National interest

Gender Dynamics in Central Asia: A Contemporary Analysis

Kamakshi Wason — 2025-01-20

Central Asia, distinguished by its many cultures, histories, and traditions, offers a significant lens for examining gender dynamics within a swiftly transforming sociopolitical context. The historical context, social structures, and effects of industrialization and globalization are meticulously analyzed. The article analyzes the contemporary obstacles and opportunities encountered by Central Asian women, highlighting the complex relationship between tradition and modernity. It highlights the crucial role of women in influencing the region's future through an examination of state policies, educational initiatives, and grassroots movements. Furthermore, it illuminates the underexamined tales of resilience and adaptability among Central Asian women, providing a more profound comprehension of their contributions to societal transformation. These thoughts seek to make a tiny contribution to the wider discussion on gender and development in the region.

Effects of the Global Financial Crisis in Hungary: Housing, Debt Crisis and International Support

Soham Das — 2025-01-20

Hungary was the worst-hit amongst the Central European EU member-nations by the global financial crisis. Interestingly, its economy was performing quite well initially after the end of the communist rule in 1989. Hungary successfully reduced its debt from 90% of GDP in 1993 to 52% in 2001. But, since 2002, the debt situation in Hungary worsened significantly. In 2008, the global financial crisis led to immediate financial difficulties for Hungary which already had high Government debt and external debt. The lion’s share of Hungary’s government debt was foreign-owned. The household sector also had nearly two-third of its debt in foreign currency. As a result, there was a huge liquidity pressure on the Hungarian banks. The high debt levels of the economy did not leave enough room to absorb the shocks of the global financial crisis. The paper looks at macro management issues of Hungary before, during and after the global financial crisis with special emphasis on the debt issues of the housing sector. It also looks at the policy measures that helped to avoid a major banking crisis and regional contagion, including the support from the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank. This paper connects the economic legacy of the post-communist transition, with special emphasis on the housing finance policy, to the impact of the global financial crisis in Hungary.

Economic development's road to the colonies

Shinasak Suwanachariya — 2025-01-13

Before the onset of the Russia–Ukraine war, the Russian economic development model, shaped by colonialism and neoliberalism, prioritized short-term capital flows, often neglecting long-term investments focused on import substitution.The ongoing decline of the ruble has created a shortage of investment resources, leading to inflation surpassing expectations.The monetary and credit policies of the Central Bank have significantly influenced the economy's condition.Export-orientated industries experienced a remarkable growth rate compared to domestic ones. However, the variety of goods became more and more restricted as the ruble's value dropped. In the long run, new technologies have the potential to replace imports, significantly boosting production competitiveness. Devaluation will, however, increase investment expenses and hinder economic growth.

Current Conditions of the Investment Climate and Prospects for Increasing the Investment Attractiveness of Ukraine

Sofiia Dombrovska — 2025-01-15

This article examines the investment attractiveness of Ukraine. The purpose of the article is to study the state of the investment climate in Ukraine and identify prospects for increasing investment attractiveness. It analyzes trends in foreign investment inflows along with the investment attractiveness index, and identifies factors contributing to their decline. It also examines the countries that contribute the largest volumes of foreign investment, and assesses the impact of offshore zones on foreign investors. In addition, the article analyzes trends and distribution of foreign investment in different sectors of the economy. It examines the actions and decisions of the government aimed at increasing the country’s investment attractiveness in the context of the ongoing conflict. It provides recommendations for future measures to create a stable and favorable investment climate, emphasizing the need to continue improving the legislation. The article emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, which includes reforming the judiciary, effectively fighting corruption, and strengthening the protection of property rights. It concludes that active coordination between different branches of government, together with the participation of the private sector and the international community, is essential for these efforts.

Using geopolitics to preserve the value of the ruble

Saree Boonrat — 2025-01-17

The purpose of this article is to investigate the use of geopolitics as a strategic asset for hedging against the ruble. It proposes that Russians should acquire and maintain real estate investment assets, such as guaranteed rental and income sources, to maintain the ruble's value and stability in the face of geopolitical pressures. The baht, which has strengthened as a result of the Bank of Thailand's inflation-targeting policy, is one of the most dependable currencies in the world.