ACROSS Journal of Interdisciplinary Cross-border Studies

COOPERATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA WITH ROMANIA AND THE EUROPEAN UNION IN THE FIELD OF SECURITY AND DEFENSE –

2025-10-27T23:50:11+02:00

This study describes a sequence of the most important data for the cooperation of the Republic of Moldova with Romania and the European Union in the field of security and defence. The security and defence of the state are mutually dependent on the regional and international security situation. Thus, ensuring the existence and development of a state is conditioned by two elements: internal and external security and defence, which can be guaranteed only through close cooperation with neighbouring countries and integration into the great family of the European Union. Currently, state institutions and decision-makers are making efforts and taking strategic actions to convince neighbouring countries and international actors of our country's will and openness, and to demonstrate its capacity to act effectively in crisis situations. Also, state institutions have recently been more open and active in dialogues, debates, cooperation, participation in international operations, and international training in the field of security and defence, which highlights the importance of relations with neighbouring countries.

COMPARATIVE DIMENSIONS OF THE CRIMINAL PHENOMENON IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA AND ROMANIA

2025-10-27T23:50:11+02:00

Crime is one of the main elements of the object of criminology as a science, without the
study of which it is impossible to clarify other criminological issues concerning the causes
and conditions of crime and the organisation of the process of combating it.
We propose an analysis of the comparative quantitative-qualitative indices of crime in the
Republic of Moldova and Romania to highlight its dimensions and particularities in the
context of the current conditions of development of society, which would allow us to give
new assessments to this phenomenon, to determine the guidelines and strategy of fighting
this negative phenomenon.

The IMPORTANCE OF OPERATIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE INVESTIGATION OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING

2025-10-27T23:50:11+02:00

In the process of investigation of human trafficking crimes, we cannot ignore the fact that it is a
component of global criminality, which includes crimes committed by professional criminals who
commit crimes methodically, implying a strict division of labour and a high degree of conspiracy.
According to the literature, in recent years, the criminals who commit human trafficking have become much more active and cautious in concealing their criminal actions at the highest level, and their dangerousness and mobility have increased significantly (Report, 2022).
From the point of view of special investigative activity, it is necessary to analyse each component of the action of trafficking in human beings and to collect sufficient evidence on it, to be able to establish the constituent elements of the characteristic crimes. On the other hand, it is essential to use high performance technical means and the latest methods of investigation, research, and capitalisation of evidence, taking into account the specificities of this field.

THE PROCESS OF RENDERING FINGERPRINTS ON BANKNOTES

2025-10-27T23:50:10+02:00

The detection of fingerprints on banknotes plays a critical role in forensic science,
particularly in investigations related to corruption, counterfeiting, and money laundering. Due to the diversity of banknote materials—primarily paper and polymer—specific rendering techniques are required to identify both latent and visible prints. This article explores in detail the physical, chemical, and optical methods used in fingerprint rendering, focusing on their applicability, advantages, and limitations based on banknote surface composition.
Physical methods include dusting with magnetic or non-magnetic powders, adapted to the
substrate type and colour contrast. Chemical techniques, such as cyanoacrylate fuming, ninhydrin, DFO (1,8-diazafluoren-9-one), and indanedione, are evaluated for efficiency and compatibility with porous (paper) or non-porous (polymer) surfaces. Each method is discussed about its procedural requirements, visualisation tools, and potential effects on biological trace preservation or currency usability.
The article also identifies multiple factors affecting print detection, including the banknote's
wear, exposure to chemicals, and elapsed time since handling. Practical challenges such as
interference from security features or multicolour designs are also examined.
By emphasising both theoretical and operational dimensions, the study contributes to
enhancing fingerprint detection procedures on banknotes, recommending that methods be applied in order of destructiveness. The article concludes that fingerprinting currency remains a complex yet indispensable forensic procedure, requiring constant adaptation to evolving materials and technologies.

CONSEQUENCES OF VIOLATING THE JURISDICTIONAL RULES OF THE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION BODY

2025-10-27T23:50:10+02:00

This original research paper examines the impact of non-compliance with jurisdictional rules
during the criminal investigation phase in the Republic of Moldova. The study aims to highlight how such procedural violations affect the legality and efficiency of criminal investigations. By using doctrinal legal analysis and comparative perspectives on other European legal systems, the research identifies procedural risks, including the nullification of acts and the weakening of judicial integrity. The findings show that compliance with jurisdictional norms is indispensable for ensuring procedural justice and legal certainty. Recommendations are offered to improve legislative frameworks and institutional practices to reinforce adherence to legal competence.

FORENSIC CHARACTERISTICS OF SEXUAL ABUSE CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN COMMITTED USING INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES

2025-10-27T23:50:10+02:00

The article examines the forensic characteristics of sexual abuse crimes against children
committed through the use of informational technologies, emphasising the importance of
a methodological and applied approach to this issue. The authors explore fundamental
concepts such as the object of the offence, the personalities of the offender and the victim,
and the methods of committing and concealing the crimes. Various types of crime traces
and innovative investigative methods are highlighted, underscoring the necessity of
international cooperation and the use of advanced technologies for effective combat.
Furthermore, the article provides concrete examples and legislative solutions to prevent
and combat this type of criminality.

THE PERMANENT NEUTRALITY OF STATES AND INTERNATIONAL RESTRICTIVE MEASURES

2025-10-27T23:50:09+02:00

The institution of state neutrality dates back to ancient times. Since then, neutrality has been
influenced by the circumstances that have marked the evolution of international society.
However, the fundamental obligations of permanently neutral states have always been
recognized as abstention and impartiality. Abstention from any form of involvement in
armed conflict and the non-discriminatory treatment of belligerents. While abstention has,
to this day, had a well-defined legal content, with state practice being consistent on this
matter, impartiality, in light of the new challenges to state security, has sparked heated
debates among scholars.
The main goal of this scientific approach is to demonstrate the viability of the institution of
permanent neutrality of states in light of recent events on the world stage. Neutrality, in the
case of certain states, is not merely a political tool, but a legal status founded not only on the
unilateral declaration of the state, but also guaranteed by the agreement of the states that
undertake commitments to defend this status.
Contemporary international society aims to achieve the imperatives of international peace
and security. These ideals can only be achieved through the collective efforts of all
international actors, including the cooperation of permanently neutral states. As a case study
in this article, we will analyze Switzerland's participation in the process of implementing
international restrictive measures.

DIGITALIZATION OF INHERITANCE DOCUMENTS

2025-10-27T23:50:09+02:00

The digitisation of inheritance documents has become a topic of essential interest in the context of modernising legal processes and increasing administrative efficiency. This article explores the legal and technical aspects relevant to transforming traditional heritage management processes into a digital format. The paper aims to analyse the legal framework applicable to digitising inheritance documents, from both national and international legislation, highlighting the essential regulations and standards for safe and effective implementation. In the digitisation process, the technologies and procedures used to ensure the authenticity, integrity, and confidentiality of sensitive data are discussed, along with the security measures implemented to protect the heirs' personal information. The article highlights the benefits of this approach, including quick access to documents, reduced costs, and simplified legal processes for citizens and authorities. At the same time, the challenges encountered in implementing and accepting digitisation are analysed, including technical difficulties, legislative barriers, and the risks associated with cyber vulnerabilities. Drawing on case studies and international
best practices, the article provides valuable insights into the impact of digitisation in the heritage field. It makes recommendations to improve the legislative and technical frameworks. The conclusions and suggestions provided aim to optimise the digitisation process and expand this practice in the future, thereby facilitating a smoother and safer transition to a heritage management system based on digital technology.

CRIMINOPHOBIA AND THE FEELING OF INSECURITY IN MODERN COMMUNITIES

2025-10-27T23:50:09+02:00

This study explores the multifaceted phenomenon of criminophobia by examining how fear
of crime manifests differently across rural and urban environments. The research emphasizes
the subjective dimension of insecurity, shaped by sociocultural factors, media exposure, and
institutional presence. In rural areas, structural disadvantages such as depopulation, limited
access to protective services, and infrastructural deficiencies contribute to an amplified
perception of vulnerability. In contrast, urban communities face media-driven anxiety and
an intensified sense of risk due to environmental complexity and social anonymity. The study
is based on mixed methods, including a field survey conducted in the Republic of Moldova
and comparative content analysis of institutional reports. Results indicate that while actual
crime rates may be lower in rural settings, the perceived threat is higher, especially among
women. Gender-based violence emerges as a particularly salient trigger for criminophobic
reactions. The paper argues for the need to develop differentiated public safety policies that
consider local contexts, with special attention to gendered perceptions of risk. Moreover, it
suggests integrating criminophobia as a research and policy priority within public security
planning. Addressing this phenomenon proactively may enhance community resilience,
restore institutional trust, and reduce the psychological and social costs associated with fear driven behaviors.

THE TERMINATION OF CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS

2025-10-27T23:50:08+02:00

This paper explores the theme of concluding the criminal prosecution, a procedural
phase of essential significance within the criminal justice system. Once the investigative
authorities have collected, examined, and evaluated the evidence concerning both the act
and the presumed offender-considering it relevant, admissible, and decisive-they may
order the closure of the investigation. This step is not a simple formal requirement; it
presupposes a comprehensive assessment of the evidentiary material, verification of the
legality of its acquisition, safeguarding of the procedural guarantees of the participants, and
the completion of additional actions necessary for achieving the objectives of the
investigation.
The finalization of the criminal prosecution constitutes the culmination of the activity
carried out by the investigative body and represents the stage where the decision is taken
regarding the referral of the case before the judicial authority. However, acknowledging that
no legal system is flawless, the analysis demonstrates that certain provisions of the criminal
procedural legislation remain only partially aligned with the practical necessities of the
proceedings. Consequently, the revision and supplementation of specific procedural norms
become indispensable.
Of particular importance is also the phase dedicated to granting the parties access to the
case materials. At this juncture, respect for the procedural rights of the parties is
fundamental, in accordance with the principle of free access to justice, guaranteed by Article
6 of the European Convention on Human Rights. For this reason, the authors formulate
pertinent recommendations and well-grounded proposals, clarifying the duties of the
criminal investigation authorities and the prosecutor, so that their activity is consistent with
the standards of fairness, transparency, and efficiency established at the European level.

HISTORICAL AND LEGAL PERSPECTIVES ON THE TRANSFORMATION OF INFLUENCE PEDDLING

2025-10-27T23:50:08+02:00

One of the serious social phenomena, with a particular magnitude, with a varied and complex form, manifested up to the highest levels of society, is corruption. The mechanism for legal treatment of corruption in the public sector, established in the national laws of several countries, was based on international experience, accumulated in this field both globally and in Europe, and reflected in the adoption of major normative acts.
The evolution of corruption over time has demonstrated its complex and almost universal character, penetrating not only the spheres of state and public administration but also the economic and commercial sectors, credit-banking relations, the capital market, etc.

STATE SOVEREIGNTY AND PROTECTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS

2025-10-27T23:50:08+02:00

This article explores the concept of “state sovereignty” and its transformation into “divided
sovereignty” upon a state’s ratification of the European Convention for the Protection of
Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (hereinafter the Convention). It proposes a
dialectical approach to the Council of Europe’s competence in protecting human rights in
non-government-controlled areas, guided by the Convention’s spirit. The study highlights
the dualistic responsibility for human rights violations in such territories, linked to foreign
jurisdiction and the positive obligations of states with limited sovereignty. It examines the
legal foundations for these “positive obligations” toward individuals whose rights are
violated in non-government-controlled areas. The research analyzes case law from the
European Court of Human Rights, emphasizing the balance between sovereignty and human
rights obligations. By exploring the interplay of territorial and extraterritorial jurisdiction,
the article underscores the Council of Europe’s subsidiary role in addressing human rights
vacuums. This applied research contributes to understanding how states can uphold
sovereignty while fulfilling international human rights commitments, proposing practical
measures to ensure protection in contested territories.

THE CONCEPT OF CUSTOMS TERRITORY AND CUSTOMS BORDER WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

2025-10-27T23:50:07+02:00

The conceptual individualization of the terms customs territory and customs border are of
particular importance from the point of view of budget revenue accumulation for the Republic of Moldova, which carries out its economic and trade activities. The aim of the research: to study the regulatory framework that identifies the customs territory of the Republic of Moldova, highlighting how it influences the import and export processes, as well as trade relations with other states, and to identify similarities and differences between the customs territory and customs border of the Republic of Moldova and the European Union. This comparison illustrates the particularities that may affect trade and cross-border relations, taking into account the geographical position of the Republic of Moldova between the European area and neighboring countries. The result of the analysis of the legal
framework provides an in-depth study of the impact of the customs territory and the customs border on the Republic of Moldova, while highlighting the specific aspects that conceptualize and shape these vital components of the economic infrastructure of the republic. Thus, customs border and customs territory are two fundamental concepts for defining and exercising the state sovereignty of a country. Therefore, analyzing how the customs territory influences the trade landscape of the Republic of Moldova is crucial for understanding economic, regional and international dynamics. Thus, the customs border and customs territory are essential concepts for the definition and exercise of state sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova, but also for its integration into the European and international economic and trade space.

THE RIGHT TO DEFENSE AND EQUALITY OF ARMS IN CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS

2025-10-27T23:50:07+02:00

This article presents a comprehensive scientific analysis of the right to defense and the
principle of equality of arms in criminal proceedings, with a focus on the national, European, and international frameworks. It emphasizes that the right to defense constitutes an essential constitutional guarantee, the foundation of a fair trial, and a prerequisite for the rule of law. The author undertakes a comparative study of how this right is enshrined and implemented in the legislation of Romania, Ukraine, the Russian Federation, Bulgaria, France, and Germany, highlighting differences in approaches and regulations.
Furthermore, the principle of equality of arms is examined as a derivative of the right to
defense, underscoring that it requires providing both parties to the proceedings with equal conditions for presenting and supporting their case. Current challenges are identified, such as state interference in the activity of defense counsel, abuses by authorities regarding the confidentiality of the lawyer-client relationship, as well as effective limitations on the defense in the context of restrictive regulations or distorted public perceptions.
The article proposes concrete measures, including strengthening procedural guarantees,
expanding the role of the defense in evidence administration, and reinforcing the independence of lawyers. The overall conclusion is that only through the effective respect of the right to defense and equality of arms can genuinely fair and efficient justice be achieved.