Law, public policy, and civil society

Romania’s Role in the Process of Emergency Assistance for the Ukrainian Refugees in Times of Crisis

alexandra.cozma — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 20:11:42 +0000

Romania’s Role in the Process of Emergency Assistance for the Ukrainian Refugees in Times of Crisis alexandra.cozma Sun, 04/14/2024 - 23:11

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Student author

Author addressing title

Ms.

First Name

Alexandra-Andrada

Last Name

Cozma

Academic title

Other

Address

Intrarea Câmpului 36

E-mail

alexandra.cozma.22@drd.snspa.ro

Phone

0737930308

Institution/University

National University of Political Science and Public Administration

Co-authors

Claudia Bălan

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

The magnitude of the influx of Ukrainian refugees, generated by the intensification of Russia's aggression in Ukraine in 2022, caught the European Union and especially the Eastern European member states by surprise. The main objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the emergency response provided by Romania, including the governmental measures adopted by Romanian authorities in collaboration with UNHCR and IOM, supported by civil society through volunteering. This study focuses specifically on examining and observing the evolution of Romania’s mechanisms of emergency response and assistance, as well as the legislative changes that occurred as a result of the significant influx of Ukrainian refugees on Romanian territory in the first four months following the escalation of the war (February – May 2022).

To achieve this objective, official documents provided by the Romanian Government, the Strategic Coordination Group - Humanitarian Assistance, and reports provided by UNHCR and IOM will be analyzed, with the primary method being content analysis. The case of Romania is a relevant study because prior to 2022, unlike other EU Eastern member states, it was not on the transit route of refugees and till today is not a full member of the Schengen area, thus through the analysis of the Romanian response, it can be determined whether Romania represents an example of best practices in emergency assistance regarding refugee management.

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Romanias_Role_in_the_Process_of_Emergency_Assistance_for_the_Ukrainian_Refugees_in_Times_of_Crisis_-_Claudia_Balan_and_Alexandra_Cozma_-_Article.docx

Civic Engagement and Cultural Heritage: Lessons from the Herculane Project

bogdanberceanu — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 17:26:55 +0000

Civic Engagement and Cultural Heritage: Lessons from the Herculane Project bogdanberceanu Mon, 04/08/2024 - 20:26

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Non-student author

Author addressing title

Mr.

First Name

Bogdan

Last Name

Berceanu

Academic title

Dr.

Address

6 Povernei Street, 1st District, Bucharest, Romania

E-mail

bogdan.berceanu@administratiepublica.eu

Phone

0745121421

Institution/University

National University of Political Studies and Public Administration, Faculty of Public Administration - Bucharest

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

In the current global context, the cultural sector faces various challenges related to funding, access, and participation. This paper aims to identify potential pathways for civic initiatives. The purpose of this narrative article is to discuss the role of civic engagement in protecting cultural heritage goods, when public authorities fail to do so. The Romanian Law of Preserving Cultural Monuments is central to this discussion. It delineates the responsibilities of both governmental and non-governmental entities in safeguarding the nation's cultural heritage. Thus, the Herculane Project- situated in Băile Herculane (Herculane Baths), initiated by a Romanian NGO offers invaluable lessons on the dynamics between civil society, public administration authorities, and the preservation of cultural monuments. The work presents a qualitative analysis of the mechanisms through which civic engagement has influenced the trajectory of the Herculane Project. It explores how local communities, NGOs, and grassroots movements have mobilized to advocate for the preservation of Băile Herculane's cultural heritage. The conclusion of this paper aims to demonstrate the relevance of contemporary civil societies in preserving cultural heritage goods. It underlines how the best practices employed by the NGO in charge of the Herculane Project can be applied to other cases while taking into account the dynamics of cultural heritage preservation.

Civil society and the legitimacy of executive power

Tommaso_Pizzella — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:08:28 +0000

Civil society and the legitimacy of executive power Tommaso_Pizzella Fri, 03/01/2024 - 14:08

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Student author

Author addressing title

Mr.

First Name

Tommaso

Last Name

Pizzella

Academic title

Other

Address

Via della Libertà 1 TRAV SX N12

E-mail

tommypizzy@gmail.com

Phone

3392878350

Institution/University

University of Naples Federico II

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

TITLE: Civil society and the legitimacy of executive power

ABSTRACT

A liberal-democratic society (from a political theory perspective) is self-governing in the sense that people, through their directly elected representatives, exercise sovereignty and decision-making authority. Through this process, elected officials should have the power and the responsibility to decide all policy matters. In the real world, however, this is not so easy since public policy is made by bureaucrats and not by elected officials. With the birth of the Welfare State, in fact, the question of how much control representatives elected by citizens should exercise over the Public Administration (PA) has become a topic of relevance. The presence of permanent officials in relevant administrative roles corrects some of the major shortcomings of democratic governance and contributes significantly to the success and stability of liberal democratic states. It is therefore necessary to begin a reflection that can give relevance to the normative dimension of the executive power with a deontological analysis on the role of the civil servant/public official. This paper aims to underline the importance of PA in a liberal-democratic political system and explain which are the limits of democratic legitimacy for public officials fulfilling their functions. In addition to this, an alternative approach will be proposed. A vocational model of accountability based on the neutrality of the public function and on a set of liberal values (efficiency, liberty and equality) as a healthy corrective to populism and illiberal democracies and an alternative to the democratic legitimacy.

Keywords: Public Administration; Administrative Discretion; Liberal Democracy; Civil Society; Legitimacy

Author: Tommaso Pizzella

Tommaso Pizzella was born on 20/04/1999 in Naples. He is a Phd student in Public Policies of Choesion and Convergence in the European Scenario at the University of Naples Federico II, Department of Political Science. His main research interests include liberal/illiberal democracies and populism, ethics of artificial intelligence, ethics of Public Administration.

Contacts:

-Mobile phone: +39 3392878350

-E-mail : tommypizzy@gmail.com (preferred); tommaso.pizzella@unina.it (institutional)

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PAPER ACADEMOS_Tommaso_Pizzella.docx

Civil society and the legitimacy of executive power

eugen.gabor — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 20:33:05 +0000

Civil society and the legitimacy of executive power eugen.gabor Thu, 02/29/2024 - 22:33

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Student author

Author addressing title

Mr.

First Name

Tomasso

Last Name

Pizzella

Academic title

Other

Address

E-mail

tommaso.pizzella@unina.it

Phone

+39 3392878350

Institution/University

Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

Keywords: Public Administration; Administrative Discretion; Liberal Democracy; Civil Society;
Legitimacy

The impact of public rail transport policies on civil society: a historical-institutional analysis

Francesca Motti — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:57:36 +0000

The impact of public rail transport policies on civil society: a historical-institutional analysis Francesca Motti Thu, 02/29/2024 - 21:57

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Student author

Author addressing title

Ms.

First Name

Francesca

Last Name

Motti

Academic title

Dr.

Address

Department of Political Science, Via Rodinò n.22, Naples

E-mail

francesca.motti@unina.it

Phone

+393342740724

Institution/University

University of Naples “Federico II”

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

The proper development and operation of the railway sector promotes accessibility and connectivity between different territorial areas, facilitating the movement of people and goods. Rail networks connect urban and rural centres, contributing to territorial cohesion and social inclusion. Moreover, this specific sector is an essential pillar of sustainable mobility, offering an environmentally more advantageous alternative to road transport and aviation. Thanks to its ability to transport large volumes of people and goods with lower greenhouse gas emissions and a lower environmental impact, rail transport contributes to the fight against climate change and the promotion of better air quality in urban areas.

The study aims to offer a historical analysis of public policies in the rail transport sector and their impact on civil society. Through an examination of political institutions over time, the dynamics between government, railway operators and citizens are explored. In particular, it examines investment, regulation and public service policies in the railway context and how these influence mobility, accessibility and social cohesion. It will highlight the role of political institutions in shaping railway networks, tariffs, safety standards and service quality, as well as in promoting technological innovation and adaptation to societal needs. Finally, future challenges and opportunities for political institutions in the rail transport sector will be reflected upon, with a focus on the integration of environmental, economic and social needs to ensure sustainable and inclusive mobility.

Romania’s Role in the Process of Emergency Assistance for the Ukrainian Refugees in Times of Crisis

alexandra.cozma — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:12:42 +0000

Romania’s Role in the Process of Emergency Assistance for the Ukrainian Refugees in Times of Crisis alexandra.cozma Thu, 02/29/2024 - 21:12

Registration fee details

Student author

Author addressing title

Ms.

First Name

Alexandra

Last Name

Cozma

Academic title

Other

Address

Intrarea Câmpului 70A

E-mail

alexandra.cozma.22@drd.snspa.ro

Phone

0737930308

Institution/University

National University of Political Science and Public Administration

Co-authors

Claudia Bălan

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

Keywords: Emergency assistance, Romania, ukrainian refugees, UNHCR, IOM

Mediterranean migrations: NGOs as the voice of the voiceless?

Daniela La Foresta — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 16:39:54 +0000

Mediterranean migrations: NGOs as the voice of the voiceless? Daniela La Foresta Thu, 02/29/2024 - 18:39

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Non-student author

Author addressing title

Ms.

First Name

Daniela

Last Name

La Foresta

Academic title

Prof.

Address

via Palizzi 121

E-mail

daniela.laforesta@gmail.com

Phone

3511992433

Institution/University

Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

The Mediterranean Sea has always represented a unique melting pot of cultures and peoples, holding a strategic position: since the mid-1990s it has been the preferred route for migrants to reach the European continent. Adverse weather conditions overcrowded and illegal boats, as well as the difficult management of the emergency by the EU, make the Mediterranean one of the most dangerous routes, with reports of migrant accidents being an every-day occurrence.

Since 2014, approximately 29,000 migrants have gone missing or died in the Mediterranean, with the highest number of fatalities recorded in 2016 and in the central route (UNHCR, 2022). The complexity of the situation indicates how it cannot be solved solely by the countries most affected by the phenomenon: indeed, cooperation and coordination with states, NGOs, and other maritime agencies are necessary. NGOs play a central role in the management of the situation, with the Council of Europe calling on states to cooperate constructively with NGOs to ensure effective protection of human rights. Approximately 38 NGO ships conducted SAR operations in the Mediterranean Sea between 2016 and 2022 (FRA).

This research aims to analyse the pre-eminent role assumed by NGOs in operations in the Mediterranean Sea, whose interventions have often been criticised and considered "an incentive for smugglers to arrange departures" (Italian Senate, 2017). More specifically, among the operations carried out by NGOs, particular importance is attributed to communication strategies: through them organisations can spread their values and promote their actions, while raising public awareness. Thus, the focus is on the core communication tactics used and on the most effective strategies to achieve their goals.

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Abstract Academos_1.docx

Fostering Democratic Values for the Future: An In-Depth Exploration of Romania's Preuniversity Education System

Mihaela V. Carausan — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 21:01:02 +0000

Fostering Democratic Values for the Future: An In-Depth Exploration of Romania's Preuniversity Education System Mihaela V. Carausan Wed, 02/28/2024 - 23:01

Registration fee details

Non-student author

Author addressing title

Mrs.

First Name

Mihaela Victorita

Last Name

Carausan

Academic title

Other

Address

Bucharest, Romania

E-mail

mihaela.carausan@administratiepublica.eu

Phone

0723511300

Institution/University

National University of Political Studies and Public Administration

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

The paper delves into the intricacies of Romania's education system, exploring the subjects which contribute to the democratic values frame. We will investigate the active role of individuals in shaping cultural norms and emphasize the importance of their participation in manifesting democratic power within the state. Moreover, the study questions whether the education system effectively prepares the future generation to be responsible members of society.

The paper starts with the concept of co-creation and assesses whether individuals are ready to understand it or are aware of its implications. It reviews the empowerment of individuals as active decision-makers in societal processes and their ability to critically reflect on social movements and evolution. Furthermore, the research explores whether the upcoming generation possesses values that enable them to reject or aspire to different ideologies. In addressing the relationship between individuals and civil society, the paper investigates when and how non-governmental organizations play a role in the education of future generations' values.

An important aspect of the study is an analysis of the education system's contribution to promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Romania. The research evaluates whether citizens are equipped with the necessary values to protect and support a sustainable future.

The methodological framework for the paper is structured around a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, such as literature and documents review, content and comparative analysis, as well as a multidisciplinary approach to gather comprehensive insights. Through this comprehensive examination, the paper aims to contribute valuable insights and recommendations for enhancing Romania's preuniversity education system, strengthening civil society, and promoting a sustainable future.

Paper upload

MV Carausan.docx

The evolution of the regional state in Italy from the unitary state to the Title V reform

eugen.gabor — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 19:16:00 +0000

The evolution of the regional state in Italy from the unitary state to the Title V reform eugen.gabor Wed, 02/28/2024 - 21:16

Registration fee details

Non-student author

Author addressing title

Mr.

First Name

Francesco

Last Name

Vittoria

Academic title

Prof.

Address

E-mail

domenicofrancesco.vittoria@unina.it

Phone

Institution/University

Università degli studi di Napoli Federico II

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

After the people’s referendum, with the birth of the Republic and the Constituent Assembly, the fathers of the Constitution advocated the establishment of a model of order that would include regions, municipalities and provinces. The decision to opt for an “intermediate” institutional set-up between a federal state and a unitary order was not a “rash” but a well-considered choice on the part of the constituents, despite the fear of certain tensions that were difficult to approach within the country. The „intermediate” model thus realised an institutional design that coalesced the more unitary positions with the more autonomist ones. A crucial point in the evolution of regionalism is also due to the jurisprudence of the Constitutional Court. The path of regionalism over time develops along a different path from the original project of the constituent fathers. The essay also describes a possible new phase in the future of regionalism in the light of the new “Calderoli bill”, which aims at a model of regionalism, so-called differentiated, that opens the door to a new institutional design and undoubtedly widens the gaps between the north of the country and the south, thus defeating the original design of the constituent fathers, who opted for a regionalism based on solidarity.

EUROPE'S EXPORT OF CYBERSURVEILLANCE TECHNOLOGY: IMPACTS ON MYANMAR’S CIVIL SOCIETY

eugen.gabor — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 07:46:14 +0000

EUROPE'S EXPORT OF CYBERSURVEILLANCE TECHNOLOGY: IMPACTS ON MYANMAR’S CIVIL SOCIETY eugen.gabor Tue, 02/27/2024 - 09:46

Registration fee details

Non-student author

Author addressing title

Mr.

First Name

Federico

Last Name

Cuomo

Academic title

Dr.

Address

Via Roma 151, 07100 Sassari (Italy)

E-mail

fcuomo@uniss.it

Phone

+39.3456975850

Institution/University

University of Sassari, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences

Conference Panels

Law, public policy, and civil society

Paper/Abstract submission

This contribution aims to examine the critical issues related to the export of
cybersurveillance technologies by some European Union companies to Myanmar, a country with a history of instability and geopolitical tensions that have been exacerbated since the military coup of 2021. NGOs operating in the country, in addition to humanitarian and development assistance, play a crucial role in the evolution of civil society and, also thanks to some of them, it has been possible to uncover some irregularities in the export of dual-use goods that may cause social impacts and infringe on the freedoms of Burmese civil society.
Through a qualitative analysis of the literature, the main EU regulations and related NGOs
documents, the research uncovered some regulatory loopholes that allowed such exports while
examining the practices of some European companies in Burma. The work carried out confirmed the need for stricter regulation: in this sense, the European
Commission's recent Delegated Regulation 2023/66 aims to ensure more effective control over this type of export by preventing the misuse of surveillance technology and promoting greater
accountability of companies operating in authoritarian contexts.

Keywords: civil society, social impacts, NGOs, dual use goods, mass surveillance.