criticism is generally valid, it should be realized that the use of quantitative techniques and the practice of derivatives cannot be banned from the present-day financial world.
Een som van misverstanden
Authors: van Amersfoort J.M.M.
Published: February 2025

An accumulation of misunderstandings; the Den Uyl cabinet and the Surinam immigration

In 1973 a new Dutch cabinet was formed. One of the central points of its programme was to revise the relations with the former Dutch colonies in the West Indies to be able to stop the immigration from Suriname. This immigration was seen by this government as a serious threat to Dutch society. In reality the migration was modest in numbers and consisted for a good deal of middle class people. In 1967 there were 13.000 Surinamese in the Netherlands. But the immigration had gained momentum and in 1972 there were 51.000. The cabinet launched a vigorous campaign to change the relations with Suriname and close the border for immigrants. The outcome of this policy was that there were 110.000 Surinamese in the Netherlands in 1975 and the immigration caused indeed problems that were unknown before. In this article the reasons for the complete failure of the anti-immigration policy are analysed.
Leren van Vlaanderen
Authors: van Ostaaijen J.
Published: February 2025

Learning from Flanders; features of the Flemish mayor to inspire the Dutch debate

In this article, the role and functioning of the Flemish mayor is analysed from a Dutch perspective. Three observations are considered noteworthy and discussed elaborately: the role of the mayor in internal local politics, the mayor's relationship with the local community, and the possible combination of several political mandates. The article shows that mayors can be more political without being directly elected (which is the case both in Flanders and the Netherlands) and that there is considerable room for mayors to give meaning to their job. In showing the similarities and differences between Dutch and Flemish mayors, this article is meant to inspire both policy makers and Dutch mayors and to contribute to the debate about the future of the Dutch mayor.
De burgemeester als veiligheidsbaas
Authors: Sackers H.J.B.
Published: February 2025

The mayor as a security boss

Offenders of the law used to be sentenced by the criminal courts of justice. However, the Dutch Government is striving for better and more efficient law enforcement, and is increasingly delegating this enforcement to local authorities, especially to the mayor's level. For example, to maintain order, not only does the mayor decide on camera surveillance, preventative body search, restraining orders and curfews; he/she is now also allowed to shut down houses and evict people from their homes. New laws are in the making to delegate even more power to local authorities. The question arises whether the position of mayor can and should include the Sheriff Star. After all, he/she is politically accountable, plus it would take Superman to take on this new role as upholder of justice. Meanwhile, legal protection is in a sorry state, and citizens rarely take advantage of their legal protection rights. Adequate judicial control is lacking, and whether orders given out by the mayor based on the new responsibilities actually comply with the European Treaty of Human Rights is something that remains to be seen.
De bestrijding van arbeidsuitbuiting
Authors: Bogaerts A. , Plooij P. , Zoetekouw R.
Published: February 2025

The fight against labour exploitation; strategies and investigation results from the Social Intelligence and Investigation Service

In this article the strategies and investigation results of the Social Intelligence and Investigation Service (SIOD) concerning labour exploitation are discussed. The results from reactive criminal investigation confirm current ideas in the literature about labour exploitation in relation to vulnerable (victim) groups. However, an increase in reports did not lead to more investigations. This is partly caused by bad or incomplete reports. Therefore the SIOD is in addition developing a new approach: the labour exploitation risk model. This method fits into the idea of Intelligence-Led Policing and tackles the problem that many exploitation cases are not reported to the police. In a risk model enterprises and employers with a (high) risk of violations are selected for control or investigation on the basis of particular characteristics generated from various information databases of various (government) agencies. The authors discuss the further development of the risk model and conclude with a look ahead.
Misdaad en straf
Authors: Claessen J.A.A.C.
Published: February 2025

(Death) penalty in a religious perspective

What does a religious perspective imply for the justification of the state imposing punishment on perpetrators of criminal offences under criminal law? As religion is experiencing a revival, it is not a strange idea to examine what a religious perspective can teach us in relation to criminal law. What religious fundamentalism and conservatism have to offer in this respect seems quite clear, namely retributive action by the state, as God's representative on earth, against conduct contrary to the dogmas of the Holy Scriptures. Nevertheless, research shows that conventional believers also often recognize the value of forgiveness and reconciliation. What is not clear, however, is what mysticism has to offer in relation to criminal law. In contradiction to conventional criminal law, from a mystical perspective there is no call for intentional infliction of pain in responding to crime. To avenge evil with evil is dismissed for both moral and practical reasons. Encouraging the spiritual awakening of man forms the alfa and omega of a mystical approach to crime.
Seksueel grensoverschrijdend gedrag en ontucht. Wiens grens?
Authors: Gooren J.C.W.
Published: February 2025

Transgressive sexual conduct and sexual abuse

Teenagers between twelve and eighteen years of age are protected by Dutch criminal law against sexual encounters that cannot be qualified as non-consensual. If these teenagers are approached without force they are thus protected against such a contact, but they could have played a sexual active role nevertheless. This paper deals with how officials of the police and justice departments value sexual contacts between youngsters as lewd and in what circumstances these interactions are possibly permissible. What is the motivation for initiating criminal law and how to explain the distinction between the alleged offender and the alleged victim? The juridical valuation of the professionals dealing with criminal law is analysed followed by some critical remarks regarding the protection of sexual active youngsters against other sexual active youngsters as well as the act of sex as transgression.
Misdaad en straf in een populistische context
Authors: Boutellier J.C.J.
Published: February 2025

Crime and punishment in a populist context

The main question of this article is why the existing diverse populist movements have at least one feature in common: Crime, security and harsher punishments are high on their political agenda. The author points out that the rise of criminality in the last 20 years is a real basis for the growing anxiety among the population about insecurity. This anxiety is reinforced by the blown up media attention for crime issues. The dominance of the security issue is further explained and enhanced by cultural factors like individualisation, migration and the rise of a vitalist culture characterised by a geografical and normative boundlessness. In this context norm violations are always lurking and contributing to an insecure, complex and chaotic society. (In)security has become the common denominator to which all grievances can be reduced. The creation of new structures giving reassurance could provide a democratic alternative for the unevitable authoritarian tendency in state policy caused by the rise of populism. This type of social order should be understood in terms of arrangements of institutions and of tuning stakeholders to one another. Taking this longing for security among the population seriously means also to stop addressing civilians as consumers and start urging them to act like co-responsibles.
Kwetsbaarheid voor georganiseerde criminaliteit
Authors: Beken T. Vander
Published: February 2025

Vulnerability for organised crime; a useful prevention concept?

This article describes the development of abstract, theoretic vulnerability analysis vis à vis organised crime towards more empirical approaches which take the actual situation in economic sectors as a starting point. Also it incorporates the way workers on the shop floor view vulnerability. The author gathered these data during research among transport and catering companies. He argues that vulnerability should not only be understood in the traditional way (a feeble defense against potential harm/damage/infiltration) but also in terms of resilience. If - despite prevention measures - a company becomes a victim of - and/or is infiltrated by organised crime, the degree of resilience decides whether the company survives or not. Examples are given of factors contributing and undermining resilience.
Stoppen met crimineel gedrag
Authors: Werdmölder H.
Published: February 2025

Desistance from criminal conduct; a qualitative longitudinal study of Moroccan and Dutch men with a criminal past

This article is a first report on the longitudinal study of forty Moroccan and Dutch criminal men. The research was started in 1982. The author returned to the subject in 1988. In 2008, the author started a new research project with the same men.

The focus of this article is on the process of desistance. Ten men already ended their criminal period in the late eighties (the ‘early desisters’). In between time, two of them relapsed. Nine men can be called ‘late desisters’. They had many more obstacles to face in their re-integration, such as long-term employment and addiction to hard drugs. The combination of getting regular work, marriage and a permanent place of living is very effective in the process of desistance. But in the end, personal qualities, such as discipline, taking up responsibility and motivation, will be decisive.
‘Als het hier niet lukt, dan maar in Marokko?’
Authors: Sportel I.
Published: February 2025

‘If not here, then in Morocco?’ Forms of capital in transnational Dutch-Moroccan divorces

During a transnational divorce, spouses can get into contact with two different legal systems, each with its own procedures, courts and documents. This article focuses on transnational divorces between the Netherlands and Morocco. In these divorces Moroccan and Dutch family law interact in several ways. First of all, as determined by Dutch Private International Law, Moroccan family law can be applied in the Netherlands, by Dutch judges. Especially with regard to the division of property, the Dutch and Moroccan family law systems can produce significantly different outcomes. Moreover, a divorce from Morocco is not automatically valid in the Netherlands and vice versa. Using four examples of Dutch-Moroccan divorce cases the author shows how, in this complicated situation, spouses in transnational marriages make use of economic, social and cultural capital in both countries to obtain their divorce.
Achter de voordeur met stedelijke interventieteams. Ontkokering of verkokering?
Authors: Schuilenburg M. , Dijkstra C.
Published: February 2025

‘Behind the door’ with urban intervention teams

Intervention teams are among the most discussed tools in the current process of securitisation. Their integrated approach takes into account all underlying causes of insecurity and quality of life. For a more effective approach authorities and organisations have to cooperate and let go of their mutual boundaries. But can the participants put aside their differences in perspectives and policies? This article discusses the goal of ‘ontkokering’ (‘decompartalisation’), this was done through a study of the practices of intervention team SIP in Amsterdam. On basis of thirteen interviews and observations the authors argue that there are three main mechanisms or ‘molar barriers’, which conserve the old structures in the integrated approach of the intervention team: ‘methodical robustness’, ‘institutional robustness’ and ‘financial robustness’.
Opsporingsbevoegdheden en privacy
Authors: van der Leij J.B.J.
Published: February 2025

Criminal investigation methods and privacy. An international comparison

The Dutch regulation of phone tapping has a great deal of safeguards built in to ensure that this investigation method isn't used flippantly. Despite this, it appears that phone tapping is far more commonly used in The Netherlands than in any other western nation, including England, Sweden and Germany. This study shows that, due to differences in registration of phone tapping statistics, it is difficult to compare various countries' practices. However, it does appear that the Dutch authorities don't perceive to have viable alternatives to phone tapping. The limited alternatives that they do (perceive themselves to) have, such as infiltration, pose even greater ethical considerations, making them less attractive. Authorities in England, Sweden and Germany appear to use alternative investigation methods much more frequently than those in The Netherlands. Some examples of the types of alternatives more often resorted to in other countries are the use of traffic data, (intrusive) surveillance and various forms of infiltration. A comparison of the regulations in all four countries showed differences in the degree to which phone tapping is perceived to pose ethical considerations (posing a threat to the privacy of citizens) as an investigatory method.
Undercoveroperaties: een noodzakelijk kwaad?
Authors: Kruisbergen E.W. , de Jong D.
Published: February 2025

Undercover operations: a necessary evil? Past, present and future of a controversial method of investigation

An important part of the scientific literature looks upon undercover policing from a normative, critical point of view. These studies frequently problematize undercover operations as a necessary evil. Yet what do we actually know about the practice of the execution of undercover operations and about the results they yield for criminal investigations? Not much. Little empirical research has been done on this subject. This article analyses the implementation and results of undercover operations in the Netherlands. The empirical data consist of all covert policing operations in the Netherlands in 2004. The authors address the following questions: how often is this method of investigation deployed; what different types of undercover operations exist; and what results have these operations produced? Furthermore, they examine the history of undercover policing and look into the legislative debate. Finally, they explore some possible future developments in the use of undercover operations.
Gimme hope
Authors: Geenen M.J.
Published: February 2025

The role of hope for group workers in a youth prison

The relationship between group workers and their pupils in a youth prison influences treatment outcome. A positive relationship stimulates treatment motivation and readiness for change. The aim of this study was to review the role of hope in a correctional institutional setting for youth. Hope is defined as having a goal and a positive outcome expectation. Hope keeps group workers positive, motivated and inspired to overcome difficulties, and the hope of group workers stimulates pupils to openly reflect on the past, reconsider future possibilities, and become motivated to change their behaviour. There are obstacles, however, which hamper the hope of group workers and may instead trigger negative expectations, cynicism, and despair. Key elements for dealing with potential negative influences on a hopeful orientation are leadership and training. Also conscious reflection on one’s acts, thoughts and feelings can help group workers to deal with resistance reactions and aggression, and to remain hopeful.
Drieënvijftig tinten grijs
Authors: Meershoek A.J.J. , Hoogenboom A.B.
Published: February 2025

Fifty three shades of grey; decreasing accountability and control concerning hybrid police work

Fifty three shades of grey refers to the radical transformation of policing and security in society from a traditional public – and foremost ‘blue’ – police system into a hybrid(semi)public and private policing system which is losing its dominant – and visible – blue character. Using the criminological concepts ‘police as an institute’ and ‘policing as a process’ the ongoing blurring of boundaries between different public and private organisations is discussed in the context of the proliferation of different forms of multi-agency cooperation. Whereas in the traditional discourse of the public police system a strong tradition of analysing the democratic nature of policing exists, in the public and scientific perception of the new, variegated police constellation such notions are still lacking, which contributes to the relative lack of political control, the defective democratic accountability and fragile human rights in the grey areas. The public discourse on the police remains too narrowly focused on the public police system. ‘Normal science’ of policing needs to break away from ‘police as an institute’ to incorporate new research questions and new concepts regarding ‘policing as a process’.
Uitwisseling van opsporingsinformatie
Authors: Kort J.
Published: February 2025

Sharing criminal investigative information; on technical and especially organisatory obstacles within the police

Crime suspects followed by the police move well across various police regions and national borders. As a result, police forces independently collect information on the same people. It is essential that whenever possible, accurate information is shared between various police forces and e.g. investigation teams. Developments in the field of ICTs have opened many possibilities for this, long ago. However, information exchange hardly improved. In this article it is argued that apart from the quality of existing ICT-applications, there are also organisational problems creating obstacles for information sharing. The article starts with a brief history of intelligence-led policing in the Netherlands, followed by an overview of the obstacles for information sharing within the Dutch police. It concludes with similarities between police reforms based on new ICTs in the Netherlands and the USA.
Geslaagde emancipatie als probleem voor de politie
Authors: van Oenen G.
Published: February 2025

Emancipatory fatigue as a problem for the police

Public attitude towards police intervention has changed in the last twenty years or so, as a result of more general changes in society towards figures and institutions of authority. From the 1970s onward, we have witnessed a change from an authoritarian ‘command household’ to a ‘household of negotiation’ in which parties mutually exchange views and reasons. Since the 1990s however, unanticipated consequences of this emancipatory movement are becoming apparent, most importantly the inability of citizens to always live up to this emancipatory responsibility. And more importantly, a generally shared sense that we are overburdened by this responsibility, and thus cannot reasonably be expected to act according to emancipatory norms. This creates a new kind of problem or challenge for the police. Appeals to the emancipatory responsibility of the public, or entering into dialogue with offenders and bystanders, are not as effective as before. Both police and public are therefore in search of a new kind of authority that is responsive to the emancipatory ‘fatigue’ increasingly experienced by citizens.
De inbreng van ngo’s bij het Nederlandse mensenrechtenexamen
Authors: Mommers C.
Published: February 2025

The contribution of NGOs to the human rights exam of the Netherlands; a look back and forward by Amnesty International

The UPR is an increasingly important instrument for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to advocate for the protection and promotion of human rights in the Netherlands. In this article, the way that NGOs have used the UPR in relation to the Netherlands will be discussed. This will be done primarily from the perspective of Amnesty International. The article first outlines how NGOs can contribute to the UPR process. Subsequently, it discusses the substantive input provided by Amnesty International for the review of the Netherlands. Finally, the potential impact of this intervention on the promotion and protection of human rights on the ground in the Netherlands will be considered. This impact will depend, inter alia, on the de-politicization of the UPR, the credibility of the process, the follow-up of recommendations made during the review and, prominently, the political will of the incoming government.
De Nederlandse staat van internetvrijheid
Authors: van Daalen O.L.
Published: February 2025

The state of internet freedom in the Netherlands

When thinking of restrictions on internet freedom, people often look to countries such as Egypt and Libya. But internet freedom in countries such as the Netherlands also warrants close examination. This article discusses a selection of Dutch measures which infringe on the fundamental right to privacy and communication freedom on the internet. With regard to privacy, it starts with the Dutch law requiring telecommunications providers to retain customer data, such as all records and location data. Also the plans to monitor internet traffic by the intelligence services as well as the lack of transparency on data requests by the Dutch government are discussed. With regard to communications freedom, the new Dutch law on net neutrality is analysed and described as positive for internet freedom. However, the author also sees developments threatening internet freedom. He mentions plans to introduce web blocking for websites facilitating copyright infringement and a draft law to allow the police to take down websites without judicial intervention. The author argues that the Netherlands should significantly improve its own state of internet freedom, especially if it wants to credibly claim that other countries should protect internet freedom.
De bestrijding van etnische discriminatie: van speerpunt tot non-issue?
Authors: Witte R. , Scheepmaker M.P.C.
Published: February 2025

The fight against ethnic discrimination in the Netherlands: once a hot issue, now a non-issue?

This article presents an overview of various measures, initiatives and developments regarding to the fight against discrimination in the Netherlands since 1971. It also gives a short overview of relevant international treaties on discrimination and the obligations for the parties involved. The political and societal attention for combating discrimination has decreased in recent years. There is a tendency to deny that discrimination is a real problem. Also the tone of voice in the public debate on integration of ethnic minorities has hardened. Nowadays, antidiscrimination policies and initiatives take place at the local level and state involvement is limited to facilitating support. The registration of discrimination complaints continues to be a problem and minor progress has been made in the last twenty years.
Deuren op slot
Authors: van Dijk J.J.M.
Published: February 2025

Closing the doors; towards an explanation of the international falls in crime

In the opening section the author refers to the classical book of Dutch criminologist Willem Bonger on the links between poverty/social injustice and levels of crime. He then introduces his own work on the International Crime Victim Survey (ICVS) since 1989. The ICVS trend data on crime in Western countries during 1989 up to 2010 show a curvilinear movement peaking around 2000. The upward trend seems to track economic growth and to have mainly been caused by increased opportunities of crime. His analytical results concerning car theft and household burglary suggest that the international falls in crime since 2000 are largely caused by improved security. A comparative analysis shows for example that burglary rates have fallen in countries with high levels of home security such as Great Britain and the Netherlands and have continued to rise in low security countries such as Denmark and Switzerland. The author concludes that criminology has evolved both methodologically and theoretically since the publication of Bonger’s book in 1905. Some fundamental principles of the discipline, however, appear to have remained unchanged. Van Dijk’s own work is, just like that of Bonger, policy- oriented. It is driven by the motivation to assist governments in finding better ways to reduce suffering of human beings from crime, either as victims or as offenders.
De rol van Falck in de Deense brandbestrijding
Authors: Kruize P.
Published: February 2025

The role of Falck in Danish fire fighting

In Denmark fire fighting is a responsibility of the local authorities, but since nearly a century communities have the possibility to outsource these duties to private companies. Falck is the dominant player on this private market. The same goes for other emergency services. The author describes the story of its founder Sophus Falck, the historical roots of Falck and how the company achieved the status of a reliable partner for the authorities. The legal basis for private firms in fire fighting is discussed as well as costs and quality of the services in an international perspective. The author concludes that Falck is a typical Danish phenomenon and the Danish model cannot be copied by other countries without restriction. At the same time the Danish experience learns that market competition may have a positive effect on the cost efficiency of fire fighting.