This issue features articles on key challenges facing the modern economy and society – from the impact of the war in Ukraine and sanctions on Poland's and the EU's foreign trade, through the loyalty of e-banking customers across generations, to innovative solutions for smart cities and the readiness of young people in Latvia for HR practices supported by artificial intelligence.
The issue combines current economic analysis with perspectives on technology and social change.
Inside, you'll find the following articles::
The Impact of the Ukraine War and Sanctions on Foreign Trade in Selected EU Countries
Jarosław Gorący
The aim of the paper is to analyse the impact of the armed conflict in Ukraine and the economic sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus on the structure and dynamics of foreign trade of Poland and selected European Union countries. Particular attention is paid to changes in exports and imports and their consequences for the economies of the analysed countries.
The paper uses statistical data analysis from Eurostat databases and other international economic institutions. The study was conducted at the macroeconomic level using trade indicators and comparing data before and after the introduction of sanctions. The analysis is supplemented by case studies for key sectors such as energy, machinery and agriculture.
The results indicate significant changes in the structure of trade, including the redistribution of trading partners and a decrease in exchange with countries covered by sanctions. The analysis also reveals differences in the economic effects for individual EU countries, resulting from their level of dependence on the Russian and Belarusian markets. In Poland, an increase in exchange with alternative partners was noted, which indicates the adaptation of the economy to new conditions.
Customer Loyalty in E-Banking Across Generations
Karolina Jakóbik, Tomasz Wójtowicz, Marcin Suder
This article aims to identify the differences in customer loyalty among generational groups in the context of electronic banking. The study is based on a survey that was conducted among 321 Polish respondents. Using correspondence analysis and chi-square tests, we confirmed statistically significant generational differences in loyalty; Generation Z showed the lowest loyalty levels, while Baby Boomers displayed the highest.
By applying correspondence analysis – a rarely used method in this context – we revealed distinct loyalty patterns that were linked to generational traits. The findings suggest that banks should adopt age-differentiated loyalty strategies. For younger customers (particularly Millennials and Generation Z), personalised digital experiences, alignments with brand values, and emotional engagement may be key to improving their loyalty. In contrast, emphasising service reliability, long-term trust, and security is likely to be more effective for older generations such as Generation X and Baby Boomers. This study enhances both a theoretical understanding and practical strategies for customer retention in e-banking.
Improving Information Services in Smart-City Areas by Means of Modern Technologies
Jarogniew Rykowski, Jakub Gromadziński
The aim of the article is, firstly, to show the evolution of information services in public space in connection with the emergence of new technologies. Secondly, the article proposes new ideas for providing selected information services using the latest technological and organisational solutions. The article aims to show that new technologies not only significantly improve the flow of information but also become the basis for new services in smart spaces. As a leading example, virtual announcement columns, the task of which is to facilitate access to local information depending on a given place (location) and time, are described. These boards are the equivalent of traditional places for posting local announcements and messages in paper form. However, the comfort of their use is greater, and thanks to this, their usefulness in public space is also more significant. As a result, the collection of residents’ opinions, ad-hoc help for tourists, etc., have been improved. The proposed solutions are based on new technologies, such as Bluetooth location beacons with variable information and QR codes. They are addressed to owners of mobile phones and can be used in public urban areas.
Designing a Research Methodology to Assess Youth Readiness for AI-Driven HR Practices in Latvia
Veranika Khlud, Galina Reshina
The purpose of the presented study is to develop a comprehensive research methodology for evaluating the readiness of young professionals in Latvia to work within AI-enhanced human resource (HR) environments. As artificial intelligence is increasingly embedded in recruitment and talent management processes, understanding how prepared youth are to engage with such systems is both timely and essential. The study applies a mixed-methods design, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative semi-structured interviews and focus groups. The survey instrument is structured to assess digital skills, awareness of AI in HR, trust in algorithmic systems, and adaptability. The qualitative component provides contextual insight into perceptions and personal experiences with AI in recruitment. Participant recruitment is supported by a Latvian recruitment agency, which grants access to a relevant and diverse candidate base.
Expected findings include identifying distinct readiness profiles among Latvian youth, revealing both areas of competence and significant gaps in knowledge or confidence. Attitudinal differences and inequalities in access to digital resources are also anticipated.
The proposed methodology offers a replicable framework for assessing AI readiness at the national level and is intended to guide HR professionals, educators, and policymakers in developing effective strategies to support youth adaptation to AI-driven workplace transformations.
The journal a peer-reviewed, online, open access, scholarly quarterly, came into being in 1980. It features original theoretical and empirical articles and also policy-relevant and review articles covering all the economic sciences disciplines or related to them. FoE accepts manuscripts articles in English or in Polish, when the discussed issues are mainly of interest to Polish recipients.
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