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  • Rumen Vyrbanov
    THE USE OF THE INTERNET TO SUPPORT AND DEVELOP DEMOCRACY
    JEL: H83, O3, H7, H11
    Keywords: e-democracy, e-governance, e-services, e-government, information society, social media, information and communication technologies, digital divide
    Summary: The realization of the idea of e-democracy is an important part of the information society, the establishment of which is a priority for the EU. The article analyses some of the aspects of e-democracy and their importance for strengthening democracy, democratic institutions and democratic processes. Its primary objective is to determine the conditions for implementing of the idea of e-democracy in Bulgaria by defining the key problems related to e-democracy and the causes thereof. A large amount of data was subjected to comparative analysis to determine the current status of the information society, e-government and e-ser-vices in Bulgaria and in other European Union countries. The author has put emphasis on the essential role of social media in the process of implementation of various forms of electronic democracy. The author's main thesis is that information and communication tech-nologies (ICT) are a prerequisite and a very important factor for the develop-ment of e-democracy. However, the use of the Internet in various forms of democratic life depends heavily on the degree of the e-readiness of the country, its efficient e-government and e-services, the sustained interest of its citizens in participating in its governance and their requirements for transparency and free access to information, its government and civil organizations, the adequacy of its legislation, the level of development of its civil society and its drive for continuous strengthening and development of democratic institu-tions.
  • Mihail Chipriyanov, Raphael Röettinger
    PREVENTION STRATEGIES AGAINST VIOLENCE IN GERMAN FOOTBALL STADIUMS: A PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION PERSPECTIVE
    JEL: H83, M14
    Keywords: Stadium security, public administration, football violence, preventive measures
    Summary: This study investigates the role of public administration in the development and implementation of effective security measures in German football stadiums. Using a qualitative research approach, the study combines an extensive literature review with an analysis of existing security concepts. Key factors such as legal frameworks, cooperation between authorities, and preventive measures are examined. The findings reveal that security challenges stem from tensions between fans, particularly Ultras, and law enforcement, as well as inconsistent regulations across federal states. Best practices, such as stadium alliances and international cooperation during UEFA EURO 2024, demonstrate the potential for improved security strategies. However, concerns remain regarding the balance between security measures and civil rights, particularly in relation to data collection on violent offenders. The study concludes that a stronger focus on preventive measures, stakeholder cooperation, and transparent communication is essential for enhancing stadium security.