KATCHAR / ACADEMIA: SOCIAL SCIENCE PERIODICAL
II, 2026
Recommended by the Scientific Council of the International
Scientific–Educational Center of NAS RA
INNOVATIVE BEHAVIOR AS A VALUE FACTOR OF SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
NAIRA HAKOBYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Doctor of Psychology, Professor
IRYNA SOTNYK
Sumy State University, Ukraine
Doctor of Sciences in Economics, Professor
BAGRAT BAGRATYAN
Candidate of Political Science
ANNA KHACHATRYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor
Abstract
The article discusses the problem of a person's innovative behaviour in the context of social sustainability assessments. The article presents the history of the study of innovative behaviour and its development prospects. Innovative behaviour is characterised by an accidental feature and is presented as an integral part of a person's value system. The innovative features and characteristics of behavior are considered when studying the processes of intra-team interaction of a person in the work environment. The opinions of a number of authors on the functional definitions of innovative behaviour are analysed. Among the intra-team characteristics of innovative behaviour presented in the article, a number of features stand out, such as goal-orientedness, creativity, flexibility, independence in decision-making and the use of alternatives. The study considered innovative behaviour in the context of social sustainability characteristics, such as quality of life, social cohesion, a sense of belonging, intra-team trust, and career development. The characteristics of innovative behaviour and social sustainability were studied in two age groups of employees. The results of the experimental study indicate a high level of interdependence of the phenomena under study, which is especially evident in the expression of positive correlations between the characteristics of social sustainability in the quality of life and career development and the characteristics of innovative behaviour. The results of the study allow us to assess the fundamental problem of social sustainability in a new way, considering it in the context of the development of modern society and the value transformations of individual needs manifested in innovative behaviour.
Keywords: Innovative behaviour, social sustainability, values, accidental feature, social cohesion, goal-orientedness, quality of life
CREATIVITY AND MOTIVATIONAL ORIENTATIONS: SEX DIFFERENCES AMONG MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS
SONA POGHOSYAN
Public Administration Academy of the Republic of Armenia
Head of the Quality Assurance Centre
Scientific Council Secretary
PhD in Psychological Sciences, Associate Professor
Abstract
The article is devoted to the study of creativity, its criteria, the personality traits facilitating its manifestation, and the interrelationships between creativity and motivational orientations among female and male professionals in the field of management. Of the study participants, 52 were women, and 40 were men. The findings showed that, compared with men, women demonstrated higher scores in fluency, flexibility, originality, elaboration, overall creativity, complexity, risk-taking ability, and creativity self-assessment. The study also found that the structure of the interrelationships between creativity and motivational orientations differ between women and men. Among women, the creativity indicators are positively correlated with the motivational orientations of altruism and power. In contrast, among men, they are negatively correlated with result orientation, work orientation, and process orientation.
Keywords: Creativity, sex differences, motivation, interrelationships, management.
ANXIETY IN THE CONTEXT OF THE EXPRESSION OF COGNITIVE STYLES
ANZHELIKA AYVAZYAN
International Scientific-Educational Centre of the National Academy of Sciences
PhD in Psychological Sciences, Associate Professor
Abstract
Anxiety is one of the key problems of a person's mental health, which retains its relevance along with the development of society. It is no coincidence that in recent years, psychologists, philosophers, historians, and researchers in other social science disciplines have been paying increasing attention to the issue of anxiety.
Within the framework of this study, psychological and anthropological theoretical approaches to the characterisation of anxiety were presented, and directions for revealing the level of anxiety were emphasised. The characteristics of anxiety were presented within the framework of the methodology for applying cognitive styles.
The article examines anxiety levels—specifically trait and state anxiety—among individuals aged 20 to 40. These anxiety levels were compared with the cognitive styles of impulsivity and reflexivity. The study revealed links between high levels of trait anxiety and impulsivity, which resulted in distorted decision-making and non-constructive solutions. The findings may be applied in cognitive psychotherapeutic interventions aimed at reducing anxiety levels.
Keywords: anxiety, cognitive styles, impulsivity, reflexivity, decision-making, trait anxiety, state anxiety.
PSYCHOLOGICAL MECHANISMS OF OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER
AND CONTEMPORARY INTEGRATIVE PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC APPROACHES
ARAYIK FIRYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Language Institute named after H. Acharyan, NAS RA, Lecturer, Researcher
PhD in Psychological Sciences, Associate Professor
ARMINE SANOSYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Master’s student
Specialist at the Quality Assurance Centre of EMAF
TATEV TONOYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Master’s student
tatevtonoyan.tt@gmail.com
Abstract
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is one of the most prevalent and socially significant mental disorders in contemporary clinical psychology and psychiatry, characterised by intrusive obsessive thoughts and compulsive behavioural or mental acts aimed at reducing anxiety. The disorder significantly affects psychological adaptation, social functioning, and quality of life.
The aim of this article is to examine the psychological mechanisms of OCD, the cognitive, emotional, and behavioural characteristics of individuals with OCD, and to analyse the effectiveness of contemporary evidence-based and integrative psychotherapeutic interventions.
The study used a theoretical-analytical framework based on the DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 diagnostic systems, international clinical guidelines, and a systematic review of peer-reviewed scientific literature. Cognitive-behavioural, neurobiological, metacognitive, and third-wave psychotherapeutic approaches to the development and maintenance of OCD were examined.
Findings indicate that distorted threat appraisal, inflated responsibility, intolerance of uncertainty, and the temporary reduction of anxiety through compulsive behaviours play a central role in the maintenance of OCD. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are considered the most effective interventions, while Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based approaches, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other integrative approaches may be applied as complementary or combined therapeutic strategies.
The findings emphasise the complex nature of OCD and the importance of individualised psychotherapeutic interventions for improving psychological flexibility, emotional regulation, and social adaptation.
Keywords: Obsessive-compulsive disorder, cognitive distortions, psychological flexibility, emotional regulation, social adaptation, psychotherapy.
ERGOTHERAPY IN SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH PSYCHOPHYSICAL DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS
ARAM KHACHATRYAN
Armenian State Pedagogical University after Khachatur Abovyan
Faculty of Special and Inclusive Education
Master’s Student in Occupational Therapy
aramkhachatryan.95@mail.ru
ARMINE AZNAURYAN
Armenian State Pedagogical University after Khachatur Abovyan
Faculty of Special and Inclusive Education
Master’s Student in Special Education
armine.aznauryan1984@gmail.com
TEREZA AZATYAN
Armenian State Pedagogical University after Khachatur Abovyan
Faculty of Special and Inclusive Education
PhD in Pedagogical Sciences, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Associate Professor
Abstract
This article examines the significant role of occupational therapy in child development and how it can help children facing physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. It focuses on developing self-care skills, increasing independence, and improving children's quality of life. The article emphasises the importance of early intervention, ongoing assessment, and active family involvement in the therapeutic process.
The article keeps the spotlight on the ideology of occupational therapy: helping people live as self-sufficiently as possible. Occupation is a general term providers use to refer of any daily tasks you do.
Occupational therapy for children is a modern approach that helps children not only restore or refine skills but also acquire new ones for everyday life. Thanks to this therapy, children adapt more easily to society, feel more confident at school, and become more independent in their daily activities.
Occupational therapy intervention for children promotes engagement and participation in children’s daily life roles. Children’s roles include developing personal independence, becoming productive and participating in play or leisure pursuits. Inability to participate because of disease, disability or skill deficits can cause marginalisation, social isolation and lowered self-esteem. Occupational therapists select interventions for children based upon an analysis of the child’s performance of daily life roles, how their performance is affected by their disability, and how their environment supports or constrains their performance (Mandich, A., & Rodger, S., 2006, pp. 115–135).
Through occupational therapy, children gradually acquire:
- self-confidence;
- independence in daily activities;
- better attention and learning ability;
- effective communication skills;
- preparation for kindergarten or school without unnecessary difficulties.
Since play is children's main occupation, occupational therapists often use it to improve playfulness.
Play is spontaneous, intrinsically motivating, and autonomous. Active involvement and a focus on the process, not the end product, are key aspects of play. Play, according to occupational therapists, is considered the main occupation of the child, since it is the vehicle for learning and contributes so significantly to optimal development. Play could also be a milestone to achieve functional or performance-based goals, such as enhancing activities of daily living (G. Rautenbach et al., 2024).
Although many factors influence a child's development, occupational therapy plays a crucial role in supporting children with a variety of developmental challenges.
Keywords and phrases: Occupational therapy, sensory integration, fine and gross motor skills, adaptation, cognitive skills.
OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR SELF-ESTEEM DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF FAMILY VICTIMIZATION
MERI YEGHIAZARYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
PhD student, Editor of a news website
Abstract
This article examines self-esteem as an important mechanism of an individual’s psychological stability and social adaptation within the complex context of marital relationships and victimhood. From this perspective, the family is regarded as the primary environment that shapes an individual’s existential identity and self-efficacy.
The theoretical framework of the study combines the classical concepts of W. James, C. Cooley, and C. Rogers with contemporary empirical evidence, highlighting a possible negative association between dysfunctional family dynamics and the individual’s system of self-evaluation. Within this framework, prolonged experiences of victimisation are considered in relation to the internalisation of the social role of the “victim,” the weakening of internal psychological resources, and changes in the “looking-glass self.”
Alongside the theoretical analysis, we also conducted an empirical study. Using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), we conducted a comparative analysis of self-esteem levels among women with a self-perception of victimhood and women in favourable marital relationships (N = 60).
The inclusion of only female participants was intended to provide a more focused examination of self-esteem within the context of interpersonal and family relationships and to maintain greater consistency within the sample. This approach made it possible to examine differences in self-esteem associated with different experiences and perceptions of victimhood more clearly.
The findings show that low self-esteem predominated among women with a self-perception of victimhood (65%). This pattern may relate to theoretical notions of reduced access to personal resources and a lower perceived sense of control. The empirical findings also highlight the importance of self-esteem as a factor associated with psychological resilience and adaptation.
The findings of the study suggest that higher levels of self-evaluation and self-esteem may function as protective resources that support psychological stability. They may also be associated with a stronger sense of personal autonomy and independence, thereby providing a potential basis for the development of targeted psychological intervention programs.
Keywords: Self-esteem, family victimisation, internalisation, psychological resilience, marital relationships, personal resources.
HOW ADOLESCENTS IN GERMANY DESCRIBE, JUSTIFY, AND CRITICALLY REFLECT ON HISTORICAL AND CONTEMPORARY ETHNIC STEREOTYPES
JULIET DAVOODYAN (DAVTIAN)
Armenian State Pedagogical University after Khachatur Abovyan
Department of Psychology, PhD Student
Abstract
Ethnic stereotypes in Germany remain a persistent challenge, shaped by history, migration, and everyday interactions. This exploratory qualitative study examines how 15 participants aged 11–20 describe, justify, and reflect on these biases. Participants took part in two semi-structured group interviews: six identified as native German, and nine as first-generation immigrants. Thematic analysis drew on theories of implicit and explicit bias, social identity, in-group favouritism, and authoritarian personality. Within this sample, participants morally rejected ethnic stereotypes while acknowledging their persistence through media representations, intergenerational transmission, and everyday interactions. The findings should not be interpreted as representative of adolescents in Germany as a whole.
Keywords: Ethnic stereotypes; adolescence; Germany; minority groups.
THE TERMINOLOGY OF ETHNIC IDENTITY IN THE CONTEXT OF SOCIO-ADAPTIVE PROCESSES
ASYA BERBERYAN
Russian-Armenian University
Doctor of Psychology, Professor
NAIRA HAKOBYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Doctor of Psychology, Professor
Abstract
The study explores the conceptual nature of an individual's ethnic identity within the context of interconnected socio-adaptive processes. In contemporary psychological science, the relevance of this issue stems from ongoing processes of globalisation—spanning the socio-psychological, economic, and cultural spheres—which create new socio-adaptive conditions for an individual's life and activity. Under these circumstances, as societal processes become volatile and perceptions of one's environment are shaped by diverse information flows, specific transformations in the manifestations of an individual's ethnic identity are emerging. Moreover, alongside the formation and consolidation of ethnic identity, an individual's tendencies and mechanisms for adapting to the social environment also begin to change; this underscores the importance of conducting socio-psychological research into the interaction between ethnic identity and the processes of adapting to the social environment, as well as clarifying the terminology surrounding ethnic identity.
Keywords: Ethnic identity, terminology, socio-adaptive processes, primordialist approach, instrumentalism, constructivist approach.
CAPACITY NEEDS FOR PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN ARMENIAN HIGHER EDUCATION: FINDINGS FROM THE ERASMUS+ EU-BRIDGE MULTI-STAKEHOLDER ASSESSMENT
NARINE VARDANYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the RA
International Scientific-Educational Centre
PhD in Philological Sciences
Associate Professor
of the narine.vardanyan@isec.am
ATOM MKHITARYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the RA
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Dean, PhD in Physical-Mathematical Sciences, Associate Professor
Abstract
The deepening internationalisation and Europeanisation of higher education requires Armenian higher education institutions not only to expand international cooperation but also to develop the individual and institutional capacities needed to design and manage European educational and research projects. This study aims to identify the main capacity needs and gaps in Armenia's higher education sector and assess their alignment with the components envisaged by the EU-BRIDGE project (“Strengthening Higher Education for European Project Management in Armenia”), implemented under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education action.
The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining data from three complementary components: a quantitative survey of 180 participants, a survey of 14 experts in higher education and quality assurance, and the results of a focus group discussion with representatives of 23 organisations, along with six in-depth interviews. The integration of data from different sources enabled a comparative analysis of the perspectives of different stakeholder groups and thematic triangulation of the findings.
The results demonstrate a high level of interest in participation in European programmes within the Armenian higher education sector; however, this interest is not always accompanied by sufficient practical experience and institutional support. The main capacity needs include identifying funding opportunities; developing project ideas and applications; budgeting and financial management; identifying international partners and building consortia; and project planning, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. At the same time, limited access to information and advisory support, financial and time constraints, insufficient English-language proficiency, and a lack of institutional support mechanisms were identified as significant barriers.
The study shows that capacity development cannot be limited to short-term training activities. Stakeholder assessments highlight the need for practice-oriented learning, mentoring, simulation of real projects, international networking, experience sharing, and the development of a digital professional community. These findings broadly align with the EU-BRIDGE project’s components on training, experiential learning, social innovation, project simulation, and professional networking. The findings can contribute to the development of evidence-based mechanisms for capacity building and sustainable participation in European projects in Armenian higher education, as well as inform the design and implementation of similar Erasmus+ initiatives.
Keywords: higher education, internationalisation, Europeanisation, project management, capacity building, needs assessment, Erasmus+ EU-BRIDGE.
AI-ASSISTED DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION IN LEGAL ENGLISH: THE AILED MODEL
GOHAR GRIGORYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Head of the Chair of Foreign Languages
PhD in Philological Sciences, Associate Professor
LILIT MANVELYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Instructor of English for Specific Purposes
Abstract
This article addresses one of the most important problems in the field of Legal English instruction: using artificial intelligence (AI) to organise effective, differentiated instruction for learners with diverse language skills. Legal English is a branch of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) that requires proficiency in legal terminology, legal genres, and legal discourse, as well as general language proficiency. Uniform instructional materials may be too challenging for some students and not challenging enough for others.
The article proposes the AILED (AI-Assisted Legal English Differentiation) Model, which integrates AI-assisted differentiation of legal terminology, adaptation of instructional texts, and principles of differentiated instruction. The model has been developed after an in-depth review of literature on Legal English pedagogy, AI-assisted language learning, and differentiated instruction, as well as an analysis of placement-test data from 103 Master's students enrolled in law and jurisprudence programmes at the International Scientific-Educational Center of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia. The placement data provide evidence of heterogeneous proficiency among law and jurisprudence students, supporting the need for differentiated Legal English instruction.
The proposed model consists of five interconnected stages. First, it evaluates students' language proficiency, prepares differentiated language-support materials, and confirms their professional and pedagogical suitability through a range of learning activities and feedback on learning outcomes. The model should operate as a cyclical process, with learning outcomes leading to choices of further materials and differentiation. It illustrates its use with a practical example, using legal language and texts that are differentiated but have similar cognitive demands at each proficiency level.
The article concludes that the AILED Model offers a practical pedagogical approach to addressing proficiency differences in Legal English instruction, facilitating the acquisition of specialised legal terminology, and enabling the purposeful and supervised integration of AI into the teaching and learning process.
Keywords: Legal English, English for Specific Purposes (ESP), artificial intelligence, differentiated instruction, legal terminology, AILED Model, language proficiency.
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN LANGUAGE TEACHING: FROM TRADITIONAL METHODS TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
LILIT HAKOBYAN
Armenian State University of Economics, Chair of Languages
PhD in Philological Sciences, Associate Professor
lilithakobyan.asue@gmail.com
SHUSHANIK GHAZARYAN
Armenian State University of Economics, Chair of Languages, Lecturer
shushanghazaryan1983@gmail.com
Abstract
This article examines the digital transformation of language teaching and analyses the impact of contemporary digital technologies and artificial intelligence on the language-teaching process. It focuses on the evolution of traditional forms of instruction, the potential of digital educational technologies, and the main areas where artificial intelligence is applied in language teaching.
The advantages of using intelligent systems are examined, including the personalisation of instruction, the automation of instructional guidance, increased access to educational resources, and opportunities for online learning. The article identifies the main risks to academic integrity. It addresses issues of information reliability, the protection of learners’ personal data, and the preservation of the teacher’s leading role in the educational process.
Contemporary scholarly works related to the subject have been examined. Based of an analysis of the theoretical literature on the issues under investigation, the article demonstrates the need of integrate artificial intelligence technologies harmoniously into language education while preserving education's humanistic orientation of education and recognising the importance of the teacher’s role as a mentor and facilitator.
It is concluded that the most promising model for the development of contemporary language education is one based on collaboration between the teacher and artificial intelligence. Such a model contributes to improving the quality of instruction, developing communicative competence, saving time and human resources, and fostering learners’ digital skills.
Keywords: Language teaching, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, educator, educational process.
ADVERTISING AS A FORM OF SOCIAL AND CULTURAL COMMUNICATION
IN HAYKANUSH MARK’S MAGAZINE TSAGHIK (1905–1907)
NAIRA HAMBARDZUMYAN
National Academy of Sciences, Institute of Literature named after Manuk Abeghyan
PHD, Associate Professor
Leading Researcher,
Abstract
The Armenian press of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries served not only as a platform for disseminating literary, political, and social ideas, but also as an important medium for reflecting social life, economic relations, and cultural transformations. Within this context, advertising sections constitute valuable historical sources for the study of consumer culture, social perceptions, and systems of values.
This study examines the advertising section of Tzaghik (Constantinople, 1905–1907), edited by Hayganush Mark, to identify the functions of advertising as a form of social and cultural communication. The study focuses on the communicative and persuasive strategies employed in advertisements, the mechanisms through which trust and authority were constructed, and the social and cultural values conveyed through advertised goods and services.
The relevance of the study is that advertising materials have generally been treated as secondary components in the history of the Armenian press. In contrast, their analysis provides valuable insights into the consumer culture, educational perceptions, and processes of modernisation within the Armenian community of Constantinople. Particularly significant are advertisements for educational institutions, health-related services, household goods, fashion, and commercial services, which reflect contemporary perceptions of the educated woman, family life, and urban lifestyles.
The scholarly novelty of the study lies in examining the advertising section of Tzaghik as an integrated system of social and cultural communication. The study approaches advertising texts as cultural messages that construct and disseminate consumer behaviour, perceptions of social prestige, and notions of modern lifestyles. At the same time, these advertisements provide evidence of the expansion of the urban market, the circulation of new goods and services, and transformations in women’s social and educational roles.
The methodological framework combines historical-comparative, content, discourse, and structural analysis. The primary sources consist of advertisements published in Tzaghik for educational institutions, books, medical services, household products, fashion, and commercial services. The study demonstrates that the advertising section of Tzaghik should be regarded not merely as a commercial supplement, but as an important historical and cultural source for understanding the value systems, social perceptions, and processes of modernisation within the Armenian community of Constantinople at the beginning of the twentieth century.
Keywords: Magazine Tsaghik, Haykanush Mark, advertising, press history, cultural capital, Armenian community of Constantinople.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IMPACT ON PRODUCTIVITY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
KAREN SARGSYAN
National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia
International Scientific-Educational Centre
Head of the Department of Management and Economics
PhD in Economic Sciences, Associate Professor
Abstract
The increasing diffusion of AI has generated considerable interest among economists and management scholars, because technological change is a fundamental source of long-term productivity and economic growth. In conventional growth theory, technological progress enables economies to produce more output from a given quantity of labour and capital. AI may influence this process by increasing the efficiency of existing production activities, augmenting workers' capabilities, accelerating research and development, and improving the allocation of organisational resources.
Unlike many earlier digital technologies, AI can perform tasks involving prediction, classification, information processing, content generation and decision support. Consequently, its potential economic effects extend beyond the automation of routine activities to include innovation, organisational transformation, human–machine collaboration and the creation of new products and business models.
AI should not be considered an automatic source of economic growth. The productivity consequences of a new technology depend on complementary investments, organisational capabilities, institutional conditions, and the ability of workers and managers to incorporate the technology into production processes.
AI can increase aggregate productivity and economic output, but the benefits may not be distributed equally. There are several risks, such as displacement of workers performing automatable tasks, wage polarisation, concentration of technological capabilities, advantages for large firms and divergence between technologically advanced and less-prepared economies.
Moreover, countries differ substantially in their digital infrastructure, human capital, research capacity, access to finance, institutional quality, and ability to adopt advanced technologies. These differences can determine whether AI becomes a source of broad-based productivity growth or primarily benefits already advanced firms and economies.
The most successful economies are likely to be those that treat AI not simply as a tool for automation, but as an opportunity to complement human capabilities. Investments in skills, infrastructure, innovation, competition and responsible governance can help ensure that the productivity gains created by AI translate into higher living standards and more inclusive long-term economic growth.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, productivity, economic growth, economy.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TRANSFORMATION IN MODERN BANKING ECOSYSTEMS: STRUCTURAL, OPERATIONAL, AND GOVERNANCE CHALLENGES
ASHOT MARDOYAN
PhD in Economics, Associate Professor
Head of the Chair of Financial Markets and Institutions
Armenian State University of Economics (Yerevan, RA)
ashot.mardoyan80@gmail.com
HAYK SARGSYAN
PhD in Economics, Associate Professor, Chair of Financial Markets and Institutions
Armenian State University of Economics (Yerevan, RA)
Abstract
The objective of this study is to investigate the comprehensive integration of artificial intelligence within modern banking and financial ecosystems by analysing its profound structural, operational, and macroeconomic implications. Drawing on recent empirical literature and institutional data, the work examines how AI technologies—ranging from machine learning algorithms to agentic workflows and specialised small models—are transforming retail banking, risk management, credit scoring, and regulatory compliance. The research shows that while AI adoption significantly improves operational efficiency, default prediction accuracy, and customer personalisation, it also introduces complex governance challenges, including algorithmic bias, data privacy vulnerabilities, and shifts in profit pools. The analysis also evaluates AI's dual role in fostering sustainable green finance and corporate ESG integration, alongside its paradoxical capacity to influence shadow banking dynamics. By proposing an integrated technological and governance framework featuring zero-trust architecture and explainable artificial intelligence, this study outlines a strategic roadmap for financial institutions transitioning toward resilient, secure, and highly automated digital ecosystems.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Digital Banking, Financial Stability, Risk Management, ESG Integration, Algorithmic Governance.
BUSINESS LENDING IN ARMENIA: PATTERNS, TRANSFORMATIONS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS
VARDUSH GYOZALYAN
Yerevan State University
Chair of Management and Business
PhD in Economics, Associate Professor
vardushgyozalyan@ysu.am
MKRTICH ASOYAN
Yerevan State University
Chair of Finance and Accounting
Bachelor Student
Abstract
In recent years, the financial system of the Republic of Armenia has undergone numerous structural changes, driven by both internal economic processes and prevailing macroeconomic conditions. Accordingly, corporate loans have become the main means of financing the real economy and a key driver of production expansion, investment, and job creation.
The banking sector continues to serve as an intermediary in Armenia; through economic recovery, various government support programs, and international instruments, it participates in the projects of Armenian companies' projects.
Despite all the above-mentioned advantages, getting finance may still be a problem for many organisations. High cost of borrowing, need for collateral, credit risk, and restricted ways of raising funds may create problems for businesses, especially for small firms. This becomes even more relevant for startup and innovative firms, which may not have enough collateral and credit history to borrow from banks.
Keywords: Business lending, interest rates, financial stability, commercial banks, loan portfolio.
Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia, Colonel (Ret.)
PhD in Political Sciences, Associate Professor
Abstract
The principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of a state is one of the fundamental principles of international law, ensuring the recognition of states' sovereignty, legal equality, and independence in the international arena. It is enshrined in the UN Charter, the Helsinki Final Act, and a number of other international instruments.
The current geopolitical situation shows that the principle of non-intervention is often used both to justify legitimate action and to justify politically motivated interference. Today we increasingly encounter cases in which states intervene in the internal affairs of other countries under various pretexts. Technological developments open new avenues for exerting external influence on systems of state governance without traditional military or physical invasion. The internet, artificial intelligence, social networks, and cyber tools are widely used to influence internal political processes. These phenomena complicate the legal-political field, compelling a reconsideration of what “interference” means and how to define the limits of its permissibility.
The study of this topic is relevant not only in theoretical political and legal terms, but also in practical terms, since it makes it possible to reassess the essence of the principle in light of current geopolitical and technological developments. A precise interpretation of the principle of non-intervention within the system of international law and the development of mechanisms for its application are important prerequisites for preserving states' sovereignty, legal equality, and international stability.
Keywords: Law, jurisdiction, principle, state, international community, internal affairs, external relations, cooperation, treaty, agreement.
ANALYTICAL ASSESSMENT OF THE CONTEMPORARY SECURITY VISION IN THE SOUTH CAUCASUS REGION
MIKAYEL KARAPETYAN
Yerevan State University
Chair of International Relations and Diplomacy
PhD student
Abstract
This article examines the evolving geopolitical and security dynamics of the South Caucasus within the context of contemporary regional transformations and the intensification of competition among regional and extra-regional actors. The study analyses the strategic significance of the South Caucasus as a communicative and geopolitical crossroads linking Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. It pays particular attention to the shifting balance of power following the launch of the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity” (TRIPP) project and the broader consequences of the Russo-Ukrainian war and the escalating conflict surrounding Iran. The article explores the security interests and foreign policy priorities of regional powers—namely Russia, Turkey, and Iran—as well as the strategic approaches of extra-regional actors such as the United States, the European Union, China, and India. It also examines contemporary security challenges affecting Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, including unresolved conflicts, communication projects, military-political alliances, and shifting regional security complexes. The research concludes that the South Caucasus is gradually becoming a strategic arena of multipolar competition, where communication routes, geopolitical sovereignty, and the regional balance of power take on decisive importance. The activation of extra-regional actors creates both new opportunities and new security risks for the states of the South Caucasus.
Keywords: Region, foreign policy, actor, power centre, international organisation, state, conflict, peace, stability, unity.
