THE STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF THE BLACK SEA: REGIONAL COOPERATION FOR ENERGY AND DEFENSE
The Sofia Security Forum in collaboration with The New Strategy Center (Romania) and The Centre for Economics and Foreign Policy Studies (EDAM), Türkiye published a new study titled "The Strategic Importance of the Black Sea: Regional Cooperation for Energy and Defense". This study underscores the region's potential as an energy hub and important transport corridor. The study addresses challenges posed by a complex geopolitical environment, particularly Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine and hostile actions in the Black Sea which security risks for energy infrastructure, transportation, and data connectivity. The report presents policy recommendations to NATO and littoral states to cope with the multiple risks and threats. The study was presented on 11 December 2024 at NATO HQ in Brussels.
Yordan Bozhilov, Tacan Ildem, George Scutaru
Book
Balkans and Black Sea
NATO
BUILDING RESILIENCE IN THE EUROPEAN UNION IN TIMES OF POLYCRISIS AND CHALLENGES IN THE COGNITIVE DOMAIN
This aim of this publication is to draw attention to the need to build resilience in the societies and Member States of the European Union in times of “polycrisis” and challenges in the cognitive domain. Following an analysis of global risks and hybrid threats, as well as the emergence of artificial intelligence in today‘s communication and security environment, certain recommendations and conclusions are drawn to enable the EU to exploit its potential to be a “multidimensional power”, overcoming non-kinetic challenges to vulnerabilities in democratic societies, citizens‘ minds and emotions. In this research, a range of political science analysis methods were employed. In addition, the “mind maps” technique of the British psychologist Tony Buzan was implemented by enabling the synthesis of ideas through visual representations. On the eve of the European elections in 2024, the publication draws key conclusions and recommendations for overcoming the challenges of desinformation, perception management and psychological manipulation, which undermine trust in democratic institutions and prevent decisionmakers from countering them. These include: building resilience through education, media literacy, critical thinking, digital competencies, mental toughness; the ability to think not only fast but also slow; the application of exponential design to strategic thinking; multilateralism and close cooperation with NATO. https://www.ceeol.com/search/article-detail?id=1215198
Assist. Prof. Monika Panayotova, PhD, Vice President of the Sofia Security Forum
Book
Global Challenges
Cyber Security and New Technologies
European Union
NATO
NEW EUROPEAN SECURITY-The evolution of the European security architecture in the wake of the Russian war against Ukraine
A Decade of Change: Europe's Security Landscape under Scrutiny. With the second anniversary of Russia's aggressive incursion into Ukraine on February 24, 2024, it is crucial to reflect on the profound impact this conflict has had on Europe's security dynamics. The invasion served as a catalyst for a significant reassessment of Europe's security architecture. With Russia's actions prompting a fundamental shift in strategy towards deterrence and defense, it's imperative to address several pressing questions: - Redefining Security Architecture: The Russian assault sparked intense debate about the future of European security. Are we witnessing the dawn of a new era of strategic competition reminiscent of the Cold War? And how united is Europe in its approach to collective defense? - Insights from Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans: Esteemed experts from across the region offer diverse perspectives on the current state and future trajectory of European security. Despite varying viewpoints, many nations stand in solidarity with Ukraine, advocating for deeper integration and a more sustainable security framework for Europe. - NATO's Vital Role: NATO emerges as a linchpin for collective defense, especially following its expansion to include Finland and Sweden. Across the board, states denounce Russia's aggressive posturing and underscore NATO's indispensable role in ensuring regional security. - Navigating Challenges and Prospects: Russia's role within the European security paradigm remains contentious. Consensus dictates the need for a new security framework that addresses both conventional threats and emerging challenges such as disinformation campaigns. - Championing Democratic Values: The years ahead will be marked by a concerted effort to rally support for democratic principles and the rules-based international order. Revitalizing engagement with international treaties and institutions is not just in Europe's interest but crucial for global security. As we solemnly mark the second anniversary of Russia's incursion into Ukraine, it serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal juncture at which Europe finds itself in terms of security and stability.
Yordan Bozhilov, Mira Kaneva
Book
Global Challenges
Security and Defense
NATO
NATO'S ROLE IN ADDRESSING SECURITY THREATS AND CHALLENGES IN THE BLACK SEA
The study is a result of the collective efforts of the Sofia Security Forum from Bulgaria, NSC from Romania and EDAM from Turkiye. The three think-thanks analyses the complexity of the security environment in the Black Sea region and advocate for closer cooperation among littoral NATO member-states and partners and bigger involvement of NATO in providing security in the region. The study was officially presented at NATO HQ on November 6, 2023
EDAM (Türkiye), The New Strategy Centre (Romania ) and Sofia Security Forum(Bulgaria)
Book
Security and Defense
NATO
SECRET CHARM. China’s hidden influence in Southeast Europe
The policy paper highlights a case study, which provides useful lessons learned as to Beijing´s broader geopolitical and geo-economic objectives as well as the ambition to increase its economic leverage and political clout. The paper features case studies on China’s influence in eight countries in Southeast Europe, conducted by local experts. The authors assess China’s investments, its image and the appeal of its governance model in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Greece, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia. The publication is a result of the cooperation of Sofia Security Forum and the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom.
Plamen Tonchev, Mirela Petkova and other
Book
Global Challenges
Balkans and Black Sea
THE FUTURE OF TRANSATLANTIC RELATIONS: TURNING A NEW PAGE ON ENHANCED COOPERATION AMID NEW SECURITY CHALLENGES
Proceedings and papers presented by renowned experts, institutional and non governmental representatives at the international conference in Sofia, Bulgaria on December 07, 2021
Monika Panayotova, Vice-President of SSF and other
Book
Security and Defense
NATO