Strategic Considerations within the European Union Framework Essay

Strategic Considerations within the European Union Framework - Essay Example This essay discusses that member states of European Union have been pilling pressure to the union following debts and recession crisis. Arguably, EU failed to offer protection to the interest of its members and their citizens thus leading lost of public support. Although it is not probable to argue that the turmoil has influenced the Europeans view to matters, other than its social influences, it may have influenced the engagement of European citizens to European projects. Strategic plans initiated by EU member states to counter the impact of the financial crisis, and the create employment is an indication of the impact of the economic crisis to the citizens of the Euro zone. A survey by â€Å"Transatlantic trend† argues financial turmoil affected 60% of the people interviewed compared to 55% of people affected by the crisis in 2009. Europeans show a lot of concern to development as revealed by the Euro-barometer, which provides a basis of gauging the crisis. Many believe that issues of immigration, insecurity, and environment are fundamental as issues relating to socio-economic issues. In the spring of 2007, major concern for most Europeans is the economic situation and inflation in 2008. Interviews conducted in spring of 2009 indicated economic turmoil as the major headache of most Europeans. Arguing from the report, 42% of people interviewed quoted economic recession as a threat. Unemployment was another factor alongside economic turmoil. It is arguable that economic slump has an effect on rate of employment since recession dislodges most people out of employment. Further, social crisis report produced in autumn 2009 indicates that 51% of citizens interviewed indicated unemployment as the major factor, which was ahead of insecurity by 19%, inflation by 19%, and healthcare by 14% respectively (Thierry, 2011:132). The above figures do not show the magnitude of the effects in a national scale in terms of social crisis. Apparently, many European nations a rgue that the economic nightmare has maimed their buying power. For instance, a study conducted by Smith & Grant (2003) and published in their book to evaluate the effects of the economic slump shows the following trend the Dutch claim 40% of its effects, Bulgarians feel 84%, Spanish 71%, and Romanians 89%. Euro-barometer flash survey indicates the significance of the effects of the economic crisis to the households in Europe. In addition, a look at the June 2010 survey results shows a big difference between northern and southern Europe (UK, Sweden, German, Denmark, Luxembourg, Netherlands, and France), in which at least 15% of citizens claim to have had challenges in paying their bills; including food, over the twelve months. The above observation varies with report from Southern Europe (Portugal, Spain, and Italy), in which economic crisis trend takes 17-20%, and in the Eastern Europe in which the economic turmoil takes 30% and (43% for Romania). It is arguable that the trend of e conomic nightmare in Europe takes the shape of social crisis (Thierry 2011:134). This argument leads to the questions as to whether a political crisis is looming, which will lead to increased conception with regard to the ability of the European Union to counter the crisis. In the recent past, observers still believe that euro is still a victor to the economic crisis. The observers argue that the joining of the European Union by the Icelandic countries is approve that euro could champion the crisis. Other observations are the determination by Baltic countries to introduce policies that would act to maintain a stable rate of exchange using euro as a single currency. According to Ronald & Saskia (2011:43), it is apparent that Europe alongside other continents in the world suffered economic recession towards the end of 2008 and beginning of 2009. However, it managed to avoid devaluation witnessed during 1930 economic turmoil. Largely, its

Leadership and legacy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Leadership and legacy - Research Paper Example mmarized in three slogans – â€Å"a â€Å"Harmonious Society† domestically and a â€Å"Peaceful Development† internationally, the former generated by a â€Å"Scientific Development Perspective,† which seeks integrated sets of solutions to arrays of economic, environmental and social problems, and recognizes, in inner circles, a need for political reform (though studied, cautious and controlled)† (Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.) He is known to be a transformational visionary since he initiated critical changes in the way the Chinese government is run. The openness to foreign relationships in terms of trade is one of the proofs. Since his leadership, China has also been influential in terms of international trade. As a transformational and visionary leader, he was so determined to achieve what he desired and this led to the laying off of some very senior government officials most of whom protested against his leadership style (Chu 2004). His leadership style was unique in that he first considered the areas that were earlier neglected like the poor areas in the country. In this, his aim was to reduce the inequality that existed between the GDP and the Welfare Second policies. It was also a way of equalizing the society through new policies that he would use to bring the expected change. He was determined to have a clear picture of those areas first and then work out a way of developing them. This is the reason why his style was transformational and visionary. He had a vision for his country and was determined to achieve what he desired and what he felt was the best for his people (Kahn 2005). He put the interest of others before his own and that’s why he spent most of his time assisting the poor and learning more about the poor parts of the country. He focused more on the poor parts of the country and not on the areas that had prospered economically (Lam 2006). Hu was known to be a very supportive leader. He shows supports to every Chinese citizen through his moral

Michael Jackson Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Michael Jackson - Term Paper Example The other four members of this group were his brothers, Sigmund ‘Jackie’, Toriano ‘Tito’, Jarmaine, and Marlon. They began playing at local bars and clubs in Indiana. They later moved to compete in bigger competitions. The Jackson five were discovered by the Vancouver and the Bobby Taylor in 1968 and got an audition for Berry Gordy. They later signed for Motown, hence moving to California. It was here that their first four singles made US number one hits. During this time, Jackson with Motown recoded four solo albums. The group stayed in Motown until 1976, when they needed more artistic freedom and decided to move on (Pratt 81). They dropped the name Jackson Five, since it was owned by Motown and adopted the name The Jacksons. At this time, they had a number of records and made six albums altogether between 1976 and 1984. Michael later teamed up with his producer for his first solo album. The album was titled Off The Wall, and was a tremendous success all ov er the world. It was the first album ever released that produced the four number-one singles in the United States. The world’s largest selling album was released by Michael in 1982. It was titled Thriller. It produced seven hit singles, once again breaking more previously established records (Pratt 81). It has been documented to have sold over fifty million copies across the world. Jackson was careful, as well as skillful, in using the music videos to promote his singles from the album. His success has, nevertheless, been attached to his directors and producers. They were the best, and made use of the latest technology coupled with choreography and fantastic dancing. The short film, Thriller, incorporated latest artists in the make-up technology to produce a video which lasted 14 minutes, with the beginning, the middle part and the end. This video was so successful that it became the world’s largest selling video. At the Motown 25-years anniversary show, Jackson perfor med his legendary moonwalk for the first time. It was this performance that set him into the realms of a superstar (George 98). Michael broke a record by winning 8 Grammy awards in a single night in the year of 1984. These awards were for his narrative for the ET Storybook and the Thriller album. On 9th December 1984, during his final performance of The Jackson’s Victory Tour, he declared that he was quitting the group and going solo. His third, and much awaited solo album titled Bad, was released in 1987. It was during this time that he launched his first solo world tour that was significantly record-breaking (Josh 1). He wrote his first autobiography, Moonwalk, where he talked for the first time about his career and childhood. Michael was soon to turn thirty when significant changes were observed in his outlook. He seemed to have undergone a facial surgery, which not only changed his facial features, but also his skin color and jaw line. This did not, however, affect his mu sic career. By the end of 1980s, Michael was commonly known as the Artist of The Decade. This was as a result of his success in the Thriller and Bad albums. Michael signed the biggest ever recording agreement with Sony Music in 1991. It was during that time that he released his fourth album Dangerous. Touring the world in 1992, he brought his performances to the countries that had never received a pop artist. Other than his success in the

Organisational Strategy & Decision Making Essay

Organisational Strategy & Decision Making - Essay Example Marketing efforts is a dynamic concept and demand company to regularly monitor and assess marketing capabilities. The assessment of the strategic and marketing position is done with the help of strategic tools and techniques like Ansoff’s matrix and Porter generic competitive strategies. The recommended strategic actions are also provided in accordance with the strategic analysis done with the help of above mentioned tools and techniques. 2 Table of Contents 3 Introduction 4 Introduction Starbucks Corporation, a global and reputed American coffee company engages in the selling of coffee, hot and cold drinks, other beverages and items such as cups, tumblers, and mugs. The coffee products of the company hold big image and reputation across the world with the market capitalisation of $40 billion and with the sales of 1.2 billion pounds (Starbucks Jumps as Profit Increases on U.S. Sales Gain 2012). Starbucks Corporation functions on the basis of mission statement-‘to inspire and nurture the human spirit, one cup and one neighbourhood at a time’ (Starbucks Corporation 2012). The company is dedicated towards sourcing finest quality coffee beans in order to deliver enriched quality coffee to its customers and known for their genuine service, pleasing atmosphere, and superior quality. The underlying essay aims at analysing and reviewing strategic position of the company in order to determine its strategic position. Internal and external audit has also been performed in order to gain idea about the internal and external environment of the company. Analysis of strategic position helps in outlining appropriate strategic action that should be adopted by the company in coming period. Internal and external audit Internal and external audit analysis of the business organisations are performed with the purpose of gaining idea about their existing capabilities and limitations. Business plans and strategies are formulated in light of assessed capabilities and limitations. In this regard, tool named SWOT analysis has been used in order to gain idea about their existing strategic capabilities. SWOT analysis represents strength, weakness, opportunities and threats. Strength and weakness analysis will represent internal audit for company while opportunities and threats will provide external audit of the company. Internal audit The most apparent strength for the company is strong brand image and identity of the company in the coffee business. Starbucks owns an impeccable and recognisable brand image in the coffee business. The strong brand image and identity facilitate the company to gain strong foothold and enters new markets across the globe. The company owns deep product portfolio with distinct features like Gourmet Coffee, regular drip coffee, Frappuccino blended coffee, and many more. The deep product portfolio enables the company to target wide customer base and delivering enriched purchase experience. The product quality and excellent customer service complements and support the existing brand image of the company (Starbucks raises 2013 forecast, defies industry trend 2012). The regular and active involvement of company in environmental and ethical practices acts as another strength for Starbucks. Eco-friendly practices related to energy conservation, climate controlling and maintenance are some of such eco-friendly practi

Analysing research literature Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Analysing research literature - Essay Example It is also identified to be associated with different issues which include health problems, obesity and hearing problems among others. In this regard, the research study conducted in this journal is conducted with the objective of ascertaining the importance of physical activity (PA) for the children along with young people having DS. The journal implies that PA is an essential element for the management and for the prevention of chronic diseases in children. Moreover, PA aids in reviving health conditions of individuals so that children and young people have better physical fitness and body mass. Consequently, the children and young people will be facilitated with the opportunity of having an independent life. In this respect, the study in the journal article has provided adequate knowledge to different researchers about the importance of PA in children and young people about the influence of DS. Respectively, the study in the journal has provided important information in relation t o research methodologies along with intervention design that are appropriate for the people suffering from DS. Thus, the study has been effective in briefing the importance of PA in the early life of children and young people affected with DS for its better intervention along with assisting them to develop with a better health and body growth (Downs & et. al., 2013). There is a procedure on the basis of which journals are to be critically reviewed which includes introduction, literature review, discussion and conclusion (Shon, 2012). Consequently, a mixed response can be depicted for the article. Critical Analysis PA is an important element assisting children and young people to grow and develop with greater independence as it can be recognised from the study of various researchers. Additionally, it is critically argued that children and young people with DS should be provided with adequate knowledge in relation to PA so that they are able to develop physically along with in terms o f body mass (Kasser, 2005). PA which includes swimming, walking along with other exercises have assisted people with DS by a significant extent to retain healthy body and to prevent illness. PA has been an efficient measure for minimising health issues associated with DS which include obesity and cardiorespiratory problems. In this regard, it has been identified that deficiency of PA is one the major causes of DS. Additionally, a lack of PA amid individuals with DS tends to enhance the risks in relation to health problems (Urbano, 2010). The study has also been effective in ascertaining the facilitators and the barriers in relation to PA. Contextually, the article has provided adequate information about the various aspects of DS and the importance of PA in minimising risks associated with DS. In a similar context, Stanish & Frey (2007) have stated that there are several facilitators and barriers to PA. In this context, the most important facilitator is the parents and on the other h and, the barriers comprise transportation cost and social interaction among others (Stanish & Frey, 2007). These are the several strengths that can be derived from the research study in this journal (Downs & et. al., 2013). According to Jobling (1994), PA plays an effective role in the life of people having DS. PA assists them to grow and develop independent skills so that they are able to retain a healthy life in future (Shields & et. al., 2009; Jobling, 1994). Similarly, Buckley (2007) has stated that PA

Combating Money Laundering Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Combating Money Laundering - Research Paper Example Technological advances are some of the avenues that have made money laundering easier as criminals exploit these technologies to conceal the illegal sources of their valuables such as money and jewels. Fortunately, governments have recognized the menace, which is money laundering and have designed, implemented, and evaluated the effectiveness of these interventions in curbing financial crimes such as money laundering. The United States, for example mandates the Department of Treasury and agencies such as the FinCEN to implement anti-money laundering policies. However, more needs to be done for money laundering to e effectively detected, prevented, and stopped all together. Introduction Recent times have recorded an increase in the rate and scope of international crimes, more so with respect to the financial aspects of crimes. This scenario has been prompted by the globalization and the rapidly advancing technologies. Money related crimes have since become major multifaceted problems for law enforcement and the public. Besides being local and national crime problem, money laundering has become an international problem, prompting major financial and political superpowers such as the United States of America and other Western states to design and implement various strategies and policies to curb the issue (Harvey, 2008). Consequent to this increasing threat of money laundering and other financial crimes, many a state has since embarked on concerted efforts to combat this kind of crime. Included in these strategies is the designing and the enactment of counter-money laundering laws, shared by many agencies, institutions, and countries. Second, some countries such as the United States of America have established stringent bilateral and multilateral agreements to strengthen their monitory policies and practices and to further collaboration among states of similar interests. These collaborative efforts specifically target the creation of awareness of the serious threa t that is money laundering among states. In addition, efforts have not been spared in spreading the message on the importance of acknowledging that money laundering is in deed a problem that affects society directly (Levi & Gilmore, 2002). Furthermore, countries such as the United States of America prevent organizations considered criminals from accessing its financial systems. This paper explains what money laundering is, how it is used, and the steps the United States has taken to curb the crime. Money Laundering Illegal money is often the outcome of most criminal acts, which are mostly driven by greed for profit. Consequent to profits of criminal acts and omissions, illicit money often find their way into the legal financial systems of a country. Generally, money laundering entails concealing given financial assets so that their illegal activities are not detected. In fact, money laundering is one of the factors supporting organized crimes as criminals mix the monetary proceeds f rom their criminal acts with other seemingly legal sources (Kochan, 2005). There are several negative effects of money laundering. These include its effects on fueling terrorists, arms dealers, drug dealers, and other criminals, thus expanding their operations. Additionally, money laundering criminals have managed to manipulate financial systems in the United States and other countries, further

Big issue magazine Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Big issue magazine - Essay Example The organization behind the â€Å"big issue† magazine is divided into two parts, where there is the part that produces and sells the magazine to the street vendor network. The other part is a nonprofit foundation that helps the street vendors regains control of their lives (Oxfam, 2004). The magazines have transformed lives of many vendors who are in a position to feed and support their families. However, the sales of the magazines have subsided currently, due to the recession, which has affected advertising and general sales. Prior to recession, national and international donor funding are drying up. This paper will outline a brand-audit that should be performed to improve the image of the magazine and improve sales. How to upgrade the image and improve sales of the â€Å"big issue† magazine Image impacts a lot in a business especially when it comes to selling printed articles. This is the case because the appearance of a magazine determines its ability to attract cust omers in a distance. The â€Å"big issue† magazine falls in this category because image rebranding is needed to improve its old common appearance to a more appealing appearance (Rowell, 2012). The marketing managers should critically look into the image issue of the magazine as well as its contents. The new look of the magazine’s cover should be redesigned attractively is that it can stand out and â€Å"beat† the rest of the magazines. The customers should be able to notice and pick up the magazine instantly rather than flick through other magazines in search of the most interesting magazines. More so, the content in the magazine should be able to be captivating enough to keep the customers coming for more copies every day. In order to achieve this, the marketing team should consider on reflecting a shift to deeper and more political content because politics because politics has interesting contents that everyone yearn to know about. Hence, with these two achiev ements of rebranding the cover and contents of the magazines, customer’s will be change their usual perception towards the magazine by being attracted to it which eventually leads to more sales (Rowell, 2012). Customer service is a crucial aspect in any business and the big issue magazine should consider it in order to improve customer’s perception and increase sales. The vendors of the â€Å"big issue† magazine are homeless people and this has lead to situations where passersby insult and under grade them simply because of their status (Oxfam, 2004). The management of the â€Å"big issue† magazine should take another step of collaborating with numerous colleges within the city in order to offer these vendors with basic customer care skills. This will help them learn people body language and the telltale signs of aggression so as to help in confronting and solving possible disputes before they happen. The vendors will also learn how to be friendly and app roachable which in turn engages customers in conversation. This effort will improve vendor’s ability to attract customers and increase sales of the â€Å"big issue† magazine. Advertising is the basic boost of sales of any business because it reminds customers of their favorite product as well as informs them if there are any changes that their favorite product has undergone. In our case, the â€Å"big issue† advertisement could fall in the two categories of informing customers of the current