The study examines the economic recovery of NUTS2 regions in the Visegrad Group (V4) countries after the Covid-19 pandemic. Using Ferenc Jánossy’s trendline theory, the authors assess recovery by comparing current development levels to pre-crisis trends, not just pre-pandemic levels. The focus is on gross domestic product (GDP) per capita adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP) to gauge recovery duration and influencing factors. It also investigates the changes in peripheral area lags due to the pandemic across these regions. The study finds that numerical values are less relevant due to distortion, but comparisons using consistent methodology reveal regional impacts, opportunities, and effective practices. It highlights significant regional differences: areas with diversified economies and adaptable sectors, like Łódź Voivodeship (Łódzkie) in Poland and the Bratislava Region (Bratislava) in Slovakia, fared better, while tourism and service-dependent regions struggled more. The analysis underscores the importance of sectoral diversity and adaptability in crisis mitigation. Slovakia and Hungary experienced varied impacts due to economic policies and structural characteristics. The Bratislava Region (Bratislava) adapted quickly while Budapest’s dominance grew, increasing rural underdevelopment. Regions reliant on tourism, such as Prague (Praha) and Balaton, saw severe declines, whereas agriculture and industry sectors remained relatively stable. We are also planning the second part of the study, supplemented with 2024 data, using our current experiences.

Effective internal communication plays a key role in shaping organisational culture, increasing employee satisfaction and improving performance, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of two-way communication and leadership styles on the employees of Slovakian SMEs, with a particular focus on the challenges posed by the pandemic COVID-19. A mixed methodology was used in the research, which included questionnaire data collection and statistical analysis of the results to explore the frequency and effectiveness of communication and the impact of leadership styles on conflict management. The results highlight that assertive communication and two-way information flow help to increase trust and commitment while having a positive impact on employee motivation and job satisfaction. However, hierarchical communication gaps and inappropriate leadership styles often lead to dissatisfaction and inefficiency. The research has also shown that sustainable development goals, such as incorporating the principles of a circular economy, can contribute to increasing the effectiveness of internal communication and strengthening organisational stability. The new communication challenges brought about by the pandemic, including the consequences of remote working such as feelings of isolation and difficulties in information flow, further reinforce the importance of effective management practices and communication strategies. The paper offers practical suggestions for optimising internal communication systems that can help to increase organisational resilience, improve employee well-being and implement effective leadership practices. The results can contribute to the development of communication strategies and the achievement of organisational success in SMEs.

This study explores gender-specific barriers to finding an ideal workplace in the Visegrád countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia), where similar historical and socioeconomic contexts shape labor market inequalities. Based on the relevant literature, women are disproportionately affected by challenges related to language proficiency, professional networks, and mobility. The research applied a quantitative methodology, including chi-square tests, multiple logistic regression, and cluster analysis, using SPSS Statistics software to analyze the survey data. Findings revealed significant gender disparities. Women report greater difficulties with language and mobility, particularly in Hungary and Slovakia, whereas men benefit more from strong professional connections. The cluster analysis identified three respondent groups: those hindered by language barriers, those with weak networks, and those facing limited mobility. International experience mitigates language challenges, and robust networks ease job search difficulties. In line with the ideals of a circular society, this study also explores how circularity, inclusiveness, and collaboration can help break down gender-based barriers in the labor market. The study’s novelty lies in its comparative regional focus and the integration of statistical methods to segment job-seeker profiles. These insights highlight the need for targeted policies that enhance language skills and foster professional networking opportunities, especially for women. By addressing these barriers, policymakers can better support gender equality in labor market access across Central Europe.

Objectives: This study explores the transformation of energy consumption in Europe between 2002 and 2022, focusing on the declining role of fossil fuels and the increasing significance of renewable and nuclear energy sources. The study also considers how countries with varying levels of economic development adopt different energy strategies and how these strategies correlate with shifts in energy usage. A circular economy approach that includes energy recovery from waste and resource reuse is a complementary aspect of sustainable energy transitions. Methods/Analysis: The per capita energy consumption data were analyzed through decile classification and cluster analysis to group countries with similar energy profiles. To explore the relationship between GDP and energy use—both total and renewable—linear and exponential regression models were applied. Outlier countries with atypical consumption trends were excluded to improve model reliability. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS, and Excel was used to support the visualization process. Findings: Six distinct clusters of energy consumption patterns emerged. In lower-and middle-GDP countries, renewable energy use showed a stronger exponential correlation with GDP growth than total energy use. While fossil fuel dependence has declined across most countries, the pathways taken have been diverse. High-GDP nations such as Iceland and Norway have demonstrated unique, resource-driven strategies. Novelty/Improvement: This study introduces a novel methodological blend of decilebased classification and clustering to enable clearer cross-country comparisons of energy use. The results also highlight the importance of excluding statistical outliers to improve regression precision. By integrating insights relevant to circular economy principles, the findings contribute to designing more effective and regionally adapted energy transition strategies.