DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e167413

Authors: György Orsós

Abstract: The study explores the relationship between geopolitics and tourism through the case of Cluj-Napoca, with a focus on processes of subject formation. The site was selected for two reasons: (1) the city is currently located in Romania but was part of Hungary before 1920 and remains ethnically divided between a Romanian majority and a Hungarian minority; (2) it has transformed from a post-communist industrial centre into a neoliberal IT hub. Through an analysis of Romanian and Hungarian-language guidebooks published over the past 100+ years (11 guidebooks, 1903–2018), I conducted a discourse analysis of both narrative and visual content, focusing on explicit nationalist elements, discursive contestations over historical heritage, and representations of communist ideology. The findings indicate that while Hungarian-language materials have remained unchanged in their portrayal of the city’s identity, Romanian-language materials have shifted markedly from nation-building narratives toward more multicultural and inclusive framings. This discursive transformation is accompanied, however, by what Simon Harrison terms the symbolic appropriation of cultural heritage. The study argues that Hungarian tourists from Hungary emphasize Cluj’s heritage as part of the Hungarian nation; while Romanian tourists historically emphasized ethnic character under national communism, more recently they focus on integrating the city into a European, multicultural civil identity.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e159882

Authors: Samira Alakbarova

Abstract: Strengthening the interrelations between spatial risk analysis and sustainable territorial development has emerged in recent years as one of the key directions in geographical and socio-economic research. This study employs a complex approach to ensure the integration of spatial risk factors into sustainable territorial development processes. The Shaki-Zagatala economic region of the Republic of Azerbaijan was selected as the pilot area within the framework of the research. In the contemporary context of increasing natural and technogenic risks, global climate change, and the growing complexity of socio-economic and territorial development processes, the importance of spatial risk analysis and management defines the relevance of this research. This study investigates the spatio-temporal dynamics of natural-technological processes occurring between 1950 and 2024 in the six administrative districts (Shaki, Zagatala, Gabala, Balaken, Oghuz, and Gakh) of the Shaki-Zagatala economic region. Statistical analyses are conducted to explore the relationship between population density and the intensity of natural-technological disasters. By applying a combination of advanced spatial-statistical methods, such as the Moran’s I, Getis-Ord Gi* and Analytic Hierarchy Process, the study aims to evaluate the correlation between population density and disaster frequency, identifying high-risk areas and their temporal patterns. In the presented article, as a result of the complex studies conducted to achieve the set objectives, a map of the spatial distribution of natural disaster risks in the Shaki-Zagatala economic region has been developed. The results obtained allow for the identification of the area’s risk profile and the establishment of key priorities for long-term growth. A strategic planning model has been developed based on the identified opportunities and challenges in the field of sustainable territorial development.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e168308

Authors: Fiorella La Matta Romero, Todd R. Lewis, Chad Staddon

Abstract: Understanding the factors that shape household water and energy use is essential for designing targeted conservation interventions that promote both sustainability and well-being. While studies in this area often rely on traditional “frequentist” statistical methods, which can struggle to capture the complex interdependencies among demographic, behavioural, psychological, and material influences. This paper introduces Bayesian network (BN) analysis as a novel and adaptable method with useful applications in water and energy studies and a wide variety of other social sciences. The paper offers a primer on how to conduct BN analysis, including underlying logic and range of choice of software platforms, before presenting a brief worked example based on the authors’ current research into household water and energy consumption in a UK city. The paper shows how Bayesian networks can generate valuable insights from relatively small and complex datasets, capture non-linear relationships, and support scenario-based reasoning, making them well-suited for exploratory studies, “what if?” scenario-testing and policy effectiveness review. The findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of domestic water and energy consumption and offer a practical framework that can inform the design of targeted, evidence-based interventions to encourage sustainable water and energy use in households. We argue that there is much to be gained by proliferation of this analytical approach throughout the social sciences.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e144418

Authors: Arman Rastkhadiv, Aisa Fouladi, Jafar Bapiri

Abstract: Cultural ecosystem services embedded in urban green spaces play a vital yet often underappreciated role in shaping tourists’ well-being. This study investigates the perceived contributions of cultural ecosystem services to tourist well-being in Zaribar Coastal Park, a multifunctional urban green space located in Kurdistan Province, Iran. Drawing on the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment framework, ten cultural ecosystem services dimensions were examined through a structured survey of 300 domestic tourists. The sample was selected via Mitra and Lankford’s method, and data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings reveal that outdoor recreation, aesthetic appreciation, social relations, cultural heritage, educational values, and sense of place significantly enhance tourists’ well-being, while cultural diversity, inspiration, knowledge systems, and spiritual values exerted limited or statistically insignificant effects. This study advances theoretical understanding by refining the cultural ecosystem services–well-being linkage within urban tourism contexts and demonstrating the contextual specificity of cultural ecosystem services impacts. Practically, the findings underscore the need for tourism planners and policymakers to integrate cultural ecosystem services into destination design and management strategies. Prioritizing experiential, aesthetic, and recreational dimensions of cultural ecosystem services can foster more inclusive, sustainable, and human-centered urban tourism models.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e142290

Authors: Ndidzulafhi Innocent Sinthumule

Abstract: Mopane worms have traditionally been harvested for subsistence purposes, however, in recent times, there has been increased commercialisation of these worms. In Muyexe and Nsavulani villages (falling under Mopani District), local communities have been selling mopane worms for the past two decades. A survey was undertaken in these two villages in June and July 2023 to document the process involved in the commercialisation of mopane worms—from raw material harvesting to a commodity sold to generate cash income, and to assess the importance of the trade for livelihoods and poverty allevia-tion of households. Interview-administered questionnaires were used as the main data collection tool, and systematic random sampling was used to select 161 households in Muyexe village and 82 households in Nsavulani village. The questionnaire that included closed- and open-ended questions covered the socio-economic profile of respondents, mopane worms’ availability and procurement, processing of mopane worms, market-ing, trading of mopane worms and livelihood benefits from selling mopane worms. Closed-ended questions were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, while open-ended questions were analysed using thematic content analysis. The study found that most of the harvesters in Muyexe (69% n = 111) and Nsavulani (59% n = 48) villages were females. Most harvesters in Muyexe (97%; n = 156) and Nsavulani villages (98%; n = 80) preferred degutting mopane worms at home, whereas only five and two respondents in Muyexe and Nsavulani villages, respectively, degut them in the harvesting fields. The researcher found that mopane worms are harvested for both household consumption and trade—this is in line with Sustainable Development Goal 1 (no poverty) and 2 (zero hunger). Most harvesters in Nsavulani village who trade mopane worms reported making between R2,100 ($113.79) and R3,000 ($162.55), whereas most harvesters in Muyexe village make between R1,000 ($54.18) and R2,000 (108.37) per season. The study found that 55% of households in Muyexe village and 70% in Nsavulani village derive income only from mopane worm sales. Although the income earned from the sale of mopane worms is seasonal, it is highly appreciated by communities and plays a significant role in alleviating poverty and improving their lives and livelihoods.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e137445

Authors: Biljana Petrevska, Cvetko Andreeski

Abstract: North Macedonia possesses a rich cultural heritage dating back to the Ottoman period (14th–19th century). This heritage is evident in various architectural structures such as bazaars, bridges, hammams, clock towers, and mosques. While some of these sites are actively used for tourism, many remain untapped, each offering unique historical, cultural, and architectural significance. This study explores the potential of developing Ottoman heritage tourism products in North Macedonia. The research aims to identify and establish new tourism routes in the Northeast, East, and Southeast regions, by adopting an experiential approach. Through in-depth interviews with informants experienced in tourism, the study utilizes spatial intuition to map significant sites and designs routes highlighting the richness of Ottoman heritage. The research identifies Kratovo, Shtip, and Strumica as key cities within these regions, serving as pivotal points for the proposed routes. The study reveals that informants strongly believe that Ottoman heritage tourism can attract visitors, foster cultural understanding, and contribute to local economic development. The core appeal of these routes lies in the authenticity, unique aesthetics, architectural significance, and educational value of the Ottoman heritage sites. This study contributes to the existing literature by emphasizing the value of Ottoman heritage and advocating the critical importance of its preservation. From a practical standpoint, the proposed routes, interconnected across three regions, cater to diverse visitor interests and might offer a unique tourism experience.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e129955

Authors: Elka Dogramadjieva

Abstract: Global trends of widening the scope of heritage for tourist consumption, as well as the growing interest among both producers and consumers in a more truthful and balanced representation of the past impose paying special attention to problematic cultural heritage in the context of tourism. Since the topic remains quite unpopular for tourism researchers in Bulgaria, this paper aims to present the key concepts explaining problematic heritage, outline the main features of such heritage as well as sketch contemporary research trends and gaps in this underestimated but promising academic field. Given the variety of terms used interchangeably in extant literature, the term “problematic” cultural heritage is proposed as appropriate for the Bulgarian context, emphasizing the notion of dissonant/contested heritage as a “problem to be solved”. Its relevance to Ottoman and communist heritage in the country is justified.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e115315

Authors: Rossen Koroutchev

Abstract: The current study delves into the contemporary challenges within the Zakarpattia region of Western Ukraine. It accomplishes this by examining the circumstances of the local populace and the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) hailing from Eastern Ukraine who arrived following the onset of the armed conflict in February 2022. Official statistics were employed to scrutinize the social and economic characteristics of the IDPs, as well as their influence on local development in Zakarpattia. These findings were then compared to the on-site research conducted by the author in the region during August 2023. The primary conclusions drawn from this research affirm the amelioration of the local economic status and job prospects in Zakarpattia as well as the adaptation of the IDPs to the new life in the region.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e113331

Authors: Oleksiy Gnatiuk, Kateryna Pisotska, Viacheslav Polhun, Viktoriia Zapototska

Abstract: The paper focuses on the practices of everyday use of street names after the massive toponymic cleansing under the frameworks of decommunisation and de-Russification in Vinnytsia, Ukraine. Employing a mixed method approach, which includes a social experiment with the passersby on the streets of the city, analysis of the real estate advertisement and a series of interviews with the citizens, the authors reveal various practices of everyday use of new and old street names as a public response to the officially imposed city-text. The findings indicate that the transition from the old to the new toponymic system after the ideologically-driven toponymic cleansing does not represent an immediate and a single-step action, and should be considered a long-lasting, protracted and multi-staged process that requires several years or even decades. The gradual introduction of a new place name into various spheres of public life represents a kind of heterochronic coevolution driven by the collision of top-down vs. bottom-up interests. Another finding is that public inertia towards the new toponymic landscapes may be driven almost totally by motivations that have no relationship to ideology and politics. Also, it has been found that the actual communicative practices after the renaming depend on a variety of predominantly local factors and actors, including the specific place, place name, communicative situation and characteristics of the interlocutors. The findings are discussed in the framework of social sustainability, pointing at the need for clearly articulated and coherent municipal politics aimed at familiarising the community with newly introduced place names.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e72766

Authors: Miglena Zhiyanski, Maria Glushkova, Yonko Dodev, Mariam Bozhilova, Rositsa Yaneva, Desislava Hristova, Lidiya Semerdzhieva

Abstract: The paper focuses on the role of the Natural Heritage in Forest Areas (NHFA) as a resource that can generate economic, social and environmental benefits for society through the provision of a wide range of cultural ecosystem services. In the assessment of the role of NHFA, the approach for assessment and mapping of ES in a given territorial scope was applied in a pilot region of Velingrad Municipality, focusing on the capacity of the forest ecosystems to provide cultural ecosystem benefits and services to the people. The study confirms that the identification of NHFA could be a powerful driver for regional development by creating significant positive effects such as improving sustainable cultural tourism in forests, diversifying forestry and supporting sustainable development and management of forest areas. The integration of the cultural services of NHFA into forest-related legislation can encourage job creation in different sectors and for different levels of employment, education and cultural training. Evaluation and mapping of ecosystem services is an appropriate tool to support the development of a concept and methods for assessing and mapping the general knowledge framework for NHFA policy in Bulgaria by applying an interdisciplinary approach.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.43.16

Authors: Georgi Burdarov, Teodora Dimitrova

Abstract: The Western Balkans are one of the most vulnerable parts of the European continent. This clearly defined territory of the EU has its own geopolitical explanation for its condition. The abandonment of the Western Balkans to neighboring countries is easy to explain. As some countries took steps to build democratic governance and a functioning market economy, the countries of the Western Balkans fought. At present, countries in the process of transposing EU law into their national law or the so-called "Candidate countries" are albania, serbia, montenegro and northern macedonia. Potential candidate countries are Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo. The current situation of the countries in the region, in particular the status of Kosovo, the reforms in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the national question of Albania and its idea of a "Greater Albania" are, subject to in-depth analysis. In general, the Western Balkans have a complex ethnic composition, which is a prerequisite for future conflicts

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2019.41.6

Authors: Veselin Boyadzhiev, Neli Veselinova, Vasil Zarkov

Abstract: The theme of the article is from the historical geography of Bulgaria. It reveals the complex interaction of human society in the past with the nature. The analysis is based on the relationship between natural and humanitarian geography. It helps to compare the past and the present day and, if it is necessary, conclusions to be used for the future. In this case, the mountain Sredna Gora is an environment for the creation and development of the ethnic diversity of the Bulgarian society. The article is oriented to the scientific researches, but also to the authors of textbooks, to the teachers and to all who love the bulgarian nature.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2019.40.9

Authors: Subin Ivanov, Krasimir Videv, Penka Kastreva

Abstract: Symbols have a great impact on humans, so the use of map symbols has its advantages in creating and using the map. They communicate between the map author and the reader by helping to read the map faster. There are many unified symbols in the tourist maps. However, they do not deplete the diversity of objects that represent our cultural and historical heritage (CHH). Mapping and researching of the cultural and historical heritage sites is one of the priority themes of the INSPIRE program which aims to locate them on the Earth's surface and to describe in detail their characteristics. There is no comprehensive information system in Bulgaria and a specialized map of the cultural heritage. This is yet to be done and is an urgent task. The aim of this study is to highlight the need to develop a universal symbol system covering cultural monuments of national significance. In the framework of this experiment a symbol system has been developed for the cultural and historical sites in the region of Shumen.

HTML

PDF