Within the framework of this research, we investigate geopolitical dynamics and security policy challenges in the Baltic Sea region. The results are incorporated into strategies for regional security and international cooperation. The goal is to promote stability and strengthen the geopolitical importance of the Baltic Sea.
Since February 2025, the MAGnituDe research project has been investigating war-related migration from Ukraine with a focus on affective geopolitics, social polarisation and democracy in Europe. The goal is to develop political recommendations for action. The project, funded by Horizon Europe, is being implemented by universities and NGOs from six different states.
The work package examines the NATO military architecture in the Baltic Sea region with a focus on the Enhanced Forward Presence (eFP). It analyses the structure, strengths and weaknesses of these multinational battalions as well as the effects of military, cultural and conceptual diversity on operations. NATO serves as a “multinational laboratory”.
The work package investigates the concept of cooperative deterrence in the Baltic Sea region with a focus on military infrastructure, mobility and manoeuvres. It analyses the transformation of military facilities, the transport routes for rapid troop deployment and the part military exercises play in credible deterrence.
The work package analyses Germany’s growing role with regard to security policy in the Baltic Sea region. It examines troop deployment as a historical caesura, strategic dependencies and the expectations of neighbouring states. It furthermore assesses Germany’s leadership role in Lithuania within the framework of the Enhanced Forward Presence.