Publishing frequency: 2 issues per year Editor-in-Chief: Matjaž Tratnik LeXonomica is an open access peer-reviewed international journal for the study of law and economics. It is published twice a year, in June and December by University of Maribor, University Press and co-published by the Faculty of Law (Slovenia) and Institute for Economic Analysis of Law at the University of Maribor, Faculty of Law (Slovenia). The journal publishes articles that contribute to the better understanding and practice of law and economics and which are of interest to scholars, policy analysts, policymakers and practitioners. The focus of the journal is on the critical analysis of developments in law and economics throughout the world. Indexing: Emerging Sources Citation Index database (Web of Science), ScienceOpen, Dimensions. Licence: CC BY
University of Maribor, Faculty of Law, University Press
© Univerza v Mariboru, Pravna fakulteta, Univerzitetna založba Prosti pristop
Copyright in the Republic of Croatia in Light of the New Copyright and Related Rights Act
The aim of this paper is to analyse the key changes introduced by the Croatian Copyright and Related Rights Act of 2021, particularly in the context of harmonisation with European Union law. Special attention is devoted to the historical development of copyright, the legal framework, and the digital environment, including the liability of online platforms, new rules governing the use of content, and the expansion of the rights of right holders. The paper also examines criticisms of the new Act, as well as the challenges and issues that have emerged in practice following its adoption. A range of scientific methods is employed, including inductive and deductive reasoning, methods of analysis and synthesis, abstraction and concretisation, generalisation and specialisation, classification, description, historical analysis, compilation, and comparative analysis. The paper concludes by confirming the initial hypothesis. It finds that the new Act represents an important step in the modernisation of the Croatian copyright system; however, its full effectiveness will depend on how its provisions are applied and interpreted in legal practice. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language): Namen tega članka je analizirati ključne spremembe, ki jih je uvedel hrvaški Zakon o avtorskih in sorodnih pravicah iz leta 2021, zlasti v okviru usklajevanja s pravom Evropske unije. Posebna pozornost je namenjena zgodovinskemu razvoju avtorskih pravic, pravnemu okviru in digitalnemu okolju (vključno z odgovornostjo spletnih platform), novimi pravili, ki urejajo uporabo vsebin, ter razširitvijo upravičenj imetnikov pravic. V prispevku so obravnavane tudi kritike novega zakona ter izzivi in vprašanja, ki so se pojavila v praksi po njegovem sprejetju. Uporabljene so različne znanstvene metode, vključno z induktivnim in deduktivnim sklepanjem, metodami analize in sinteze, abstrahiranja in konkretizacije, generalizacije, klasifikacije, deskripcije, zgodovinske analize, kompilacije in primerjalne analize. Članek se zaključi s potrditvijo izhodiščne hipoteze. Ugotavljamo, da novi zakon predstavlja pomemben korak v modernizaciji hrvaškega sistema avtorskega prava; vendar bo njegova polna učinkovitost odvisna od tega, kako se bodo njegove določbe uporabljale in razlagale v pravni praksi.
Copyright (c) 2026 University of Maribor, University Press https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Athletes' Data Protection Under the Slovenian, EU and International Regulations
The article outlines the athletes' data protection framework in Slovenia and addresses selected internationally recognised issues within this context. When it comes to athletes' data, we distinguish the competition data and performance data. The latter is particularly vulnerable and, at the same time, desired by various clubs or event organisers who want to monetise this data solely for their own benefit. In some cases, misuse or unlawful disclosures occur due to a lack of legal bases. However, in some other examples, the legal basis is provided by law – that is, especially common in cases of more comprehensive data collections gathered by official bodies or authorities, such as the Ministry of Sport. Furthermore, the article presents several legal acts that either directly or indirectly protect athletes' data. Even though the protection does not always specifically address athletes, but rather individuals in general, that does not mean the protection is inadequate or insufficient. Finally, the paper also addresses more specific topics – athletes' data protection in the event of anti-doping rule violations, as well as the particular regulation of athletes' health data. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language): Članek opisuje sistem varstva podatkov športnikov v Sloveniji. V tej zvezi razlikujemo med podatki o tekmovanjih in podatki o zmogljivosti. Slednji so še posebej občutljivi, a hkrati zelo zaželeni s strani različnih klubov ali organizatorjev prireditev, ki želijo te podatke izkoristiti izključno v lastno korist. V nekaterih primerih pride do zlorabe ali protipravnega razkritja osebnih podatkov zaradi pomanjkljive pravne ureditve. V nekaterih drugih primerih pa je ustrezna pravna podlaga za varstvo športnika podana – to je še posebej pogosto v primerih obsežnejših zbirk podatkov, ki jih zbirajo uradni organi ali oblasti, kot je Ministrstvo za šport. Članek prav tako predstavlja več pravnih aktov, ki neposredno ali posredno varujejo podatke športnikov. Dejstvo, da v mednarodnem ali nacionalnem pravu pravno varstvo ni vedno neposredno podeljeno športnikom, ampak posameznikom v bolj splošnem smislu, še ne pomeni, da jevarstvo športnikov kaj slabše ali nezadostno. Nenazadnje pa članek naslavlja tudi nekatere bolj specifične teme, kot denimo varstvo podatkov športnikov v primeru kršitev protidopinških pravil, posebno ureditev podatkov o zdravju športnikov.
Passing of Risk under CISG and Incoterms 2020 Rules: Legal framework and Contractual Autonomy
This article examines the relationship between CISG and Incoterms as key instruments regulating international sales contracts. Both frameworks reflect party autonomy, enabling parties to adapt contractual terms to the needs of modern global trade. CISG applies by default to international sales contracts under Art. 1 CISG, unless expressly excluded, while Incoterms apply through contractual incorporation or established usage. The article examines that Incoterms do not replace CISG but function alongside it, particularly regarding delivery and transfer of risk. Because Incoterms connect risk transfer to logistical events and CISG relies on legal criteria, inconsistencies may cause disputes when contracts are poorly drafted. In such cases, courts and tribunals interpret the parties’ agreement through Arts. 8, 9 CISG rather than redefining obligations. The article emphasizes that, despite some ambiguities in CISG’s risk provisions, it remains a major achievement in harmonizing international sales law. When combined with Incoterms, it provides a more effective framework for allocating risk and responsibilities. The article concludes that disputes are best avoided through clear drafting that regulates CISG’s role, the relevant Incoterms rule, and defines the parties’ obligations. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language): Članek obravnava razmerje med CISG in Incoterms kot ključnima instrumentoma mednarodne prodaje blaga. Oba odražata avtonomijo strank, saj omogočata prilagoditev pogodbenih določb potrebam konkretnega razmerja in zahtevam sodobne svetovne trgovine. CISG se na podlagi 1. člena CISG uporablja za mednarodne prodajne pogodbe, razen če je izrecno izključen, Incoterms pa veljajo, kadar se stranki nanje sklicujeta izrecno ali molče. Avtorica analizira njuno razmerje in medsebojni vpliv ter poudarja, da Incoterms CISG ne nadomeščajo, temveč ga dopolnjujejo, zlasti glede izročitve in prehoda nevarnosti naključnega uničenja, izgube ali poškodovanja blaga s prodajalca na kupca. Ker Incoterms prehod nevarnosti vežejo na logistične dogodke, CISG pa na pravna merila, lahko nejasne pogodbene določbe povzročijo spore. V takih primerih sodišča določbe in namen strank razlagajo v skladu z 8. in 9. členom CISG. Avtorica poudarja, da CISG kljub nekaterim dvoumnim ali splošnim določbam o prenosu rizika ostaja pomemben dosežek na področju harmonizacije mednarodne prodaje blaga. Skupaj z Incoterms zagotavlja učinkovitejši okvir za presojo tveganj in odgovornosti. Stranke naj v izogib nejasnostim in morebitnim sporom pogodbe oblikujejo jasno in določno ter natančno opredelijo uporabo klavzul Incoterms in obveznosti po CISG.
Procedural Balance or Structural Disadvantage? Legal Remedies and Defence Rights in European Investigation Order
As cross-border crime has increased, obtaining evidence from abroad has become crucial to effective prosecution. EU cross-border cooperation for evidence gathering has evolved from mutual legal assistance to instruments such as the European Investigation Order (EIO), which combines mutual assistance and mutual recognition and has significantly accelerated procedures. However, despite its advanced and structured regulation, the position of the defence in the EIO procedures remains uncertain in some countries. Directive 2014/41/EU does not provide a sufficient legal basis for the defence to issue an EIO independently, nor does it establish an explicit right to appeal against its issuance or execution. Although fundamental rights under the EU Charter and the ECHR apply to EIO proceedings, these standards are broadly framed and allow national discretion. The CJEU has taken a step forward, notably in Gavanozov II, highlighting the importance of legal remedies in EIO proceedings. Nonetheless, national criminal procedures still differ in key aspects, and significant gaps remain at the EU level in ensuring effective defence rights. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language) Z naraščanjem čezmejnega kriminala je pridobivanje dokazov iz tujine postalo eden ključnih vidikov učinkovitega kazenskega pregona. Sodelovanje med državami članicami Evropske unije se je postopoma razvijalo od sistema medsebojne pravne pomoči do uvedbe evropskega preiskovalnega naloga (EPN), ki združuje elemente medsebojne pomoči in načela vzajemnega priznavanja ter je bistveno pospešil in poenostavil pridobivanje dokazov v čezmejnih primerih. Navkljub novi ureditvi pa položaj obrambe v okviru EPN ostaja nejasen in mestoma negotov. Direktiva 2014/41/EU namreč ne zagotavlja zadostne pravne podlage, da bi obramba lahko samostojno izdala EPN, prav tako pa ne določa izrecne pravice do pritožbe zoper njegovo izdajo ali izvršitev. Čeprav se temeljne pravice iz Listine EU in EKČP uporabljajo tudi v postopkih z EPN, so ti standardi oblikovani široko in dopuščajo nacionalno diskrecijo. Sodišče Evropske unije je naredilo korak naprej, zlasti v zadevi Gavanozov II, in poudarilo pomen pravnih sredstev tudi v postopkih z EPN. Kljub temu se nacionalni kazenski postopki še vedno razlikujejo v ključnih vidikih, pomembne vsebinske vrzeli pa pri zagotavljanju učinkovitega varstva pravic obrambe na ravni EU še vedno ostajajo v postopkih z EPN.
Codification of Inspection: A Comparative Analysis of Croatia, Slovenia, and Serbia
Inspection is a key function of public administration in every legal system, as its implementation ensures that natural and legal persons act in accordance with the law. For inspection to fulfil its purpose, it is essential to ensure quality legal regulation. This paper analyses the contribution of codifying inspection rules to the more effective implementation of this procedure. Particular attention is given to the normative framework governing inspection in Croatia, which is currently regulated by numerous laws. Using a comparative legal method, the paper examines the legal frameworks in Slovenia and Serbia as examples of neighbouring countries where the rules on inspection have been codified. Based on the analysis conducted, the advantages of codifying inspection rules are assessed, and consideration is given to how the introduction of such codification could improve the quality of the legal regulation of inspection in the Republic of Croatia. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language): Inšpekcija je ključna funkcija javne uprave v vsakem pravnem sistemu, saj njeno izvajanje zagotavlja, da fizične in pravne osebe delujejo v skladu z zakonom. Da bi inšpekcija izpolnila svoj namen, je nujno zagotoviti kakovostno pravno ureditev. Ta članek analizira prispevek kodifikacije inšpekcijskih pravil k učinkovitejšemu izvajanju tega postopka. Posebna pozornost je namenjena normativnemu okviru, ki ureja inšpekcijo na Hrvaškem, ki je trenutno urejena s številnimi zakoni. S pomočjo primerjalno-pravne metode članek preučuje pravne okvire v Sloveniji in Srbiji kot primerih sosednjih držav, kjer so bila pravila o inšpekciji kodificirana. Na podlagi opravljene analize so ocenjene prednosti kodifikacije inšpekcijskih pravil ter napravljena razprava o tem, kako bi uvedba takšne kodifikacije lahko izboljšala kakovost pravne ureditve inšpekcije v Republiki Hrvaški.
inspection, codification, quality of legal regulation, legal certainty, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia
The Constitutionality of the Non-Recognition of Domestic Partnerships in South Africa: Revisited
Marriage has traditionally been defined as the legally recognized voluntary union for life in common of one man and one woman, to the exclusion of all others while it lasts. Whether this definition still holds true for South Africa is questionable as major changes in societal attitudes and behaviour reflect a growing number of different or alternate lifestyles. Currently, there is an increasing number of couples who choose to live together without formalizing their relationship in the eyes of the law. These relationships where couples live together and set up a common household are. referred to as domestic partnerships. South African family law only affords legal protection and recognition to civil marriages solemnised in terms of statutory law. The protection afforded to civil marriages does not extend to domestic partnerships. The question which arises is whether the law’s refusal to grant legal recognition and protection to domestic partnerships can be regarded as unconstitutional. Povzetek Zakonska zveza je bila tradicionalno opredeljena kot zakonsko priznana prostovoljna zveza za skupno življenje enega moškega in ene ženske, ki izključuje vse druge, dokler traja. Ali ta opredelitev še vedno velja za Južno Afriko, je vprašljivo, saj velike spremembe v družbenih odnosih in vedenju odražajo vse večje število različnih ali alternativnih načinov življenja. Trenutno je vse več parov, ki se odločijo za skupno življenje, ne da bi svojo zvezo formalizirali v očeh zakona. Ti odnosi, v katerih pari živijo skupaj in ustvarijo skupno gospodinjstvo, se imenujejo partnerske skupnosti. Južnoafriško družinsko pravo zagotavlja pravno zaščito in priznanje le civilnim zakonskim zvezam, sklenjenim v skladu z zakonskimi določbami. Zaščita, ki jo zagotavlja civilna zakonska zveza, se ne razteza na partnerske skupnosti. Vprašanje, ki se poraja, je, ali se lahko zavrnitev zakonskega priznanja in zaščite partnerskih skupnosti (na ravni zakona) šteje za neustavno.
Copyright (c) 2025 University of Maribor, University Press https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Time-varying Granger Causality Between Health Care and Economic Activity in the United States
The COVID-19 epidemic has led to the need to analyse the relationship between health care and the economy. This paper analyses the time-varying relationship between health care and economic activity in the United States, filling a gap in the literature. Using time-varying Granger causality, the study provides empirical evidence of a time-varying causal relationship between health care spending and industrial production, which has important policy implications. Povzetek Epidemija covida-19 je spodbudila potrebo po analizi razmerja med zdravstveno oskrbo in gospodarstvom. Ta članek analizira časovno spremenljivo razmerje med zdravstveno oskrbo in gospodarsko aktivnostjo v Združenih državah Amerike ter zapolnjuje vrzel v obstoječi literaturi. Z uporabo časovno spremenljive Grangerjeve vzročnosti raziskava ponuja empirične dokaze o časovno spremenljivem vzročnem razmerju med izdatki za zdravstvo in industrijsko proizvodnjo, kar ima pomembne posledice za oblikovanje politik.
Protection of Workers in Relation to the Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace
This article examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on all stages of the employment relationship and analyses whether the current legal framework adequately protects workers from the risks posed by the use of AI in the workplace. The focus is on Slovenian labour law, while also considering relevant international and EU legal sources such as the AI Act, the Directive on Improving Working Conditions in Platform Work, the GDPR, and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. The author addresses legal challenges including discrimination, data protection, privacy, occupational safety and health, and liability for damages. The article finds that while some protective mechanisms already exist, none of the analysed legal sources comprehensively regulate AI use in employment relationships. To ensure effective worker protection, the author argues for either the amendment of current laws or the adoption of dedicated legislation. Since AI will play an even more significant role in Labour Law in the future, it is crucial for the law to adapt in a timely manner to the new challenges posed by AI. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language): Ta članek obravnava vpliv umetne inteligence na vse faze delovnega razmerja ter analizira, ali obstoječi pravni okvir ustrezno varuje delavce pred tveganji, ki jih prinaša uporaba umetne inteligence v delovnem okolju. Članek se osredotoča na slovensko delovno pravo, pri čemer upošteva in analizira mednarodne in pravne vire EU, kot so Akt o umetni inteligenci, Direktiva o izboljšanju delovnih pogojev pri delu prek spletnih platform, Splošna uredba o varstvu podatkov (GDPR) in Listina EU o temeljnih pravicah. Avtorica obravnava pravne izzive uporabe umetne inteligence v delovnem okolju, kot so diskriminacija, varstvo podatkov, zasebnost, varnost in zdravje pri delu ter odgovornost za povzročeno škodo. Ugotavlja, da čeprav že obstajajo nekateri zaščitni mehanizmi, nobeden izmed analiziranih pravnih virov ne ureja uporabe umetne inteligence v delovnih razmerjih celovito. Za zagotovitev učinkovite zaščite delavcev avtorica zagovarja bodisi spremembo obstoječe zakonodaje bodisi sprejetje posebne zakonodaje. Ker bo umetna inteligenca v prihodnosti igrala še pomembnejšo vlogo na področju delovnega prava, je ključno, da se pravo pravočasno prilagodi novim izzivom, ki jih prinaša umetna inteligenca.
Copyright (c) 2025 University of Maribor, University Press https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Post-Contractual Non-Compete Clause in Commercial Agency Contracts
This paper deals with the legal regime governing post-contractual non-compete clauses in commercial agency contracts, analysing Slovenian legislation and its compliance with Directive 86/653/EEC. The Slovenian Obligations Code (OZ) requires the mandatory payment of compensation for compliance with a non-compete clause only in cases where the contract is terminated for reasons attributable to the principal. The author stresses that such a regime may lead to a restriction of contractual freedom without adequate compensation, which is not in line with the spirit of the Directive. Based on a review of the regimes in respect of non-compete clauses after the termination of a commercial agency contract in various European countries, including Croatia, the author finds that the regimes vary considerably between countries. The paper also focuses on the impact of non-compete clauses on indemnity, as the OZ requires such clauses to be taken into consideration in determining the amount. The author draws attention to the need for a fair balance of interests and for legislation to be revised to ensure that agents are protected against disproportionate restrictions without adequate compensation. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language): Članek obravnava pravno ureditev konkurenčne klavzule po prenehanju pogodbe o trgovskem zastopanju, v okviru katere analizira slovensko zakonodajo in njeno skladnost z Direktivo 86/653/EGS. Slovenski Obligacijski zakonik (OZ) zahteva obvezno plačevanje odmene za spoštovanje konkurenčne klavzule zgolj v primerih, ko je pogodba prenehala zaradi razlogov na strani naročitelja. Po mnenju avtorja takšna ureditev lahko vodi v omejitev pogodbene svobode brez ustreznega plačila, kar ni v skladu z duhom direktive. Na podlagi pregleda ureditev konkurenčne klavzule po prenehanju pogodbe o trgovskem zastopanju v različnih evropskih državah, tudi na Hrvaškem, avtor ugotavlja, da se ureditev po posameznih državah zelo razlikuje. Avtor se osredotoča tudi na vpliv konkurenčne klavzule na odpravnino, saj OZ zahteva njeno upoštevanje pri določanju višine. Opozarja tudi na potrebo po pravičnem ravnotežju interesov in prilagoditvi zakonodaje, ki bi zagotavljala zaščito zastopnika pred nesorazmernimi omejitvami brez primernega nadomestila.
monthly compensation for post-contractual non-compete clause
Enforcement and Enforceability of Court Settlements in the European Union
Court settlements, as instruments of amicable dispute resolution, represent a flexible procedural tool that also serves as an enforcement title document. As such, these instruments are known in all of the Member States of the European Union (EU) and are included under the rules of EU’s private international law regulations, which offer a legal basis for their cross-border enforcement. However, challenges persist due to varying regulation and understanding of court settlements at the national level, as well as due to the ambiguities in the EU’s cross-border enforcement rules, leading to potential misinterpretations in practice. Thus, this paper firstly aims to explore what exactly constitutes a ‘court settlement’, both at the national and at the EU level. Based on this definition, it then examines the EU regulatory framework, specifically within the selected EU regulations, to assess whether further improvements are necessary. The answers to the research questions are found through case law analysis, exploration of academic literature, and particularly on the basis of the relevant provisions of the EU regulations that were selected for this research. Povzetek Sodne poravnave kot instrumenti sporazumnega reševanja sporov predstavljajo prilagodljivo postopkovno orodje, ki služi tudi kot izvršilni naslov. Kot takšni so ti instrumenti znani v vseh državah članicah Evropske unije (EU) in so vključeni v pravila mednarodnega zasebnega prava EU, ki zagotavljajo pravno podlago za njihovo čezmejno izvrševanje. Vendar pa izzivi ostajajo zaradi različnih predpisov in razumevanja sodnih poravnav na nacionalni ravni ter zaradi nejasnosti v pravilih EU o čezmejni izvršbi, kar v praksi vodi do morebitnih napačnih razlag. Zato je prvi cilj predmetnega prispevka raziskati, kaj točno predstavlja „sodna poravnava“ na nacionalni ravni in na ravni EU. Na podlagi te opredelitve prispevek nato naslovi regulativni okvir EU, zlasti v izbranih uredbah EU, za ugotovitev ali so potrebne nadaljnje izboljšave. Odgovori na raziskovalna vprašanja temeljijo na analizi sodne prakse, preučitvi znanstvene literature ter zlasti na podlagi ustreznih določb uredb EU, ki so bile izbrane za to raziskavo.
Navigating Through Habitual Residence Determination
Within the private international law area today, habitual residence seems to be omnipresent. Almost irrespective of the context, there seems to be no more appealing connecting factor than a habitual residence. It makes one wonder what exactly is so appealing about it. Is it the ease of determining habitual residence? Or maybe legal certainty? Uniformity? Flexibility? All these questions are legitimate and require answers in order to grasp the concept, its advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, this article provides an overview of the development of the concept, both in theory and in case law, with the aim of consolidating existing knowledge and seeking answers to the remaining questions. Povzetek Na področju mednarodnega zasebnega prava gre dandanes zaznati, da je običajno prebivališče vseprisotno. Skoraj ne glede na kontekst se zdi, da ni bolj atraktivnega povezovalnega dejavnika kot običajno prebivališče. To vzbuja vprašanje, kaj točno je tako atraktivno. Je to enostavnost določanja običajnega prebivališča? Ali morda pravna varnost? Enotnost? Prilagodljivost? Vsa ta vprašanja so upravičena in zahtevajo odgovore, da bi lahko razumeli predmetni pojem ter njegove prednosti in slabosti. Zato ta članek ponuja pregled razvoja koncepta, tako v teoriji kot v sodni praksi, z namenom utrditi obstoječe znanje in poiskati odgovore na odprta vprašanja. Acknowledgment The authors acknowledge that the work on this paper has been funded by the Faculty of Law, University of Split, under the project nr. 18 – „The impact of migration on status issues (UMSP)“.
Strategic Integration of Sustainability, Circular Economy, and Blockchain in Slovenian Urban Governance
Slovenia has 12 urban municipalities, each with a sustainable development strategy aligned with the Agenda 2030 framework and valid through 2030. This paper examines how these strategies incorporate emerging technologies, particularly blockchain, and innovative sustainability concepts such as the circular economy. Achieving the goals of Agenda 2030, especially transitioning to a circular economy, requires doubling energy efficiency by 2030. While blockchain and the circular economy have often been studied separately, this research explores their intersection within the context of urban sustainability. The study applies qualitative content analysis to the official development strategies of all 12 urban municipalities. This analysis is complemented by semi-structured interviews with senior officials from the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy, and the Vice Mayor of Ljubljana, providing institutional perspectives on strategic priorities and implementation logic. This is the first comprehensive analysis of how Slovenian urban municipalities address the interconnected themes of sustainability, circular economy, and blockchain technology. The findings contribute to academic discussions and offer practical recommendations to enhance innovation in urban sustainability planning. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language): Slovenija ima 12 mestnih občin, vsaka z lastno strategijo trajnostnega razvoja, ki je usklajena z okvirom Agende 2030. Prispevek preučuje, kako te strategije vključujejo nove tehnologije, zlasti tehnologijo veriženja blokov (blockchain), ter inovativne trajnostne koncepte, kot je krožno gospodarstvo. Za dosego ciljev Agende 2030, predvsem pri prehodu na krožno gospodarstvo, je treba do leta 2030 podvojiti energetsko učinkovitost. Medtem ko sta blockchain in krožno gospodarstvo pogosto raziskana ločeno, ta raziskava proučuje njuno presečišče v kontekstu trajnosti mest. Študija uporablja kvalitativno analizo vsebine uradnih razvojnih strategij vseh 12 mestnih občin. Analizo dopolnjujejo polstrukturirani intervjuji z visokimi uradniki Ministrstva za okolje, podnebje in energijo ter s podžupanom Mestne občine Ljubljana, ki podajo institucionalne poglede na strateške prioritete. To je prva celovita analiza, kako slovenske mestne občine obravnavajo medsebojno povezane teme trajnosti, krožnega gospodarstva in tehnologije veriženja blokov. Ugotovitve prispevajo k akademskim razpravam in ponujajo praktična priporočila za krepitev inovativnosti pri načrtovanju trajnostnega razvoja mest. Acknowledgment The author acknowledges the financial support from the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency (project “Corporate accountability, human rights, and climate change: Towards coherent and just Slovenian and international legal order”, ID JP-50171”).
The Right to Rest and Disconnect in the Slovenian Legal System – A Legal Reform in the Making
The author discusses the legal aspects of the regulation of the right to daily and weekly rest and right to disconnect. The primary focus is on the study of Slovenian normative legal framework (with an emphasis on the amendment to the Employment Relationships Act, through which Slovenia regulated the right to disconnect). The measures to ensure the right to disconnect that employers must adopt (until 16th November 2024) should be, if possible, established through the collective agreement at the sector level. However, if a collective agreement with relevant content is not concluded, employers will have to adopt the measures themselves in their general acts. Following the review of sector collective agreements in the Republic of Slovenia (in September 2024), the author concludes that most collective agreements do not yet regulate the right to disconnect, and those that do, lack the necessary measures. Therefore, the inclusion of the right to disconnect at the statutory level has, so far, not resulted in any amendments to collective agreements regarding the right to disconnect. It should be noted that further research (of this kind) will have to be carried out in the forthcoming period in order to fully assess the impact of the legal reform in question. Povzetek Avtorica obravnava pravne vidike urejanja pravice do dnevnega in tedenskega počitka ter pravice do odklopa. Pri tem se osredotoča predvsem na normativni okvir slovenskega pravnega reda (s poudarkom na obravnavi novele Zakona o delovnih razmerjih (ZDR-1D), s katero je bila v Sloveniji uvedena pravica do odklopa). Ukrepi za zagotavljanje pravice do odklopa, ki jih morajo sprejeti delodajalci (do 16. novembra 2024), naj bodo, če je to mogoče, določeni v kolektivni pogodbi na ravni dejavnosti. Vendar pa, če do sklenitve kolektivne pogodbe z relevantno vsebino ne pride, bodo morali delodajalci ukrepe sprejeti sami v svojih splošnih aktih. Po pregledu kolektivnih pogodb na ravni dejavnosti v Republiki Sloveniji (v septembru 2024), avtorica ugotavlja, da večina veljavnih kolektivnih pogodb še ne ureja pravice do odklopa, tiste, ki jo urejajo, pa ne določajo ukrepov. Torej, vključitev pravice do odklopa na zakonsko raven do sedaj ni privedla do sprememb kolektivnih pogodb glede ureditve pravice do odklopa. Ob tem je treba izpostaviti, da bo za celovito oceno učinkov predmetnih zakonskih sprememb treba izvesti nadaljnje (tovrstne) raziskave še v prihajajočem časovnem obdobju.
Copyright (c) 2024 University of Maribor, University Press https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Imperative of Revising the Arbitration Exception in the Brussels I bis Regulation
Arbitration represents a popular alternative dispute resolution mechanism in the European Union (EU). However, the coexistence of arbitration and court litigation in the EU legal area has been proven to be quite difficult to regulate. At the EU level, the Brussels I bis Regulation, i.e., the main instrument governing jurisdiction and recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters, explicitly states that arbitration does not fall under its scope. This ‘arbitration exception’ has led to difficulties in practice, many of which have found their way to the Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU). However, as the CJEU case law shows, it only led to new questions. As these issues will keep emerging, a different solution must be found. The perfect moment for such change is now, as the reform of the Brussels I bis Regulation is ongoing. This paper thus presents the intricacies of the ‘thorny’ interplay of arbitration and court litigation in the EU. In order to remedy the existing problems in practice, two potential solutions are suggested. Povzetek članka v slovenskem jeziku (abstract in Slovene language): Arbitraža je v Evropski uniji (EU) priljubljen mehanizem alternativnega reševanja sporov. Vendar se je izkazalo, da je soobstoj arbitraže in sodnih postopkov na pravnem področju EU precej težko urediti. Na ravni EU je v uredbi Bruselj I bis, tj. glavnem instrumentu, ki ureja pristojnost ter priznavanje in izvrševanje sodnih odločb v civilnih in gospodarskih zadevah, izrecno navedeno, da arbitraža ne spada na njeno področje uporabe. Zaradi te „arbitražne izjeme“ so se v praksi pojavile težave, od katerih jih je veliko prišlo do Sodišča EU (SEU). Vendar je, kot kaže sodna praksa Sodišča EU, privedla le do novih vprašanj. Ker se bodo ta vprašanja še naprej pojavljala, je treba najti drugačno rešitev. Idealen trenutek za takšno spremembo je zdaj, ko poteka reforma uredbe Bruselj I bis. V tem prispevku so tako predstavljene zapletene podrobnosti „kočljivega“ prepletanja arbitraže in sodnih postopkov v EU. Za odpravo obstoječih težav v praksi sta predlagani dve možni rešitvi.
A Plaidoyer on State Bankruptcy: Between Economic Reality and Legal Impossibility
The history of financial crises and their serious consequences have made them a key interest for both academics and policymakers. During periods of economic growth, bankruptcy was mainly viewed as a mechanism to eliminate uncompetitive firms. However, current global economic conditions, including inflation, decreased demand, rising production costs, the energy crisis, and financial collapses in certain markets, have made it difficult for many companies to service their debts. Outdated bankruptcy regulations have worsened the situation. In the context of globalization and the internationalization of business, modernizing bankruptcy laws has become essential. Various international institutions have advocated for reforms, including redefining the concept of state bankruptcy. This paper aims to analyze the role of the state in bankruptcy, focusing not on its role as a commercial creditor or debtor but as a potential subject of bankruptcy itself. Povzetek Zgodovina finančnih kriz in njihove resne posledice so postale ključnega pomena za akademike in oblikovalce politik. V obdobjih gospodarske rasti se je na stečaj gledalo predvsem kot na mehanizem za izločitev nekonkurenčnih podjetij. Vendar so sedanje svetovne gospodarske razmere, vključno z inflacijo, zmanjšanim povpraševanjem, naraščajočimi proizvodnimi stroški, energetsko krizo in finančnimi zlomi na nekaterih trgih, mnogim podjetjem otežile odplačevanje dolgov. Zastareli stečajni predpisi so razmere še poslabšali. Zaradi globalizacije in internacionalizacije poslovanja je posodobitev stečajne zakonodaje postala nujna. Različne mednarodne institucije so se zavzele za reforme, vključno s ponovno opredelitvijo koncepta državnega stečaja. Namen tega prispevka je analizirati vlogo države v stečaju, pri čemer se ne osredotočamo na njeno vlogo kot poslovnega upnika ali dolžnika, temveč kot potencialnega subjekta samega stečaja.
Is It High Time to Redefine the Legal Framework on Cohabitation in Family Law?
Cohabitation is an institution of Slovenian family law quite similar in effect to marriage in that it creates the same rights and obligations. However, unlike marriage, its existence must be proved in each individual proceeding separately which creates difficulties, particularly in practice. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that the existence of cohabitation in the Slovenian Family Code is defined exclusively using rather vaguely defined legal standards. In this article, the author gives an overview of the current relevant case-law of Slovenian courts on cohabitation and discusses the possibilities for future legal regulation of the establishment of this community. Povzetek Zunajzakonska skupnost je institut slovenskega družinskega prava, ki je po svojih učinkih zelo podoben zakonski zvezi, saj ustvarja enake pravice in obveznosti. Vendar pa je za razliko od zakonske zveze njen obstoj treba dokazovati v vsakem posameznem postopku posebej, kar v praksi povzroča težave. Te težave dodatno poglablja dejstvo, da je obstoj zunajzakonske skupnosti v slovenskem Družinskem zakoniku opredeljen z uporabo precej ohlapno določenih pravnih standardov. Avtorica v prispevku podaja pregled aktualne relevantne sodne prakse slovenskih sodišč glede zunajzakonske skupnosti ter obravnava možnosti za njeno prihodnjo pravno ureditev.
Steps Towards a Realisation of the Right to Have a Nationality
International standards regarding the acquisition and loss of nationality are increasingly being developed by various international institutions. This paper focusses on standard setting (in particular by the United Nations, the Council of Europe and the European Union) with relevance for European countries. While international treaties on or including rules on nationality law are addressed, attention is also given to soft law instruments such as guidelines and recommendations. Moreover, several new standards have also emerged from the decisions of international courts. The authors conclude that all these rules have as result that the margin of appreciation for national governments and courts in matters related to nationality law matters is getting increasingly smaller. Povzetek Različne mednarodne institucije vse bolj razvijajo mednarodne standarde glede pridobitve in izgube državljanstva. Ta članek se osredotoča na določanje standardov (zlasti s strani Združenih narodov, Sveta Evrope in Evropske unije), ki so pomembni za evropske države. Obravnavane so mednarodne pogodbe o pravu o državljanstvu ali vključno s pravili o njem, pozornost pa je namenjena tudi instrumentom mehkega prava, kot so smernice in priporočila. Poleg tega je več novih standardov nastalo tudi na podlagi odločitev mednarodnih sodišč. Avtorja ugotavljata, da je posledica vseh teh pravil, da se polje proste presoje nacionalnih vlad in sodišč v zadevah, povezanih s pravom o državljanstvu, vse bolj zmanjšuje.
Tourism-Driven Economies and Income Disparity: Insights From a Regression Discontinuity Design
This paper aims to answer two questions: (1) Does overtourism incline countries to favorise the capital asset holder instead of workers in income distribution? (2) Does income inequality come hand in hand with overtourism? Employing Kaldor's theory of income distribution, this study adapts its theoretical framework to assess countries with a specialization in tourism. The analysis encompasses data from 115 developed countries over the period of 2000 to 2019. A Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD) methodology is utilized for the empirical investigation, categorizing key variables based on the exposure of a country's unit to a tourism-focused developmental strategy. The study reveals that adopting overtourism as a developmental strategy has led to increased inequality, characterized by a rising capital share and a declining labor share over time. Evidence supporting these findings is presented through both parametric and non-parametric Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD) analyses. Robustness checks and placebo tests corroborate these results. Povzetek Namen tega prispevka je odgovoriti na dve vprašanji: (1) Ali prekomerni turizem spodbuja države, da pri porazdelitvi dohodka dajejo prednost imetnikom kapitalskih sredstev namesto delavcem? (2) Ali je dohodkovna neenakost povezana s prekomernim turizmom? Ta študija uporablja Kaldorjevo teorijo porazdelitve dohodka in njen teoretični okvir prilagaja za oceno držav, ki so specializirane za turizem. Analiza zajema podatke iz 115 razvitih držav v obdobju od leta 2000 do leta 2019. Za empirično preiskavo je uporabljena metodologija regresijskega diskontinuitetnega načrtovanja (RDD), ki ključne spremenljivke razvršča glede na izpostavljenost enote države razvojni strategiji, usmerjeni v turizem. Študija razkriva, da je sprejetje pretiranega turizma kot razvojne strategije povzročilo večjo neenakost, za katero je značilno, da se delež kapitala sčasoma povečuje, delež dela pa zmanjšuje. Dokazi, ki potrjujejo te ugotovitve, so predstavljeni s pomočjo parametričnih in neparametričnih analiz regresijske diskontinuitete (RDD). Preverjanja zanesljivosti in placebo testi potrjujejo te rezultate.
Copyright (c) 2024 University of Maribor, University Press
Analysing the EU Data Privacy Implications Resulting From Executive Order 14086: A Legal Perspective
The exchange of personal data between the EU and the USA has sparked intense debates and contentious discussions. This heightened attention can be attributed to significant disparities in data privacy regulations between the two regions, as well as mounting concerns surrounding the potential misuse of personal information by U.S. companies and government entities. In response to these concerns, the EU implemented the GDPR in 2018, which introduced stringent regulations aimed at safeguarding data privacy. Additionally, the GDPR imposed restrictions on the transfer of personal data to countries outside the EU that lack comparable data protection measures. One of the prominent legal challenges in this context relates to concerns over the adequacy of data protection in the USA, particularly in light of U.S. surveillance programs and the potential for government access to personal data. Povzetek Izmenjava osebnih podatkov med EU in ZDA je sprožila intenzivne razprave. To povečano pozornost je mogoče pripisati velikim razlikam v predpisih o varstvu podatkov med obema regijama, pa tudi vse večji zaskrbljenosti glede morebitne zlorabe osebnih podatkov s strani ameriških podjetij in vladnih organov. Kot odgovor na te pomisleke je EU leta 2018 uvedla uredbo GDPR, s katero so bili uvedeni strogi predpisi, namenjeni varovanju zasebnosti podatkov. Poleg tega je uredba GDPR uvedla omejitve za prenos osebnih podatkov v države zunaj EU, ki nimajo primerljivih ukrepov za varstvo podatkov. Eden od vidnejših pravnih izzivov v tem okviru je povezan s pomisleki glede ustreznosti varstva podatkov v ZDA, zlasti v luči ameriških programov nadzora in možnosti vladnega dostopa do osebnih podatkov.
The Legality of the Defensive Measures Taken by the USA and the UK in Response to the Houthi Attacks
The article delves into the legality of defensive actions taken by the USA and the UK in response to the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. Despite assertions that such actions are justified under the right to self-defence, legal ambiguities persist in international law. The authors argue that while attacks on merchant vessels by non-state actors may constitute armed aggression, clarity is lacking on whether they meet the criteria for self-defence. The USA and UK stress that attacks on their warships validate their defensive measures, framing them as necessary responses to significant threats. However, the authors contend that the principle of proportionality may have been disregarded, urging restraint in the use of force to safeguard ships while respecting Yemen’s sovereignty. The article underscores the need for a nuanced approach to assessing the legality and necessity of military actions in complex conflict scenarios. Povzetek Članek obravnava zakonitost obrambnih ukrepov ZDA in Združenega kraljestva kot odziv na napade Hutijev v Rdečem morju. Kljub trditvam, da so takšni ukrepi upravičeni na podlagi pravice do samoobrambe, v mednarodnem pravu še vedno obstajajo pravne nejasnosti. Avtorja trdita, da čeprav lahko napadi nedržavnih akterjev na trgovska plovila pomenijo oboroženo agresijo, ni jasno, ali izpolnjujejo merila za samoobrambo. ZDA in Združeno kraljestvo poudarjata, da napadi na njune vojaške ladje potrjujejo njune obrambne ukrepe, saj jih opredeljujeta kot nujen odziv na pomembne grožnje. Avtorja prispevka ugotavljata, da morda ni bilo upoštevano načelo sorazmernosti, in pozivata k zadržanosti pri uporabi sile za zaščito ladij ob spoštovanju suverenosti Jemna. Članek poudarja potrebo po diferenciranem pristopu k ocenjevanju zakonitosti in nujnosti vojaških ukrepov v zapletenih konfliktnih scenarijih.
Natural Person and Legal Entity as a Guarantor in the Croatian Criminal Law
The paper analyzes the specificity of unreal criminal offenses of omission, which is manifested in the fact that those criminal offenses are committed by the guarantor. Given the specificity and rarity of punishable conduct of omission, the paper analyzes the legal position of the guarantor (as a natural person or legal entity) whose duty is to protect certain, but not all, legal goods. In addition to the fact that responsibility for omission is exceptional, the statuses that individuals have in society are explained through the prism of the grounds of the guarantor duty in Croatian but also from the aspect of different legal systems. The concept of the legal bases of the guarantor's responsibility, which represent the sources of unlawfulness and culpability in the guarantor's duty, is elaborated in detail, with a special emphasis on the guarantor's actions in mistake. Povzetek V prispevku je analizirana posebnost kaznivih dejanj neprave opustitve, ki se kaže v tem, da ta kazniva dejanja izvrši garant. Glede na specifičnost in redkost kaznivih dejanj opustitve članek analizira pravni položaj garanta (kot fizične ali pravne osebe), katerega dolžnost je varovati določene, vendar ne vseh pravnih dobrin. Poleg dejstva, da je odgovornost za opustitev izjemna, so položaji, ki jih imajo posamezniki v družbi, pojasnjeni skozi prizmo razlogov za dolžnost garanta na hrvaškem, pa tudi z vidika drugih pravnih sistemov. Koncept pravnih podlag garantove odgovornosti, ki predstavljajo podlage za protipravnost in krivdo pri garantovi dolžnosti, je podrobno obdelan, s posebnim poudarkom na delovanju garanta v zmoti.
How the Use of Fees, Fines and Bail Have Been Used to Criminalize Poverty: Can Reforms Help Put the Genie Back in the Bottle?
The rallying cry of many American politicians is Law and Order. This tactic wins votes. As a result of its Wars on Crime, Drugs, and the Impoverished, America has the highest rate of incarceration in the world. This article explores how, over the past few decades, politicians have charged criminal defendants every imaginable fee and fine as they wind their way through the criminal justice system in order to fund the massive prison complex that the politicians do not want to tax Americans for. These tactics have criminalized poverty, as they disproportionately impact the most marginalized in American society. These abusive and unfair tactics have drawn scrutiny from policymakers in recent years, including the American Bar Association, which adopted stringent guidelines to help inform policymakers of this critical problem in an effort to reign in the abusive use of fees and fines. The paper discusses recent reforms, many at the urging of the Department of Justice, Office for Access to Justice, in conjunction with the ABA. It discusses the main Supreme Court cases that considered the Excessive Fines Clause of the Eighth Amendment. Povzetek Številni ameriški politiki se sklicujejo na zakon in red. Ta taktika prinaša glasove. Zaradi vojn proti kriminalu, drogam in obubožanim ima Amerika najvišji delež zapornikov na svetu. Ta članek raziskuje, kako so politiki v zadnjih nekaj desetletjih obdolžencem kaznivih dejanj zaračunavali vse možne pristojbine in globe, ko so se prebijali skozi kazenskopravni sistem, da bi financirali ogromen zaporniški kompleks, za katerega politiki nočejo plačevati davkov Američanom. Ta taktika je kriminalizirala revščino, saj nesorazmerno močno vpliva na najbolj marginalizirane v ameriški družbi. Te zlorabljajoče in nepoštene taktike so bile v zadnjih letih deležne pozornosti oblikovalcev politike, vključno z Ameriško odvetniško zbornico, ki je sprejela stroge smernice za pomoč pri obveščanju oblikovalcev politike o tem kritičnem problemu, da bi omejili zlorabljajočo uporabo pristojbin in glob. V dokumentu so obravnavane nedavne reforme, ki so bile številne izvedene na pobudo Urada za dostop do pravnega varstva pri Ministrstvu za pravosodje v sodelovanju z združenjem ABA. Obravnava glavne primere Vrhovnega sodišča, ki so obravnavali klavzulo o pretiranih globah iz osme spremembe.
An Event Study of Perindopril (Servier) Reverse Payment Patent Settlements' Case: Is Krka Truly an Exception Within the Pay-For-Delay Commission Decision?
The article aims to fill the gap in the literature on reverse payment patent settlements between patent-holders and generic pharmaceutical firms in EU competition law. Based on the event study of the Perindopril (Servier) case of the European Commission, the research provides a novel assessment of the welfare effects of Commission enforcement and the following judiciary decision on the legality of Commission sanctions. Within the case, the analysis paid particular attention to the generic corporation Krka because Commission fined Krka for the settlement with Servier that did not include the reverse payment, and the Commission decision did not survive the scrutiny of the General Court. The relative economic power of Krka in the perindopril market is also a factor that, together with the enforcement effect assessment, provides a different perspective of the event study's normative implications to the existing research. Povzetek Namen članka je zapolniti vrzel v literaturi o poravnavah v zvezi s povratnimi plačili med imetniki patentov in generičnimi farmacevtskimi podjetji na področju konkurenčnega prava EU. Raziskava temelji na študiji dogodka v zadevi Evropske komisije Perindopril (Servier) in zagotavlja novo oceno učinkov izvrševanja s strani Komisije na blaginjo in naknadne sodne odločitve o zakonitosti sankcij Komisije. V okviru primera je analiza posebno pozornost namenila generični korporaciji Krka, saj je Komisija naložila globo družbi Krka zaradi poravnave s podjetjem Servier, ki ni vključevala povratnega plačila, odločitev Komisije pa ni prestala presoje Splošnega sodišča. Relativna gospodarska moč družbe Krka na trgu perindoprila je prav tako dejavnik, ki skupaj z oceno učinka izvrševanja zagotavlja drugačen pogled na normativne posledice študije dogodka v primerjavi z obstoječimi raziskavami.
Copyright (c) 2023 University of Maribor, University Press
India's Courts and Artificial Intelligence: A Future Outlook
In recent years, the legal system has used artificial intelligence technology extensively. Artificial intelligence for judicial purposes is more efficient, knowledgeable, and impartial than human judges. It has its limitations, largely based on big data, algorithms, and computing power rather than organic intelligence. Judiciary artificial intelligence cannot completely replace human judges because of differences in conceptual framework, application scenario, and ability and potential. Unambiguously stating that judicial artificial intelligence is never a replacement for human judges is crucial. The study aims to investigate the legal issues and the various ways that AI impacts the legal system. The research methodology is qualitative, inductive and descriptive. Povzetek V zadnjih letih pravni sistem pogosto uporablja tehnologijo umetne inteligence. Umetna inteligenca je v sodne namene učinkovitejša, bolj kompetentna in nepristranska od človeških sodnikov. Ima svoje omejitve, saj večinoma temelji na velikih količinah podatkov, algoritmih in računalniški moči, ne pa na organski inteligenci. Umetna inteligenca v pravosodju ne more popolnoma nadomestiti človeških sodnikov zaradi razlik v konceptualnem okviru, scenariju uporabe ter sposobnosti in potenciala. Nedvoumna izjava, da sodniška umetna inteligenca nikoli ne bo nadomestila človeških sodnikov, je ključnega pomena. Namen študije je raziskati pravna vprašanja in različne načine, kako umetna inteligenca vpliva na pravni sistem. Metodologija raziskave je kvalitativna, induktivna in deskriptivna.
The Right to a Fair Trial of Legal Persons Throughout the Case Law of the ECHR and the CJEU
The ambition of this article is an analysis of the right to a fair trial of legal entities through the prism of the jurisprudence of the ECtHR and the CJEU. Despite the factual admission of the right to a fair trial to companies in the case law of the Courts, the absence of a strong theoretical foundation and persuasive explanation in their judgments raises ambiguity as to the ECtHR and the CJEU positions in that regard. In that context, the article examines landmark cases of both Courts and relevant doctrinal considerations concerning the application of guarantees provided by the right to a fair trial to legal persons. The ECtHR case law is considered inconsistent and the Strasbourg court, it appears, tries to avoid any far-reaching conclusions. The CJEU in its case law, due to the inherent focus of EU law on economic values, interprets the right to a fair trial of companies broadly, and sometimes, broader than it is needed. It is concluded that the issue requires more attention from both the Courts and legal scholars, in the view of serious consequences the ignorance and unfounded admission of any fundamental right could entail to the society and economy. Povzetek Namen tega članka je analiza pravice pravnih oseb do poštenega sojenja skozi prizmo sodne prakse ESČP in Sodišča EU. Kljub dejanskemu priznavanju pravice do poštenega sojenja gospodarskim družbam v sodni praksi sodišč odsotnost trdne teoretične podlage in prepričljive razlage v njihovih sodbah povzroča nejasnosti glede stališč ESČP in SEU v zvezi s tem. V tem kontekstu so v članku obravnavane prelomne zadeve obeh sodišč in ustrezni doktrinarni premisleki glede uporabe jamstev, ki jih zagotavlja pravica do poštenega sojenja, za pravne osebe. Sodna praksa ESČP velja za nedosledno, sodišče v Strasbourgu pa se, kot kaže, poskuša izogniti daljnosežnim sklepom. Sodišče EU v svoji sodni praksi zaradi inherentne osredotočenosti prava EU na gospodarske vrednote pravico do poštenega sojenja družb razlaga široko in včasih širše, kot je to potrebno. Ugotavlja se, da je treba temu vprašanju nameniti več pozornosti tako s strani sodišč kot pravnih strokovnjakov, in sicer zaradi resnih posledic, ki bi jih nepoznavanje in neutemeljeno priznavanje katere koli temeljne pravice lahko imelo za družbo in gospodarstvo.
Privacy and Data Protection Concerns in the Regulatory Framework of Slovenian Energy Law
The implementation of smart energy systems (SES) in the Slovenian energy sector has raised significant privacy and data protection concerns. The collection and processing of personal data from energy consumers, as well as cybersecurity threats, pose risks that must be addressed. The legal framework governing privacy and data protection in the energy field in Slovenia is based on the GDPR, ZOEE, ZVPot-1, ZVOP-2 and others, which impose significant obligations on entities processing personal data. To mitigate these risks, exact terminology must be used to implement privacy, data protection and also cybersecurity measures and ensure compliance with the legal framework. Povzetek Izvajanje pametnih energetskih sistemov (SES) v slovenskem energetskem sektorju je sprožilo precejšnje pomisleke glede zasebnosti in varstva podatkov. Zbiranje in obdelava osebnih podatkov odjemalcev energije ter grožnje kibernetski varnosti predstavljajo tveganja, ki jih je treba obravnavati. Pravni okvir, ki ureja zasebnost in varstvo podatkov na področju energetike v Sloveniji, temelji na GDPR, ZOEE, ZVPot-1, ZVOP-2 itd., ki subjektom, ki obdelujejo osebne podatke, nalagajo pomembne obveznosti. Za zmanjšanje teh tveganj je treba uporabljati natančno terminologijo za izvajanje ukrepov na področju zasebnosti, varstva podatkov in tudi kibernetske varnosti ter zagotavljati skladnost s pravnim okvirom.
Copyright (c) 2023 University of Maribor, University Press https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Some Comments on the Legal Regulation on Misinformation and Cyber Attacks Conducted Through Online Platforms
What are the tools to effectively manage the new threats to the free flow of opinions to protect this essential precondition for a pluralist social and political system? As a basis for action at the community level, how can we protect users who use internet platforms to inform themselves on issues of public interest from disinformation attacks through cyberspace? Effective action against cyber-attacks that adversely affect certain fundamental rights requires a combination of instruments, creating the technological, economic, human and legal conditions for meaningful counter-measures. In legal terms, the guarantees that platform providers must offer each user to prevent cyber attacks and illegal content should be laid down, and legal instruments should be put in place to ensure they are always available. In addition, in the event of misusing any content shared on the platform or of personal data made available to the operator, clear responsibilities should be established, and the extent to which the responsibility for protection lies with the platform operator or the user should be clarified. In our study, we outline regulatory options to address these challenges. Povzetek Kakšna so orodja za učinkovito obvladovanje novih groženj prostemu pretoku mnenj, da bi zaščitili ta bistveni pogoj za pluralni družbeni in politični sistem? Kako lahko uporabnike, ki uporabljajo spletne platforme za informiranje o vprašanjih javnega interesa, zaščitimo pred dezinformacijskimi napadi v kibernetskem prostoru kot podlago za ukrepanje na ravni skupnosti? Za učinkovito ukrepanje proti kibernetskim napadom, ki negativno vplivajo na nekatere temeljne pravice, je potrebna kombinacija instrumentov, ki ustvarjajo tehnološke, gospodarske, človeške in pravne pogoje za smiselne protiukrepe. V pravnem smislu je treba določiti jamstva, ki jih morajo ponudniki platform ponuditi vsakemu uporabniku za preprečevanje kibernetskih napadov in nezakonitih vsebin, ter vzpostaviti pravne instrumente, da bodo vedno na voljo. Poleg tega bi bilo treba v primeru zlorabe katere koli vsebine, ki se deli na platformi, ali osebnih podatkov, ki so na voljo upravljavcu, določiti jasne odgovornosti in pojasniti, v kolikšni meri je za zaščito odgovoren upravljavec platforme ali uporabnik. V naši študiji opisujemo regulativne možnosti za reševanje teh izzivov.
Climate Change-Related Displacement and the Determination of Refugee Status under the 1951 Refugee Convention
Climate change and climate-driven migration are two of the defining challenges of the twenty-first century, and there is no legal framework for protecting those displaced across national borders for climate-related reasons. The 1951 Refugee Convention hardly applies to human mobility in the context of climate change. This paper was written in the hopes of initiating a discussion concerning an alternative perspective through which persons fleeing natural disasters linked to climate change may satisfy the eligibility conditions for recognition of refugee status. Expanding the definition of refugee as defined in the Convention by including the notion of vulnerability to climate disasters that are caused by the underlying socio-economic conditions in the claimant’s home country and the role of discrimination in causing differential exposure to the climate-related disasters in legal definitions might open the door for the availability of refugee status for persons fleeing in the context of climate change. This paper proposes the adoption of a reformed human rights-based interpretation, particularly with regard to the individual nature of refugee status determination. Recalibrating the Convention to facilitate climate-induced migration could reduce political tension and social unrest in receiving countries. Povzetek Podnebne spremembe in migracije, ki jih povzroča podnebje, so eden od glavnih izzivov enaindvajsetega stoletja, vendar ni pravnega okvira za zaščito oseb, ki so zaradi podnebnih sprememb razseljene prek državnih meja. Konvencija o statusu beguncev iz leta 1951 se skorajda ne uporablja za mobilnost ljudi v okviru podnebnih sprememb. Ta dokument je bil napisan v upanju, da bo sprožil razpravo o alternativni perspektivi, s katero bi osebe, ki bežijo pred naravnimi nesrečami, povezanimi s podnebnimi spremembami, lahko izpolnile pogoje za priznanje statusa begunca. Razširitev opredelitve begunca, kot je opredeljena v Konvenciji, z vključitvijo pojma ranljivosti za podnebne nesreče, ki so posledica temeljnih družbenoekonomskih razmer v prosilčevi matični državi, in vloge diskriminacije pri povzročanju različne izpostavljenosti s podnebnimi nesrečami povezanim nesrečam v pravne opredelitve bi lahko odprla vrata za pridobitev statusa begunca za osebe, ki bežijo zaradi podnebnih sprememb. Ta dokument predlaga sprejetje reformirane razlage, ki temelji na človekovih pravicah, zlasti glede individualne narave določanja statusa begunca. Preoblikovanje Konvencije za olajšanje migracij, ki jih povzročajo podnebne spremembe, bi lahko zmanjšalo politične napetosti in socialne nemire v državah sprejema.
climate-driven migration or displacement
Enforcement of Choice of Court Agreements Granting International Jurisdiction to Albanian Courts
This paper aims to critically analyse the formal and substantive validity of choice of court agreements in favour of Albanian courts. The provisions of the Albanian Private International Law and their implementation by Albanian courts are in the focus. However, considering that the Albanian Private International Law provisions are approximated with the EU acquis communautaire and since the provisions on choice of courts agreements are drafted in terms that are fully compatible with the Council Regulation 44/2001 of December 22, 2000 "On Jurisdiction, Recognition and Implementation of Judicial Decisions in Civil Matters and Trade” (Brussels I Regulation), the interpretation of the Albanian law provisions is also done in the light of the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union. After a thorough analysis of the Albanian Private International Law provisions concerning choice of court agreements and of the Albanian case law, the paper concludes that they are not always interpreted and applied correctly and that the rich case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union can provide valuable guidance. Povzetek Namen tega prispevka je kritično analizirati formalno in vsebinsko veljavnost sporazumov o izbiri sodišča v korist albanskih sodišč. V ospredju so določbe albanskega mednarodnega zasebnega prava in njihovo izvajanje s strani albanskih sodišč. Ker pa so določbe albanskega mednarodnega zasebnega prava približane pravnemu redu EU in ker so določbe o sporazumih o izbiri sodišča oblikovane tako, da so v celoti skladne z Uredbo Sveta 44/2001 z dne 22. decembra 2000 „O pristojnosti, priznavanju in izvajanju sodnih odločb v civilnih in gospodarskih zadevah“ (Uredba Bruselj I), je razlaga določb albanskega prava opravljena tudi ob upoštevanju sodne prakse Sodišča Evropske unije. Po temeljiti analizi določb albanskega mednarodnega zasebnega prava o sporazumih o izbiri sodišča in albanske sodne prakse članek ugotavlja, da se te določbe ne razlagajo in uporabljajo vedno pravilno ter da lahko bogata sodna praksa Sodišča Evropske unije zagotovi dragocene smernice.
Protection of an Individual's Information Interest in the Light of Regulation No. 1049/2001 on Public Access to Documents of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission
The right to information, guaranteed by various legal acts, includes the right to access the content of documentation held by public entities. At the EU level, this right is regulated, inter alia, by Regulation (EU) No. 1049/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council, dated 30 May 2001, regarding public access to documents of the European Parliament, the Council, and the Commission. The act outlines various measures and mechanisms that can be assumed to constitute instruments for protecting an individual's information interest. This article provides an analysis of the relevant provisions, which regulate these instruments. The in-depth characterization aims to enable a stance on the correctness of the protective function attributed to access to EU documentation itself, as well as to its constituent elements. Povzetek Pravica do obveščenosti, ki jo zagotavljajo različni pravni akti, vključuje pravico do dostopa do vsebine dokumentacije, ki jo hranijo javni subjekti. Na ravni EU to pravico med drugim ureja Uredba (EU) št. 1049/2001 Evropskega parlamenta in Sveta z dne 30. maja 2001 o dostopu javnosti do dokumentov Evropskega parlamenta, Sveta in Komisije. V aktu so opisani različni ukrepi in mehanizmi, za katere se lahko domneva, da so instrumenti za zaščito posameznikovega informacijskega interesa. Ta članek vsebuje analizo ustreznih določb, ki urejajo te instrumente. Namen poglobljene karakterizacije je omogočiti stališče o pravilnosti zaščitne funkcije, ki se pripisuje samemu dostopu do dokumentacije EU, pa tudi njegovim sestavnim elementom.