The aim of the research project is to analyze the new geopolitical trajectories and strategic decisions faced by the leaders of the countries of NATO’s eastern flank (Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria) as a result of the war in Ukraine. The study focuses on the regional and national levels of analysis and the internal processes of contestation that influence the international decisions of states. It aims to analyze various aspects of change and continuity as well as potential foreign policy paths of these countries in the face of the threat from Russia and the growing uncertainty in the regional and international environment. The project analyzes whether the synergy of the proposed attitudes is possible, as well as the factors and scenarios that may lead to it. Moreover, it aims to look at the current situation from the perspective of Ukraine and Moldova, trying to outline the most favorable policies from the perspective of these two countries.

Team members: dr Rafał Lisiakiewicz (Assistant Professor), dr Karolina Kotulewicz-Wisińska (Assistant Professor)