E-JOURNALS OF UNIVERSITY SULKHAN-SABA ORBELIANI
Not a member yet
300 research outputs found
Sort by
Senior Policy in Polish Legislation on the Example of Local Government Seniors Councils (Taking into Account the Amendment of 2023)
Full text linkSenior policy is mentioned in the area of public administration most frequently in the context of the organization of health services. While treating seniors as public sector beneficiaries, it is easy to forget about the values that people defined as seniors may offer. In my study, I posit a thesis (H1) that Poland is a country that has a planned senior policy in the form of Seniors Councils at the local government level. The supporting thesis (H2) is a statement concerning the benefits of involving seniors at the level of local government units as public administrators at local and regional levels. An additional research question is: do top-down regulations at the central level contradict the idea of grassroots public participation? The study also shows the changes and consequences of normative acts regulating the existence of senior citizens’ councils at each of the three levels of local government in Poland.The study falls within the field of social sciences. In addition to research methods appropriate to the discipline of political science and administration, the author used participant observation as a person directly involved in the establishment of consultative and advisory bodies in local government, such as senior citizens’ councils.Senior policy is mentioned in the area of public administration most frequently in the context of the organization of health services. While treating seniors as public sector beneficiaries, it is easy to forget about the values that people defined as seniors may offer. In my study, I posit a thesis (H1) that Poland is a country that has a planned senior policy in the form of Seniors Councils at the local government level. The supporting thesis (H2) is a statement concerning the benefits of involving seniors at the level of local government units as public administrators at local and regional levels. An additional research question is: do top-down regulations at the central level contradict the idea of grassroots public participation? The study also shows the changes and consequences of normative acts regulating the existence of senior citizens’ councils at each of the three levels of local government in Poland.The study falls within the field of social sciences. In addition to research methods appropriate to the discipline of political science and administration, the author used participant observation as a person directly involved in the establishment of consultative and advisory bodies in local government, such as senior citizens’ councils
Criminal Offence and Health Condition Information as Special Categories of Data, and the Legal Aspects of Processing in Labor Relations under GDPR and Georgian Law
Full text linkCriminal offence and health condition information as special categories of data present significant legal challenges in labor relations. The new Personal Data Protection Law outlines the general regulations regarding criminal offence and health condition information as special categories of personal data. The principles governing the processing of this personal information are very specific, and depend on several factors, especially in employment contexts. Employers have access to private data related to candidates during the pre-contractual phase, and to employees during the contractual relationship. This access carries a high risk of breaching the principles of processing special categories of personal data. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the processing of criminal offence and health condition information as special categories of data by the employer. This issue is analyzed within the context of the pre-contractual phase and the termination of the employment contract. All aspects are reviewed under both GDPR and Georgian legislation. At the conclusion of this article, some suggestions and recommendations are offered which might be relevant for Georgian legal practice.Criminal offence and health condition information as special categories of data present significant legal challenges in labor relations. The new Personal Data Protection Law outlines the general regulations regarding criminal offence and health condition information as special categories of personal data. The principles governing the processing of this personal information are very specific, and depend on several factors, especially in employment contexts. Employers have access to private data related to candidates during the pre-contractual phase, and to employees during the contractual relationship. This access carries a high risk of breaching the principles of processing special categories of personal data. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the processing of criminal offence and health condition information as special categories of data by the employer. This issue is analyzed within the context of the pre-contractual phase and the termination of the employment contract. All aspects are reviewed under both GDPR and Georgian legislation. At the conclusion of this article, some suggestions and recommendations are offered which might be relevant for Georgian legal practice
HESYCHAST PRAYER AND ASCETIC VIRTUE IN THEOLEPTOS OF PHILADELPHIA AND GREGORY PALAMAS: A COMPARATIVE EXPLORATION
Full text linkThis study presents a refined comparative analysis of the spiritual fatherhood and ascetic teachings of Theoleptos of Philadelphia and Gregory Palamas, two eminent figures in late Byzantine spirituality. Their epistolary guidance to monastic disciples, particularly the nuns Irene-Eulogia and Xenia, reveals crucial aspects of their theological and ascetic instruction. Theoleptos’ letters emphasize the cultivation of virtues such as penance (penthos), spiritual vigilance, and unceasing prayer. His teachings advocate for the renunciation of worldly pleasures and underscore the significance of solitude and ascetic discipline as pathways to union with Christ. Theoleptos guides his disciples toward a spousal union with the Divine, urging them to transcend human desires and embrace a state of mourning for lost divine love. His epistles offer a nuanced account of monastic spiritual direction during a period when ascetic practices were fundamental to Byzantine religious life. This comparative examination reveals a shared emphasis on ascetic virtue while highlighting the nuanced differences in their theological frameworks. Theoleptos and Palamas offer complementary perspectives on the ascetic journey, enriching our understanding of Byzantine monastic spirituality and its diverse expressions in the late medieval period.This study presents a refined comparative analysis of the spiritual fatherhood and ascetic teachings of Theoleptos of Philadelphia and Gregory Palamas, two eminent figures in late Byzantine spirituality. Their epistolary guidance to monastic disciples, particularly the nuns Irene-Eulogia and Xenia, reveals crucial aspects of their theological and ascetic instruction. Theoleptos’ letters emphasize the cultivation of virtues such as penance (penthos), spiritual vigilance, and unceasing prayer. His teachings advocate for the renunciation of worldly pleasures and underscore the significance of solitude and ascetic discipline as pathways to union with Christ. Theoleptos guides his disciples toward a spousal union with the Divine, urging them to transcend human desires and embrace a state of mourning for lost divine love. His epistles offer a nuanced account of monastic spiritual direction during a period when ascetic practices were fundamental to Byzantine religious life. This comparative examination reveals a shared emphasis on ascetic virtue while highlighting the nuanced differences in their theological frameworks. Theoleptos and Palamas offer complementary perspectives on the ascetic journey, enriching our understanding of Byzantine monastic spirituality and its diverse expressions in the late medieval period
ADJARIAN EMBROIDERY AND BLUE TABLECLOTH MAKING TECHNOLOGY AS MONUMENTS OF INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF GEORGIA
No full textThe UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage defines intangible cultural heritage as “practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, skills – as well as the instruments, objects, artefacts and cultural spaces associated therewith – that communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals recognize as part of their cultural heritage.” This heritage, passed down through generations, evolves as communities respond to their environment, interact with nature, and process their history, fostering identity, continuity, and respect for cultural diversity. This article examines two distinct examples of Georgian intangible cultural heritage in craftsmanship: Adjarian embroidery and the “blue tablecloth.” Adjarian embroidery represents traditional knowledge and skills within craftwork. In contrast, the revived “blue tablecloth” maintains historical forms and appearances while employing modern manufacturing technologies. The study explores the history of Adjarian embroidery, international perspectives, and the manufacturing techniques of the “blue tablecloth” within the framework of intangible cultural heritage. These two cases demonstrate divergent paths of cultural preservation. The highland Adjarian women’s embroidery art has persisted into the 21st century without technological modification, reflecting both passionate dedication to the craft and commitment to preserving traditional techniques. Conversely, the “blue tablecloth,” originating in the late Middle Ages before being disrupted by historical circumstances, exemplifies successful innovation. Its revival through modern technologies based on ancient traditions has proven commercially viable while maintaining cultural significance.The UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage defines intangible cultural heritage as “practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, skills – as well as the instruments, objects, artefacts and cultural spaces associated therewith – that communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals recognize as part of their cultural heritage.” This heritage, passed down through generations, evolves as communities respond to their environment, interact with nature, and process their history, fostering identity, continuity, and respect for cultural diversity. This article examines two distinct examples of Georgian intangible cultural heritage in craftsmanship: Adjarian embroidery and the “blue tablecloth.” Adjarian embroidery represents traditional knowledge and skills within craftwork. In contrast, the revived “blue tablecloth” maintains historical forms and appearances while employing modern manufacturing technologies. The study explores the history of Adjarian embroidery, international perspectives, and the manufacturing techniques of the “blue tablecloth” within the framework of intangible cultural heritage. These two cases demonstrate divergent paths of cultural preservation. The highland Adjarian women’s embroidery art has persisted into the 21st century without technological modification, reflecting both passionate dedication to the craft and commitment to preserving traditional techniques. Conversely, the “blue tablecloth,” originating in the late Middle Ages before being disrupted by historical circumstances, exemplifies successful innovation. Its revival through modern technologies based on ancient traditions has proven commercially viable while maintaining cultural significance
GEORGIA AND CRUSADERS: POLITICAL AND MILITARY ALLIANCE
Full text linkBetween the Crusaders and the Georgians, there were political, military, diplomatic, religious and social ties. They were reasonably bound by anti-Muslim and (sometimes, anti-Byzantine) solidarity. For instance, the Georgian chronicler associates the success of the First Crusade in Palestine with the strengthening of Georgia. According to Latin and Armenian chroniclers, during one of the prominent wars (at Didgori), where Christian Georgians fought against Muslims, a small Crusader detachment assisted the Georgian warriors. The insignia sent to the Latin King Baldwin I by the King David the Builder should be seen not only as a gesture of diplomatic etiquette, but also as a military cooperation. It is also recognised that King David participated in the liberation of the crusader leaders who were captured by Muslims. It is crucial to note that this kind of military cooperation was not one-sided, as Georgians also assisted the crusaders during the First Crusade, according to Georgian and foreign sources. Other Georgian kings also expressed a strong desire to help the crusaders. For instance, the King Lasha-Giorgi even sent his ambassadors from Georgia to Damietta to negotiate with Cardinal Pelagius. Unfortunately, the Mongols attacked Georgia soon after, which is the reason this military cooperation with the crusaders could not come to fruition. In short, based on the review of the appropriate sources, it can be said with certainty that there was a great willingness from the Georgians to form a military alliance with the crusaders. This alliance was implemented occasionally, although naturally, in all cases, the fulfillment of this desire seemed impractical due to the scarcity of available (naval or nautical) routes. Precisely because of this fact, joint and coordinated systematic military operations were impossible. However, it is evident that there were close ties between the crusaders and the Georgians, and there was an intense rate of information exchange between them.Between the Crusaders and the Georgians, there were political, military, diplomatic, religious and social ties. They were reasonably bound by anti-Muslim and (sometimes, anti-Byzantine) solidarity. For instance, the Georgian chronicler associates the success of the First Crusade in Palestine with the strengthening of Georgia. According to Latin and Armenian chroniclers, during one of the prominent wars (at Didgori), where Christian Georgians fought against Muslims, a small Crusader detachment assisted the Georgian warriors. The insignia sent to the Latin King Baldwin I by the King David the Builder should be seen not only as a gesture of diplomatic etiquette, but also as a military cooperation. It is also recognised that King David participated in the liberation of the crusader leaders who were captured by Muslims. It is crucial to note that this kind of military cooperation was not one-sided, as Georgians also assisted the crusaders during the First Crusade, according to Georgian and foreign sources. Other Georgian kings also expressed a strong desire to help the crusaders. For instance, the King Lasha-Giorgi even sent his ambassadors from Georgia to Damietta to negotiate with Cardinal Pelagius. Unfortunately, the Mongols attacked Georgia soon after, which is the reason this military cooperation with the crusaders could not come to fruition. In short, based on the review of the appropriate sources, it can be said with certainty that there was a great willingness from the Georgians to form a military alliance with the crusaders. This alliance was implemented occasionally, although naturally, in all cases, the fulfillment of this desire seemed impractical due to the scarcity of available (naval or nautical) routes. Precisely because of this fact, joint and coordinated systematic military operations were impossible. However, it is evident that there were close ties between the crusaders and the Georgians, and there was an intense rate of information exchange between them
SERGEI BULGAKOV – AS PERSON AND THEOLOGIAN
No full textThere was no celebration in Georgia regarding Sergey Bulgakov’s birth in 1971. This article aims to encourage his contribution to future generations and properly assess his merit.” Despite the problematic personal, scientific, or research path of Sergei Bulgakov, it is undoubtedly that his influence on modern Orthodox theology is immeasurable, and no other theologian of the twentieth century has left a similar mark. Bulgakov’s extraordinary character and desire to share knowledge meant that even thinkers who were radical towards his ideas respected him until the end of his life and tried not to break ties with him. Finally, like Origen, when the time came for the reception of his teachings, even groups that were radically opposed to each other managed to unite against his teachings and unequivocally condemn them; however, this did not change the influence of Sergei Bulgakov on twentieth-century Orthodox theologians and the theology they created.There was no celebration in Georgia regarding Sergey Bulgakov’s birth in 1971. This article aims to encourage his contribution to future generations and properly assess his merit.” Despite the problematic personal, scientific, or research path of Sergei Bulgakov, it is undoubtedly that his influence on modern Orthodox theology is immeasurable, and no other theologian of the twentieth century has left a similar mark. Bulgakov’s extraordinary character and desire to share knowledge meant that even thinkers who were radical towards his ideas respected him until the end of his life and tried not to break ties with him. Finally, like Origen, when the time came for the reception of his teachings, even groups that were radically opposed to each other managed to unite against his teachings and unequivocally condemn them; however, this did not change the influence of Sergei Bulgakov on twentieth-century Orthodox theologians and the theology they created
INTERPRETATION OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL PRINCIPLE OF FREEDOM OF ENTERPRISE AND THE OBLIGATION TO PROMOTE ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN ASSESSING THE LAWFULNESS OF EMPLOYEE DISMISSAL BASED ON REORGANIZATION
No full textOrdinary courts frequently invoke constitutional principles when justifying their decisions, including in disputes concerning employee dismissal on the grounds of reorganization. This article employs descriptive, analytical, hermeneutical, and comparative legal methods to critically examine how courts assess the lawfulness of such dismissals within the constitutional framework of freedom of enterprise and the state’s obligation to promote entrepreneurship. It also critiques the prevailing standards of judicial reasoning in these decisions. The paper questions the necessity, appropriateness, and logical coherence of courts’ references to constitutional norms in this category of disputes. It examines the scope of discretionary powers vested in both employers and courts, particularly in the context of reorganization and restructuring processes. The article identifies which specific issues general courts are authorized to examine in dismissal cases based on reorganization and under what factual circumstances such examination is permissible This research will be useful for scholars and practitioners concerned with the lawfulness of employment termination based on reorganization, the application of constitutional principles by general jurisdiction courts, and the methodological standards governing judicial reasoning.Ordinary courts frequently invoke constitutional principles when justifying their decisions, including in disputes concerning employee dismissal on the grounds of reorganization. This article employs descriptive, analytical, hermeneutical, and comparative legal methods to critically examine how courts assess the lawfulness of such dismissals within the constitutional framework of freedom of enterprise and the state’s obligation to promote entrepreneurship. It also critiques the prevailing standards of judicial reasoning in these decisions. The paper questions the necessity, appropriateness, and logical coherence of courts’ references to constitutional norms in this category of disputes. It examines the scope of discretionary powers vested in both employers and courts, particularly in the context of reorganization and restructuring processes. The article identifies which specific issues general courts are authorized to examine in dismissal cases based on reorganization and under what factual circumstances such examination is permissible This research will be useful for scholars and practitioners concerned with the lawfulness of employment termination based on reorganization, the application of constitutional principles by general jurisdiction courts, and the methodological standards governing judicial reasoning
Building a Sustainable Financial Future: Exploring Georgia’s Path to Green Finance
Full text linkSustainable finance is becoming a central issue and a critical driver of decision-making for the majority of global investors and policymakers. By taking environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into account, and integrating them into the corporate business strategy, financial institutions are ensuring long-term investments in sustainable economics and contributing to meaningful global change.However, sustainable goals may conflict with other short-term economic objectives of the institution. Many green projects, such as renewable energy infrastructure and eco-friendly buildings, require large upfront investments, while cost of capital in developing countries is often much higher than in advanced economies. Other challenges, such as regulatory gaps, lack of direct incentives, need for additional competencies, and low awareness, also affect the sustainable finance market. This paper analyses the evolution of sustainable finance over the past decades, and examines the key challenges and prospects associated with sustainable finance in developing countries, particularly in Georgia. The paper also highlights some recommendations that may help address the current challenges and improve the sustainable financial ecosystem in Georgia.Sustainable finance is becoming a central issue and a critical driver of decision-making for the majority of global investors and policymakers. By taking environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into account, and integrating them into the corporate business strategy, financial institutions are ensuring long-term investments in sustainable economics and contributing to meaningful global change.However, sustainable goals may conflict with other short-term economic objectives of the institution. Many green projects, such as renewable energy infrastructure and eco-friendly buildings, require large upfront investments, while cost of capital in developing countries is often much higher than in advanced economies. Other challenges, such as regulatory gaps, lack of direct incentives, need for additional competencies, and low awareness, also affect the sustainable finance market. This paper analyses the evolution of sustainable finance over the past decades, and examines the key challenges and prospects associated with sustainable finance in developing countries, particularly in Georgia. The paper also highlights some recommendations that may help address the current challenges and improve the sustainable financial ecosystem in Georgia
THE ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY CHAPTERS IN THE COLLECTION OF PHILOKALIA: OBSERVATIONS ON A PECULIAR FEATURE
Full text linkThe work of St Gregory Palamas, One hundred and fifty Chapters, as included in the collection of the Philokalia, presents an interesting peculiarity in its second section when compared to the critical editions by R. Sinkewicz and P. Chrestou. Although the Philokalia version of the Chapters aligns with these critical editions in terms of content – where the theological positions of Barlaam the Calabrian and Gregory Akindynos are criticized and refuted as contrary to the patristic tradition – there is a notable absence of any explicit reference to the names Barlaam and Akindynos and to the epithets Barlaamites and Akindynists. This peculiar feature and its possible reasons will be briefly discussed in the present article.The work of St Gregory Palamas, One hundred and fifty Chapters, as included in the collection of the Philokalia, presents an interesting peculiarity in its second section when compared to the critical editions by R. Sinkewicz and P. Chrestou. Although the Philokalia version of the Chapters aligns with these critical editions in terms of content – where the theological positions of Barlaam the Calabrian and Gregory Akindynos are criticized and refuted as contrary to the patristic tradition – there is a notable absence of any explicit reference to the names Barlaam and Akindynos and to the epithets Barlaamites and Akindynists. This peculiar feature and its possible reasons will be briefly discussed in the present article
FASTING, BAPTISM AND ESCHATOLOGY IN THE DIDACHE OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES
Full text linkThe study of the early Christian texts brings to light beliefs and perceptions that derive from the New Testament years and at the same time highlights aspects of the life of the early Christian community. The contact with these texts is therefore of great importance because they serve as a link with the era of the New Testament and reveal to us how the early Christians behaved in matters of faith, ministry and pastoral care. It is therefore interesting to see from these sources, and without the Orthodox doctrine having received its full formation, the faith of the early Christians on issues of Trinitarianism, Christology, Ecclesiology. With the Didache we don’t really have something new. It presents the meanings briefly and clearly. This is because it is in fact stating things that are true and known. The text reveals a Church with a broader orientation, but also with a very strong Jewish heritage in its Tradition. In this context we will focus on specific issues as they are set forth in the Didache, especially the issues of fasting, baptism and the Last Days.The study of the early Christian texts brings to light beliefs and perceptions that derive from the New Testament years and at the same time highlights aspects of the life of the early Christian community. The contact with these texts is therefore of great importance because they serve as a link with the era of the New Testament and reveal to us how the early Christians behaved in matters of faith, ministry and pastoral care. It is therefore interesting to see from these sources, and without the Orthodox doctrine having received its full formation, the faith of the early Christians on issues of Trinitarianism, Christology, Ecclesiology. With the Didache we don’t really have something new. It presents the meanings briefly and clearly. This is because it is in fact stating things that are true and known. The text reveals a Church with a broader orientation, but also with a very strong Jewish heritage in its Tradition. In this context we will focus on specific issues as they are set forth in the Didache, especially the issues of fasting, baptism and the Last Days