We are pleased to present to our esteemed readers the first issue for the year 2025, which includes a collection of topics and research papers spanning various fields of science and human knowledge. Some of these studies address religious and linguistic aspects, while others tackle important issues and dimensions concerning contemporary Libyan society—especially at this critical stage of its history. Readers will find a study on shadow trading and smuggling, as well as research on the role of faculties of education in preparing teachers for the basic education stage. Another paper discusses the arbitrability of patent disputes, in addition to other significant topics. We hope that these articles and studies will stimulate further discussion and dialogue, as well as contribute to enriching the scientific library in the field of the humanities. We would also like to reiterate our encouragement to researchers to continue participating and contributing seriously, and to provide us with their scholarly work so that it may find its way to publication for the benefit of all intellectuals and interested readers.

Abstract

Smuggling and the shadow economy represent major challenges to the Libyan economy, particularly since 2011, when these phenomena intensified due to weakened state institutions and security breakdowns. Such illicit economic activities negatively affect Libya’s economy by undermining the formal sector and expanding illegal practices. The impact extends beyond the domestic sphere, influencing economic relations between Libya and its neighboring countries. Existing studies indicate that the shadow economy and smuggling widen the gap between formal and informal sectors, thereby weakening key industries such as agriculture and manufacturing. Moreover, these activities distort markets and contribute to price inflation, increasing the burden on consumers. This study aims to analyze these effects and propose effective solutions to combat the shadow economy and smuggling, with the ultimate goal of promoting economic and social stability in Libya.

Abstract

This study aims to identify the development and organisation of political authority in Libyan society, and the extent of political development that witnessed radical transformations in the systems of government and authority, as well as focusing on the importance of the role played by the political system in general and maintaining security and stability within society while providing basic services to citizens and imposing order and reducing conflicts and wars for the sake of political stability that falls under the organization of political authority. Finally, after delving into the development of political authority in Libyan society, the study presented several recommendations to address some of the problems it faced.

Abstract

A patent is one of the essential components of intellectual property. The inventor presents a novel idea to society, representing one of the most significant products of human intellect. Patents play a critical role in promoting creativity and innovation for economic development, particularly in the field of modern technology. A patent is the optimal legal tool to confer legal protection on an invention, granting the inventor the right to exploit it and enter into related transactions and contracts. However, the holder of a patent may face infringement of their rights by third parties or may become involved in disputes arising from the execution of contracts related to the patent, such as licensing, leasing, selling, or using it as a capital share in a company. Given the complex nature of patent disputes, including the rapid technological advancements and the confidentiality of information, litigation may not always be the most suitable mechanism for resolving such disputes. Traditional court proceedings are often slow, procedurally complex, public, and costly. In contrast, arbitration may offer a more appropriate forum for resolving these disputes due to its speed, confidentiality, specialization, and the international character that often defines such cases. However, during the arbitration of such contracts, the issue of the invalidity of the patent may be raised, and the arbitrator may be asked to rule on the nullity of the patent. Opinions differ on this matter: • Some argue that the authority to determine the validity of a patent lies exclusively with the administrative body that issued it. • Others believe it falls within the jurisdiction of the administrative judiciary. • A third view supports the arbitrator’s authority to decide on the validity or invalidity of a patent. Each opinion is supported by its own arguments and legal reasoning. To reach a convincing and reasoned conclusion, it is necessary to examine the concepts of arbitration and patents, the legal nature of patents, and whether they establish a new right for the inventor or merely recognize a pre-existing one. Furthermore, it must be determined whether a patent constitutes an administrative decision issued by the competent authority or a contract between the inventor and the state. This paper aims to explore these issues in depth to determine the scope of the arbitrator’s jurisdiction in patent disputes and propose what the author considers to be the most appropriate approach, while also urging the Libyan legislator to adopt it. This is particularly important given the ambiguity and lack of clarity in the current Libyan legal framework, as reflected in Article 31, paragraph (c) of Libyan Patent Law No. 8 of 1959. That provision addresses the expiration and nullity of patents, stating that a patent becomes void upon the issuance of a final and binding judgment, without specifying the nature of such judgment—whether judicial, arbitral, or both.

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate the psychological correlates of academic achievement in high school students in the Sorman area; more specifically the effects of academic anxiety, self-esteem, academic motivation and social support. The study adopted a quantitative data collection and analysis technique whereby a questionnaire was used on 200 students in three high schools in the area; Sorman Secondary School, Sakinah Bint Al-Hussein School, and Atef Secondary School. The findings of the study clearly indicated that academic anxiety is inversely related to academic performance, and self-esteem, academic motivation and social support are positively related to academic performance. The analysis of variance showed that the total of the psychological factors accounted for a considerable proportion of students’ performance. The study therefore recommended that boosting up self-esteem and motivation to study, besides academic anxiety reduction and provision of appropriate social support as the key variables that can improve academic performance. The study suggests the need to establish the educational and psychological programs aimed at increasing the observed factors in the school setting. This study has provided important information to the literature on psychological factors that influence performance and provides direction for subsequent studies to investigate the effects of these factors in other settings and among students of different backgrounds.

Abstract

Surah Yusuf (peace be upon him) is one of the blessed chapters revealed by Allah Almighty to His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him). It contains the complete story of Prophet Yusuf, and it is described by Allah at the beginning of the chapter as “the best of stories.” Upon reflecting deeply on this Surah, a range of elevated humanitarian values becomes evident. These include commendable traits such as patience, honesty, chastity, and generosity, as well as blameworthy traits such as lying, envy, and deceit. This Surah truly represents a moral school that teaches believers how to face hardships with patience and steadfastness, while staying connected to noble values in all circumstances.