International Scientific Journals
of Scientific Technical Union of Mechanical Engineering "Industry 4.0"

The article The article describes a simulation experiment to assess human behavior during threats inside buildings, using Metaverse systems and virtual reality (VR). The study was carried out on a model of a real building, where avatars controlled by users simulated responses to crises. This approach has several advantages over the traditional use of NPCs (non-player characters). Usercontrolled avatars enable a more realistic representation of behavior, as participants can make decisions in real time depending on the developing situation. Unlike NPCs, whose reactions are pre-programmed and predictable, human-controlled interactions introduce an element of unpredictability and authenticity, better reflecting real human reactions. Thanks to Metaverse and VR systems, it is possible to precisely reproduce building interiors and threat scenarios, which allows for analyzing various evacuation strategies and behaviors in stressful situations. In addition, experiment participants can repeatedly participate in various simulations, which increases the scope of collected data and allows for a more comprehensive analysis. The article emphasizes that using Metaverse and VR systems for simulations with users brings significant benefits to research on security and crisis management. This approach allows for the creation of more realistic models of human behavior, which are key to improving evacuation procedures and responses to threats inside buildings. The study presents the results of research carried out based on an original solution implemented in the Metaverse environment.

The report analyzes the needs and requirements of the National Situation Center (NSC) and the Crisis Management Center (CMC) regarding aspects of cyber security and cyber defense. The need for the interaction of the national security systems in crisis management, in order to ensure the functionality of the NSC and the CMC, is substantiated. For this purpose, it is important to define the critical entities in the national security ecosystem and to analyze the interactions between them according to legal documents and agencies and organizational structures of the European Union and Bulgaria. This, in turn, is a prerequisite for achieving effective and timely exchange of information, which will properly support the decision-making process in crisis management. The different types of cyber threats that could affect the operation of national security systems when crises occur, such as disasters, accidents and other crises are taken into account.

The Romanian Air Force increased the interoperability with the NATO partners, including the acquisition and operation of the F-16 aircraft from the Norwegian and Portuguese Air Forces, F-16s that are distributed within different Romanian airbases. In this respect, the Romanian Air Force must undertake necessary steps in the direction of gradually grow of the operational capabilities, starting from a first phase by making operational one squadron of F-16 A/B MLU (Mid Life Update) aircraft in 2017. The squadron operationalization includes the logistics services starting from the Air Force Headquarters and implemented at the ground level of the airbases assigned to receive the specific aircraft. An updated, with new efficient solutions for maintenance management system, was envisaged and destined to the safety operation and maintenance activity of the new family of aircraft.

According to Art. 3 of the Bulgarian Safe Use of Nuclear Energy Act, nuclear energy and ionizing radiation are used in accordance with the requirements and principles of nuclear safety and radiation protection in order to ensure the protection of human life, health and living conditions of current and future generations, the environment and material values from the harmful impact of ionizing radiation. Persons responsible for facilities and activities under this Act shall establish and maintain an effective safety management system.

The aim of the article is to present how an organization can achieve the appropriate level of development based on the implemented quality management system in accordance with the requirements of the ISO 9001 standard based on selected areas and what significance it has in ensuring the safety of its operation. The first chapter talks about the advantages for the organization resulting from having an implemented standard in the implementation of customer orientation. The next chapter presents the advantages of the organization resulting from building trust and credibility in the implementation of the requirements of the standard, the third chapter shows how the competences of top management influence the building of the position and development of the entire organization. This article aims to present several selected areas of application of the standard and to find the answer whether, in times of many threats and unpredictability of changes in the organization’s environment, the ISO 9001 standard is a sufficient tool allowing for the safe development of the organization.

This article compares the measures of two states, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, competing for the position of regional leader. Elimination of radicalization from the lowest levels of the state is a natural concern of authoritarian governments. Mindful of the threat that religious extremism poses to the stability of authoritarian regimes, they condemn terrorism in all its forms and support the international community’s efforts to fight (Islamist) terrorism together. To ensure stability and national security, the governments of both countries have adopted comprehensive national strategies and action plans to counter radicalization and terrorism. Their common feature is the focus on preventive measures in local communities. However, while Kazakhstan concentrates on addressing the root causes of extremism, a strong emphasis on repressive measures can be identified within the Uzbek strategies. The article examines the limits of cooperation between the leading Central Asian countries as declared in the current legislative acts, highlights how the positions of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan differ and diverge, and the potential to mitigate the risks associated with extremism in Central Asia by strengthening regional cooperation and understanding.

The Arab Spring and the armed conflicts that followed in the MENA region led to unprecedented mixed migrant flows towards the EU. As a result, various measures to cope with irregular migration have been proposed and implemented both at the national and regional levels. This paper tries to analyse those of them that regard the relations between the EU and third countries bordering it. Special attention is paid to the agreements that involve the provision of financial assistance to third countries in return for stemming the flows of migrants. We argue that such a practice is not only controversial per se, but it does not lead to significant success in tackling irregular migration, as it has been already observed on several occasions. We therefore make some recommendations aimed at better addressing the issue of mixed
migration management at the EU level.

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is dedicated to fostering peace, security, and stability in its member states. Counter-terrorism remains one of its top priorities, with a focus on a comprehensive and collaborative approach. This paper explores the OSCE’s counter-terrorism strategies and their implications for Bulgaria, a participating state. It delves into the collaborative efforts, initiatives, and programs that Bulgaria engages in within the OSCE framework to combat terrorism.

In response to these global threats, it is essential that nations work together to develop coordinated approaches to ensure global security. This requires building trust, sharing information, and collaborating to develop effective solutions that address the root causes of these threats. One important step in ensuring global security is to focus on the prevention of crises before they occur. This can be achieved by investing in early warning systems, improving communication and cooperation between nations, and addressing the underlying causes of conflict and instability. Another key factor in ensuring global security is to promote sustainable development that prioritizes environmental protection, social justice, and economic progress. This can help to prevent resource scarcity and social inequality, which are often key drivers of conflict and insecurity. In addition, it is important to recognize the central role of technology in shaping global security. While technology can create new threats, it can also be harnessed to develop innovative solutions that promote global security. This includes investing in cybersecurity, developing new technologies to address environmental challenges, and promoting access to education and information to help people around the world build resilience and respond effectively to emerging threats. Global security is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a coordinated and collaborative approach from nations around the world. By working together to prevent crises, promote sustainable development, and harness the power of technology, we can build a more secure and resilient world for generations to come.

The importance of artificial lighting in our daily lives is growing, and street lighting has become a major focus over time. The creation of street lighting was motivated by the need to increase visual and property security and public safety. Current developments in metropolitan environments foreshadow the ‘smart cities’ of the future. The basic concept is that CCTV cameras, traffic lights and street lighting all have ‘smart functions’. Municipalities will be able to adapt to the needs of their inhabitants, thus increasing safety, comfort and energy efficiency. Given the adaptability of smart street lighting to the built environment, artificial intelligence is an essential element of smart cities, even in the systems already in place. Extensive sensor networks will facilitate the collection of environmental data by AI. In addition, unauthorised access to information available through IoT systems poses a serious threat. A critical point is the monitoring and protection of surveillance systems that are vital to the operation of smart systems.

The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) spearheads a unified approach across the UN to prevent and counter terrorism and violent extremism globally. Despite the emergence of new challenges, including the misuse of new technologies by terrorist groups, the UNOCT has amplified its efforts, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The focus remains on promoting multilateral cooperation, with the UN Counter-Terrorism Centre (UNCCT) playing a pivotal role in fostering international cooperation against terrorism. This paper delves into Bulgaria’s contributions and role in these initiatives, emphasizing its alignment with the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

This report identifies the main objectives and responsibilities of the operating organization for the selection, qualification and training of personnel for new and existing nuclear power plants to establish and maintain a high level of competence of personnel and to ensure safe operation of the nuclear power plant. The publication can also be used as a recommendation for the recruitment, training and qualification of personnel for nuclear installations other than nuclear power plants.