bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SOME OPINIONS ABOUT THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPORTANCE AND RESULTS OF AGRITOURISM (ON THE EXAMPLE OF GEORGIA)
Authors: Seturi Maia 
Published: December 2024

Maia Seturi
E-mail: maia.seturi@tsu.ge
Associate Professor, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University
Tbilisi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0246-678X

Abstract: The author's discussion in the article focuses on the importance of agritourism and the main aspects of its positive socio-economic results. Tourism in Georgia is considered one of the important parts of the country's development strategy. Agritourism, as a tourist destination, means serving visitors who are interested in studying agricultural activities, getting to know the features and traditions of rural life. It is true that today Georgia is one of the attractive tourist destinations, but it has the potential to become interesting also in the field of agrotourism. The purpose of the research is to determine what positive results the development of agrotourism can bring for the country and its regions.
The author of the article believes that in the post-Covid period, the Georgian tourist and hotel business is working under conditions of increased demand for their services. However, the number of people living in rural areas has significantly decreased in Georgia. Unemployment and low wages are a problem in a number of areas. In such conditions, it is an important issue to raise the awareness of the local population about agritourism in terms of their employment and improvement of their living standards.
Based on the results of the research, the author believes that for the development of agritourism, it is necessary to implement a number of changes in rural areas in those regions that have a great potential for the development of agritourism.
The importance of agritourism in promoting sustainable development and preserving the cultural and natural heritage of the village is great. This creates a win-win situation where both tourists and local residents benefit from the exchange of knowledge, experience and economic activities. Agritourism stimulates the local economy and will promote the development of small businesses.
Especially since there are additional contributing factors for the development of this direction in Georgia (for example, natural environmental factors in the regions, etc.), which will leave an impression on the guests and have a great impact on their satisfaction. And satisfied guests return to places of interest to them in the future and spread positive reviews. According to the author, the effective use of modern marketing approaches and social media marketing will increase the opportunities for the development of agritourism in Georgia. The positive result of which will be that the standard of living of the local population in rural areas will improve significantly. This will help to stop the population migration from rural to urban areas, it will become attractive for many people to live and work in rural areas.
Keywords: Agritourism, Agri-entertainment, Tourism and Hospitality Marketing, Sustainable Development, Sustainable Tourism
JEL classification: M30, M31, Q13, L83
EFFICACY OF ALLOCATING FUNDS TO ESSENTIAL EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES
Authors: Shainidze Ekaterine , Surmanidze Iamze , Turmanidze Tamila , Poladashvili Tamari , Giorgadze Tariel 
Published: December 2024

Ekaterine Shainidze
E-mail: Ekaterine.shainidze@bsu.edu.ge
Associate Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Batumi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3612-1790

Iamze Surmanidze
E-mail: surmanidze.iamze@bsu.edu.ge
Assistant- Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Batumi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4389-9250
Tamila Turmanidze
E-mail: tamila.turmanidze@bsu.edu.ge
Assistant- Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Batumi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4710-2285

Tamari Poladashvili
E-mail:tamari.poladashvili@bsu.edu.ge
Assistant- Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Batumi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7597-7997

Tariel Giorgadze
E-mail: giorgadzetarieli@gmail.com
Assistant Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Batumi, Georgia

Abstract: Most countries of the world, funding of higher education and scientific research is a priority direction of the state. Particularly important is the policy of developing countries in relation to higher education. In this regard, there is an interesting picture in Georgia, since there are priority fields that allow students to receive education for free.
The purpose of our research is to evaluate the effectiveness of funding priority educational programs. Within the scope of this research, on the example of Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University of Batumi, it is determined what effect the full financing of various educational programs had on the demand of entrants, what is the compatibility of the education and labor market requirements of the mentioned programs, what prospects these specialties have in terms of both employment and creating a successful career.
It is important, that in order to ensure the compliance of priority educational programs with the needs and challenges of the country, it is necessary to revise the approaches annually in accordance with clear criteria selected in advance (the number of enrolled and graduated students, the number of employees according to the specialty, the compliance of their qualifications with the requirements of the labor market and the country's challenges, etc.); Higher educational institutions, while implementing educational programs corresponding to priority directions, should take into account the requirements of the labor market as the basis of relevant studies. In addition, the annual admission quota should be determined not mechanically, but on the basis of experience and perspective assessment;

Keywords: Education, Priority programs, labor market

JEL classification: I22, H52
THE ATYPICAL NATURE OF THE CRISIS CAUSED BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A DISCUSSION OF THE MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CRISIS AND THEIR IMPACT
Authors: Gvarishvili Nestan 
Published: December 2024

Nestan Gvarishvili
E-mail: nestangvarishvili@gmail.com
PhD student of Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Batumi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6845-9980

Abstract: This article examines the unique and atypical nature of the economic crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The study analyzes the main dimensions of the crisis, including economic projections, the decline in manufacturing activity and the significant impact on the service sector. It goes beyond economic aspects to examine the relationship between the pandemic and critical factors such as stock markets, sectoral recession, energy market shocks and social dynamics. Using statistical data and analysis of scientific sources, the study provides additional information about the pandemic's distinctive features and far-reaching effects on a global scale. The conclusions discuss the need to strengthen international cooperation, the role of digitalization in post-pandemic recovery, and policy interventions to maintain household incomes, business activity, and macroeconomic indicators. The study notes the long-term impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the global economy and highlights the need for concerted efforts, technological adaptation and strategic policies even after the crisis is over.

Keywords: Covid-19 pandemic, crisis, global economy, economic forecasts

JEL classification: O35; O44
CONTEMPORARY STATISTICAL TRENDS OF OUTBOUND TOURISM IN GEORGIA
Authors: Chitaladze Ketevan 
Published: December 2024

Ketevan Chitaladze
E-mail: Ketevan.chitaladze@tsu.ge
Assistant Professor, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University
Tbilisi, Georgia

Abstract: In the conditions of rapid rehabilitation of tourism after the pandemic, in parallel with the increase in the statistical parameters of international inbound tourism, outbound tourism has also become quite active. Against the background of the change in the purpose of the trip, the geographical structure of leading tourism changed, the composition of accompanying persons was adjusted, the average duration of the trip increased, the cost structure was transformed, the amount of expenses incurred changed, the sex ratio of tourists changed, etc. Therefore, it is necessary and interesting to analyze the distinct trends of tourism in the background of these changes and to determine the regularities of development.
The aim of the paper is to reveal the statistical trends of outbound tourism in Georgia at the modern stage and analyze it.
Research methodology. Statistical observation, gathering-grouping and analysis methods were used in the research process.
results. The rehabilitation of tourism in Georgia was carried out quickly, and it can be said that its scale and area of both international and domestic tourism have significantly expanded. Quantitative measures of tourism statistics indicators in many cases almost exceeded the indicators of the pre-pandemic period. It is true that, on average, the number of international cruise visits to Georgia decreases by 2% every year during the research period, expectations for the development of cruise tourism in the future are positive; Indicators of interest in outbound tourism are high for the age group of 31-50 years; It should be noted that the percentage of women among tourists is increasing. the average number of nights spent during outbound tourism increases; High degree of satisfaction of tourists with the country is maintained; The main purpose of travel for the residents of the country is to visit friends and relatives and shopping; Even in post-pandemic years starting from 2019, 94.4%-97.9% of referral visits each year were repeat visits. Against the backdrop of a decrease in average indicators, the indicators of outbound tourism in 2023 are increasing, and accordingly the amount of tourist expenses incurred by them has also increased, the acceptable airlines for both foreign and Georgian resident respondents were Georgian and Turkish airlines, the price of the low-budget company Wizz Air and the quality of the service received .

Keywords: Outbound tourism, Analysis, Trend, Geographic structure, Tourist costs.

JEL classification: C0
PROBLEMS OF DISTRIBUTION OF TAX REVENUES BETWEEN BUDGETS OF DIFFERENT LEVELS IN GEORGIA
Authors: Shainidze Ekaterine , Verulidze Vazha 
Published: December 2024

Ekaterine Shainidze
E-mail: ekaterine.shainidze@bsu.edu.ge
Associate Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3612-1790

Vazha Verulidze
E-mail: vazha.verulidze@bsu.edu.ge
Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1752-8955

Abstract: The main source of mobilization of budgetary funds is tax revenues. One of the important levers of the state in ensuring the socio-economic development of the country is the fair distribution of tax revenues between budgets of different levels, since fiscal independence is an essential factor in coping with the challenges facing autonomous republics and municipalities. The correct selection of the mechanism for distributing tax revenues between budgets of different levels is crucial in this process.
In Georgia, as in other developing countries, a large share of tax revenues comes from indirect taxes. According to the Budget Code of Georgia, excise and import taxes are fully transferred to the state budget, while 19% of the funds mobilized in the form of VAT go to the budgets of municipalities, and the remaining 81% to the state budget. According to the Tax Code of Georgia, only one local (property) tax is imposed in the country. The source of tax revenues of the autonomous republic is only the income tax paid by taxable entities registered in the territory of the autonomous republics. Despite certain legislative changes, under the existing model of tax revenue distribution, the degree of dependence of local budgets on transfers from the state budget is high.
In addition to the above, the types of taxes established by tax legislation (only general-state and local) are compatible with unitary states and include only a two-level budget, while the state structure envisaged by the Constitution of Georgia corresponds to a three-level government.
Thus, in order to effectively fulfill the tasks facing municipalities, it is crucial to increase their fiscal independence, which is possible by strengthening the tax regulatory function and developing a proper mechanism for distributing tax revenues.

Keywords: Tax revenues, fiscal independence, tax revenue redistribution.

JEL classification: H2, H61, K34, E62
CHALLENGES OF MIDDLE-CLASS FORMATION IN GEORGIA
Authors: Koghuashvili Paata , Otinashvili Ramaz 
Published: December 2024

Paata Koghuashvili
E-mail: paata_koguashvili@hotmail.com
Professor at Georgian Technical University
Tbilisi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6491-9460

Ramaz Otinashvili
E-mail: R. Otinashvili@gtu.ge
Professor at Georgian Technical University
Tbilisi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7892-6159

Abstract: At the modern stage of Georgia's development, a series of challenges have appeared, which require a complex analysis of the historical background, with the calculation of quality, transition procedures and mechanics, in order to realize the social energy of the household in a positive direction. Building materials are formed on the basis of the middle layer. In a democratic government, it comprises 70-80% of the population and has a transparent office. These are mainly entrepreneurs and intelligentsia employed in legal business, who create the so-called Protest democracy, which is "dangerous" for non-democratic government.
It is difficult to separate the middle class by any single sign. It is necessary to introduce “integral criterion”, which includes a set of quantitative and qualitative signs characteristic of the mentioned layer. Why do they live like that – do they have the appropriate professional-cultural capital and how do they use it to ensure a decent standard of living. Unfortunately, in Georgia, there is little tendency to form a capable middle class. We cannot consider the existing social structure of the population as sustainable. Civil society and democracy develop with the introduction of market institutions and healthy competition in the private sector, the conditions of which are still weak in our country.

Keywords: civil society, state, middle class, competition, democracy.

JEL classification: J00, J11
A STUDY OF DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY LEVELS DURING PREGNANCY
Authors: Beridze Rusudan , Tsetskhladze Giuli , Tsetskhladze Nino 
Published: December 2024

Rusudan Beridze
E-mail:r.beridze@bsu.edu.ge
Associate Professor,Batumi Shota Rustaveli State Universiry
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5374-2815

Giuli Tsetskhladze
E-mail: cecxladzegiuli@gmail.com
Clinical psychologist
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4508-8519

Nino Tsetskhladze
E-mail: ninotsetskhladze23@gmail.com
Clinical psychologist
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4508-8519

Abstract: During pregnancy and childbirth, women experience many physiological, hormonal and psychological changes. The difficulty of adapting to these changes increases the likelihood of developing psychological and emotional disorders. There is little public support for pregnant women on this issue, and there is less awareness from the healthcare sector about the need for monitoring and screening for mental health issues during pregnancy. Based on this, the work is relevant, as the studies mentioned provide insight into how pregnancy can dramatically and significantly change a woman’s overall mental state, and the importance of maintaining a woman’s mental health during pregnancy.
The scientific article is devoted to the study, comparative analysis and generalization of the level of depression and anxiety during the first and subsequent pregnancies. The study was conducted using a quantitative method. The study of the anxiety level of pregnant women was conducted using the Spielberg Anxiety Rating Scale. The study of the level of depression was conducted using the Balashov Depression Scale. Data analysis was carried out using the depression index. There was no relationship between these groups. Using the statistical program (IBM SPSS), in particular, to test the relationship between variables, the nonparametric method of the simple T-test IndefendenT was used. The study showed that pregnant women expecting their first child have a higher level of anxiety compared to mothers expecting their second and subsequent children.

Keywords: depression, anxiety, pregnancy, childcare, women's mental health

JEL classification: Y800
THE ROLE OF SEXUAL EDUCATION IN THE PREVENTION OF UNWANTED TEENAGE PREGNANCY
Authors: Katamadze Davit , Beridze Ketevan , Ketchakmadze Rusudan , Meskhidze Shorena , Metreveli Lia 
Published: December 2024

Davit Katamadze
E-mail: datoqatamadze@gmail.com
Assistant Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8815-1167

Ketevan Beridze
E-mail: k.beridze@bsu.edu.ge
Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6268-7037

Rusudan Ketchakmadze
E-mail: r.kechakmadze@bsu.edu.ge
Associate Professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1046-7264

Shorena Meskhidze
E-mail: shorena.meskhidze@bsu.edu.ge
Assistant, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University PhD Students
Georgia, Batumi
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9801-5347

Lia Metreveli
E-mail: metreveli.lia@mail.ru
Professor, Georgian Technical University
Tbilisi, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4392-728X

Abstract: Sexual activity during adolescence can affect a young person's quality of life and their health. This practice can lead to early pregnancy, abortion, AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. The need for sex education in adolescence to identify and prevent adverse trial factors is becoming increasingly clear. Active involvement of society is needed to realize this goal. If the goal is to educate, inform or otherwise, form, then the school from other reference groups, because this is its essential role. Some basic principles should be established, perhaps the most important is that sex education is not only based on the use of contraceptive methods, but its actions are considered and safe. This is conducive to the development of citizenship, empowerment, empowerment, self-care and caring for others.Our goal was to study the extent to which adults are informed about these issues.
522 adolescent girls of the Adjara region, whose age was 14-18 years, took part in the research. Illustrative questionnaire for interview-survey with young people - Illustrative questionnaire for interview-survey with young people) The research hypothesis was as follows: "It is likely that young people do not have enough information about reproductive health issues."
Studies have confirmed our assumption that adolescents do not have sufficient knowledge about contraception and sexually transmitted diseases. The survey also showed that teenagers would like to have a subject taught at school, where the information needed for a healthy sex life for teenagers would be collected.

Key words: comprehensive sexual education, adolescent, unwanted pregnancy, abortion.

JEL classification: Y800
ASPECTS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF ECOLOGICAL TOURISM IN THE PROTECTED AREAS OF GEORGIA
Authors: Azmaiparashvili Maia 
Published: December 2024

Maia Azmaiparashvili
E-mail: maiaazmaiparashvili@gmail.com
Doctor of Ecology, Associate Professor , Gori State University
Gori, Georgia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7868-5463

Abstract: The most important natural factor in the development of tourism is the protected areas. Together with the natural wealth of the country, the protected areas preserve the memory of the historical and cultural heritage. Tourism should become a guarantee not only of economic strength, but also of environmental protection. The strength of properly managed tourism is to create a limit for the sustainable development of the environment. Ecological tourism appears as a tool for sustainable development of the natural environment. The principles of sustainability are interesting and valuable, challenging all sectors in the tourism value chain. To ensure sustainability, priority is given to the development of tourism products based on the natural environment, sustainable use of natural and ethno-cultural resources, raising environmental awareness and effective management. It is believed that sustainable development should be economically beneficial, socially just and environmentally friendly. The paper discusses the sustainable importance of protected areas valuable for the tourism sector, sustainable benefits of ecotourism destinations, sustainability problems, theoretical and practical aspects of sustainable planning of protected areas. We studied the issue of regional localization in achieving sustainable development, the degree of ecological integration, progressive trends, the role of the local population and government in the process of sustainable planning. It is important that the network of protected areas system should be expanded in parallel with the growing number of visitors. At the regional level, ecocivilization and long-term sustainability must be ensured only by an ecological understanding of the complex interaction between environmental, economic, political and social/cultural dimensions and by planning and management based on sustainable principles. In the work, we also defined the issue of the need to establish the threshold norm of "throughput" for the use of protected areas. The standards developed by the International Organization for Standardization were sought, which contribute to the fulfillment of the goals of sustainable development, from this point of view the standard ISO 18065 is interesting, which defines the avoidance of pollution, negative impact, ecological safety, etc. during increased travel in nature. Sh.

Keywords: protected areas, sustainable tourism, visitor, national.

JEL classification: Z32, Q01, Q56.
Towards Sustainable Development in Speech Recognition: Enhancing Emotional Understanding in Bilingual Societies
Authors: Goncharova Oxana 
Published: December 2024

Objective: The aim of this work was a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of emotion recognition models based on prosodic, spectral, and combined features for Armenian and Kabardian languages.

Method: An experimental corpus of speech utterances in Armenian and Kabardian languages was collected, containing samples of emotional (anger, joy) and neutral speech. From these speech signals, prosodic features (fundamental frequency, intensity, duration) and spectral features (MFCC) were extracted.

Results and Discussion: Three machine learning models were trained: a model based on prosodic features, a model based on spectral features, and a model based on a combination of features. The effectiveness of the models was assessed using precision and recall metrics for emotion recognition.

Research Implications: The results showed that the model based on a combination of prosodic and spectral features demonstrates the best precision and recall rates for both anger and joy emotions in both languages.