This course offers an in-depth exploration of the complex dynamics of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and the vast Eurasian Space, utilizing a rigorous interdisciplinary lens. The program is specifically designed to move beyond traditional regional categorizations, analyzing these areas as a geopolitical, historical, and cultural continuum. Sessions will tackle crucial subjects ranging from post-Soviet socio-political transformations and the consolidation (or failure) of democracies, to emerging economic dynamics, including energy flows and regional integration strategies. Particular emphasis will be placed on examining how cultural, identity-based, and historical factors—such as the memories of conflict and evolving nationalisms—shape current international relations and security challenges (e.g., the war in Ukraine, tensions along NATO borders). Through contributions from experts across various disciplines, including political science, economics, history, anthropology, and law, participants will acquire advanced analytical tools necessary to decode the unique "Eurasian logic" influencing global politics.
Upon completing the workshop series, participants will be able to:
- Contextual Analysis: Identify and map the main social, economic, and political trends characterizing Central and Eastern Europe and the Eurasian Space, distinguishing between European integration processes (EU/NATO) and Russian geopolitical influence strategies.
- Interdisciplinary Perspective: Apply multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks (from international relations theory to comparative history and economic analysis) to explain complex phenomena like the persistence of authoritarianism, corruption, and the energy transition in the area.
- Historical and Cultural Understanding: Critically evaluate the impact of historical memories, identity conflicts (ethnic and religious), and nationalist discourses on state stability and the formation of regional foreign policies.
- Security and Geopolitics: Discuss knowledgeably current security challenges, including active or "frozen" conflicts, and the role of external actors (China, Turkey, Western powers) in the Eurasian balance of power.
- Critical Communication: Develop the ability to synthesize and communicate complex analyses of the region clearly and persuasively, using specialized terminology and relying on empirical evidence (economic data, political case studies, and social dynamics).
