ISBN online: 978-80-7701-082-5 | DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5
13th International Scientific Conference REGION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIETY 2025
26.–26. 9. 2025 Brno
- Jiří Nesiba (Ed.), Josef Smolík (Ed.)
The proceedings of the RESPO 2025 conference present peer-reviewed scholarly contributions addressing contemporary challenges of regional development in Central Europe, with a particular focus on the Visegrad Region. The papers reflect a high level of disciplinary expertise across economics, regional policy, public administration, security studies, social sciences, environmental studies, and emerging technological fields. Empirical and theoretical analyses examine structural regional disparities, cohesion policy, labour markets, innovation, sustainability, and institutional resilience in post-socialist contexts. A number of contributions explicitly engage with cross-border cooperation, EU integration, and comparative perspectives within the V4 countries. The impacts of recent global crises, digital transformation, and the green transition on regional economies and governance are also considered. The interdisciplinary scope of the programme highlights the interconnected economic, social, and institutional dimensions of regional development. The book provides analytically grounded insights relevant to both academic research and regional policy practice in Central Europe.
online: 2026, vydavatel: Mendel University in Brno
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Příspěvky konference
High-level Political Visits and Foreign Direct Investment: Evidence from the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Matúš Bilka, Filip Šandor, Daniel Gurňák
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0009
This paper investigates whether official high-level political visits by Czech and Slovak government officials foster inward foreign direct investment (FDI) from partner countries. Using panel data for 184 partner countries of the Czech Republic and 171 partner countries of Slovakia over the period 2018–2023, we estimate Poisson pseudo–maximum likelihood (PPML) gravity-type models with Mundlak correction. The model specification accounts for economic size, distance, institutional factors represented by EU membership, socialist legacy, embassy presence, and the exogenous shock caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Contrary to expectations, official visits, both contemporaneous and lagged, exhibit no statistically significant effect on inward FDI flows for either country. Instead, structural determinants dominate. Distance exerts a strong negative effect, while the larger size of partner economies, embassy presence, and EU membership of the partner country are positively associated with inward investment. The results also point to persistence, consistent with the hysteresis literature, suggesting that established economic ties and market size explain most of the variation in FDI inflows. These findings support recent meta-analyses showing that official visits are largely symbolic, while long-term economic fundamentals and institutional integration remain the principal drivers of bilateral investment.
Analysis of Social Projects with Smart City Components Supported by the ESF
Denisa Bláhová, Petr Hlaváček
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0018
The article evaluates selected socially oriented projects from the perspective of the Smart City concept, which were supported by the European Social Fund (ESF). The aim of the research is to determine the extent to which these projects contribute to innovation, quality of life, sustainability, and can be considered innovative. The research evaluates these projects according to several criteria, such as the degree of innovation, contribution to quality of life, sustainability, and stakeholder involvement. Using a standardized scoring method, significant differences between individual projects were identified, particularly in the areas of economic and environmental sustainability and replication potential. Although all projects showed a high level of social sustainability and inclusiveness, most of them lacked long-term financial security and more consistent integration of environmental aspects. The results point to the need for systematic support for soft social innovations using Smart City approaches and highlight the differences between projects implemented by the public and private sectors. The study concludes that strengthening participatory planning, interdisciplinary cooperation, and institutional anchoring is key to increasing the strategic importance of socially oriented Smart City projects.
Restrictions on the Rights of Security Forces, the Principle of Proportionality, and Loyalty: Challenges for Security and Regional Development in the V4 Countries
Kateřina Blažková
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0022
The article focuses on the restriction of fundamental rights of members of security forces in the Czech Republic and the V4 countries. It analyzes the legal framework of these restrictions, in particular the prohibition of strikes, political activities, restrictions on business, and the right of association, and their compliance with the principle of proportionality. A comparative approach shows that all V4 countries apply a similar model of depoliticized and disciplined forces, with restrictions enshrined in the constitution and in line with European case law. The study emphasizes that the legitimacy of restrictions is conditional on their proportionality and fair compensation for members. Special attention is paid to the relationship between legal limits, motivation, and loyalty, which fundamentally affect the stability of the forces and thus regional development. In conclusion, the article states that the current legal framework is fundamentally sound, but the challenge for the future remains to maintain a balance between protecting security and respecting the rights of individuals.
The Development of Alcohol Dependence in People on Maternity/Parental Leave in the Context of Family Alcohol Dependence
Martina Černá, Monika Holková
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0031
This paper is devoted to the issue of alcohol addiction among people on maternity/parental leave. This study is part of the student project INT/2025/0001 Alcohol Addiction on Maternity/Parental Leave, which is being carried out in 2025 at the College of Polytechnics Jihlava. The aim of the article is to highlight the experiences of alcohol addiction among parents who developed addiction while on maternity/parental leave. Excessive alcohol consumption has negative impacts on society as a whole. These impacts are primarily health-related, social, economic, and moral. Therefore, it is in everyone's interest to develop effective prevention and treatment programs. Understanding the role of heredity in the development of addiction and other influences, i.e., those that can be influenced, is important not only for addicted parents, but also for other addicted individuals, their families and loved ones, and everyone else who comes into contact with alcoholics.
Spatial and Fiscal Dimensions of the Donut Effect in the Czech Republic
Hana Černá Silovská, Martin Lukavec
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0036
This paper investigates the donut (doughnut) effect in the Czech Republic during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on municipalities with authorized municipal offices in Bohemia. We examine shifts in population and housing demand between the years 2019 and 2021, a period significantly marked by pandemic-related disruptions. As migration data were unavailable, property price dynamics served as a proxy, based on 114,620 residential purchase transactions received from the Reas (real estate portal). Average price changes were calculated for 273 municipalities, ensuring sufficient observations while preserving geographic detail. The findings suggest spatial redistribution consistent with the donut effect: municipalities surrounding major urban cores such as Prague, Pilsen, Mladá Boleslav, and České Budějovice recorded stronger demand growth than the cores themselves. Regression analysis confirms the significance of labor market conditions, particularly unemployment, while population density effects appear less robust. Beyond demographic and housing dynamics, the study highlights potential fiscal implications for municipal budgets, infrastructure, and service provision. These aspects, however, are not analyzed in depth here and will be pursued in future research. This paper thus represents a first step toward a broader investigation of the donut effect in the Czech settlement system, laying the groundwork for understanding both its spatial and fiscal dimensions.
Geographical Indications and Nation Branding in the Visegrad Countries
Renata Čuhlová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0045
This paper explores the role of geographical indicators in nation branding and competitiveness within the Visegrad countries (Czechia, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia). Using data from the EUʹs official eAmbrosia register, the study conducts a comparative analysis of registered geographical indicators across three product categories: agri-food products, wines, and spirit drinks. The results reveal clear national patterns and also highlight temporal trends, with a registration peak following EU accession in 2004 and more continuous activity in recent years. The findings demonstrate how geographical indicators function as legal instruments of intellectual property but also as strategic resources for place-based development, tourism promotion, and nation branding. The paper concludes that, despite institutional and procedural challenges, these indicators hold significant potential for enhancing rural resilience, preserving traditional know-how, and reinforcing the international reputation of Visegrad countries.
The Future of EU Cohesion Policy After 2028 and the Development Needs of Czech Municipalities
Jan Holub, Tomáš Sýkora, Petra Olšová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0053
In the context of the forthcoming EU Cohesion Policy Strategic Framework 2028+ and the proposed Multiannual Financial Framework after 2027, significant changes in the funding conditions are expected to have an impact on the development of municipalities in the Czech Republic. The article discusses the future of EU cohesion policy after 2028 in relation to the development needs of Czech municipalities. It is based on a combination of analyses of EU and Czech strategic documents, a questionnaire survey conducted in municipalities, and focus groups representing different types of municipalities. The results confirm the stability of local priorities, especially in the areas of transport, education, and the environment. The focus is on the expected shift of cohesion policy towards a narrower thematic concentration and greater use of repayable financial instruments, which may disadvantage smaller municipalities with limited administrative capacity and financial stability. The study stresses the need for a balanced mix of grants and financial instruments, the strengthening of national grant programmes, and the reduction of administrative burdens. These steps are key to ensuring sustainable local development and preventing the widening of regional disparities.
The Importance of Forestry in Terms of Bioeconomy, and Social and Ecological Aspects in Regional Development
Kateřina Holušová, Otakar Holuša
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0060
Human society influences the state of forests daily, and forests, in turn, influence human society. As part of the development of society, we intervene in the state of forest ecosystems and change their appearance. The state of forests and forestry has a significant impact on the development of a region. Sustainably developed forestry offers sufficient jobs and creates products and services for society not only in the given region. Forestry significantly contributes to improving the economic well-being of the territory, which is one of the goals of regional development. Many people living not only in rural areas are employed in forestry. The forest is a place where most of us enjoy relaxing very much and often for free. The aim of the contribution is to present and explain the importance of forestry in terms of bioeconomy, social and ecological aspects in regional development using practical examples. Explained by the authors on their own project results with examples from Europe and Central Asia (Georgia, Ukraine, Czech Republic).
Regional Similarities and Differences in Active Labour Market Policy in Czechia: Setting the Theoretical Framework
Ondřej Hora
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0069
The impacts of active labour market policy (ALMP) have been evaluated for quite a long time. However, we know little about the role of regional differences in the functioning and impacts of active labour market policy. We focused on evidence of differences and similarities in the functioning of active labour market policy in the Czech Republic, institutional factors that may explain similarities and differences in ALMP at the regional level and the role of the regional level on the outputs, outcomes and impacts of active labour market policy. We concluded that there are substantial regional differences, identified relevant differencing aspects and presented some potential explanations. We present a new theoretical framework for assessing regional differences based on the data.
A Brief Contribution to the Theory of Explanatory Value with Reference to Regional Development
Miroslav Horák
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0082
The objective of this study is to examine how the concept of “explanatory value” is defined and applied across the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. A systematic literature review was conducted using the SPIDER framework, with searches in the Web of Science Core Collection and explicit inclusion and exclusion criteria applied (English language, review articles, last five years; additionally, the year 2025). Titles, abstracts, and full texts were subjected to a screening process. The initial query yielded five pertinent studies, frequently employing the concept of “explanatory power.” A supplementary query generated eleven records from 2025, resulting in nine unique studies after duplicates were removed. The findings confirm the disciplinary heterogeneity of the concept and highlight its role as an evaluative criterion. Explanatory value emerges as a multidimensional and context-dependent concept that combines logical, empirical, and pragmatic aspects. In the context of regional development, explanatory value provides a key measure for assessing the adequacy of socioeconomic models and their applicability in regional policy design.
Family Background and Socioeconomic Factors as Determinants of Children's Eating Habits: Insights from the Child Health 2024 Study
Dana Hübelová, Beatrice-Elena Chromková Manea, Jana Kratěnová, Kristýna Žejglicová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0088
Family environment plays a crucial role in shaping children's eating habits, both through parental attitudes and the socioeconomic conditions of the household. A study conducted in Brno in 2024 surveyed parents (N = 228) during preventive paediatric check-ups using a structured questionnaire. The analysis revealed that more than half of the children consume sweet or salty snacks on a daily or near-daily basis, while only a minority of families effectively limit such behaviour. Nevertheless, most children regularly drink water, and more than two-thirds eat breakfast every day. Food selectivity proved to be a widespread phenomenon, with almost 80% of children showing some degree of picky eating. Shared family meals also emerged as an important factor: while the majority of families eat together on weekends, fewer than half manage to do so during weekdays. A composite Healthy Eating Index confirmed that higher parental education levels and an active interest in healthy nutrition are associated with more favourable dietary behaviours in children. The findings emphasize that effective prevention of unhealthy eating patterns requires a close interplay between family and school settings, combining parental guidance with educational strategies and improvements in school catering environments.
Urban Aspirations in Ostrava: Exploring Resident Perspectives
Beatrice-Elena Chromková Manea, Dawn Norris, Nicole Horáková Hirschlerová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0094
This contribution focuses on the lived experiences and aspirations of Ostrava's residents, as captured through responses within a broader quantitative study. The selected questions explore how they spend their leisure time, their visions for ideal life in the city, their motivations for potentially relocating, and how Ostrava's image in the future. By analysing residents' own words, the study aims to deepen understanding of residents interact with the urban environment beyond structured demographic or behavioural data. The data invite reflection on the emotional, social, and practical factors that shape urban belonging and the perceived quality of life. This contribution also highlights the value of integrating such questions within quantitative designs and discusses how such insights can inform more responsive urban and social policies.
Bears at Risk in Slovakia under Political Pressures
Dušan Janák, Michal Haring, Lea Kráľová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0106
The brown bear (Ursus arctos) is the largest carnivore in Slovakia and plays a key role in natural ecosystems. Over the past five years, there has been a significant change in public discourse about brown bears in Slovakia. On the one hand, there has been a quantitative increase in media interest, and on the other hand, the topic has become politicized. Although the coexistence of humans and bears and the conflicts between them seem at first glance to be a very apolitical relationship, in reality, they have strong political connotations in contemporary Slovak society. Legislative developments and bear management after the 2023 elections took a radical turn towards widespread culling of bears without addressing individuals involved in human-bear conflicts in accordance with international standards and European legislation. Instead of a decline in conflicts, they have increased in the years of the largest culling. Political orientation is one of the strongest predictors of attitudes towards bears and their management. Attitudes towards bears and their management now divide Slovak society in a similar way to attitudes towards the ruling political establishment.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the RussianUkrainian War on Cross-Border Mobility between Slovakia and Ukraine (2020–2023)
Daniel Kamenský
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0114
This paper examines the profound impact of two consecutive crises – the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian–Ukrainian war – on cross-border mobility at the external border of the European Union (EU) with Ukraine, with a particular focus on Slovakia. During the pandemic (2020–2021), mobility collapsed due to unprecedented border closures and restrictions on movement, leading to a decline of more than 70% in cross-border flows across the EU's eastern frontier. This had severe social and economic consequences for borderland communities that depended on daily mobility for work, trade, and family ties. By contrast, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the same borders witnessed the opposite dynamic: a sudden and massive inflow of refugees, with more than 6 million entries recorded in Poland and over 2.7 million in Slovakia by the end of 2022 (UNHCR, 2023; Eurostat, 2023). Within weeks, borders that had functioned as securitised barriers during the pandemic were redefined as humanitarian gateways, demonstrating the extraordinary flexibility of border regimes under conditions of crisis. The study employs a descriptive comparative analysis drawing on quantitative data from UNHCR, Eurostat, Frontex, the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), and national statistical offices. By systematically comparing mobility patterns during the pandemic and the war, the paper highlights how external borders can shift from restrictive to permissive regimes within short periods of time. The Slovak–Ukrainian border is used as a detailed case study due to its dual role as both a transit and destination space, while comparative insights are provided from Poland, Hungary, and Romania. Graphs and tables visualise these shifts, showing both the dramatic collapse of border crossings in 2020–2021 and the unprecedented refugee flows in 2022–2023. The findings demonstrate not only the dual nature of borders under crisis conditions but also their broader governance implications. While pandemic-related restrictions exposed the fragility of free movement within the Schengen Area and revealed tendencies towards “health nationalism,” the...
Blackout in Prisons as a Security Problem
Ondřej Kolář, Alena Lochmannová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0124
A blackout, understood as a large-scale and often prolonged loss of electrical power, represents a specific security risk for prisons. The operation of a prison is currently critically dependent on an uninterrupted supply of electricity. This includes perimeter security, control of the movement of incarcerated persons, the functioning of security technologies, camera systems and communication systems, as well as the provision of basic needs for sentenced inmates and Prison Service staff. A blackout is therefore not only a matter of comfort and technical inconvenience. It represents a direct threat to the safety of the facility and, subsequently, to public safety outside the prison. This article views the prison as part of the state's critical infrastructure. It describes the types of threats that emerge immediately after the loss of power and in the following hours and days of operation, how operational and tactical procedures inside the facility should be directed, and what role is assumed by the prison's crisis staff. It also outlines the process of returning to normal functioning once power supply is restored. We argue that preparedness for a blackout cannot be understood solely as a matter of having a diesel generator and sufficient fuel reserves. It is also about personnel readiness, established command processes, functional lines of communication, prioritisation of essential operations, and secure basic logistics. If a prison fails in this initial phase, the risk of panic, collective unrest, escape attempts and direct threats to staff increases significantly.
Review of Research on Work-Life Balance in the Digital Workplace Environment
Gregor Koprna, Zdeňka Konečná
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0130
Digitalisation has transformed how work is organised, managed, and experienced in recent years. These changes, reflected in emerging digital workplace environments, have blurred the boundaries between professional and private life, making work-life balance a critical aspect of sustainable employment. This study reviews and synthesises recent academic research on work-life balance in digital workplace environments to identify key research trends and gaps. A systematic literature review is used as a method to achieve the research objective. Fifty-six articles were identified as relevant using the PRISMA method and then grouped into four clusters based on the research streams – technology, telework and work-life balance, organisational and managerial factors, individual resources and coping mechanisms, and structural and contextual trends. The findings will contribute to both academic and practical debate by clarifying current research trends and highlighting opportunities to develop more sustainable, human-centred approaches to digital work.
Problematic Housing in a Selected Region: Case Study
Dagmar Kostrhůnová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0138
This article focuses on the case study of people and the issue of their housing. One indicator of regional development is the standard of housing for the region's inhabitants. The South Moravian Region, Blansko District, was selected for this article. The living conditions of people who, for certain reasons, have found themselves in a situation where they do not have their own “roof over their heads” are described here. Most of them would like to improve their living conditions. Case study clients describe their own and other's fault, which caused them to live in these conditions. The article also describes the possibilities of social housing, including subletting and homelessness, which society in the 21st century should be able to solve. The article also focuses on a private landlord who does not resolve conflicts between residents in his hostel. The article includes the identification of common causes of poor conditions for the actors in the case studies.
Review of Research: The Impact of Modern Technologies and Artificial Intelligence on Internal Communication in the Digital Workplace
Jan Krist, Zdenka Konečná
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0147
The rapid advancement of information and communication technologies and the growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) have fundamentally transformed the nature of internal communication within organizations. This paper presents a systematic review of contemporary research exploring the impact of modern technologies and AI on internal communication in the context of the digital workplace. The study follows the PRISMA methodology to identify, analyze, and synthesize 55 relevant scientific sources indexed in scientific databases. The findings were categorized into four main research areas: conceptualization and structural frameworks of the digital workplace; digital internal communication and tools; automation, AI, and their impact on employees; and leadership, organizational culture, and trust. Results indicate that internal communication is evolving from a transactional to a strategic and integrative organizational function that links technology, culture, and human capital. While the adoption of AI improves efficiency, it also raises challenges related to trust, interpersonal relationships, and the psychological well-being of employees. Leadership and organizational culture play a critical role in fostering digital competencies, engagement, and digital trust necessary for effective communication in digital environments. The review highlights the need for further research on the socio-technical and ethical dimensions of AI adoption, focusing on the long-term effects of automation on communication dynamics and organizational sustainability.
Metropolitan Cooperation: Examples from the MECOGCE Project
František Kubeš
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0152
This paper analyses the methodology and outcomes of the Interreg Central Europe MECOG-CE project (2023–2026), focusing on enhancing integrated metropolitan cooperation and governance (MCG) across Central Europe (CE). The project partners, representing both mature institutional systems and emerging governance models, first identified critical thematic challenges, such as sustainable mobility and climate resilience, alongside persistent procedural barriers, notably administrative fragmentation and the general lack of institutional top-down support in many CE member states. Following a structured three-phase methodology – Analysis (Work Package 1, WP1), Capacity Building via Pilot Actions (WP2), and Strategy Formulation (WP3) – the project collected 76 best practices and adapted and refined five of them into five core, transferable solutions, including Food Cooperation for Metropolitan Areas. The resulting Strategy and Action Plans provide a flexible, replicable framework for accelerating integrated territorial development in functionally defined metropolitan areas, specifically addressing the institutional and political recognition gaps prevalent in the Visegrad region. The paper concludes that effective MCG transfer requires hybrid approaches, combining bottom-up stakeholder involvement with tailored financial instruments (such as Integrated Territorial Investments, ITI) to overcome fragmented administrative landscapes.
Urban-Rural Digital Divides in Visegrad Countries
Martina Kubíková
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0158
Digitalisation has a profound influence on regional development, yet disparities in digital access and usage persist across the Visegrad countries. This study examines the digital divide in urban, suburban, and rural areas and considers access to broadband, digital skills, and online activities. The results reveal significant disparities in digital development levels between different areas. The analysis also reveals that geographic and socioeconomic factors significantly influence the extent of digital inequality across regions. These findings emphasise the importance of considering intra-national regional variations within the context of broader digital transformation processes. By providing a detailed, data-driven perspective, this research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of regional digital disparities within the Visegrad countries and offers a foundation for future research and discussion on regional stability and development in the context of increasing digital integration.
Developing Organizational Competence and Trust for AI Adoption
Michal Líška, Zdeňka Konečná
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0166
Artificial intelligence adoption is becoming a key challenge for organizations. The main barrier is not technology itself but the ability of people to learn, trust, and use AI effectively. This paper explores how short learning activities, called micro-interventions, can help employees and managers build the competencies needed for responsible and confident use of AI. The study is based on a structured review of relevant academic papers. The analysis identifies three competence levels: core understanding, applied practice, and reflective use. These three levels form a dynamic learning cycle. Five types of micro-interventions are described as examples of how organizations can support these stages in practice. The findings show that trust, leadership, and reflection are the most important drivers of sustainable adoption. The paper concludes that small and well-designed learning actions can create lasting changes in how organizations learn, collaborate, and innovate with AI.
Prison Tattoos in the Context of Identity and Group Affiliation
Alena Lochmannová, Ondřej Kolář
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0171
This article examines tattooing in prison as a structured social practice rather than a purely individual act of body decoration. Drawing on long-term qualitative research conducted in Czech prisons since 2013, including ethnographic observation, interviews with inmates and staff, and systematic documentation of tattoo motifs, placement, and modes of acquisition, the study analyses how tattoos operate within the social order of imprisonment. Findings show that tattoos function as a coded visual language through which inmates communicate identity, affiliation, credibility, and status. In certain internally regulated groups, access to specific motifs is restricted and their use is tied to an acknowledged position within the group. In this context, tattooing becomes a form of symbolic capital: it is visible, collectively recognized, and subject to enforcement by others rather than controlled solely by the individual. The analysis further demonstrates that the meaning of a tattoo is not defined only by the motif, but also by its placement on the body, its visibility in everyday interaction, and the conditions under which it was acquired. Tattoos obtained at the cost of physical pain and institutional risk are read as evidence of resilience and reliability, whereas coercively imposed tattoos may serve as instruments of humiliation and long-term subordination. These dynamics indicate that tattooing in prison should not be viewed only as an issue of discipline or as a simple marker of “criminal identity,” but as a medium through which hierarchy is maintained, autonomy is negotiated, and power is exercised on and through the body.
Analysis of the Driving Assistant Systems and their Impact on Human Behavior and Mind: Philosophy and Methodology of the Planned Research
Ingrid Matoušková, Karel Pavlica
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0177
The paper explains the research philosophy and methodology for the project “Synchronising Development of the Assistant Systems with the Capacities of the Human Mind.” There exist two basic paradigms of conceptualizing the relationships between human beings and technologies. Within the prosthetic paradigm, technology is perceived and understood as a tool that increases and enlarges human abilities, skills, and range of action. Within the aesthetic paradigm, technology is perceived as an integral component of human beings and their world. In our view, it is necessary to refer to both of these paradigms in our research. With respect to this assumption, the following research questions have been proposed: 1. What is the optimum amount of assistant systems for drivers? 2. Which technologies and assistant systems actually help drivers, and which are useless and/or even harmful to them? 3. How do drivers adapt to driving assistant systems? Planned empirical research on samples of both professional and “ordinary” drivers will seek to answer all of these research questions.
Decisions on Ending a Career in the Czech Police Force: The Influence of Gender and Level of Education
Petra Matoušková, Jaroslav Vrchota, Lukáš Klarner
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0183
The main aim of this paper is to identify the differences in how the factors of education and gender influence the decision to leave a career as a police officer. A questionnaire survey was conducted among members of the Czech Republic's police force, yielding 384 responses. The analysis is based on seven reasons that police officers may consider when leaving the service, including retirement allowance, workload, family background, the need for a career change, health status, superiors, and stress in the workplace. It was determined whether the individual variables differed depending on the respondent's gender or level of education. Due to the unconfirmed normality of the data, the Kruskal-Wallis test was used. Correlation analysis was also applied. Descriptive statistics show that the most influential determinants when considering a possible resignation are retirement allowance, workplace stress, and health status. However, based on the statistical testing performed, it was not found that the importance of individual factors differed depending on gender or education. Correlation coefficients show predominantly statistical significance, but they acquire low values. The study also includes a critical comparison with international literature, providing the scientific community with opportunities for further research and offering practical recommendations for the Czech Republic's police.
The Role of Conflicts from an Economic Perspective: Case Study of Slovak Republic from 2020
Alex Mičáň
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0192
In a time of increasing polarization, the leadership styles and egos of political leaders can worsen conflicts and economic instability. However, the links between public trust in politicians and macroeconomic outcomes in small open economies are rarely examined with high-frequency data. This article aims to analyse the relationship between politicians' trustworthiness and GDP, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, and inflation in Slovakia from 2020 to 2024. Personal ego can hinder crisis resolution and escalate tensions. When political conflicts are seen as defeats, they diminish leaders' credibility and raise the chances of failure before a new political cycle begins. Citizens' perceptions of credibility often reflect the status of their leaders. In Slovakia, this perception has remained below fifty percent for a long time, negatively impacting the economy. Public distrust extends beyond politicians to public institutions, leading to adverse trends in macroeconomic indicators and economic stagnation. Political uncertainty, driven by visible coalition disputes and rapid legislative changes, affects voter expectations, capital valuations, and delays in investment and reforms. The findings highlight the need for better coalition regulations, increased transparency in decision-making, and improved government communication to reduce the effects of emotionally charged political disagreements on economic volatility.
Circular Economy Integration, Resources and Learning for Economic Sustainability: A Framework for Youth Empowerment
Jaroslav Mihálik
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0200
In a time when we face ongoing global sustainability issues, traditional educational approaches are often found to be insufficient for engaging young people in the challenging complexities of the circular economy. The CIRCLES (Circular Economy Integration, Resources and Learning for Economic Sustainability) project offers several tools and solutions to this academic problem. With a holistic approach involving gamification, structured curriculum design, and community-based learning, this project works to build a deep understanding among young people of circular economy principles. The main methodological processes include an interactive video game, CycleQuest: Path to Sustainability, a fully developed curriculum for youth workers, and a university syllabus. The project objectives are to deliver impact in Europe by measuring environmental awareness, digital literacy, and active citizenship in youth while enabling them to counter the rise of unsustainability and encourage civic engagement to shed light on sustainable actions. This article explores the theoretical contexts and methods of the CIRCLES project and discusses its integrated model as a scalable and sustainable framework for contemporary circular economy education.
Regional Disparities and the Perception of Sustainability in the Czech Republic
Ladislava Míková, Václav Friedrich, Pavlína Forstová Kuráňová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0209
The concept of sustainable development, formulated in the 1987 report of the World Commission on Environment and Development chaired by Gro Harlem Brundtland, is today widely accepted and provides a fundamental framework for environmental, economic, and social policies at both national and regional levels. Nevertheless, sustainability cannot be understood as a universally perceived concept, since its three pillars may be emphasised differently depending on the specific conditions of each region. This study focuses on the Czech Republic at the NUTS 3 level. It examines the extent to which regional disparities – in economic performance, social cohesion, and environmental quality – influence how sustainability is perceived by the population. The research is based on a questionnaire survey conducted among residents of individual regions, complemented by an analysis of statistical data from the Czech Statistical Office. The results indicate that different regions tend to prioritise different pillars of sustainability, with these variations reflecting local socioeconomic and environmental contexts. Such findings suggest that perceptions of sustainability are not homogeneous but shaped by region-specific conditions. The discussion also addresses the Parthenon, where pillars stand independently side by side, and the Venn diagram, which highlights their interconnectedness and mutual interdependence. The study concludes that effective sustainability policy must be sensitive to regional contexts and to the chosen interpretative framework.
The Impact of Market Concentration on the Cost Efficiency of Public Service Contracting and Selection of Service Producer in the Context of Slovak Municipalities
Kristína Murínová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0216
Contracting of municipal public services in a historical context was expected to bring cost savings and improvements in service quality. However, recent research questions this assumption and highlights the need to examine factors that may influence the outcomes of contracting–whether in terms of cost efficiency or service quality. The aim of this paper is to explore the impact of market concentration, as one of these factors, on the cost efficiency of contracting and on municipalities' preferences when selecting a producer for the service of municipal waste collection and disposal. Based on primary research carried out among Slovak municipalities, the findings indicate that the market for the selected service is highly concentrated. The relationship between market concentration and contracting price could not be confirmed. When examining changes in municipalities' preferences in relation to market concentration during the selection of a service producer, we observed that most municipalities chose their producers based on the lowest price of their offer, regardless of the market concentration. Since this is one of the few studies addressing this relationship, it contributes to the development of the theory of contracting public services not only in the Slovak Republic but also internationally.
The Century-Old Companies and Brands in the Czech Republic
Jiří Nesiba
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0226
The article provides basic desk research on the oldest and still existing Czech companies and corporate brands. This pilot and exploratory research mapped century-old business entities in various sectors, from their establishment to the present day. The study analyses the factors that contributed to their sustainability and adaptation in changing political and economic conditions. The article provides a descriptive overview of Czech companies that are over, or very close to, a hundred years old and still in existence. Desk research is made by web scraping and by AI-assisted knowledge exploration. The findings demonstrate that, despite significant historical upheavals, including two world wars (1914–1918, 1939–1945), the period of communism (1948–1989), and the transformation following 1989, a diverse range of companies in various economic sectors have still operated in the Czech Republic. It underlines the importance of corporate traditions and brand identity in the long-term perspective of business.
Alcohol Consumption and Crime: A Regional Perspective
Ivana Olecká
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0235
This paper examines the nexus between alcohol consumption, public disorder, and crime within the framework of the Broken Windows Theory. Wilson and Kelling's (1982) thesis is not merely a criminological proposition, but a reflection on the vulnerability of social order: when small signs of neglect appear, the symbolic fabric that binds communities can begin to weaken. Variations in drinking culture are expressions of deeper social and cultural structures, which shape how communities experience safety and cohesion. In certain contexts, alcohol becomes a marker of conviviality; in others, it serves as a visible reminder of disorder and marginalization. Public drinking, vandalism, and other alcohol-related behaviours can therefore be interpreted not only as minor infractions, but also as signals of disorder that gradually affect perceptions of belonging and security. An important dimension of this process is the normalization of alcohol use, particularly among children and adolescents. When drinking is treated as routine or socially acceptable in youth culture, it may contribute to a gradual loosening of norms and reduce the willingness of communities to respond to disruptive behaviours. Rather than advocating simple repression, this contribution emphasizes the importance of preventive and restorative strategies that strengthen shared responsibility for public order. Security cannot be sustained solely by institutions; it requires practices that reinforce people's connections to place and community. Regional resilience thus depends on creating environments where everyday practices, including drinking, support rather than weaken the social bonds that hold communities together.
Mapping the Innovation Capabilities of SMEs in Rural Areas Based on Community- Led Local Development Support
Jindra Peterková, Veronika Volfová, Štefan Kolumber, Nora Grisáková
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0246
Innovations provide businesses with opportunities for growth and increased competitiveness. However, SMEs operating in rural areas are often less innovative due to limited financial and human resources. Supporting the innovation capabilities of these enterprises is therefore crucial, as it strengthens their technological level and long-term viability in relevant markets. To this end, the Technologies for SME-CLLD call was launched under the Operational Programme Technology and Applications for Competitiveness 2021–2027. The call supports SMEs in acquiring new machinery, technological equipment, software solutions, IT infrastructure, and related services. These investments aim to promote digitalization and automation of production, streamline service delivery, or create the necessary conditions for such improvements. The specific focus of the call targets innovation implementation and the development of innovative potential in SMEs. In the Czech Republic, Local Action Groups (LAGs), which are key actors in community-led rural development, play a significant role in fostering these innovation capabilities. The aim of this paper is to use an empirical survey conducted through the national network of Czech LAGs to map the innovation capacity of rural SMEs implementing projects under the Technologies for SME-CLLD call, and to determine the structure of supported projects according to CZ-NACE classification, substantive focus, and project activities. The collected data will be evaluated using descriptive statistics.
Grant Conditions in the Area of Sustainable Transport Support in EU Countries: Links with Economic Development
Marie Poláchová, Martin Žapka, Barbora Stojanová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0251
The transport sector is one of the most significant polluters of the environment. The requirement to achieve climate neutrality is putting pressure on sustainable investments in this sector as well. Subsidy conditions do not only follow the economic evaluation of the given investment, but also include other aspects, including social and environmental ones. Within the EU, there is an effort to harmonize the criteria and methods used to evaluate projects (co-)funded from EU resources. While mandatory criteria and methods set by the EU are binding for national methodologies, the recommended ones depend on the extent to which countries choose to adopt them. In order to identify differences in the level of reporting obligations, the article compares the subsidy requirements of individual EU countries in supporting sustainable investments in transport. Furthermore, by applying OLS and correlation analysis, we confirm the relationship between the level of reporting obligations defined in national subsidy titles and the economic development of a country measured by real GDP per capita.
Regional Disparities in the Czech Social Services Workforce: Evidence from 2023 Administrative Microdata at the NUTS3 Level
Barbora Prauzková
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0264
This paper examines regional and generational characteristics of the Czech social services workforce using 2023 administrative microdata from the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, linked to demographic denominators at the NUTS 3 level. Applying descriptive statistics and k-means clustering, it provides a comprehensive comparison of workforce profiles against the general population and identifies regional typologies based on employee density, age gap, and gender composition. The analysis documents substantial heterogeneity across regions in employee density, average age, and generational composition, while also confirming that the sector remains strongly feminised. Distinct regional profiles emerge, including outliers where employee density and age structure deviate markedly from the national pattern. These findings deepen the understanding of demographic and generational dynamics in the sector and offer an evidence base for cohort-sensitive workforce planning and region-specific policy measures. In practical terms, the results can inform regional workforce planning and HR strategies aimed at improving sustainability and equity in social services provision.
Current and Future Needs of Primary and Nursery Schools
Miroslav Procházka, Miluše Vítečková, Lenka Kamanová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0280
This article addresses the issue of regional education development with an emphasis on evaluating the developmental needs of schools. It presents the results of a survey conducted to map the opinions of 25 managers of nursery and primary schools in a selected region of South Bohemia. The results show the current and future needs of schools, provide examples of good practice and the willingness of some schools to disseminate them. Data were collected and organized through focus groups, and group interviews combined with brainstorming sessions to record the opinions of group members. The focus was on three thematic areas: problems they need to address urgently in their school, problems they plan to solve in the future, and the problems they have successfully resolved which may serve as examples of good practice. For the evaluation, both qualitative aspects (identification of problems and needs) were captured and quantified. The results show unresolved staffing needs in schools, particularly the provision of specialists (school psychologists, school special educators) and a shortage of qualified teachers specializing in science and technology. In terms of good practice, some schools in the region offer positive experiences in both effective teacher training and working with heterogeneous class groups.
Problematising Theoretical Approaches to Employment Decision-Making in Poverty Contexts
Ahmad Ramadhani, Ondřej Hora
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0285
While decision-making in relation to poverty has received considerable scholarly attention, research specifically examining how individuals in poverty make employment-related choices in developing countries remains limited. This study critically reviews psychological, behavioural, and socio-cognitive theories of employment decision-making under poverty, such as scarcity, temporal discounting, and socio-cognitive career perspectives, and highlights several gaps and inconsistencies in approaches. To address these limitations, the article proposes an integrated theoretical framework that considers individual agency, contextual influences, and structural constraints simultaneously. By situating the discussion within the socio-economic and spatial realities of developing countries, the review illustrates how local labour market structures and institutional arrangements shape decision-making, and stresses the need for a bridge between social-level processes and structural-level policy interventions. The findings aim to refine theoretical approaches, guide future research, and provide valuable insights for policymakers designing inclusive labour market policies and interventions that promote sustainable career development and social mobility.
Reintegration and Respect: the Social Climate as the key to Modernising the Czech Prison Service
Tereza Raszková, Petra Zhřívalová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0297
The staffing situation in the Prison Service of the Czech Republic is a long-standing problem that fundamentally affects both the internal running of prisons and their ability to fulfil their security, rehabilitation and inclusive functions. The lack of qualified staff, high staff turnover and inadequate financial remuneration lead to the destabilisation of the working environment and reduce the effectiveness of the service. This paper focuses on the social climate in prisons, which plays a key role not only in the professional lives of employees and officers but also in the process of reintegrating prisoners. Particular attention is paid to the need to reflect the principles of social inclusion and diversity, which should be an integral part of the professional culture of the Prison Service. Staff must be prepared to work with diverse groups of prisoners, including those from different cultural, social or health backgrounds. The aim of the paper is to highlight the need for systemic changes that would lead to stabilising the personnel situation, strengthening staff competencies in the area of inclusion and creating a supportive environment for all actors in the prison system.
CSR Activities as a Change Driver: Enhancing Hotel Business Success Through Socially Responsible Human Resource Management
Renata Skýpalová, Zdeněk Málek, Milan Jan Půček, Magdaléna Škrábalová, Michaela Miková, Vít Heinz, ...
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0306
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been a hot topic in the hotel industry recently, especially its social pillar related to employees and other stakeholder communities. More engaged employees deliver more quality services, which ensures more satisfied customers and thus increased productivity and profitability. These consequences are particularly important in a very uncertain and highly competitive hotel business environment. The paper examines the impact of CSR activities on hotel employees to suggest improvements in socially responsible human resource management to increase hotel employee engagement and thus enhance hotel business success. The examination is founded on the results of a questionnaire survey among employees of four- and five-star hotels in the Czech Republic (N = 100) and in selected coastal countries, specifically in Italy, Portugal, and Spain (N = 20). Four key areas of CSR activities are examined: employee care and work-life balance, employee development, equal opportunities and human rights, and support of local communities. The respondents are hotel employees from rank-and-file employees through first-line and middle managers to top managers. Their responses are analysed using statistical methods. The findings revealed that most of the surveyed hotel employees are not familiar with the concept of CSR, even though they are often confronted with various CSR activities in practice. Not only wages, but also benefits such as free meals or flexible working hours proved to be an important factor in the hotel employee satisfaction. The findings could be beneficial for hotel managers in implementing socially responsible human resource management with an emphasis on employee well-being while demanding employee engagement in delivering quality hotel services. This approach has the potential to increase the attractiveness of hotels for both employees and customers, which can enhance hotel business success.
Sugar Cane and Sugar Production in the Cape Verde Islands in the Context of Regional Development
Josef Smolík
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0316
This article describes the historical development and selected trends in the production of sugarcane and sugar in the Cape Verde Islands, focusing on key stages from the colonial era to the present and analysing significant changes in the agricultural sector. It discusses transformations driven by colonial practices, land-use patterns, and the impact of political and economic challenges that have shaped sugar production in Cape Verde. In a modern context, it examines factors such as geographical and climatic limitations, the decline of local production, and the reliance on sugar imports, emphasising the importance of regulating sugar consumption and adapting to evolving environmental and economic conditions.
Visitor Monitoring and Identification of the Benefits of Podyjí National Park for Regional Development
Kristina Somerlíková, Radka Redlichová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0321
Tourism plays a crucial role in regional development, particularly in peripheral regions with limited economic alternatives and higher unemployment rates. The COVID-19 pandemic, subsequent inflation, and rising energy prices have significantly impacted the tourism sector. This study focuses on the effects of these crises on the tourism industry in the Podyjí National Park, a protected area in the Czech Republic. It highlights changes in cross-border cooperation, the resilience of local entrepreneurs, and their ability to adapt to crises. Using a combination of visitor-monitoring methods, including automatic counters, surveys, GIS, and interviews with service providers, the research evaluates the economic, environmental, and social impacts of tourism in the region. The results show that Podyjí National Park serves as a tourism magnet, contributing to regional economic development by supporting local businesses and attracting investment. At the same time, it emphasizes the need for a balanced approach between tourism growth and nature conservation, ensuring the park's long- term sustainability. The findings offer valuable insights for park management and for the sustainable development of tourism in protected areas.
Restarting Structurally Affected Regions: The Case Study of the Ústí Region
Daniel Šárovec, Pavel Maškarinec
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0327
Regions that have historically relied primarily on mining, manufacturing, and the chemical industry are today referred to in the Czech Republic and similar contexts as structurally affected regions. They share common features such as low economic growth and a pronounced lag behind the country's most developed areas. In the Czech Republic, three regions fall into this category: the Ústí nad Labem Region, the Karlovy Vary Region, and the Moravian-Silesian Region. The first of these is widely recognised for its high unemployment, lower wages, and limited job opportunities, as well as for being an unattractive location for young and educated residents. The consequences of the decline of once-dominant industries are therefore closely intertwined with other structural challenges; however, these are being tackled through a range of initiatives and projects. One of the strategic projects under the Just Transition Operational Programme is the RUR project – Region to University, University to Region. Its aim is to integrate cutting-edge research, expertise, and knowledge transfer to facilitate a profound and sustainable transformation of the Ústí nad Labem Region. The project operates across three interconnected levels – individual (personal), collective (social), and comprehensive geographical (territorial) – with creativity as its core principle, understood as the capacity to generate added value, to transcend existing boundaries and limitations, and to discover new potential and opportunities within a rapidly changing society and landscape.
Cross-border Ski Resorts in the European Union and their Possible Emergence in the Visegrad Group Region
Pavel Trčala
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0340
This article focuses on exploring the specific topic of cross-border ski resorts. Firstly, it seeks to identify the existing resorts and describe the advantages and challenges of these ski areas both from the point of view of ski area operators and from the point of view of skiers. A valuable finding of the research directly in an existing cross-border ski area offers an argument that many skiers and employees using the chairlifts and slopes on both sides of the border do not view the resort only as a sport or entertainment area, but also as a meeting point of two different nations and a place of cultural exchange. Secondly, the author selects the most plausible location for the creation of a cross-border ski area in the Visegrad Group region.
Social Competence in the 65+ Population
Miluše Vítečková, Miroslav Procházka, Lenka Kamanová
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0350
This paper examines social competence in the 65+ population based on a qualitative study involving 25 participants aged 65 and older. The research defines social competence as the ability to initiate and maintain meaningful social interactions. The study is part of a broader project Support and Development of Financial, Digital, Social, and Health Literacy among the 65+ Population (TAČR, TQ01000591). Through in-depth interviews, the study identified areas of social competence deficits. Participants described challenging situations in their social interactions, recognizing their own limitations and describing how they try to address them when dealing with people or institutions. Many expressed feelings of resignation or submission in demanding social contexts. The most common social barriers included shyness, low assertiveness, fear of rejection or criticism, and, in some cases, overly aggressive responses. These behaviours often stem from a lack of support or targeted educational opportunities. The findings suggest that older adults face specific social challenges that may impede their daily activities and overall well-being. The identified barriers offer valuable insights for developing educational programs aimed at strengthening social competence among older adults.
Generational Change and Digitalization in Project Management: Implications for Regional Development and Sustainability
Natálie Všetýčková
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0357
Social policy in the European context is facing dynamic changes related to demographic developments, growing regional inequalities, and pressure on fiscal sustainability. In this environment, project management and grant management are becoming key tools for implementing social programs and initiatives financed from public and European sources. Generational change in the management of these projects brings different approaches to the use of technology, team leadership, and work values. While the older generation builds on stability and institutional experience, the younger generation emphasizes digitalization, agility, and the integration of artificial intelligence. This dynamic creates space for innovation but also the risk of conflict and digital exclusion. This paper analyzes how generational diversity, technological innovation, and value preferences can be combined to enhance the effectiveness and transparency of project management in social policy. It discusses the opportunities and limitations of digitizing grant management and the role of AI in increasing the resilience and inclusiveness of project teams. The results show that a suitable balance between tradition and innovation can contribute to greater competitiveness of regions and the long- term sustainability of social systems.
Innovation and Infrastructure Competitiveness in the Railway Sector: Comparative Insights from Kazakhstan and the V4 Countries
Zhuldyz Yespolova
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0366
Kazakhstan's railway sector occupies a strategic position in national economic development. This paper explores the contribution of innovation to strengthening the competitiveness of Kazakhstan's railway sector within the wider framework of regional development and Eurasian transport integration. Kazakhstan's modernization efforts - such as digital transformation, infrastructure upgrades, and international partnerships - have enhanced operational efficiency and service performance, yet their implications reach beyond the domestic level. The study draws a comparison with innovation trajectories in the railway sectors of Central European countries, notably those of the Visegrad Group (V4), where smart mobility initiatives, digital advancement, and sustainable transport policies play a crucial role in driving regional competitiveness. By connecting Kazakhstan's innovation-driven strategies with the European Union's smart and green transport agenda, the paper uncovers potential avenues for technological cooperation and shared development. The results underline that innovation within transport systems serves not only as a catalyst for industrial progress but also as a mechanism for fostering regional connectivity and integration across the broader Eurasian corridor.
Social Acceptance of Nanotechnologies in old Industrial Regions
Jan Ženka, Simona Bartošová Šťastná, Jan Píša, David Vogt, Marie Cviková
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0376
The main aim of this paper is to identify factors that affect social acceptance of nanotechnologies at two distinct levels: individual and regional. Focusing on the context of old industrial regions (OIRs), key barriers of effective diffusion of nanotechnologies and path upgrading will be listed and discussed. At the individual level, the role of cognitive, affective and sociocultural factors together with moderating variables (sociodemographic, geographic and contextual) is outlined. At the regional level, adoption of nanotechnologies in OIRs is shaped by institutional path dependence, lock-in, and inherited industrial cultures that often favor continuity over radical change. While the application of nanotechnologies can foster modernization based on related diversification, efforts to foster unrelated diversification require targeted policies, strong institutional support and intensive public– private collaboration. Societal willingness to accept new directions of development paths in OIRs depends on the nature and thickness of industrial culture – the degree of community identification with various industrial attributes.
Strategies for Enhancing Employment in Agricultural Sector in Slovakia
Eva Žuffová, Monika Gubáňová, Denisa Hanáčková
DOI: 10.11118/978-80-7701-082-5-0386
In Slovakia, land is predominantly used for agricultural purposes, highlighting its essential role in the economy and rural development. Agriculture is not only a fundamental pillar of food production but also an important source of employment, particularly in rural regions. However, a long-term decline in interest in agricultural work has led to a gradual reduction in the number of jobs in the sector. As part of the paper, we also examine the development of agricultural land area over the years and its connection with employment in this sector. The main objective of the paper is to analyse initiatives aimed at increasing employment in agriculture through several partial goals that complement the central research question. These include examining employment trends in Slovak agriculture, analysing the structure of the labour force, assessing wage conditions, identifying the main causes of employment decline, and presenting European initiatives and opportunities for financial support for farmers. The applied method of analysis and deduction provided a comprehensive view of the researched issue. The findings suggest that the future of agriculture requires not only improvements in working conditions and stronger support for young people, but also the effective integration of traditional practices with modern technologies, which is crucial for ensuring food security, economic stability, and sustainable rural development.