Dr. Goran Blagoev
Macedonian Scientific Institute

Abstract: The status of Mount Athos during the First Balkan War and the accompanying peace negotiations was a major issue for Russia, Greece and the Western Great Powers. Paradoxically, Bulgaria, which is one of the countries in the Balkan Union, shows almost no interest in this problem. Bulgarian diplomacy perceives
it as a private case that has much more background positions than the big and important problem related to the territorial expansion in the White Sea region and Macedonia. The article answers the question why Bulgarian politics underestimates the importance of the problem related to the status of the monastic territory on the Athos peninsula and its importance for the international prestige of the state, as well as its geostrategic positioning on the Balkans.

Keywords: Mount Athos; Zograf monastery; Thessaloniki; Halkidiki; London Conference; condominium; autonomous region

Dr. Nevena Aleksieva
Rakovski National Defence College

Abstract. As a part of Europe and in perspective – also a part of the EU, SEE is inevitably linked to multilayered and multidirectional processes – in the Union and in the region. The key question, which has a new significance and new dimensions in the context of the war in Ukraine, is – which direction will SEE countries take – backwards towards nationalism or forward- looking towards effective integration into a community based on supranational and commonly accepted rules? Towards mutually beneficial regional exchanges and the completion of regional identity with a serious effect on the European and Euro-Atlantic perspective of the region and the enhancement of citizens’ well-being. Or towards remaining on the periphery of Europe as an object of multi-directional, conflicting aspirations and belligerent confrontation. The role of Bulgaria is also outlined, and some guidelines for the intensification of its positions in terms of bilateral and multilateral regional cooperation are proposed.

Keywords: Bulgaria; cooperation; European Union; integration; regionalism, South East Europe

Lieutenant colonel Nuran Mahmudov
Major Ağabala Manafov
Military Scientific Research Institute – Baku (Azerbaijan)

Abstract: This article explores the intricate realm of hybrid warfare, a modern form of conflict that blends conventional military tactics with unconventional approaches such as cyber- attacks, propaganda dissemination, and economic coercion. Recent conflicts, exemplified by those in Ukraine, Syria, and ongoing Russia-West tensions, underscore the prevalence of hybrid warfare, posing challenges to nations and raising concerns about escalation. The article delves into the core components of hybrid warfare, its historical underpinnings, and its various manifestations, encompassing political, economic, cyber, and information warfare. Through detailed case studies, it illuminates the multifaceted nature of hybrid warfare and its role in achieving strategic goals. Examining the extensive ramifications of hybrid warfare on politics, economies, and societal cohesion, the article underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to detection and counteraction. This entails bolstering cybersecurity, countering disinformation, diplomatic engagement, intelligence enhancement, and fortification of international norms. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the urgency of raising awareness about the hybrid warfare threat and advocates for collective efforts to prevent its future use, aiming to foster stability, security, and prosperity in an ever-evolving and uncertain global landscape.

Keywords: awareness; cyber attacks; cyber security; economic pressure; hybrid warfare; propaganda; security; stability