Kawsar Mia1, Dr. Abdul Momen2, Yeasin Arafat3 1 Post Graduate student, 2 Associate Professor, 3 Post Graduate student Department of Islamic History & Culture, Jagannath University, Dhaka, Bangladesh ORCID IDs: 1 0009-0001-5692-3555, 2 0000-0001-8001-9825, 3 0009-0003-7612-128X Corresponding Author: Kawsar Mia kawsarmia03475@gmail.com Download https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250204 ABSTRACT The research investigates what historical events caused the Ottoman Empire to fight against Balkan nations seeking independence from their domination. The writing outlines the path of combat during the war, while also analyzing how the Balkan Wars influenced both regional areas and international diplomacy leading up to World War I. The research methodology combines qualitative research with secondary literature to evaluate the effect of the Balkan wars on International Policy. The collection of data relies on literary research that uses corresponding publications and scholarly articles, and various other materials as secondary documentation. Research findings showed that the war resulted in solidifying the regional socio-political unity, together with homogeneity. Ambition combined with personal animosity between rulers of the Balkan countries and the Ottoman Empire remained the chief reason behind the Balkan Wars. The war developed because of the sultanate’s decline, together with Russian control, Turkish Italian warfare, nationalism, propaganda as well as Balkan force alliances, and a lack of diplomatic efforts. Geopolitical transformations emerged from the Balkan War as it simultaneously turned into a devastating humanitarian crisis, which started the chain of events that led to the First World War. This research functions as an educational framework for counselors and educational experts to develop proficiency in the Balkan Wars and the First World War. Readers who acquire information from this research will gain a detailed understanding of the reasons behind the conflict between the Empire and Balkan nations confronting freedom. A distinctive element of this research focused on analyzing how the wars led to the beginning of World War I. National and international governments, along with peace advocates and policy makers, need to study the collective war memories to enhance cultural identity while rebuilding national consciousness so they can establish regional relationships for developing a better resilient nation. Keywords: Balkan Wars, Ottoman Empire, Polarization, International Relation, First World War, Nationalism Research Area: Sociology of Youth, Digitalization Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). This article is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Bridging the Divide: Digitalization and Young Rural Women in Bulgaria
Vladislava Lendzhova Department of Sociology Faculty of Philosophy South-West University “Neofit Rilski”, Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria ORCID ID: 0000-0001-9757-3419 E-mail: vlendzhova@swu.bg Download https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250203 ABSTRACT Digitalization has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping economies and individual opportunities, yet its benefits remain unevenly distributed. Marginalized groups, such as young rural women in Bulgaria, face compounded barriers stemming from limited infrastructure, digital literacy, and societal norms. This study explores these intersections using semi-structured interviews with 43 young women from the South West and Central West regions of Bulgaria, supported by quantitative insights. Findings reveal that unreliable internet access (73%) and insufficient digital literacy programs (67%) significantly hinder their engagement with the digital economy. Rooted in theoretical frameworks by Bourdieu, Collins and Castells, the analysis highlights how structural inequalities reinforce exclusion, while also revealing the resilience and agency of these women. This research underscores the urgency of gender-sensitive rural policies focused on expanding broadband infrastructure, scaling digital literacy initiatives, and addressing societal norms. By empowering young rural women, digitalization can bridge the rural-urban divide, foster social mobility, and drive regional economic growth. These findings contribute to understanding the digital divide and highlight the need for equitable digital inclusion strategies as a pathway to sustainable development. Keywords: Youth marginalization, Rural women, Gender inequality, Digitalization, Social capital, Digital divide Research Area: Sociology of Youth, Digitalization Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). This article is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Conditions, Factors and Spatial Organization of Viticulture in Pazardzhik Region
Doycho Vaklinov PhD student Department of Social and Economic Geography Faculty of Geology and Geography Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, Sofia, Bulgaria E-mail: doychovaklinov83@gmail.com ORCID: 0009-0003-1355-9209 Download https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250202 ABSTRACT The main spatial characteristics of the geographical environment of the Pazardzhik region provide diverse opportunities for the development of a number of activities in the primary sector of the economy. In its central parts, viticulture plays a leading role in agricultural specialization, which has centuries-old traditions since antiquity.The main focus of this study is aimed at studying the leading conditions and resources for the development of grape production and its modern spatial organization within the scope of the Pazardzhik region. Special attention is paid to the geographical scope and production specialization, of the formed viticultural micro districts in the studied territory. The study concludes with defining the main challenges in the development of viticulture and the possibilities for overcoming them in the future. Keywords: Viticulture, Conditions, Resources, Factors, Spatial organization, Specialization, Microdistricts Research Area: Economic Geography, Regional Development Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). This article is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Improving Strength Through Hiking Activities Among Males and Females
Arben Kaçurri1, Mark Dodaj2, Enkeleida Lleshi3 1,2,3 Department of Sports Performance, 1,2,3 Sports Research Institute, Sports University of Tirana, Albania ORCID IDs: 1 0009-0005-9788-0693, 2 0009-0004-6505-6918, 3 0000-0002-2800-4615 Corresponding Author: Enkeleida Lleshi enlleshi@yahoo.com Download https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250201 ABSTRACT Virtual games are an example of a new technique to improve balance. This research is to assess gender differences in balance parameters and provide immediate feedback on the impact of walking. Method; No.30 female and No.34 male, aged 20 – 21 years, hiked every two days for 20 days, for several hours and involved elevation gain on uneven terrain, according to a present program. Isokinetic & isomeric force of knee extension & flexion were measured by using the Dynamometer Genu/Prima (Easy tech), in two testing sessions, before and after hiking program. In each testing session the force test was executed once. Results; Force index scores were used as indicators to define the difference. Hiking has positive effects on strength parameters and girls experience less improvement in strength parameters than boys. The force index score in isokinetic trial were increased 18.66% (p < 0.05) for the male group, 5.89% (p < 0.55) ns, and in the isometric force trial the index scores after hiking were increased 21.54% (p < 0.05) for the male group, 7.68% (p < 0.25) ns for the female. The work index (J) estimated after hiking were increased in both, male and female, respectively 14.44% (p < 0.05) for the male group, 6.78% (p < 0.35) the female group. Conclusion; Future research on the impact of hiking on motor skills and strength metrics would be helpful. It is necessary to conduct intervention research designed to assess the impact of hiking as a strength training method on enhancing motor abilities. Keywords: Hiking, Force, Activities, Female, Male Research Area: Physical Education, Sport Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). This article is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Business and Moral Conflicts. Ethical Challenges in Contemporary Management
Mariya Kicheva-Kirova Professor, PhD, Department of Business Administration College of Tourism – Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria ORCID: 0000-0002-1313-1814 E-mail: maria_55@mail.bg Download https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250104 ABSTRACT As society and business evolve rapidly, ethical dilemmas surrounding their governance are becoming increasingly significant. This article examines the complex landscape of moral conflicts in the business world, highlighting the pressures and stress experienced by corporate leaders. It explores the roles of various stakeholders, the erosion of trust, and the challenges to managerial integrity and honesty under continuous scrutiny. The discussion focuses on the root causes of ethical tensions across multiple levels – employees, organizations, trade relations, society, and the global business environment. The analysis reveals that ethical issues are not isolated incidents but deeply embedded problems within modern management. As such, they require a comprehensive exploration and a reasoned framework for identifying corrective strategies. Through ethical leadership and improved decision-making, organizations can enhance stakeholder satisfaction and promote more responsible and sustainable business practices. Keywords: Ethical pressure, Ethical stress, Trust, Integrity, Honesty Research Area: Business, Ethics Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). This article is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Dark Tourism in Bulgaria – A Conceptual Guidebook
Vladimir Karadzhov Chief Assistant Professor, PhD (Economic and Social Geography) Department of Geography, Ecology and Environmental Protection Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, South-West University “Neofit Rilski” – Blagoevgrad ORCID: 0000-0002-7514-5517 E-mail: karadzhov@swu.bg Download https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250102 ABSTRACT This article explores the phenomenon of dark tourism in Bulgaria, a niche tourism sector that focuses on sites associated with tragedy, death, and the macabre. The author proposes a general classification of dark tourism sites, offering a framework to understand this unique form of tourism. The study further introduces the first exemplar guide to dark tourism in Bulgaria, presenting a comprehensive list of site based on the author’s extensive research. These include locations tied to Bulgaria’s turbulent history, such as abandoned Communist-era structures, post-war labor camps, and sites of cultural mythology. Visualizations of key destinations enhance the analysis, showcasing their significance and potential for tourism development. A detailed literature review situates Bulgaria’s dark tourism potential within global and regional contexts, identifying gaps and opportunities for sustainable growth. This study aims to stimulate further research and establish Bulgaria as a notable destination for dark tourism enthusiasts. Keywords: Dark tourism, Thanatourism, Disaster, Cultural Heritage, Guidebook Research Area: Tourism, Geography Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). This article is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
The Influence of Citizenship Education on National Identity in the EU
Rumyana Popova Chief Assistant Professor, PhD Department of Philosophical and Political Sciences, Faculty of Philosophy South-West University “Neofit Rilski” – Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria ORCID: 0000-0001-5169-8558 E-mail: r.popova@swu.bg Download https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250103 ABSTRACT This study explores the complex relationship between citizenship education and national identity within the European Union (EU), focusing on the role of education as a key agent of political socialization. Citizenship education serves a dual function: it fosters a balanced sense of national belonging grounded in democratic values, and it acts as a safeguard against extreme forms of nationalism. In an era marked by globalization, migration, and rising populist movements, citizenship education equips young people with the knowledge, skills, and civic awareness necessary to navigate both national and European identities responsibly. The research underscores the compatibility of national and pan-European identity, highlighting that individuals can simultaneously identify with their cultural heritage and shared European values such as democracy, pluralism, and human rights. This dual identification contributes to social cohesion and intercultural understanding across the EU. Citizenship education is positioned as a proactive tool in countering polarization, xenophobia, and authoritarian populism, helping learners develop critical thinking, civic responsibility, and respect for diversity. Referring to EU policy frameworks and educational practices, the paper demonstrates that effective citizenship education can mitigate societal fragmentation and foster a politically literate and engaged civil society. It provides insights into how national and European dimensions of identity can be harmonized through inclusive, values-based education. The findings aim to support educators and policymakers in enhancing citizenship education’s capacity to reinforce democratic culture and sustain identity in the European context. Keywords: Identity, Citizenship, Nations and nationalism, Education, EU, Politics Research Area: Political Sciences, Philosophy Copyright © 2025 The Author(s). This article is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Editorial
Welcome to the First Issue of the International Journal of Digital Research (IJDR).
Assessment of Physical Components in Young Boys’ Volleyball Players
Dr. Artan Pogoni1, Prof. Assoc. Enkeleida Lleshi2 1 Department of Physical Education and Sports, 2 Department of Sports Performance, 1 Faculty of Social Sciences, Tourism and Sports, “Barleti” University, Albania 2 Sports Research Institute, Sports University of Tirana, Albania Corresponding Author: Enkeleida Lleshi enlleshi@tahoo.com Download https://doi.org/10.63711/ijdr.net20250101
