EVALUATING THE NATIONAL SECURITY AND ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES OF U.S. RESTRICTIONS ON FOREIGN DRONES

This work investigates not only about the increasing use of overseas produced drones (especially of Chinese and Russian companies) in the U.S., but also the potential consequences on the national security, sectors and economic strength. The Commerce Department has restricted these drones on the grounds of spying threats, vulnerability to cyber-security risks as well as the integration of AI (Artificial Intelligence) chips inside them. These risks involve things like data exfiltration, AI model poisoning and firmware backdoors that could all impact sensitive data and national security. But the ban has also presented extensive operational and economic hardships, particularly in sectors that depend on drones, including agriculture, emergency response and infrastructure inspections. These are companies that rely on low-cost foreign drones such as DJI and this need for affordable local alternatives has hampered the fortunes for them leading to higher operational costs and inefficiencies. The paper goes on to argue that these issues prompt a consideration of an equilibrium approach to regulation. A total ban on all foreign drones may be unwise, but a more selective policy that focuses on models we know represent a risk to our national security could be used to neutralize these threats without damaging vital areas of the economy. The research also suggest that there should be investment for manufacturing of drones domestically, robust cyber security for AI managed drones and public-private partnership to promote innovation in domestic UAV sector. Doing so will allow the U.S. government to protect national security while minimizing economic dislocation and maintaining forward momentum in areas that rely on drone technology

THE JURISDICTION OF THE HIGH COURT UNDER ARTICLE 199 OF THE CONSTITUTION OF PAKISTAN: A CASE STUDY OF THE OIL AND GAS REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

This research paper critically examines the role of judicial review in preventing executive overreach in Pakistan, with a particular focus on the constitutional jurisdiction exercised by courts under Article 199. It highlights the judiciary's role in reinforcing regulatory compliance, ensuring procedural fairness, and protecting economic rights against arbitrary administrative actions. By analyzing key judicial precedents, including recent rulings by the Courts, this paper illustrates how courts have maintained the supremacy of law in regulatory matters, particularly within the petroleum sector governed by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority Ordinance, 2002. Additionally, the paper explores how judicial intervention serves as a safeguard against the misuse of administrative authority, compelling regulatory bodies such as OGRA to function within their legally defined scope. A comparative analysis of judicial review frameworks in the UK and USA provides further insight into how courts in different jurisdictions balance executive discretion with constitutional oversight. The research concludes that judicial vigilance remains crucial for upholding constitutionalism, regulatory transparency, and economic freedoms in Pakistan, reinforcing the principle that no administrative authority is above the law. This research paper critically examines the role of constitutional jurisdiction in preventing executive overreach in Pakistan, focusing on the regulatory framework governing petroleum businesses. It explores the significance of judicial review in administrative actions, emphasizing the limitations imposed by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority Ordinance, 2002, and the Pakistan Oil (Refining, Blending, Transportation, Storage, and Marketing) Rules, 2016. The paper delves into the broader implications of constitutional jurisdiction on regulatory governance, the protection of economic rights, and the role of the judiciary in ensuring fair and lawful administrative practices. By analyzing judicial precedents, statutory frameworks, and governance principles, this paper highlights the importance of lawful authority in executive decision-making and its impact on the business environment in Pakistan

BENCH TO THE BRINK: JUDICIAL MISCONDUCT & THE LEGAL VOID OF SECTION 12 OF GUARDIAN & WARDS ACT 1925, PAKISTAN FAMILY COURTS

This article critically examines the structural and procedural deficiencies embedded in Pakistan’s family court system, with a particular focus on the colonial-era Guardian and Wards Act, 1890. Central to this analysis is Section 12 of the Act, which allows for interim custody orders without granting a statutory right of appeal—an omission that creates a legal vacuum in urgent child welfare cases. This absence of appellate scrutiny enables rampant judicial discretion and fosters an environment conducive to favoritism and procedural abuse. Drawing from a real-life case (the “Montgomery Case”), the article exposes how corrupted evidence, judicial bias, and administrative misconduct can converge to produce outcomes that violate due process and undermine the welfare of children. Existing oversight mechanisms, such as the High Court’s Member Inspection Team, are shown to be largely ineffective, issuing mere explanatory notices without undertaking meaningful disciplinary action. This article further explores how Section 12 is in direct violation of Articles 10-A and 25 of Pakistan’s Constitution—guaranteeing the right to a fair trial and equality before the law. Comparisons are made with legal systems in India, the United Kingdom, and the United States, where interim custody orders are subject to appeal or expedited review, demonstrating Pakistan’s legal obsolescence. The article proposes legislative reform through a newly drafted Section 12-A, establishing a statutory right of appeal for interim custody decisions, and recommends the creation of an independent judicial appointment commission, enhanced training in child psychology, and a strengthened judicial oversight board. These reforms aim to harmonize Pakistan’s domestic laws with international human rights standards while restoring public trust in the judiciary. The findings build upon previous scholarly work exposing systemic flaws in Pakistan’s judicial and institutional architecture, including analyses of recruitment corruption (Siddiqui, 2019), misuse of public authority (Siddiqui, 2022), and procedural rigidity (Siddiqui, 2018; 2023), thereby contributing to the growing body of policy-oriented legal critique in South Asia

STRATEGIC BLINDNESS: HOW BANNING TECHNOLOGY WITHOUT ALTERNATIVES INVITES ECONOMIC RECESSION AND SOVEREIGNTY RISKS

This paper points out the strategic, economic, and sovereignty risks of banning foreign-made technology without an adequate domestic alternative. The thesis, informed by the research of Hassan Rasheed Siddiqui, an authority on aviation law and policy, is that such bans, usually predicated on national security considerations, inevitably result in unintended consequences, presenting them open to economic recession, technological dependence and political coercion. The study cites three key risks associated with banning foreign technologies: price inflation because of monopolistic behavior, supply chain delays based on failing to find domestic masters of the technology previously supplied by foreigners, and system disruption from the failure of locked-in legacy systems that were dependent on the banned technologies. This study underlines the significance of proactive technology transition policies and mechanisms, such as the promotion of domestic innovation, the formulation of legislation-based technology shifting roadmaps, and public and industry education in handling these sorts of transitions. Furthermore, the paper provides specific policy suggestions for how to manage the risks associated with such foreign technology bans. Then it goes on with: “The recommended measures include the development of a neutral, sovereign tech production, the setting up of strategic tech-buffer reserves, the introduction of appropriate regulatory measures and legislative precautions against tech blackmail. Emphasizing long-term resilience, national sovereignty and innovation, the research brings to the fore the need for governments act strategically when planning for technology transitions, so as to avoid the inadvertent creation of points of technological and economic weakness

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF GAAP (USA) AND IFRS (EUROPE): EVALUATING THE NEED GLOBAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS (GAS)

This study conducts a comparative evaluation of the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in the United States and the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) used in Europe between 2020 and 2023. The research examines key aspects such as implementation efficiency, financial disclosure transparency, fair value assessment, tax reporting, cybersecurity regulations, digital transformation, AI integration, audit quality, ESG adoption, political transparency, and GDP growth rates. The findings suggest that IFRS demonstrates greater uniformity and transparency, particularly in digitalization and ESG adoption, while GAAP remains stronger in audit reliability and regulatory enforcement. The study concludes that while IFRS is globally recognized for its flexibility, certain areas—such as cybersecurity disclosures and audit regulations— require improvements to align with GAAP’s structured framework. By integrating selected elements from both standards, a hybrid model could enhance the effectiveness of international financial reporting. The paper proposes that a Global Accounting Standard (GAS), combining the strengths of GAAP’s rule-based approach and IFRS’s principles-based flexibility, could serve as an optimal solution for addressing current limitations in global financial regulation

ENHANCING CLIMATE RESILIENCE AND FOOD SECURITY IN MUDZI RURAL DISTRICT THROUGH INTEGRATED WATERSHED MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE

Agriculture constitutes the cornerstone of Zimbabwe's rural economy, providing sustenance and driving economic activities for most rural populations. However, despite its significance, rural agriculture has increasingly faced multifaceted challenges, including climate change and the failure to implement context-specific improvement strategies, leading to noticeable decline. This decline has caused widespread food insecurity, prompting a surge in donor-assisted food aid programs across rural Zimbabwe since 2016, mostly affecting rural communities that are heavily reliant on agricultural commodities for food, income, employment, and market access. Nevertheless, despite the apparent collapse of rural agriculture, prospects for sustenance and resilience remain alive. This paper argues that tailored approaches such as integrating Watershed Management and Conservation Agriculture can revitalize rural agriculture and bolster food security. By integrating Watershed Management and Conservation agriculture strategies, rural communities can reclaim agriculture as a vital component of their economy and mitigate the pervasive food insecurity that has been pervasive for years. This paper explored integrating Watershed Management practices into Conservation Agriculture to enhance adaptability, productivity, resilience and food security in rural communities; while providing a strategic response to climate change shocks, especially responding to climate change rainfall disruptions, seasonal changes, crop and livestock diseases and low crop productivity. This article stems from a PhD study, “Towards rural household food security through investment in productive assets (PA): A case of Mudzi Rural District in Zimbabwe”, in which the study employed a qualitative methodology, comprising five focus group discussions involving fifty-two community members, field observations, eighteen key informant interviews, thirty-five majorly qualitative questionnaires, literature review, and a case study of Mudzi district. This paper reveals that the two approaches are mutually compatible and integrating them can synergistically assist to transform rural agriculture, bolstering food security and climate resilience in Zimbabwe

BUSINESS AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY – DISCOURSE

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to a company's commitment to operating in a manner that benefits society and the environment. This involves activities such as making charitable donations, engaging with the community, providing fair treatment to employees, and protecting the environment. Companies have legal obligations related to CSR, and neglecting these can result in legal penalties for their leaders. Managers must consider the ethical implications of their decisions and actions. Past scandals, such as the Enron case, underscore the importance of effective management in preventing unethical conduct. This study thoroughly examines Corporate Social Responsibility by analyzing diverse perspectives from 30 primary and secondary literary sources written by various scholars and practitioners. The goal is to develop an integrated and comprehensive framework that addresses five key questions currently debated among professionals in the field. This method aims to synthesize existing knowledge and clarify contentious CSR issues, thereby contributing to both academic discussions and practical applications. The discussion about the link between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and financial performance continues. Supporters of CSR claim that ethical actions can enhance a company’s reputation, foster customer loyalty, attract talented employees, and increase profits, creating a positive cycle. On the other hand, critics argue that CSR may incur costs that could erode profit margins. Recent trends indicate that companies implementing CSR efforts often see better financial results, encouraging sustainable growth and offering a competitive edge. Ultimately, the impact of CSR on profitability varies by industry, depending on the specific initiatives and their alignment with organizational goals

STRESS MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF WORKPLACE MOTIVATION IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES IN NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA

This study examines the impact of stress management on employee performance, with workplace motivation as a mediating variable, in manufacturing industries in North Central Nigeria. The specific objectives are to assess the direct relationship between stress management (independent variable) and employee performance (dependent variable), evaluate the mediating role of workplace motivation, and explore the factors influencing stress management and its effectiveness. Drawing on the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model and Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, the study provides a theoretical basis for understanding how workplace motivation interacts with stress management to influence performance. A descriptive research design will be employed, using a quantitative methodology. Data was collected through structured questionnaires distributed to employees in selected manufacturing firms across North Central Nigeria. The Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) technique will be applied for data analysis to test direct and indirect relationships among variables. Results reveal that workload management WL (coefficient = 3.5013, SE = 0.0269, z = 130.35, p < 0.001) and work-life balance WB (coefficient = 8.2682, SE = 0.1146, z = 72.15, p < 0.001) significantly enhance Workers’ motivation WM, while support systems SS (coefficient = 0.0395, SE = 1.1592, z = 0.03, p = 0.973) shows no meaningful impact. WM mediates the relationship between WL, WB, and EP, significantly predicting EP (coefficient = 0.9116, SE = 0.2762, z = 3.30, p = 0.001). Indirect effects confirm workload management (coefficient = 3.5038, z = 535.86, p < 0.001) and work-life balance (coefficient = 3.4185, z = 134.15, p < 0.001) as pivotal contributors to Workers’ motivation, which in turn influences employee performance. However, support systems lacks significant direct or indirect effects, suggesting limited relevance in the current model.  Workload management and work-life balance are key drivers of workers’ motivation, a critical mediator for improving employee performance. Support systems require reevaluation to enhance their organizational impact.  It is recommended among others that business organizations should optimize workload distribution, foster work-life balance, and focus on enhancing workers’ motivation through recognition programs and career growth opportunities

EXAMINING ACCESS TO FINANCIAL RESOURCES FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES) IN ALGERIA: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS BEYOND WORLD BANK METRICS

Like many other countries throughout the world, Algeria's economy has suffered from the erratic price of oil during the past decade. Algeria's government has made great efforts in spite of these obstacles to address societal demands and economic imbalances. SMEs have become increasingly important in today's economy, playing a significant role in areas such as job creation, sustainable development, and the provision of public services. Many of Algeria's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have a low capital intensity, giving them more leeway to adapt to shifting market conditions. In 2017, the country hosted 1,035,891 micro-enterprises, totaling 97.7% of the SME sector, illustrating the prominence of SMEs in the private sector at 99.98%. Over 2.6 million jobs were directly or indirectly created by these businesses, illustrating the critical role they play in the labour economy. Further demonstrating their relevance is the purposeful concentration of SMEs in coastal locations, where they have easier access to ports and a more concentrated consumer base. Algerian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) rely on self-financing rather than bank loans, as shown by the country's last national census. While government grants do help finance investments, their effect on new and growing businesses is minimal. The current economic climate makes it difficult for SMEs to secure sufficient funding, especially the latter. Financing for economic operations is mostly provided by commercial banks in Algeria, whereas stock markets have little sway, and only 2% of SMEs rely on bank loans. In conclusion, SMEs retain a crucial place in Algeria's economic framework, contributing significantly to employment and overall economic expansion. However, their path is hampered by difficulties in securing funding. Because SMEs in Algeria rely primarily on self-funding, minimally on government subsidies, and rarely on stock markets, targeted actions are essential for addressing financial shortfalls and establishing an environment suitable for sustainable growth

INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL AND EARNINGS QUALITY, THE MODERATING ROLE OF POLITICAL CONNECTIONS IN JORDAN.

The separation of ownership from management in corporations has led to the emergence of entities where the interests of multiple related parties may conflict. Financial reports serve as reflections that demonstrate the level of profitability of these companies and provide the primary source of information that can be utilized by various stakeholders in evaluating their performance, predicting their sustainability, cash flow projections, etc. Consequently, earnings quality plays a significant role in attracting investments and fostering economic growth in countries. As Jordan is a developing nation striving to attract investments and open up to the world, this study investigates the factors influencing the level of earnings quality, particularly after reviewing previous literature indicating a decline in earnings quality in Jordan. The study adopts a research model that aligns with the agency and resource independence theories aimed at bridging the gap and elucidating the contrasting findings of previous literature by examining the roles of intellectual capital components in effect earnings quality, particularly considering that the Jordanian legislature does not require any form of disclosure for intellectual capital by Jordanian firms. Furthermore, the study explores the moderating role of political connections on the study's relationships. To achieve the study's objectives, the sample consists of non-financial Jordanian firms listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE) from 2017 to 2020, and the modified Jones model (1995) was used as a proxy to measure earnings quality. Moreover, the research findings indicated that human capital has statistically significant effects on earnings quality, while the remaining variables were not. Likewise, pertaining to the moderator effect of political connection, the results showed that political connection significantly moderates the relationship between the structure capital, relational capital, and earnings quality.  Finally, this study can serve as a guide for regulatory bodies such as the Jordan Securities Commission and Amman Stock Exchange in order to formulate new strategies and policies. Furthermore, this study is able to enhance the knowledge of academic researchers by filling up the gap in the literature