The European Institute of Romania announces the publication of the working paper no. 50, “The dynamics of cooperation and conflict in the Black Sea area. From the region’s history to current security challenges”, signed by Ioana-Elena Secu, expert within the European Studies Unit. The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the Black Sea region, focusing on its historical geopolitical background, and the security challenges it currently faces. The paper explores the history of the extended Black Sea region’s security, and seeks to offer a perspective on why the invasion of Ukraine took (or not) many by surprise. It highlights the historical roles played by Turkey and Russia, emphasising their influence and impact on regional security matters.
Additionally, the paper examines the concept of soft security and cooperation platforms in the Black Sea region, with a focus on the European Union’s Black Sea Synergy. This framework is recognised as a successful platform for cooperation, bringing together various stakeholders to address common challenges.
A significant part of the work is dedicated to analysing the current security challenges in the Black Sea basin, and identifies key actors involved in either maintaining or challenging the security in the region. It examines the role of NATO and the United States of America, as well as that of individual countries such as Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova, Bulgaria, and Romania.
The full text, available in English, can be accessed here.