This research is a reflection on the new challenges in former European communist countries in three areas of gender equality. The analysis employs the gender disparity index (GDI), which encompasses life expectancy, education, and income indices, each equally weighted by gender. The former communist states are categorized into two clusters: the first comprising European Union (EU) member states, and the second consisting of non-EU member states or those in the integration process. The findings indicate pervasive gender-based inequalities across the former European communist bloc. This study offers critical insights for countries seeking EU accession, highlighting the need for targeted policies to address gender disparities in multiple domains. Contrary to the hypothesis positing a connection between feminine cultural values and gender egalitarian practices, the data do not support this assertion. The implications of this research are particularly pertinent for aspiring EU member states, who must navigate issues of monopolism while striving to establish effective principles of business efficiency.

Countries in the European Union’s neighborhood, such as those in the Eastern Partnership (EaP), have a particular interest in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) because investment inflows can guarantee them a number of advantages needed for accession. This paper proposes a comparative analysis of the investment attractiveness of the EaP countries in the period 2005–2019 considering the institutional theory of FDI inflows. The research methodology considers a quantitative approach that uses the composite index as a tool. The results show that half of the EaP countries have a high level of investment attractiveness, while the institutional quality has an important influence on attracting FDI.

Blockchain technology addresses current concerns in international trade, such as the lack of traceability, excessive bureaucracy, limited transparency, and corruption. This paper analyses the extent to which this decentralized technology can improve trade processes. The analysis uses an OLS model applied to a panel dataset to assess the impact of institutional and digital variables on trade volume. The results show that a coherent and efficient regulatory framework has a positive effect on global trade integration. Blockchain technology has a marginally positive impact, which suggests that it can increase transparency and improve trade processes when countries have a well-developed digital infrastructure. The results show that a convergent approach is needed in which government efforts and digital transformation can reduce corruption and streamline trade processes. The study contributes to the specialized literature and provides an empirical conceptual framework for integrating blockchain into economic development initiatives and strengthening institutional governance.