About research at the IFZO

The IFZO pools and promotes interdisciplinary cooperation between all subject areas at the University of Greifswald and Greifswald University Medicine that deal with the Baltic Sea region. Our approach combines the humanities, social and natural sciences as well as theology and medicine in order to comprehensively investigate the complex ecological, political, social and cultural issues of this region. Through project-bound networks, joint methodological training and regular colloquia, we create synergies that go beyond individual projects. This way, we enable in-depth analyses and practical recommendations for action, strengthen the visibility of research in politics and society and promote long-term academic expertise on the Baltic Sea region at the University of Greifswald.

Research streams

The Interdisciplinary Centre for Baltic Sea Region Research (IFZO) is dedicated to comprehensive research into the region in four central categories: Climate and Sea, Politics and Security, Democracy and Society, and Culture and Heritage. The current projects in these areas reflect the diverse academic focuses and take into account the Baltic Sea Region’s geopolitical importance.

Climate and Sea

Climate and Sea

Research done on “Climate and Sea” investigates the complex climatic and ecological dynamics of the Baltic Sea region as well as changes to the region as a maritime landscape characterised by extensive peatlands and coastal landscapes. The aim is to better understand this ecosystem’s vulnerability and to use the attained knowledge for deriving recommendations for action on climate protection and environmental management that will to the Baltic Sea region’s resilience.
Politics and Security

Politics and Security

In the area of “Politics and Security”, researchers analyse the complex geopolitical dynamics of the Baltic Sea region and shed light on security policy challenges ranging from energy infrastructure to military cooperation in the region. By examining power relations and forms of collaboration, a deeper understanding of the Baltic Sea region as a geopolitically significant region can be gained, one that is explicitly based on transnational cooperation and shared interests.
Democracy and Society

Democracy and Society

Researchers working in the field of “Democracy and Society” investigate the social and political structures of the Baltic Sea region and examine how democratic processes function. A particular focus is placed on the analysis of rural areas, which have a significant impact on societies in the Baltic Sea region. The healthcare system, critical infrastructure and new forms of entrepreneurship or political participation can be examined particularly well in these areas, which are often neglected by research, in order to ensure social participation and thus make the democracies of the Baltic Sea region more crisis-proof.
Culture and Heritage

Culture and Heritage

Researchers concerned with the field “Culture and Heritage” are dedicated to reconstructing, researching, and preserving the multifaceted cultural landscape of the Baltic Sea region. They analyse historical and contemporary cultural practices in order to highlight the diversity of traditions and regional identities. These may be very concrete material artefacts, such as Viking gold or manor houses, but also immaterial values, narratives or traditions that can be examined on the basis of specific cultural practices.

These IFZO research streams contribute to the holistic development and sustainable future of the Baltic Sea region by combining academic discoveries with practical measures and promoting cooperation between different stakeholders. This emphasises the importance of the Baltic Sea region as a unique geographical and political entity in Europe.

Fellowship programme

Within the framework of its annual fellowship programme, the Centre offers researchers the opportunity to work on their Baltic Sea region-related research project at the IFZO and to network and exchange ideas with experts in Greifswald. Further information on the programme can be found here.