First, the publications do not age in endless anticipation of printing, as the case was with the traditional technologies of yesteryear; 

Second, publications are globally distributed, as this is the way for them to overcome their "local" character and "provincialism" syndrome. 

The journal aims to be politically independent and ideologically neutral and to turn into a forum for real theoretical and methodological pluralism.
The journal invites publications from all serious researchers of Balkan issues: sociologists, anthropologists, demographers, historians, statisticians, psychologists, political scientists and others. It is open to authors from Bulgaria, the Balkans, or around the world. 

The articles do not need to discuss areas or relationships of conflict. They should simply contain objective information or interpretation of anything of importance happening in the region. They should preferably contain hypotheses and prognoses about its development (including separate countries in the region). They could also treat problems related to the methodology and methods of research. Historical retrospections are also welcome. The research "palette" is multicoloured and no preliminary limitations are so far envisaged. 

It is of great importance to the authors that this electronic journal is published as a legitimate scientific edition in compliance with Bulgarian legislation and the Copyright Law. It has its own postal and electronic address and an electronic ISSN 1311- 9583 on database of ISSN International Centre - Paris, France.
In this sense, all materials (articles, reports, announcements, etc.) published in Balkans21 have the status of official publications that can be cited as such in Bulgaria and abroad.

The journal publishes only previously unpublished materials (with the exception of cases when articles are reprinted by previous agreement between the editorial board and the author). 

After publication in "Balkans 21" the author retains the right to publish the material in a paper edition without explicit permission from the electronic journal.

Disclaimer. Every author is personally (and legally) responsible for the authenticity of the materials offered for publication and for their use according to the above-mentioned rules. In spite of the fact that each article is discussed by the editorial board, authors are personally responsible for the truthfulness of the empirical information and the correctness of the quotes and citations in their materials. 

Materials can be reprinted from the electronic edition under the following conditions:
     - Separate paragraphs, tables, graphs, figures, etc. may be quoted without special permission provided they are not longer than one quarter of the article in question. The name of the author and the source should be explicitly cited. 
     - Use of larger parts of articles or whole articles may be done only with prior permission of the author. Offenders will be prosecuted. 
The journal is edited and distributed voluntarily and published materials will not be paid (unless potential sponsors are found).
Dear reader, as every edition, this one probably has its technical and other faults. We rely on your cooperation in order to improve it. You may send your feedback (criticism or suggestions) at the announced electronic and postal address.