The Editorial Board of the Journal of Legal and Security Studies is pleased to present to its esteemed readers this new July issue, which appears at a time when human societies are experiencing rapid transformations driven by the digital revolution and successive technological advancements, accompanied by unprecedented legal and security challenges. In this issue, the Journal has sought to address a number of contemporary topics that have assumed a prominent position among the concerns of researchers, policymakers, and legal and security institutions alike, especially in the context of Qatari law.

Against the backdrop of the widespread proliferation of social media platforms and their growing influence on public opinion and social behaviour, one of the studies featured in this issue examines the phenomenon of social media influencers and the legal, security, and ethical challenges it raises, in light of the considerable capacity these individuals now possess to shape the intellectual, cultural, and consumer orientations of various segments of society. The issue also sheds light on the phenomenon of “digital drugs”, which falls within the broader sphere of cyberspace and digital interaction. In addition, a significant portion of this issue is devoted to the study of cybercrime, which has become one of the foremost security threats of the digital age due to its transnational nature and the harm it inflicts upon individuals, institutions, and states. This study highlights the importance of developing legal frameworks and strengthening technical and institutional capacities to address this growing category of crime.

The subjects addressed in this issue reflect the Journal’s commitment to keeping pace with emerging legal and security concerns and to promoting rigorous scholarly research that contributes to understanding contemporary transformations and anticipating their future implications. The Journal also reaffirms its dedication to providing a specialised academic platform that combines intellectual rigour with sound scientific methodology and fosters dialogue between researchers and practitioners across diverse legal and security fields. In conclusion, the Editorial Board extends its sincere appreciation and gratitude to the authors, reviewers, and all those who contributed to the publication of this issue. We pray that it will achieve its intended benefit, enrich scholarly knowledge, and serve the wider community.