Bulletin of the Serbian geographical society
Bulletin of the Serbian Geographical Society is an open-access online non-profit international scientific journal that publishes original research. The necessary quality is achieved through reviews, thus offering scientific community the latest results of geographical and related disciplines. Our intention is to motivate and encourage scientists in our immediate neighborhood to publish their ideas in an international journal and to introduce our academic community with work of distinguished foreign scientists. The Bulletin has been the pillar of our science and the world’s leading geographers have published in it. We cherish its reputation through hard work and responsibility! Current issue Volume 105(1), 2025 Most cited articles Morphostructure relations on the territory of the Republic of Serbia Assessment of soil erosion and sediment yield using erosion potential method: case study-Vrbas River basin (B&H) Trends of mean annual river discharges in the Zapadna Morava River Basin Method of topographic inventarization and GPS technology in geospatial modeling Extreme temperature months in Rila Mountain, Bulgaria Historical-geographical analysis of the Cornelis de Jode's map "Croatia versus Turcam" from 1593 Contemporary world migration-towards new terminology, patterns and policies Keywords Belgrade Eastern Serbia. GIS Montenegro. Serbia Serbia. anthropogeography barriers cultural heritage degradation ecotourism environment environmental protection extremes functional urban region precipitation protection sustainability sustainable development the Danube tourism
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Leadership, Motivation, and Managerial Effectiveness in Sharia Hotels: Implications for Guest Satisfaction and Tourism Development in Kendari, Indonesia
The hospitality industry plays a critical role in meeting the growing demand for halal tourism, particularly through the sharia hotel business model that integrates Islamic principles into its operations. Effective leadership is essential for fostering a value-based work culture, spiritually motivating employees, and delivering services aligned with religious values. This study investigates the effects of transformational and transactional leadership styles on work motivation, managerial effectiveness, and guest satisfaction in sharia hotels in Kendari City. An explanatory quantitative approach was employed, utilizing Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) with data collected from 176 sharia hotel employees. The results indicate that transformational leadership significantly enhances managerial effectiveness and service quality, which in turn increases guest satisfaction. Although transactional leadership contributes to managerial effectiveness, its impact on guest satisfaction is limited. High work motivation also plays a crucial role in improving managerial effectiveness and service performance. The primary contribution of this study lies in offering a deeper understanding of value-based leadership in the sharia hospitality sector, particularly emphasizing the importance of spiritual and emotional aspects in enhancing guest experiences. The study enriches the organizational leadership literature by providing new insights into the interplay between leadership style, work motivation, and guest satisfaction in halal tourism. Practical implications suggest that sharia hotel managers should adopt leadership styles that are not only operationally efficient but also consistent with Islamic values. Future research is recommended to further explore transactional leadership influences and to expand investigations across diverse regions and larger samples within the sharia hospitality industry. Keywords: Hotel user satisfaction, Islamic hospitality, service leadership, employee motivation, managerial performance, customer experience © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bulletin of the Serbian geographical society
Hydrochemical Assessment and Groundwater Pollution in the Southern Hodna Chott Region (Algeria): Characteristics, Pollution Levels, and Drinking Water Quality Implications.
Groundwater pollution has become a major issue of concern to both researchers and policymakers. Many climatic and anthropogenic factors impact groundwater. Groundwater is the sole source of water for all needs in a semi-arid area south of the Chott Hodna. Recently, the quality of drinking water has declined due to overexploitation of the aquifer and the presence of contaminating factors. This study aims to describe the hydrochemical characteristics of the aquifer, assess the level of groundwater pollution, and geographically locate the polluted areas. In 2019, we analyzed samples from 45 boreholes south of the Chott Hodna for 13 physicochemical parameters. The level of water pollution was assessed using the Groundwater Pollution Index (GPI). This index has proven effective in communicating information about water pollution to citizens and policymakers. We also used geographical approaches such as inverse distance weighting (IDW) and conventional kriging to present the polluted areas. It was found that calcium concentrations were all above health standards, and more than 93% of the samples had SO₄²⁻ and TH concentrations above the drinking water threshold. In addition, 58% of the samples had nitrate levels above the drinking water standard of 50 mg/L. The Piper diagram classifies groundwater into sulfate-calcium-magnesium-chloride hydrochemical facies, and these waters tend to become salinized. The Gibbs diagram reveals that the groundwater is younger and that evaporation is the dominant process. According to the GPI results, 18% of the samples fell into the insignificant pollution category, and 40% into the low pollution category, while only 22% fell into the moderate pollution category, 7% into the high pollution category, and 13% into the very high pollution category. The geographical presentation of the GPI index revealed that the agricultural zone of Maadher is the one with poor water quality. The analysis showed that borehole water near Sebkha has higher mineral contents and is not potable, compared to borehole water in the northern and eastern study areas. Keywords: groundwater quality, hydrochemistry, Groundwater Pollution Index (GPI), spatial distribution, drinking water standards © 2025 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Developing an Urban Tourism Attractiveness Index: An Ahp–Gis Framework for Spatial Decision-Making
Tourism plays a central role in shaping urban dynamics, particularly in cities with rich yet underutilized cultural and environmental assets. In many developing regions, including Algeria, its integration into urban planning remains limited due to fragmented governance and the absence of spatial decision-support tools. This study develops an Urban Tourism Attractiveness Index for Sétif, Algeria, using a hybrid approach that combines the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A set of spatial indicators, covering tourism-related infrastructure, services, and natural and cultural resources, was identified through literature review and expert consultation. Weights were assigned using AHP, and spatial analysis in a GIS environment produced a tourism attractiveness map. Model performance was evaluated using the Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC), yielding a score of 0.84, indicating strong predictive accuracy. Results show that the highest attractiveness levels are concentrated in the historic core, while peripheral areas display moderate to low values. The findings highlight the value of integrating participatory multi-criteria analysis with geospatial tools to inform tourism planning. The study also proposes a mobile application concept to transform spatial data into accessible, user-friendly tools for both tourists and decision-makers. This framework is replicable and adaptable for cities in the Global South seeking to promote sustainable, evidence-based tourism development. Keywords: tourism potential, decision support, sustainable urban planning, Urban tourism modelling, Multi-criteria decision analysis © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Promoting Sustainable Development through Waste Recovery: The Case of Jijel in Algeria
The current article assesses existing functional modalities of waste management and valorization in Algeria, as well as their current roles in the dynamic of sustainable development, on the basis of state-of-the-art circular economy international best practices (Germany, Sweden, China and Japan.). The work was carried out based mainly on the data of the National Waste Agency (ANSD), from the year 2013 to 2022. Special interest was given to the Wilaya of Jijel. The analysis shows that municipal waste management has significant performance gaps, inadequate source separation of recyclables, and proportional poor logistical coverage (where logistics do exist) for successful waste valorization. Growth and cumulative change indicators provided valuable insights for measuring different components of waste generation dynamics, and observing general periods of rapid change in waste generation. International comparison showed that advanced countries have already strategically implemented strict regulations on sorting, recycling, and to a lesser extent, waste to energy, in waste management, with similar robust public and private sector disposal realities equally applied. By contrast, Algeria continues to struggle to find solutions for these issues, with valorization rates being consistently very low compared to international standards, despite legal and social instruments for action. In conclusion, recommendations were made on how to build enough necessary waste management infrastructure; stimulate, encourage and stimulate local government and community actions; support true opportunity for innovation and investment; and overcome the cultural barriers to awareness/action environmental and social, with full community concerted action and support action. Our ultimate goal is trigger genuine transition to a circular economy based on sound waste management principles where waste is considered as a value which contributes to better quality of life, and individual and societal well-being. Keywords: waste management, municipal solid waste, circular economy, environmental regulations, Annual Growth Index, Jijel © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Spatial and Economic Asymmetries in Global Seaweed Production and Trade: Implications for Coastal Development and Marine Spatial Planning
This study investigates the spatial and economic asymmetries in global seaweed production and trade between 2003 and 2023, highlighting implications for coastal development and marine spatial governance. Using harmonized datasets from FAO FishStatJ, FAO Seaweed Insights, and FAO trade circulars, triangulated with UNCTAD reports and peer-reviewed literature, we analyze six producer categories: China, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, the Philippines, Other Asia, and Rest of World. Three comparative indicators were computed: global production share, export value share, and export value-to-volume ratio (USD/ton), enabling diagnosis of structural disparities and functional upgrading trajectories within the global value chain (GVC). Results reveal extreme spatial concentration: Asia accounts for over 98% of global seaweed output, dominated by China and Indonesia. However, value capture remains disproportionately low for these biomass leaders, reflecting reliance on raw or minimally processed exports. In contrast, Korea and the Philippines achieve higher export intensity through product upgrading (nori and carrageenan derivatives), while Rest-of-World suppliers secure premium markets for agar and specialty extracts. These asymmetries confirm persistent “commodity traps” in major tropical producers and underscore governance challenges associated with volume-driven growth. The discussion links these disparities to coastal development pathways, emphasizing the need for integrated Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), ecosystem-based aquaculture (e.g., Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture), and blue economy strategies that combine downstream processing, spatial zoning, and inclusive finance. Without such interventions, rapid aquaculture expansion risks ecological degradation and social inequality. Conversely, leveraging niche specialization and technological upgrading offers pathways to sustainable, equitable blue growth. Keywords: international trade dynamics, value chain upgrading, coastal spatial governance, sustainable aquaculture, bioeconomy strategies, ocean-based development © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Evaluate the Level Effectiveness of Selected Bare Soil Indices in Semi-Arid Land Using Sentinel-2 Data
The Semi-Arid area is a specific climate region, where the accurate mapping of dry soil is a crucial issue and a real challenge. For that reason, this paper investigated this question over a semi-arid land that located in North-East of Algeria, by using Sentinel-2 data with a comparative analysis of selected Index-Based Methods, in addition to apply the Support Vector Machine-SVM method. The finding showed that the Modified Normalized Difference Bare Index (MNDBaI) and the Modified Bare Soil Index (MBSI) which are combining visible bands at 10 m of resolution, worked better than the Bare Soil Index (BSI) and the Dry Bare-Soil Index (DBSI) that are combining VNIR-SWIR bands; the overall accuracy (OA) of the MNDBaI and MBSI are about 92.29 % and 90.86 %, respectively. Meanwhile, the DBSI provided the weakest (OA) that achieved 86%. Based on this, the indices MNDBaI and MBSI are successfully tested in semi-arid land, since they were more discriminative toward dry soil, especially the MNDBaI index that manifested an advanced behavior. Under climate changes and urban expansion impacts in the region, the MNDBaI index can contribute for accurate ecological studies and better spatial management, as it can produce an accurate bare soil information and land cover maps updates; the MNDBaI index is promising to be more adoptable in survey land degradation, indicating soil condition and boosting agriculture management. However, more tests over other areas, are suggested. Additionally, developing new soil indices that are more sensitive to dry soil, is highly needed. Keywords: Dry Bare-Soil Index (DBSI), Bare Soil Index (BSI), Modified Bare Soil Index (MBSI), Modified Normalized Difference Bare Index (MNDBaI), Support Vector Machine (SVM), dry soil mapping accuracy © 2025 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Pedagogical Conditions for the Development of Students’ Ecological Competence in the Modern Educational Space
The aim of the study was to identify effective approaches to integrating environmental education into the learning process. The methodology included student surveys, interviews with teachers and parents, and an analysis of students’ creative works. The level of environmental awareness among students and teachers was examined. Specifically, 58% of students regularly spend time in nature, but only 41% adhere to principles of environmentally responsible behaviour. Interactive methods are employed by 62% of teachers in delivering environmental education, and half of the students actively participate in creative projects focused on nature conservation. Survey results revealed that 81% of students understand waste segregation, yet only 39% practice it at home. During interviews, 67% of parents assessed their children’s environmental awareness as high or sufficient, but 25% rarely discuss environmental issues at home. An analysis of students’ creative works – including drawings, essays, and photo reports – showed that 78% of drawings depict the beauty of nature and the need for its preservation, while 64% of essays contain proposals for improving the environmental situation in their city. Furthermore, only 39% of families actively engage in waste segregation, indicating a need for improved environmental practices in the household. The results also demonstrated that 32% of students and 62% of teachers consider the integration of environmental topics across all disciplines important. The practical significance of the study lies in using these findings to develop recommendations for enhancing students’ ecological competence through improved infrastructure, family involvement, and the implementation of interactive teaching methods. Keywords: students, environmental awareness, conservation activities, innovative methods, civic responsibility © 2025 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Human Resource Practices in SMEs And Their Role in Peri-Urban Tourism Growth: A Case Study of Culinary Tourism, Indonesia
This study examines the strategic role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in driving peri-urban tourism growth through the lens of human resource practices (HRP). Focusing on the culinary tourism sector in Kolaka City, Southeast Sulawesi, the research responds to substantial growth in tourist visits by analyzing how organizational capabilities shape destination performance. Using a quantitative design, data were collected from 247 SMEs through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SEM-PLS. The results show that HRP strongly influence Employee Hospitality (EH), and that frontline service behavior serves as the primary mechanism linking HRP to Tourism Growth (TG). Mediation analysis confirms an indirect-only pattern, indicating that HR practices enhance tourism outcomes only when they successfully elevate hospitality behaviors and customer experience. The findings highlight that peri-urban tourism competitiveness depends not only on physical or promotional assets but also on the behavioral and organizational capacities of SMEs—especially structured HR systems, consistent service routines, and supportive managerial climates. Theoretically, this study extends HRM and organizational behavior perspectives into tourism research by demonstrating how micro-level HR strategies translate into macro-level tourism performance through behavioral mediation. Practically, the results offer a foundation for policy and capacity-building programs centered on service-oriented recruitment, modular hospitality training, performance feedback, and SME empowerment to strengthen sustainable peri-urban tourism development. Keywords: workforce development, organizational behavior, frontline service behavior, employee hospitality, service-based competitiveness, destination experience, tourism sustainability strategy © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Reviewing the Suitability of the Urban Growth Area Using the Ahp Method. A Case Study of the Ain-Touta Master Plan
Urban growth is the expansion of cities and towns, both in size and population. It is driven by factors such as population growth, migration, economic development, and land use changes. As populations rise, demand for housing, infrastructure, and services also increases. This leads to expanding urban areas. Selecting urban growth areas is complex due to the overlapping of data and indicators. A multidisciplinary approach is essential. This study uses a Geographic Information System (GIS) to enable data flow and various analysis methods. The paper will explain how GIS supports urban master plan implementation through a digital approach that combines Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and GIS. The objective of this research is to identify areas in Ain Touta suitable for urban growth. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) supports and improves the urban master plan. AHP uses linear algebra to evaluate each pair-wise comparison. Each criterion receives a weighting based on its perceived importance. A higher weight signals a pivotal role in decision-making. In this context, environmental quality, safety, accessibility, and soil geotechnical considerations are the main factors in selecting sites for expansion. Keywords: urban planning, decision-making, GIS, CAD, AHP, criteria weight © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Problem of Channel Decay of Tropical Rivers and Anthropogenic Impact on Rivers: A Remote Sensing and GIS based study at West Bengal, India
The present research highlights the problem related to channel decay of tropical rivers and the research gives special emphasis on anthropogenic impact on the tropical rivers and again it focuses on the management of the decaying rivers. To satisfy the aims of the present study, four rivers viz, river Kharkhari, river Churni, river Anjana, and river Jalangi have been taken into consideration. The present study has been conducted based on remote sensing (RS) and Geographic information system (GIS). Secondary data have been collected from the trustable sources in form of satellite images, reports etc. Statistical technique has also been used in this study to draw connection between river decay and various anthropogenic activities. The result of the research exhibits that there are drastic reduction in river length and width especially in case of river Kharkhari, Churni, and Anjana. A notable deep anthropogenic impact has been observed in decay of river Channels. Statistical technique shows that growing settlement cover, agricultural uses have negative and significant connection with change in channel geometry. The coverage of areas under the water bodies of river Kharkhari, river Jalangi, river Churni, river Anjana have been decreased from 5.82 percent to 1.94 percent, 9.63 percent to 2.44 percent, 13.51percent 5.5 percent, and 6.87 percent to 4.19 percent respectively from the year 1991 to 2025 within the 2 kilometer buffer area on both sides of the rivers. Keywords: river Decay, rivers in tropics, human impact, supervised classification © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Arima-Based Modeling and Forecasting of Monthly Temperature Variability in Burkina Faso Under Climate Change Scenarios up to 2050
In a world facing climate change, temperature estimates are crucial for Sahelian countries like Burkina Faso, where agricultural production is highly dependent on weather conditions. This research applies the ARIMA (AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average) model to predict monthly temperature variations between 2025 and 2050, using a time series spanning 41 years (1984–2024). The differentiated data were validated by stationarity tests (ADF), and the use of SARIMA models allowed for the capture of seasonality. The modifications performed well, with MAPE typically below 2% and RMSE frequently below 0.5°C. The results indicate a clear increase in temperatures. In January, the historical average of 24.2°C could rise to 27.0°C in 2050, representing an increase of +2.8°C. An increase of +0.7°C is predicted for February (from 27.1°C to 27.8°C). The most notable increases are expected for March and April, where average temperatures could exceed 33.5°C by 2050. Generally, a temperature increase of +2.5°C to +3°C is expected during key months, accompanied by increased heat stress during the dry season. These forecasts are consistent with Sahelian trends identified by various sources and highlight the suitability of the ARIMA model for climate forecasting. It is crucial to incorporate these forecasts into agriculture, water, and health policies to strengthen Burkina Faso's resilience to climate change. Keywords: climate forecasting, MAPE, heat stress, Burkina Faso, climate modeling © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Electric Vehicle Transition: Europe’s Challenges in a Global Context
The European automotive industry faces competitive challenges in light of electrification, driven by the rise of Chinese manufacturers and the reshaping of policies within the European region. Despite the high interest in the daily news, the topic remains fragmented into individual subtopics such as sustainability, supply chains and labour, and requires a data-supported and systematic analysis of the competitive challenges of the automotive industry. Therefore, this research's objectives were to review the current state of the global automotive market, analyze proposed solutions for maintaining the competitiveness of European manufacturers, and develop a projection of the global electric vehicle market's development. The research was based on a systematic review of the literature and the analysis of various data sources, incorporating the method of triangulation of sources to ensure the credibility of the results. Key findings indicate that European manufacturers face difficulties competing with affordable Chinese electric vehicles, which are increasingly entering the European market, due to high costs and limited access to key technologies such as batteries and semiconductors. Proposed solutions include investing in research and development, improving supply chains, and fostering closer collaboration with the energy and technology sectors. The market projection for 2030 suggests that electric vehicles will account for more than 57% of global annual sales, with China maintaining a leading market share, while Europe, due to delays in adapting to electric vehicle production, will gradually lose its share of the total sales in the industry. Keywords: automotive industry, China, Europe, electric vehicles, automotive industry future © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Spatial Assessment of Land Suitability for Agromarine Tourism on Wawonii Island, Indonesia
For the sustainable development of integrated coastal-based economic activities, spatially informed planning is needed to address environmental protection and livelihood improvement, particularly in small island environments that are increasingly impacted by land use pressures and environmental risks. In this study, a GIS-based machine learning method was used to evaluate and classify land suitability for maritime agrotourism development on Wawonii Island, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. Twelve physical, environmental, and accessibility factors were combined within a geospatial framework and evaluated using Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF) models, trained and validated on 52 existing maritime agrotourism sites. Model performance was evaluated using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves, with the RF model having a higher predictive accuracy of approximately 80% (AUC ≈ 0.80) compared to the SVM model (AUC ≈ 0.60). Using the selected models, land suitability was categorized into four classes. The findings indicate that low suitability areas dominate the island, covering approximately 52.01% of the total area, while medium, high, and very high suitability classes cover 16.22%, 17.76%, and 14.01%, respectively. High and very high suitability areas are mostly found in coastal and lowland areas with gentle slopes, good accessibility, and a combination of agricultural and marine resources. Subdistrict-level analysis indicates that Central and South Wawonii are priority areas for marine agrotourism development, while other areas require more careful land use management and a conservation-oriented approach. These results clearly demonstrate the efficiency of GIS-based machine learning as a spatial decision support system for small island planning and provide quantitative and spatial evidence for the formulation of sustainable tourism policies. Keywords: Machine learning, coastal planning, geospatial modelling, environmental constraints, small-island development, regional zoning © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Fractal Analysis for 2d and 3d Binary Images
We present a unified, letter-coded framework for interpreting 2D and 3D binary images that groups descriptors into a complementary triad: global complexity, fragmentation/disorder, and connectivity. Applied to the Banat Mountains, we analyze three layers: tree cover (2000–2021), cumulative forest loss (2001–2021), and annual forest loss (2001–2021), using a parsimonious portfolio of fractal and non-fractal indices (box-counting and related dimensions, the fragmentation family FFI/FFDI/FTI, lacunarity, and succolarity) and their 3D analogues. The fragmentation family complements class-level FRAGSTATS metrics (e.g., edge density, clumpiness) by isolating scaling-sensitive edge irregularity and tentacularity. Results converge across dimensions: tree cover behaves as a compact, nearly space-filling matrix with high, stable connectivity, low disorder, declining lacunarity, and modest, non-systemwide gains in succolarity; annual loss shows episodic spikes in disorder and transient connectivity with reduced anisotropy. In 3D, tree cover is nearly space-filling, cumulative loss is intermediate and filamentary, and annual loss is sparse, with succolarity meaningful only for the matrix. We conclude with a practical monitoring set that captures the triad while minimizing redundancy and outline sensitivity and transferability to other mountainous, heterogeneous regions in Southeastern Europe. Keywords: fractal analysis, binary images, Banat Mountains, forest loss, tree cover, lacunarity, succolarity, fragmentation indices © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Trends in Air Temperature and Precipitation in Valjevo (Western Serbia)
Climatological data, such as air temperature and precipitation amounts, represent fundamental parameters for monitoring and analyzing the climate conditions of a given area. Their statistical processing enables a more comprehensive understanding of climate trends and extreme weather events. This study examines trends in mean monthly air temperatures and precipitation totals for the meteorological station in Valjevo, based on data obtained from the Meteorological Yearbooks of the Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia. The objective of the study was to identify trends in the time series of the principal climatological parameters. The non-parametric Mann-Kendall test was applied for statistical analysis. This finding implies that fluctuations in precipitation are more likely attributable to natural interannual variability rather than to systematic changes in climatic conditions. In contrast, trends of varying levels of statistical significance were detected in the time series of mean monthly air temperatures, indicating potential signals of climate change. During the observed time period, there was an increase in temperature, especially during June, July and August, which are also the months with the greatest statistical significance. The obtained results provide a foundation for further investigations of climate change at the local scale and may serve as a basis for the planning and implementation of adaptation measures. Keywords: air temperature, precipitation, Valjevo, Mann-Kendall test, climate change, meteorological station, climatic parameters © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Geospatial Transformations of Land Cover Use in the Peri-Urban Zone of Belgrade: The Case of the Municipality of Grocka
Peri-urban zones are characterized by intensive spatial and functional transformations driven by the interplay of urban expansion, agricultural restructuring, and landscape change. As part of Belgrade’s peri-urban belt, the Municipality of Grocka has undergone pronounced land-cover transformations, particularly along major transport corridors and in settlements with strong functional links to the metropolitan core. This study analyzes land-cover change in 1990–2018 using CORINE Land Cover (CLC) data and GIS-based spatial analysis, with emphasis on agricultural-to-built-up conversions and structural shifts within agricultural categories. The results indicate a decline of cultivated land and complex cultivation mosaics, alongside a continuous increase in residential and industrial/commercial land, reflecting sustained peri-urbanization pressures. To capture post-2018 spatial patterns, the long-term CLC assessment is complemented by a Sentinel-2–based 10 m land cover dataset (Esri / Impact Observatory), derived from Copernicus imagery for 2018 and 2024, used strictly as a supplementary snapshot of recent dynamics and internal heterogeneity rather than as a direct extension of the CLC time series. The findings highlight the complexity of peri-urban land-cover transformations and underscore the need for integrated spatial planning and agricultural land protection measures that balance development pressures with the preservation of productive land and landscape functions. Keywords: land cover change, peri-urban zone, remote sensing data, geospatial analysis, Municipality of Grocka © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Analyzing Spatial Disparities in the Distribution of Public Facilities and Services: A Gis–Mca Assessment in Tissemsilt Province, Algeria
This study assesses spatial disparities in the distribution of public facilities across the 22 municipalities of Tissemsilt, an interior province in western Algeria, for the period 2008–2020. Despite national planning efforts, interior regions continue to exhibit pronounced territorial imbalances. The study employs a robust methodological framework coupling Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) to evaluate 20 indicators across six essential sectors: education, health, trade, culture, sports, and tourism. A composite Global Index (IG) was constructed to synthesize sectoral performance, and a Spearman Rank Correlation test was applied to statistically validate the systemic nature of these disparities. The results reveal a persistent core–periphery dichotomy, where administrative centers concentrate the majority of services while peripheral and mountainous municipalities remain structurally marginalized. Although 17 out of 22 municipalities showed a relative improvement in their ranking by 2020, the strong correlation (p<0.01) between deficits in health and education confirms that inequalities are deeply structural. Beyond this case study, the proposed GIS–MCA approach offers a replicable diagnostic framework for monitoring Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at a micro-regional scale. These findings provide critical insights for policymakers in the Global South to transition from administrative-based allocation toward evidence-based territorial equity. Keywords: spatial disparities, GIS–MCA, territorial equity, public facilities, Spearman correlation, Tissemsilt © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Evaluation of the Tourist Attractiveness of Annaba’s Beaches Between Potential, Expectations, and Enhancement Prospects
In a global context where territories compete with each other, the notion of attractiveness remains an essential lever for coastal development. The objective of this research is to measure, compare, and evaluate the potential for tourist attractiveness of the beaches in the inter-municipalities of Annaba, agglomeration which the latter being considered a major hub on the eastern Algerian coasts, mobilizing the ELECTRE III (Elimination and Choice Translating Reality method) multi-criteria method, which conceived not as an end in itself but as a decision-making tool capable of ranking seaside performance and guiding development choices. Eleven beaches were analyzed according to their degree of attractiveness through a family of six weighted criteria. The results obtained highlight a clear hierarchy of beaches across five levels. Rizi Amor beach occupies an ideal position at the top of the ranking with very strong attractiveness, the two beaches La Caroube and Refes Zahouene 2 occupy second position with strong attractiveness, while, Belvedere II, Annasr, and Rezgui Rachid I beaches are in the last class with weak attractiveness. Beyond the ranking, the observed differences reflect variations in management, governance, and enhancement. ELECTRE III thus asserts itself as an analytical and prospective instrument, capable of supporting integrated Annabi coastal planning and even a balanced requalification of the Algerian coastline. Keywords: tourist attractiveness, Annaba, coastal planning, multi-criteria grid, ELECTRE III © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Spatio-Temporal Variability of River Water Quality of Covid-19: A Case Study of Opak and Progo Watersheds (Indonesia)
The imposition of community activities due to the COVID-19 outbreak positively impacted the environmental quality in various countries, including improving river water quality. This paper examines the spatio-temporal variation of water quality of the Opak and Progo Watersheds after the second wave of COVID-19. This study utilized primary and secondary data obtained from observation, literature study, and data documented by several agencies. Data were analyzed statistically employing an independent sample t-test and simple linear regression, matching, pollution index calculation, and Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis using Average Nearest Neighbor (ANN). The results show that restrictions on community activities that have been repeatedly implemented during the pandemic have improved water quality. However, quality improvement is only found in a few parameters. Heavy metals from transportation, Pb and Cd, tend to be low and decline during pandemics. Pb decreased from 0.2 ppm in 2020 to 0.1 ppm in 2021, while Cd decreased from 0.0033 ppm in 2020 to 0.0008 ppm in 2021. TDS and TSS were smaller during the pandemic due to reduced erosion of farmland. The downward trend in TDS and TSS also impacted the decline in BOD. After the pandemic, most water quality parameters met the national quality standards. Good water quality parameters are dispersed in the study area. This condition indicates the spatial homogeneity of water quality in both watersheds, without pollution zones, even in the megacity of Yogyakarta. In summary, this study presents new insights into understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on river water quality in watersheds characterized by the dominance of population activities in rural areas. Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic, spatio-temporal variability, Opak and Progo, watershed, Indonesia © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Analysis of User Participation in the Management and Improve-ment of Urban Green Spaces Case study: December 11, 1960 Garden in Chlef city, Algeria
The aim of this paper is to analyse the extent to which users participate in the management and improvement of green spaces. The analysis considers three interrelated dimensions: awareness of participation; active participation; and perceived constraints. It also considers how users assess green spaces. The study was conducted with users of the 11 December 1960 Garden in Chlef, Algeria. A questionnaire designed for this study was administered to 223 respondents. The following statistical methods were adopted using SPSS software: frequencies, percentages, t-tests, ANOVA, the Pearson correlation coefficient, and simple linear regression. The results showed that, although user’s generally assessed green spaces positively, they felt that services were lacking and that the level of participation was medium and only partially related to the assessment (10.2%). Awareness of participation was also medium to high and related to active participation (6%), as were perceived constraints, which were medium to low. No significant gender differences were found in terms of evaluation, awareness or constraints, although males exceeded females in terms of participation. No differences were found based on age, while those based on educational level favoured secondary school graduates and those based on professional status favoured active groups. Keywords: urban green spaces, management, users’ participation, perceived constraints, Chlef city © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Assessment of Chemical Risks on the Health of Coppersmiths and on the Environment: Case of Bardo in Constantine (Algeria)
Certain traditional industries and crafts are major sources of environmental pollution and health risks. Copperware craft is one of those activities that exposes artisans to numerous health risks, including chemical hazards. The current study aims to identify the risks associated with the workshops of the Bardo site in Constantine, Algeria, and to analyze the concentration of heavy metals in samples of water used for the treatment of copper in order to evaluate their environmental impact. The methodology included interviews with 15 coppersmiths, as well as a chemical analysis of three water samples from the workshops. The analysis measured the pH level, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total organic carbon (TOC), and turbidity. It also measured the concentration of heavy metals, such as copper, arsenic, zinc, lead, cadmium, and total chromium. The results revealed that 73% of artisans suffer from respiratory problems and allergies due to inadequate use of protective equipment. Analysis of the samples showed significant acidity ranging from 0.2 to 1.5, high COD values reaching 6,176 mg/L, and significant excesses from environmental standards for arsenic (0.1031 mg/L), cadmium (0.0075 mg/L), and total chromium (0.007 mg/L). As these polluted waters are discharged directly into the environment, they pose a danger to Oued Rhumel, located downstream from the workshops, where high concentrations of heavy metals such as copper (3125 mg/kg), zinc (1570 mg/kg), and cadmium (199.5 mg/kg) have been detected in the sediments. This craft presents a dual threat to both human health and the environment. Therefore, the study recommends strengthening safety measures, treating water before discharge, and opting for less hazardous alternatives. Keywords: health risk, environmental risk, heavy metals, pollution, copperware craft, Constantine. © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Trend Analysis and Fluctuations of Air Temperature During Winter: A Case Study of the Northeast Region of Thailand
This work aims to study and analyze the trend and fluctuations of air temperature during winter in the northeast region of Thailand using the data collected from the weather station of the Thai Meteorological Department (1987-2022). The result from the coefficient of variation data found that the variation of maximum (TMax) and mean (TMean) temperature was similar in all stations and lower than minimum temperature (TMin). Mann-Kendall test and Sen’s slope were used to extract the temperature trend, found that almost all stations had a warming trend. The magnitude of the increment of TMean was about 0.035 °C yr⁻¹. The high value of magnitude was found at the northern and western edge of the region as well as the center and southeast areas. The Pettitt test was used to find an abruption change period and found that the most of stations had a changing direction to warming. The summarization of this study indicated that the air temperature during winter in the northeast region of Thailand had an increasing trend which could be evidence of climate change in the area. Keywords: Mann–Kendall test, Sen’s slope estimator, change-point detection, winter climate variability, long-term temperature monitoring © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Sediment Characteristics of the Luda Yana River, Bulgaria
This paper presents the results of an investigation into the physical properties of fluvial deposits within the channel of the Luda Yana River and its major tributaries. Sediment samples were collected from the riverbeds of the Panagyurska Luda Yana and Strelchanska Luda Yana rivers, as well as from the middle and lower courses of the main Luda Yana River, and were subjected to sedimentological (grain-size) analysis. Based on the results obtained, a qualitative assessment of erosion intensity and of the dominant sediment transport and depositional processes was performed for the upper, middle, and lower courses of the Luda Yana River. The findings indicate that the Strelchanska Luda Yana River is characterized by a high potential for strong currents. Despite the commissioning of the Luda Yana Dam on a tributary of the Panagyurska Luda Yana River, the occurrence of torrential processes within the studied drainage basin remains likely, primarily due to the high erosion potential of the Strelchanska Luda Yana River. Keywords: Luda Yana River, drainage basin, fluvial processes, fluvial deposits, grain size © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Assessment of Sustainable Tourism Potential in Protected Areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Protected areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina represent an important resource for the development of sustainable tourism, with particular potential for agritourism in rural regions. The aim of the study was to analyse the tourism valorisation of protected areas and visitors’ attitudes toward natural and cultural resources. The study encompassed 40 protected areas in Bosnia and Herzegovina, applying both quantitative and qualitative methods, including a weighted Tourism Valorisation Index (tourist arrivals Dᵢ, tourism supply Pᵢ, promotion Mᵢ) and a survey of 206 respondents with experience in mountain and recreational activities. The results indicate that tourism supply and promotion contribute most strongly to valorisation, with national parks achieving the highest index values (Dᵢ = 0.408; Pᵢ = 0.82; Mᵢ = 0.85), while strictly protected areas record minimal tourist traffic (Dᵢ = 0.003–0.006; Pᵢ = 0.12–0.15; Mᵢ = 0.10–0.12). Survey data confirm visitors’ orientation toward nature-based stays, active tourism, and the involvement of local communities. Respondents highly value the preservation of the natural environment, the authenticity of experiences, and socio-economic contributions (ratings 4–5). Stricter protection regimes support ecological and educational forms of tourism, whereas sites with lower levels of protection achieve higher tourism intensity through recreational and cultural activities. The integration of quantitative and qualitative data provides a basis for strategic planning of sustainable tourism, including agritourism and ecotourism. Keywords: tourism sustainability, natural sites, tourism valorisation, Tourism Valorisation Index, Bosnia and Herzegovina © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Assessment of Groundwater Nitrate Contamination and its Origin in the Bousaada Region, Algeria
Groundwater is the principal water resource in the semi-arid region of Bousaada. This study assesses hydrochemical characteristics, temporal evolution, and sources of nitrate contamination using more than 200 groundwater samples, including current sampling and archived dataset. Groundwater is characterized by the dominance of Cl⁻ and SO₄²⁻, together with Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺, indicating contributions from evaporitic dissolution and carbonate processes. Most samples exceeded guideline values for of NO₃⁻, and a large proportion surpassed chloride and sulfate standards. Temporal analysis (1967–2022) reveals a sustained increase in nitrate concentrations, with mean values reaching about 128 mg/L, and 50% of newly analysed samples exceeded 100 mg/L. Pollution indices and health risk assessment indicate that the majority of groundwater samples are highly contaminated and pose significant health risks, particularly in agricultural zones and near Wadi Bousaada. Hydrochemical ionic ratios, and multivariate (PCA) analysis, indicate that nitrate contamination primarily originates from agricultural fertilizers and septic tank effluents, with additional influence from Wadi Bousaada. Spatial modeling using kriging approaches improved prediction accuracy and highlighted hotspots in the Maadher agricultural area and near Wadi Bousaada. The findings demonstrate significant groundwater quality deterioration over five decades and emphasize the urgent need for improved agricultural and sanitation management. Keywords: nitrate pollution, groundwater, Bousaada, Kriging, health risk, semi-arid region © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Integrated Geophysical and Lithological Analysis of a Semi-Arid Karst Basin for Sustainable Water Management: Wadi Zouzfana (South-Western Algeria)
Semi-arid regions are often characterized by strong spatial heterogeneity of geological formations, surface processes, and groundwater circulation, which critically control water availability and land use planning. This study investigates the subsurface structure of the Wadi Zouzfana basin (south-western Algeria) using an integrated approach combining vertical electrical sounding (VES) and lithological data from three core boreholes (21–30 m depth). Twenty-four VES measurements were conducted using the Schlumberger configuration (AB = 200 m) and calibrated against borehole logs to establish reliable resistivity–lithology relationships in a karstified carbonate environment. Five main geoelectrical units were identified, corresponding to recent alluvium, karstified limestone, transitional carbonates, weathered dolomite, and compact bedrock. Low resistivity values (100–600 Ω·m) dominate the wadi axis, reflecting water-saturated alluvial deposits and karstified limestone, while higher resistivities (>1200 Ω·m) characterize structurally uplifted carbonate formations along the basin margins. Spatial interpolation of resistivity data within a GIS framework reveals an asymmetric bedrock morphology controlled by NE–SW tectonic structures, with a central depression guiding surface runoff concentration and groundwater storage. The results highlight the strong geomorphological and structural control on groundwater distribution and infiltration potential in this semi-arid karst basin. The integrated geophysical–lithological methodology provides a cost-effective framework for site-scale subsurface characterization applicable to similar semi-arid karst environments and supports sustainable water resource management and land planning in data-scarce arid environments. Keywords: vertical electrical sounding, lithological calibration, karst basin characterization, hydrogeography, groundwater distribution, GIS spatial analysis, semi-arid Algeria © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Geographical Analysis of Road Network Efficiency in the Wilaya of Sétif: Utilizing a Principal Component Analysis (Pca) to Reveal the Relationship between Demographic Indicators and Accessibility of Urban Centers
The study uses a quantitative spatial approach to analyze the relationship between the topological structure of the road network and demographic dynamics in sixty urban centers in the wilaya of Sétif, Algeria, in 2021. This approach involves representing the road network as an undirected graph and calculating five demographic and six topological indicators reflecting accessibility and connectivity. These indicators are then standardized and integrated into a principal component analysis (PCA). The analysis revealed that the variables primarily fall within two composite axes: the functional centrality/accessibility axis, which is closely associated with population size, density, and connectivity; and the population hierarchy and concentration axis. Together, these two axes explained 72.98% of the total variance. At the factorial level (F1–F2), four types of urban centers were identified: dominant centers, medium centers, centers with network centrality exceeding their demographic weight, and weakly integrated peripheries. Population growth was more closely linked to the most network-integrated centers (F1) than to their size or rank in the urban hierarchy (F2). This highlights the lack of a direct correlation between topological accessibility and population hierarchy, despite some overlap between the two. The results show that improving road infrastructure affects both the volume of growth and its internal redistribution among centers according to network integration patterns. The results also confirm that the methodological framework, which integrates topological and demographic indicators within PCA, can be applied in other regions to guide investment and reduce spatial imbalances. Keywords: transportation, road network, accessibility, urban network, population hierarchy, principal component analysis (PCA), Wilaya of Sétif © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Spatial Distribution and Bioclimatic Factors of Sudano-Sahelian Agroforestry Tree Species: The Case of African Locust Bean (Parkia Biglobosa) and Shea (Vitellaria Paradoxa) in the Prov-ince of Boulkiemdé, Burkina Faso
African locust bean (Parkia biglobosa) and shea (Vitellaria paradoxa) are emblematic species of West African agroforestry parklands. They play a major role in food security, rural livelihoods and the structuring of agricultural landscapes. However, their spatial distribution is insufficiently documented at the local level, particularly in a context of climate change and increasing pressure on natural resources. This study analyses the spatial distribution and bioclimatic determinants of African locust bean in the province of Boulkiemdé, in central-western Burkina Faso, combining an integrated approach that combines field inventories, spatial analyses and modelling of potential distribution. Data on presence and abundance were collected between November and December 2024 using systematic sampling based on a 3 km grid. The potential distribution of the species was modelled using the MaxEnt model, and the relationships between the probability of presence and bioclimatic variables were analysed using Pearson's correlation. The results highlight a heterogeneous distribution of African locust bean and shea trees, structured by a marked south-north gradient. The southern areas have the highest probabilities of occurrence and densities. The seasonality of rainfall and quarterly precipitation explain the spatial distribution of the species. Conversely, climate variability and temperature extremes appear to be limiting factors. This study highlights the importance of combining ecological modelling and abundance data to inform land use planning and sustainable management of agroforestry parks in the context of climate change. Keywords: Parkia biglobosa, Vitellaria paradoxa, spatial distribution, climate change, Burkina Faso © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Application of Gis and AHP in the Assessment of Forest Fires Vulnerability in the Pčinja Distirct
Due to the increasing human impact on the planet's climate, most often negative, in response, major changes occur that require subsequent efforts to "rehabilitate". One of those problems, especially in the last quarter century, is problem of forest fires. Due to increasing temperatures, especially in the summer, forest fires have become a frequent occurrence, which is also the case in Serbia. Therefore, the application of GIS systems and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methods represent important tools for achieving the above-mentioned goals and combating the problems that surround us. The main goal in this study is to determine the main explanatory variables for forest fire occurrence using AHP model and GIS systems. They have their advantages and disadvantages, but here the emphasis is on the positive effect and the use of their advantages in presenting possible solutions to solvable problems. The final map can serve as a basis for showing potential hotspots for forest fires. The final fig. present model of vulnerability of making forest fires in Pčinja district. The area with the lowest vulnerability is around lake Vlasina in north-east part of district and represents 3.5% of the entire territory and the area with highest vulnerability is in south-west area with 6.1% coverage of area. Keywords: wildfires, environment, AHP method, estimation, vulnerability level, multi-criteria analysis © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
A Comparative Study of Green Area Classification by Remote Sensing Techniques in Phayao Municipality, Thailand
This research has two primary goals: first, to compare different image classification methods for identifying green areas within the Phayao Municipality, and second, to analyze and compare the resulting proportions of green areas. Using Sentinel 2B satellite imagery, the study classified green areas by applying two methods: Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Maximum Likelihood (ML). A Confusion matrix is used to verify the accuracy of the classification. Finally, the analysis focused on the proportion of green area in relation to the total urban area and the ratio of both total green area and recreational green area to the population count. The results show that both methods were able to classify green areas including community economic green areas, unused green areas, utility green areas, natural green areas, and public green areas. Although differences were found between the areas classified by the SVM and ML methods, the accuracy assessment indicated that the SVM method achieved higher classification accuracy than the ML method. Furthermore, the analysis reveals differences in the estimated proportion of green areas and the ratio of green space per capita between the two classification approaches. The findings suggest that the ratio obtained from the ML method is closer to the value reported by the government reported. Finally, the results can provide useful information for urban green space planning and management. Keywords: satellite imagery, Support Vector Machine (SVM), Maximum Likelihood (ML), urban planning © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Regional Differences in Subjective, Institutional, and Praxeological Religiosity in Serbia
In this paper, we analyse the regional distribution of religiosity in Serbia based on data from the European Social Survey (ESS) from 2018, observed through four NUTS regions (Belgrade, Vojvodina, Šumadija and West Serbia, South and East Serbia). We operationalize religiosity as a multidimensional phenomenon through self-assessment of religiosity (0–10), frequency of going to religious services and frequency of prayer outside of services (1–7), whereby the last two indicators are mapped to a scale of 0–10 for comparability. Indicators were constructed and derived: the gap between private and institutional practice (prayer-rituals) and the composite index of religiosity (unweighted average of three dimensions). The findings indicate that subjective religiosity in all regions exceeds institutional practice, while regional differences are more strongly manifested as differences in “styles” of religiosity. There are private-oriented profiles (Belgrade and Vojvodina) versus balanced profiles (Šumadija and West; South and East). Due to the aggregate level of the data, the conclusions are descriptive and serve as a basis for future micro-analyses. Keywords: religiosity, European Social Survey, regional distribution, Serbia © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Geopolitical Code: Definitions, Ideas and Significance
The geopolitical position of a country is most often determined by its physical-geographical and socio-geographical characteristics, while the geopolitical code, according to Colin Flint, is a set of strategic assumptions that a state's government uses to determine how to position itself in international relations. According to this view, the geopolitical code always contains two key variables: scale (whether the state is oriented locally, regionally, or globally) and orientation (to whom and how the state projects its interests and activities). The geopolitical code is not static; it changes depending on internal political circumstances and changes in the global order. Flint's concept of the geopolitical code enables the analysis of the foreign policy of modern states, not only as sets of simple strategic decisions, but as sets of dynamic processes that include political power, economic logic, cultural symbolism, and public perception. Guided by Flint's theory of the geopolitical code, the aim of this paper is to study contemporary approaches to the definition, idea, and significance of the geopolitical code in international relations, with special reference to the Republic of Serbia. Keywords: geopolitics, political geography, state, international relations, possibilism © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Professional Structure and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Case Study of Patients at the Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases of Vojvodina
The professional structure of the population plays a significant role in the development of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to analyse the occupational structure of patients treated at the Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases of Vojvodina (ICDV) in Sremska Kamenica in order to determine which occupational groups are more frequently represented among cardiovascular patients. Emerging Hot Spot Analysis was used to identify spatial and temporal patterns. The analysis was applied to the five most represented occupations. In the occupation category “housewives”, 17 municipalities were classified as consecutive hotspots. In the category “workers without a specified occupation”, a total of 35 municipalities were classified as emerging hotspots, of which 31 were consecutive and 4 sporadic. In the group “metal, machinery, and related workers”, 23 municipalities were classified as emerging hotspots, including 16 consecutive and 7 sporadic hotspots. For the occupation category “other craftsmen and related workers”, 29 municipalities were identified as emerging hotspots, of which 20 were consecutive and 9 sporadic. In the category “clerical workers”, 24 municipalities were classified as emerging hotspots, including 18 consecutive and 6 sporadic hotspots. The obtained results may serve as a basis for identifying occupations associated with increased risk. This could enable timely planning and implementation of preventive measures, improvement of working conditions, and strengthening of healthcare protection for employees in particularly vulnerable occupational groups. Keywords: occupational structure, cardiovascular diseases, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases of Vojvodina (ICDV), GIS, Emerging Hot Spot Analysis, public health © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia
The Crisis of African Migrants Passing through Libya and EU Policies
Every year a large number of migrants arrive in EU countries not because they want to reach voluntarily but because they are forced to flee, either from their countries of origin or from intermediate stops along the migration route. From sub-Saharan countries to Libya begins the journey of migrants where war, armed conflict, and lawlessness provide a fertile environment for human trafficking activities. The study combines fieldwork, semi-structured interviews with migrants, and desk analysis of EU strategies and agreements with Libyan authorities. The most important result shows that EU deterrence policies have reduced arrivals to Europe but simultaneously worsened humanitarian conditions in Libya, exposing migrants to systematic abuse and exploitation. In conclusion, the research emphasizes that addressing Africa’s structural causes of migration and reforming EU policy frameworks are essential to reduce irregular migration while safeguarding human rights. Key words: African, migrants, Libya, EU policy © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Ancient Irrigation Civilization of Arabia Felix (Yemen): Cultural Heritage, Historical Cultural Geography, Tourism Development
Historical geography remains a pertinent scientific discipline. The aim of this paper is to conduct a historical and geographical analysis of Yemen's irrigation systems, investigate disparities in reservoir systems across different regions, and identify prospects for the development of cultural and educational tourism in the republic. The history of irrigation in Yemen spans many centuries. Yemen harbors the greatest density of cultural and historical monuments compared to all other Middle Eastern states. Many structures have preserved their original appearance, while select sites and attractions carry global significance, earning recognition as UNESCO World Heritage properties. Spanning millennia, anthropogenic hydrotechnical developments have indelibly affected the history and culture of various societies. Particularly notable are Yemen's unique hydrotechnical infrastructures, which gave rise to a distinct model of water management and urban organization. Foremost among these are the iconic Ma'rib Dam, the reservoir network in Aden, and extensive canal systems supplying consistent water access in the harsh semi-desert environment. The historical significance of Yemen's hydrotechnical structures cannot be overstated. This innovative design facilitated intense agricultural productivity, transforming arid Yemeni lands into verdant farmlands. Beyond their utilitarian value, these installations performed critical cultural roles. Construction projects symbolized authority and prestige for ruling dynasties, serving as epicenters of communal life, gathering points, and commercial hubs. Consistent placement near residential areas and sacred sites formed cohesive urban layouts. Presently, Yemen's hydrotechnical structures acquire fresh significance as cultural heritage and drivers of tourism. However, protecting this legacy presents daunting challenges. Many structures suffer from dilapidation, urgently needing repair and renovation. Added complications arise from natural calamities, political turmoil, and inadequate financial allocations for monument preservation. Urgency underscores the need for protective measures, considering their immense scientific and cultural worth. Yemen possesses substantial potential for tourism due to its rich and unique tourist attractions, captivating landscapes, and ecological diversity rarely found elsewhere globally. This study aims to outline the historical progression, current state, and primary trajectories of Yemen’s tourism sector. Drawing upon secondary data including research studies, e-books, articles, reports, and websites highlighting specific features of Yemen's tourism industry, it establishes that Yemen holds vast opportunities for diverse forms of tourism. However, despite this promising outlook, achieving meaningful success in the tourism domain requires additional critical factors beyond mere potential—factors currently lacking in Yemen, particularly political stability and heightened awareness regarding tourism promotion. Keyword: Cultural heritage, Arabia Felix, Yemen, irrigation, historical cultural geography, history, Marib Dam, tourism © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.
Smart tourism is a new catchphrase used to describe the increasing dependence of tourism destinations, industries and tourists on evolving forms of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The new ICT, or the Internet of Things and emerging Internet of Nano-Things is gaining enormous popularity in the world of modern wireless telecommunications that allow for massive quantities of data to be transformed into value propositions. The paper defines smart tourism, sheds light on current smart tourism trends, and then lays out its technological benefits and prospects as well as potential risks. The paper further draws attention to both international and national projects regarding smart tourism in the EU and Serbia. Keywords: Smart tourism, Internet of Things, Internet of Nano Things © 2026 Serbian Geographical Society, Belgrade, Serbia. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Serbia.