Estonia: Economic Innovation and Baltic Regional Security

Estonian Economic Innovation: Lessons Learned and Future Scenarios Module:

The first module takes place in Tallinn and provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the main factors which have made Estonia one of the most successful countries undertaking many-sided social, economic and political reforms. A critical overview of  the main actors and processes is presented in historical and dynamic perspective. Doctrinal convergence with western political thought is seen as the main factor behind the country's smooth accession to the EU and the NATO. However, lack of transparent social and economic goals in the current stage of development is presented as a general challenge for the entire society. 

In addition to the above described lectures and seminars - all delivered by professors with high international standing - the programme includes study visits to parliaments, governmental and public institutions, as well as to local non-governmental sector.

NATO, the EU and Baltic Regional Security module:

This module takes place in Tartu and concentrates on the international position and foreign policies of the countries of the Baltic Sea region. It focuses on the post-communist period, but also provides an introduction to the recent history of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to give a better understanding about the foreign policy activities of the Baltic States today. The module studies the environment of Baltic regional security, considering the main external and internal factors. The module is based on three broader issues in the foreign policies of the Baltic States: Euro-Atlantic integration, regional co-operation and relations with Russia. During the week students will analyse issues such as EU and NATO enlargement, international cooperation within the Baltic Sea region, and Baltic-Russian relations.

Among the specific topics that will be discussed are: NATO’s transformation since the Cold War, European Union enlargement and NATO expansion in Eastern Europe, the EU’s Eastern Partnership and Neighbourhood Policy, the impact of the events in Ukraine, cyber defence, energy security, Baltic Sea regional cooperation, memory conflicts, espionage, information warfare, the situation of the Russian-speaking minorities, Transatlantic relations, the ‘reset’ in the relationship with Russia and its demise.

Everyday there will be an excursion within the topic of the lecture of that day, to provide real-life examples of the issues at hand. If the course cannot take place in a face-to-face setting the course will be offered digitally.

Wish to extend this course with a course in the Netherlands? This course is part of the track European Encounters: Diversity and Integration from West to East. You can also extend your trip with a visit to Latvia, with our track The Baltics in the European Union.