HSE University Discussed Security Issues in the Mediterranean

On December 19, the Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs at HSE University hosted a situational analysis dedicated to security issues in the Balkans, Eastern Mediterranean, and Sahel regions. The event, organized by the Primakov Center in collaboration with the Mediterranean Studies Center at HSE University, served as a platform for discussing key challenges and trends shaping security in these regions.

The event began with welcome speeches from Victoria Karslieva, Executive Director of the Primakov Center, and Ekaterina Entina, Director of the Mediterranean Studies Center at HSE University. They emphasized the importance of a comparative approach in studying regional security models and highlighted the value of expert dialogue on these critical topics.

The first part of the analysis focused on mechanisms for managing security in the Balkans and the Sahel region. Experts noted that, despite differences in political and social contexts, there are certain similarities in the dynamics of these regions. In the Sahel, there is a profound crisis in external security governance, characterized by a loss of control and increasing instability. Meanwhile, in Southeastern Europe, governance frameworks are being strengthened despite significant internal political disagreements in the Balkan countries.

The second part of the discussion centered on Turkey's policy in the Eastern Mediterranean. Analysts highlighted that Turkey continues to strengthen its position in the region despite internal crises. Ankara actively employs diplomatic and military tools to expand its influence, positioning itself as a key negotiator and security guarantor. Experts analyzed Turkey's geopolitical ambitions as well as the prospects for cooperation with Russia in this strategically important region.

The situational analysis brought together representatives from leading Russian research and analytical centers, including HSE University, the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the Institute for African Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, IMEMO, the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), and MGIMO.