Advanced Journal of Management, Humanity and Social Science

Abstract This study develops a comprehensive and integrative framework for agile leadership in knowledge-based organizations (KBOs), designed to address the unique challenges of operating in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environments. Drawing from the knowledge-based view (KBV) of the firm, dynamic capabilities theory, and contemporary agile leadership models, the framework emphasizes the interplay between leadership behaviors, organizational culture, and knowledge management processes. Specifically, it integrates the “align–empower” leadership paradigm, which balances strategic alignment with team empowerment, and incorporates transformational leadership as a catalyst for innovation, trust, and resilience. The framework operationalizes Nonaka and Takeuchi’s SECI model of knowledge creation (Socialization, Externalization, Combination, Internalization) within agile contexts, highlighting the role of leaders in creating an enabling environment (“Ba”) for knowledge sharing, learning, and application. By fostering psychological safety, autonomy, and shared purpose, agile leaders can accelerate both the creation and utilization of organizational knowledge, enhancing adaptability, responsiveness, and innovation. This synthesis offers theoretical contributions by bridging agile leadership and KBV perspectives, while providing practical guidelines for leadership development, digital transformation, and cultural change in KBOs. Implications extend to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large-scale knowledge-intensive organizations, with recommendations for context-specific adaptation. The proposed model serves as a roadmap for scholars seeking to empirically test agile leadership mechanisms and for practitioners aiming to embed agility into the DNA of knowledge-driven enterprises. Ultimately, this framework underscores that in knowledge-based economies, agility in leadership is not optional—it is an imperative for sustained competitive advantage.

Abstract Cooling systems in thermal power plants play a decisive role in maintaining steam cycle efficiency, enhancing equipment reliability, and reducing maintenance costs. The chemical quality of water in these systems is one of the most critical factors affecting corrosion rates, scale formation, and heat transfer degradation. In the present study, the water chemistry and corrosion behaviour in the hybrid (dry-wet) cooling system of a sample thermal power plant were investigated. Sampling was conducted on demineralised water, recirculating water of the dry tower, inlet water to heat exchangers, wet tower water, and makeup water. General parameters including pH, electrical conductivity, TDS, temperature, and salinity were measured. Additionally, the concentrations of metallic elements were determined using ICP-MS. The results indicated that the demineralised water exhibits exceptionally high purity and is virtually devoid of metal ions, whereas in the dry cycle, a significant increase in aluminium concentration up to approximately 260 ppb was observed, indicative of active corrosion in the aluminium radiators of the dry tower. In contrast, in the wet tower, the concentrations of calcium, sodium, potassium, silica, copper, and zinc increased markedly, attributable to evaporation, concentration of dissolved solids, and the use of wastewater as make-up water. Comparison of the results with EPRI guidelines revealed that although iron and copper levels fall within acceptable ranges, the elevated aluminium concentration may be regarded as the primary indicator of heat transfer equipment degradation. Accordingly, the revision of the water chemistry control programme, continuous monitoring of dissolved aluminium, and reassessment of the dry tower operating conditions are proposed as the most critical management strategies. The findings of this research can serve as a basis for the development of intelligent corrosion monitoring programmes in power plants equipped with hybrid cooling systems.

Abstract Contract law, as one of the most fundamental branches of legal systems, has evolved significantly over centuries to adapt to changing economic, social, and technological contexts. Its historical development—from Roman law’s emphasis on ritualistic formalities, to the medieval lex mercatoria, and later the codifications of civil law and the precedent-driven common law—highlights the dynamic interplay between law and society. Core principles such as freedom of contract, pacta sunt servanda (agreements must be kept), good faith, consideration, and legality have remained central, though their application has been continually reshaped by shifting social needs and regulatory frameworks. In modern contexts, contract law faces profound challenges. Globalization has expanded cross-border transactions, necessitating harmonization efforts through international conventions such as the CISG. Meanwhile, consumer protection has become increasingly important in addressing power imbalances and ensuring fairness in contractual relationships. The digital revolution has further transformed contract formation, with e-contracts, clickwrap agreements, and electronic signatures raising new legal and ethical issues. Emerging technologies such as blockchain and smart contracts present both opportunities for efficiency and challenges related to enforceability, remedies, and accountability. Looking forward, contract law is expected to undergo significant transformation in response to rapid technological advancement, global harmonization efforts, and the growing importance of sustainability and social responsibility. The integration of artificial intelligence into contract drafting, negotiation, and enforcement will further reshape traditional practices, while simultaneously raising questions of liability, transparency, and fairness.

Abstract The proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) companions—conversational agents designed to provide social interaction and emotional support—has prompted significant scholarly debate regarding their psychological and social consequences, particularly for young adults. This study investigates the impact of AI companion use on loneliness, emotional attachment to AI, and interpersonal communication competence among university students (N = 1,200). Utilizing a cross-sectional survey design, we measured social-interaction burnout, subjective loneliness, AI parasocial interaction, emotional attachment to AI, and interpersonal communication skills. Our findings reveal a complex, paradoxical relationship: while AI companions offer immediate relief from loneliness (β = 0.254, p < .001) and are perceived as low-risk sources of social connection, they also significantly predict emotional dependence (β = 0.318, p < .001) which, in turn, negatively correlates with interpersonal communication competence (β = -0.41, p < .001). Furthermore, social-interaction burnout emerged as a strong predictor of AI attachment (β = 0.238, p < .001). The results support the "Algorithmic Sanctuary" hypothesis, suggesting that young adults may retreat to AI interactions to escape the perceived judgment and demands of human relationships, a process that paradoxically may impair the very social skills needed to forge meaningful human connections. This study underscores the need for digital literacy interventions that address the developmental and relational implications of sustained AI companionship.

Abstract Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) represent the backbone of global economic activity, contributing significantly to employment, innovation, and sustainable development. However, globalization, rapid technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and increasing environmental pressures have intensified the challenges these firms face in remaining competitive. Strategic planning and sustainability practices have therefore become critical tools for ensuring SME survival and growth in international markets. This paper examines the role of strategic planning in guiding SMEs through uncertain environments, enabling them to align resources, anticipate risks, and pursue innovation-driven opportunities. It also highlights how sustainability practices—such as green supply chain management, energy efficiency, corporate social responsibility, and circular economy models—can strengthen resilience, improve brand reputation, and enhance long-term profitability. The integration of sustainability into strategic planning allows SMEs not only to comply with international standards but also to gain a competitive advantage in markets where eco-consciousness and ethical practices are increasingly valued. Despite resource limitations and barriers to adoption, SMEs that combine effective strategy with sustainability are better positioned to respond to global market challenges and contribute meaningfully to sustainable economic growth. Policymakers, business leaders, and stakeholders must therefore support SMEs by providing financial incentives, training, and collaborative platforms to accelerate this transformation.

Abstract Contracts constitute the backbone of private law and commercial interactions, ensuring that individuals and entities can rely upon legally binding promises. This paper aims to examine the general rules of contracts in two distinct legal traditions: Iranian law, which is primarily based on the Civil Code influenced by Islamic jurisprudence and continental legal doctrines, and common law, which has developed through judicial precedent in England and later expanded in jurisdictions such as the United States. The comparative analysis highlights both convergences and divergences in key areas such as contract formation, validity, and consideration versus cause, performance, remedies, and doctrines of good faith. The research demonstrates that while Iranian contract law is deeply rooted in moral and religious values, emphasizing equity and good faith, common law reflects a pragmatic and case-based approach where judicial precedent and doctrines like consideration play a central role. Despite these differences, modern legal trends such as international trade law, UNIDROIT Principles, and the CISG have encouraged convergence between civil law and common law traditions. The paper concludes that comparative studies not only deepen understanding of domestic laws but also contribute to harmonization in global contract law.

Abstract Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) represent the backbone of the global economy, yet they are disproportionately vulnerable to global economic fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and sustainability pressures. In today’s uncertain environment, resilient supply chain management (RSCM) and the integration of sustainable practices have become strategic imperatives for SMEs striving to maintain competitiveness and continuity. This paper explores how SMEs can enhance resilience by diversifying suppliers, leveraging digital technologies, and strengthening collaborative networks while simultaneously adopting sustainability measures such as circular economy models, renewable energy integration, and ethical sourcing. The study emphasizes the dual role of resilience and sustainability as mutually reinforcing concepts: resilient practices ensure operational continuity during crises, while sustainable initiatives reduce long-term vulnerabilities and improve stakeholder trust. Case studies from SMEs across diverse industries demonstrate that adopting these strategies not only mitigates risks but also provides access to global markets, enhances brand reputation, and improves resource efficiency. However, SMEs face significant barriers, including limited financial resources, technological gaps, regulatory complexities, and knowledge deficits. Overcoming these challenges requires supportive policies, financial incentives, and capacity-building programs, alongside SME-driven innovation.

Abstract Leadership remains a cornerstone of organizational success, particularly within multinational corporations (MNCs) that operate in diverse and complex environments. Effective leadership styles and strategies are crucial for enhancing employee motivation and improving organizational productivity. This paper explores various leadership theories, including transformational, transactional, servant, and situational leadership, to examine their applicability in motivating employees within MNCs. Additionally, the paper highlights the role of cross-cultural leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, and strategic human resource management in driving organizational outcomes. Through a comparative analysis of previous empirical studies, the paper underscores that no single leadership style is universally effective. Instead, adaptable, culturally sensitive, and employee-centered leadership approaches yield sustainable improvements in motivation, innovation, and productivity. The discussion also considers the challenges of globalization, digital transformation, and remote working, offering practical strategies for leaders in MNCs to build resilient, motivated, and high-performing teams.The integration of diverse markets, cultures, and technological systems has heightened the need for leaders who can adapt to rapid changes while motivating employees across geographies. Leadership, once understood merely as a positional authority or the ability to direct teams, has evolved into a multidimensional construct encompassing vision, strategy, communication, and the capacity to inspire. Leadership styles and strategies have direct implications for employee motivation, which in turn, influences organizational productivity and competitive advantage.

Abstract Traditional credit risk models, which rely primarily on static and historical financial records, are increasingly insufficient in addressing the complexities of modern economies. Their retrospective orientation often fails to capture the real-time operational health of borrowers, resulting in suboptimal lending decisions. This study proposes a novel smart framework that integrates high-frequency Internet of Things (IoT) data streams with Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) methods to enable dynamic and transparent credit risk assessment. The architecture incorporates diverse real-time operational signals—including supply chain logistics, equipment condition, production volumes, and inventory status—to construct continuously updated borrower risk profiles. At its core, the framework combines a Graph Neural Network (GNN) to capture intricate interdependencies within supply chains with a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network for temporal analysis of IoT sensor data. An additional XAI layer, implemented through SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), ensures interpretability of model outputs, thereby supporting regulatory compliance and fostering stakeholder trust. To evaluate the framework, a hybrid dataset was constructed, combining traditional financial statements with simulated IoT streams that mimic realistic business operations. Experimental results highlight a substantial performance improvement over conventional approaches, achieving an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.97. Moreover, the XAI module generated transparent, feature-based explanations for changes in risk scores, offering actionable insights for lenders. This research argues that the convergence of IoT and XAI signals a paradigm shift from static, retrospective risk models to proactive, dynamic, and interpretable credit risk management, enabling financial institutions to make better-informed and timely lending decisions.

Abstract Legal precedents play a fundamental role in shaping the reasoning and outcomes of judicial decisions across various legal systems, particularly in common law jurisdictions. By adhering to the doctrine of stare decisis, courts ensure consistency, predictability, and fairness in the application of law. This reliance on precedent provides litigants and society with a sense of stability, allowing individuals and institutions to anticipate legal consequences and organize their affairs accordingly. Beyond stability, precedents also facilitate the gradual evolution of legal doctrines, enabling courts to refine or reinterpret principles in response to shifting social norms, political contexts, and technological innovations. At the same time, the use of precedent is not without challenges. Strict adherence may entrench outdated or unjust decisions, while excessive flexibility risks undermining legal certainty and judicial legitimacy. The globalized nature of contemporary legal practice further complicates this dynamic, as courts increasingly engage with transnational jurisprudence and comparative precedent. This paper argues that the true significance of precedent lies in its dual role as both a guardian of continuity and a catalyst for change. By balancing respect for established rulings with responsiveness to new realities, courts can ensure that the law remains both stable and adaptable, preserving its legitimacy while addressing emerging challenges. The broader implications of precedent extend beyond legal reasoning, shaping democratic governance, economic stability, and social justice in profound and lasting ways.

Abstract Emerging technologies have become the cornerstone of entrepreneurial transformation and the driving force behind the development of innovative startups. As the digital economy expands, startups increasingly rely on advanced technological tools—such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and big data analytics—to create competitive advantages, scale operations, and enhance market adaptability. This paper explores the critical role of emerging technologies in entrepreneurial business development and the management of innovation in startups. Drawing on theoretical frameworks in innovation management, digital transformation, and entrepreneurial ecosystems, the study investigates how new technologies empower startups to achieve efficiency, differentiation, and resilience in rapidly changing markets. It highlights both opportunities and challenges, including regulatory barriers, cybersecurity threats, resource limitations, and the ethical dimensions of technology adoption. Through a synthesis of global case studies, the article demonstrates how startups across diverse regions leverage technological advancements to disrupt industries, attract venture capital, and foster sustainable growth. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating innovation management strategies with emerging technologies to enhance entrepreneurial success, shape dynamic ecosystems, and ensure long-term value creation. Ultimately, this study contributes to academic debates and practical insights for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and investors aiming to harness technology for sustainable entrepreneurial growth.

Abstract In the context of globalization, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) encounter unprecedented challenges and opportunities that demand both digital innovation and sustainable business strategies. Digital transformation, which involves the adoption of advanced technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data, enables SMEs to enhance efficiency, improve decision-making, and expand access to international markets. At the same time, sustainability has become a critical business imperative, as stakeholders increasingly expect companies to align their practices with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. This paper explores the intersection between digital transformation and sustainable practices, highlighting how globalization accelerates both trends and creates a synergistic relationship. On one side, digital technologies facilitate sustainable practices through resource optimization, supply chain transparency, and reduction of carbon footprints. On the other, sustainability initiatives enhance brand reputation and provide SMEs with a competitive edge in globalized markets. Despite these benefits, SMEs face significant barriers including limited financial resources, skills shortages, and regulatory complexity. By analyzing existing literature and real-world case examples, this study argues that SMEs must adopt an integrated strategy where digital transformation supports sustainability objectives, ensuring long-term competitiveness and resilience. Moreover, global cooperation, policy support, and innovation ecosystems are essential to enable SMEs to thrive in this transformative era.

Abstract The escalating sophistication of financial fraud necessitates a paradigm shift from conventional detection systems toward frameworks characterized by heightened intelligence, security, and transparency. The present study addresses a critical lacuna in the extant literature by proposing a novel, synergistic architecture that integrates Deep Learning (DL) with Blockchain technology to manifest a robust ecosystem for fraud detection. A dual-core engine is introduced, comprising: (1) a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network, optimized for the capture of temporal dependencies within transactional data, and (2) a permissioned Hyperledger Fabric blockchain, which serves as an immutable trust layer for data integrity and the automated execution of responses via Smart Contracts. The proposed model underwent rigorous evaluation utilizing the benchmark IEEE-CIS Fraud Detection dataset. The framework achieved an exceptional F1-Score of 0.98 and an AUC of 0.99, thereby significantly outperforming standalone DL models and traditional methodologies. It is demonstrated, crucially, that by ensuring data integrity, the blockchain layer enhances the model''s resilience against data poisoning attacks—a critical vulnerability in modern artificial intelligence systems. Performance analysis reveals a mean transaction latency of 450ms under significant load, confirming the system''s viability for real-time deployment. This research establishes a new benchmark for secure artificial intelligence in finance, providing evidence that the fusion of DL and blockchain can create a transparent, auditable, and highly accurate defense against sophisticated financial fraud, thereby paving the way for a new generation of trustworthy computational systems in critical sectors.

Abstract Background: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of an 8-week mindfulness-based intervention on reducing anxiety and improving the quality of life among clients of counseling centers in Shiraz, Iran. Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a pre-test/post-test design and a control group was employed. The statistical population comprised all clients who referred to counseling centers in Shiraz between January 2025 (Dey 1403) and July 2025 (Tir 1404). From an initial pool of 80 individuals who completed screening questionnaires, 40 participants with the highest anxiety scores and lowest QoL scores were selected and randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n=20) or a control group (n=20).

Results: The results of the MANCOVA indicated a statistically significant difference between the two groups on the combined dependent variables (Wilks' Lambda, F=85.2, p<0.0001, η²=0.14). Subsequent ANCOVA analyses revealed that the mindfulness intervention led to a significant reduction in anxiety levels in the experimental group compared to the control group (F=53.72, p<0.0001, η²=0.59). Similarly, a significant improvement in quality of life scores was observed in the experimental group (F=24.76, p<0.0001, η²=0.40).

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that an 8-week mindfulness-based intervention is highly effective in reducing anxiety and enhancing the quality of life among clients seeking psychological services in Shiraz. These results support the integration of mindfulness training into routine clinical practice in counseling and mental health centers as a powerful tool for promoting psychological well-being and overall life satisfaction.

Abstract This study explores how comparative literature can illuminate the complex relationship between capitalism, nature, and environmental crisis through a Marxist analytical framework. It argues that literary texts across different historical periods and cultural contexts not only reflect the capitalist exploitation of nature but also serve as critical tools for understanding and resisting it. By examining a diverse range of literary works—from 19th-century industrial novels to contemporary postcolonial and ecological narratives—this research identifies recurring themes of commodification, industrial expansion, and ecological degradation. Literature reveals how capitalist systems transform nature into a resource for profit, leading to profound social and environmental consequences. Furthermore, the study engages with Marxist concepts such as the “metabolic rift” to interpret how capitalism disrupts the natural balance between human society and the environment. Comparative analysis highlights the global dimension of these issues, showing how writers from various literary traditions critique the exploitative logic of capitalism and expose its ecological consequences. Additionally, many texts offer alternative visions of human-nature relations, suggesting possibilities for resistance and sustainable coexistence beyond capitalist paradigms. Ultimately, this paper demonstrates that literature is not merely a passive reflection of material reality but an active participant in shaping ecological consciousness. By placing literary works in comparative dialogue, we gain deeper insight into how cultural narratives can critique dominant economic systems and inspire transformative approaches to environmental justice. This Marxist literary approach underscores the vital role of the humanities in addressing contemporary ecological crises and imagining more equitable and sustainable futures.

Abstract Medical crimes encompass a spectrum of wrongful acts in healthcare, ranging from unintentional negligence to deliberate harmful actions, which not only endanger patients’ health but also undermine public trust in the medical system. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the criminal and legal dimensions of medical crimes. Acts of medical malpractice, arising from failure to adhere to standard care protocols, are typically addressed under civil law; however, in cases where they result in severe injury or death, they may also attract criminal liability. Conversely, intentional acts, such as administering harmful substances, sexual abuse of patients, or falsification of medical records, are directly subject to criminal prosecution and carry severe penalties including imprisonment, fines, and revocation of medical licenses. Additionally, financial crimes and fraud within healthcare systems have widespread implications on public resources and societal trust. The examination of these crimes indicates that their consequences extend beyond individual patients, affecting overall public health, healthcare costs, and quality of medical services. Preventing medical crimes requires strengthening professional education, establishing transparent reporting systems, enforcing strict oversight, and implementing legal reforms that balance patient protection with the rights of healthcare practitioners. This analysis provides a comprehensive perspective on the intersection of law, ethics, and medical professionalism, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures and accountable practices to safeguard both patients and society.

Abstract Perfectionism has become a salient construct in understanding students’ psychological functioning within academic settings. Defined as the pursuit of excessively high standards accompanied by critical self-evaluation, perfectionism manifests in both adaptive and maladaptive forms. This paper explores the psychological correlates of perfectionism among students, highlighting its influence on mental health, motivation, coping strategies, and social relationships. Research indicates that while adaptive perfectionism may foster organization, persistence, and academic success, maladaptive perfectionism is closely linked to heightened anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and academic burnout. Perfectionistic students often struggle with cognitive distortions, such as all-or-nothing thinking, and rely on maladaptive coping strategies like avoidance and rumination, which exacerbate stress. Additionally, perfectionism affects interpersonal dynamics, where fear of failure and excessive competitiveness can hinder collaborative learning and peer support. Cultural and parental expectations also reinforce perfectionistic tendencies, intensifying psychological vulnerability in highly competitive educational environments. Mechanisms such as achievement motivation, self-worth contingencies, and distorted cognitive appraisals help explain the varying outcomes of perfectionism. Interventions including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, self-compassion training, and growth-mindset educational practices are proposed as effective strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of maladaptive perfectionism while preserving the motivational benefits of adaptive forms. Understanding the psychological correlates of perfectionism is critical for educators, counselors, and policymakers aiming to promote academic excellence without compromising students’ well-being. Ultimately, fostering balanced forms of perfectionism may enable students to strive for high achievement while maintaining resilience, self-acceptance, and positive mental health in their educational journey.

Abstract The exponential growth of digital technologies and global connectivity has profoundly transformed the way personal, corporate, and governmental data are generated, transmitted, and stored. In this interconnected environment, cybersecurity has emerged as one of the most critical challenges facing both national authorities and international regulators. The increasing reliance on cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics has intensified the flow of information across borders, raising complex questions concerning data sovereignty, privacy protection, and jurisdictional authority. This paper examines the evolving landscape of cybersecurity laws and the regulation of cross-border data flows, with particular emphasis on the interplay between national interests, international norms, and global trade. It reviews major legal frameworks—including the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the U.S. CLOUD Act, and data governance models in China and emerging economies—and analyzes how these systems shape the transnational governance of digital information. The study also explores the tensions between privacy rights and state security imperatives, ethical implications of data localization, and the prospects for global harmonization of cybersecurity norms. By integrating legal analysis, policy comparison, and theoretical perspectives on digital sovereignty, this paper contributes to ongoing academic debates about how to secure cyberspace while preserving openness, innovation, and human rights.

Abstract Moral development during adolescence is a multidimensional process involving complex interactions among emotional mechanisms, cognitive–reasoning abilities, and social contexts. This paper aims to synthesize theoretical and empirical evidence to provide an integrated framework for understanding how moral emotions (such as empathy, guilt, and shame), moral reasoning (rule-based judgments and principled reasoning), and contextual components (family, peers, culture, and educational institutions) interact. It begins by reviewing classical and contemporary theoretical foundations—including Kohlberg’s stage theory, Haidt’s social intuitionist model, Greene’s dual-process theory, and Bandura’s social–cognitive perspective. The paper then examines empirical research on adolescence showing how affective factors may enhance or inhibit moral reasoning, and how social and normative environments influence moral preferences and actual behavior. Findings indicate that moral emotions are not merely consequences of moral reasoning but strong motivators of moral choice that, when interacting with cognitive capacities and social pressures, produce diverse trajectories of moral adaptation or deviation. The article introduces integrative dynamic models such as “neuro-moral insights,” “dual-process cognitive–affective models,” and “social-relational approaches,” and discusses their practical implications for moral education, prevention of antisocial behavior, and educational policymaking. Finally, future research directions are suggested, including longitudinal, multimethod, and cross-cultural studies examining gender and cultural variations. In conclusion, the author emphasizes the importance of developing educational programs based on strengthening empathy, emotional regulation, and critical thinking to guide adolescents’ moral development toward prosocial action and responsible citizenship.

Abstract Family law serves as a fundamental legal framework regulating relationships within families, including marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance, and domestic obligations. This comparative study examines the divergent and convergent features of family law systems in Eastern and Western jurisdictions, highlighting the influence of cultural, religious, and social factors. Western legal systems, including common law and civil law traditions, emphasize individual autonomy, gender equality, and codified procedural safeguards. In contrast, Eastern systems, particularly those influenced by Islamic law and traditional Asian customs, prioritize family cohesion, social harmony, and religious or cultural norms. The study analyzes marriage and divorce regulations, child custody and protection mechanisms, inheritance rules, and contemporary reforms in both regions. It also addresses emerging trends such as recognition of same-sex marriages, assisted reproductive technologies, and cross-border legal issues. Comparative findings reveal key differences in the balance between individual rights and collective responsibilities, the role of religion in legal formulation, gender equality, and procedural approaches. Despite these differences, globalization and international human rights standards have prompted reforms in both regions, fostering convergence in areas such as child welfare, protection of vulnerable family members, and legal modernization. The study concludes that understanding the underlying social, religious, and cultural values of family law systems is essential for policymakers, legal scholars, and practitioners to promote effective, equitable, and culturally sensitive legal frameworks. Comparative analysis not only enhances cross-cultural legal understanding but also provides opportunities for harmonization, mutual learning, and informed reform in globalized contexts.

Abstract The article examines the role of crisis management and management models in improvingthe resilience of government organizations against the crises caused by climate change. The main purpose of this study is to analyze the different stagesof resilience of organizations, including risk identification, preparedness and planning, rapid response to crises, and reconstruction. It is after the crisis. The research method was qualitative and based on the content analysis of the collected data through structured interviews with managers and experts of government organizations in vulnerable areas. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify the main patterns inresilience processes. should be identified and analyzed. This research also identified the weaknesses and strengths of the existing management models and concluded that organizations that have proper planning and preparation to deal with climate crises are able to respond more quickly and effectively in crisis situations. The findings showed that accurate identification of climate risks and threats as the first step in the resilience process has a great impact on increasing the response capacity of organizations. Also, training and empowerment of human resources is one of the important factors in increasing the resilience of organizations. The active participation of local communities and cooperation between different institutions were also factors that helped to improvethe resilience of organizations. Finally, rapid reconstruction of infrastructures and the use of past experiences in improving future processes make organizations more resilient to future crises. The conclusion of this study shows that organizational resilience in the faceof climate crises requires a comprehensive and integrated approach that includes careful planning, continuous training, cooperation with various institutions, and the use of new technologies. In general, organizations with To deal with climate crises, strengthen their resilience and use past experiences to improve future processes.

Abstract The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed strategic decision-making processes in organizations, enabling faster insights, predictive analytics, and automation. However, the integration of AI systems also raises critical challenges concerning data governance, ethics, and regulatory compliance. Effective data governance ensures that data used in AI-driven decisions is accurate, secure, transparent, and aligned with corporate objectives. Ethical frameworks are essential to mitigate biases, prevent discrimination, and maintain trust among stakeholders. Moreover, the establishment of AI guidelines, including accountability, explainability, and fairness, plays a pivotal role in guiding organizations toward responsible innovation. This paper explores how robust data governance structures and ethical AI guidelines can enhance strategic decision-making and corporate integrity. It analyzes current models of governance frameworks, including ISO/IEC 38505 and OECD AI Principles, and their implications for business strategy. The discussion emphasizes that organizations adopting transparent and ethical data practices not only comply with regulations but also gain a competitive advantage through enhanced reputation and stakeholder confidence. Ultimately, the study concludes that integrating governance and ethics into AI decision systems is no longer optional—it is a strategic necessity for sustainable, fair, and accountable business practices in the era of intelligent automation.

Abstract Youth movements have historically served as catalysts for political transformation, social reform, and democratic renewal. This paper examines the multifaceted role of youth activism in shaping political transitions, emphasizing its influence on governance structures, social justice, and civic participation. The study analyzes the dynamics of youth engagement in key political transformations across regions such as the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Sub-Saharan Africa. It argues that youth movement’s function both as agents of mobilization and as moral forces that challenge entrenched political orders. Through digital communication, grassroots organization, and transnational solidarity, young people have reshaped the boundaries of political discourse, often acting as the vanguard of democratization efforts. The research employs a qualitative comparative approach, drawing from historical and contemporary case studies including the Arab Spring (Tunisia and Egypt), the Serbian Otpor! Movement, and the End SARS protests in Nigeria. Findings reveal that while youth movements are instrumental in initiating transitions, their long-term impact depends on institutional inclusion, leadership sustainability, and the capacity to translate protest into policy. Ultimately, this study concludes that youth movements represent not merely a phase of dissent but a transformative force capable of redefining political legitimacy and participation in the 21st century. Understanding their evolving role is essential for policymakers and scholars seeking to comprehend the dynamics of modern political change.

Abstract Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has emerged as a cornerstone of economic and social progress in the 21st century, significantly influencing technological innovation. This study examines the direct and indirect effects of ICT on technological innovation (TI), with a focus on the mediating roles of financial development (FD) and human development (HDI) in 15 selected developing countries (China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Indonesia, Malaysia, Iran, Argentina, Thailand, Kenya, Vietnam, Colombia, Pakistan) over the period 2000–2023. Using the panel autoregressive distributed lag (P-ARDL) model, both short- and long-term relationships among variables are analyzed. Results indicate that ICT has a positive and statistically significant impact on TI (coefficient = 0.39, p<0.01), with FD and HDI mediating 28% and 35% of this effect, respectively. Economic growth (GDPG) also positively influences TI. These findings contribute to endogenous growth theory by emphasizing the interplay of technology, finance, and human capital in fostering innovation. For policymakers in developing countries, the results advocate for integrated strategies that enhance ICT infrastructure, financial systems, and human capital to accelerate technological innovation. The study also provides practical recommendations, including investments in broadband, venture capital, and education, to support sustainable innovation-driven growth.

Abstract Digital transformation has emerged as a critical driver of organizational competitiveness in today’s dynamic and technology-driven environment. While much of the discourse emphasizes the importance of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data analytics, the true enabler of sustainable transformation lies in human investment. This article explores the interconnected roles of education, culture of change, and human capital in ensuring the long-term success of digital transformation initiatives. Education represents the cornerstone of this process, as it equips individuals with digital literacy, technical competencies, and adaptive skills necessary to navigate continuous disruptions. Reskilling and upskilling initiatives not only address the skills gap but, also empower employees to innovate and contribute to organizational growth. Equally important is cultivating a culture of change within organizations. Transformation requires more than new tools it demands an organizational mindset that embraces innovation, agility, collaboration, and tolerance for experimentation.A supportive culture fosters engagement, motivation, and resilience among employees, ensuring that digital strategies are implemented effectively. Furthermore, the relationship between return on investment (ROI) and human capital highlights the need to rethink traditional performance measures. Rather than limiting ROI to short-term financial metrics, organizations should adopt human-centric approaches that evaluate productivity, innovation, employee satisfaction, and long-term adaptability. Human capital development thus becomes both a strategic investment and a source of sustainable competitive advantage. By integrating education, cultural adaptability, and human capital ROI into a unified strategy, organizations can move beyond surface-level technological adoption to achieve holistic and enduring digital transformation. This human-centered perspective underscores that while technology provides the tools, it is people who ultimately drive meaningful change.