This article investigates the evolving security practices of one of the key actors in the handling of asylum-seekers and migrants at the external borders of the European Union (EU) Member States, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, widely referred to as ‘Frontex’. It does so by applying a revised version of the Copenhagen School’s securitisation framework, which focuses on security practices and is underpinned by an understanding of security as belonging to a continuum. The article compares and contrasts the practices of Frontex in the context of two significant ‘migration crises’ in the Mediterranean, in 2005–2006 and 2015–2016, respectively. The analysis of the more recent practices of the Agency following the 2015–2016 ‘migration crisis’ shows that this ‘crisis’ has led to an intensification of the security practices of the Agency. Frontex has moved towards the end point of the continuum, which is characterised by survival, existential threats, and militarisation. This has contributed to a spiralling of the securitisation of migration in the EU.

The development of the EU asylum and migration policy is often explained as the result of ‘venue-shopping’, that is, the move by policy-makers to an EU policy venue in order to avoid national constraints. This article demonstrates that, contrary to what would have been expected on the basis of this widespread view, EU co-operation on asylum matters has actually led to a rise in the legal standards applicable to asylum-seekers and refugees. This outcome can be mainly explained by broader changes that have gradually affected the EU ‘system of venues’ and have thereby decreased the likelihood of more restrictive measures being adopted in the EU asylum policy venue. This has important implications for the EU governance of asylum and migration in general.

The hospitality industry stands at the forefront of addressing critical challenges in responsible consumption and production of food, and this research endeavors to spearhead transformative solutions by harnessing the power of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) technologies. In the contemporary context, where issues like global hunger, malnutrition, and the intricate dynamics of food adulteration significantly impact the industry's demand-supply mechanism, the integration of advanced technological strategies becomes paramount. This chapter strategically examines the role of ML and DL in achieving zero waste within the hospitality sector, offering a nuanced exploration of challenges and presenting innovative strategies to thwart food loss-waste management.

Climate-smart technologies emerge as the nexus where sustainable agriculture and AI converge. These technologies encompass a wide array of solutions that harness AI to make agriculture more resilient in the face of climatic challenges. Through sensor networks, remote sensing, and data analytics, farmers can access real-time weather information, monitor soil conditions, and optimize crop management practices. This chapter meticulously dissects the hurdles posed by data privacy concerns, access to technology, and calls for collaborative efforts among governments, the private sector, and civil society to overcome these challenges and ensure that the benefits of AI-powered agriculture are equitably distributed. This chapter embarks on a profound exploration of the intersection between agriculture, climate change, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. It delves into the imperative of sustainable agriculture, the role of AI in climate preservation, and the futuristic trends that promise to reshape our approach to food production in an era of climate uncertainty.

Fintech applications are examined as catalysts for revolutionizing green finance, showcasing their capacity to streamline processes, facilitate transparent transactions, and provide personalized investment options. The functionalities of these applications are dissected, emphasizing their role in mitigating barriers such as information asymmetry and inefficiencies in fund distribution. Blockchain's decentralized ledger system is analyzed for its ability to enhance trust and transparency in sustainable investment. It highlights successful implementations of blockchain in sustainable finance, illuminating its practical benefits in overcoming limitations like fraud risk and reducing administrative costs. This research delves into the transformative potential of integrating financial technology (FinTech) and blockchain in green finance. By transcending traditional barriers, these technologies not only enrich the functionalities of applications but also open new horizons for sustainable investment, paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally conscious financial future.

The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in a transformative era in the digital consumer landscape. In the digital era, the symbiotic relationship between technology and consumer behavior has undergone a seismic shift, with artificial intelligence (AI) emerging as a transformative force in shaping the digital consumer experience. At this paradigm shift lies the intricate interplay between AI and consumer recommendation models, which have evolved from rudimentary algorithms to sophisticated systems capable of personalization and tailored engagement. This chapter delves into the intricate interplay between AI and digital consumers, focusing specifically on the profound influence of AI in reshaping consumer recommendation models and, consequently, molding consumer shopping decisions. The study is driven by the overarching objective of comprehensively understanding the impact of AI on the decision-making processes of contemporary consumers in the digital realm.