The Interdisciplinary Centre for Baltic Sea Region Research (IFZO) institutionalises the longstanding excellence of research in and about the Baltic Sea Region at the University of Greifswald. The centre brings together all actors at the University of Greifswald engaged in Baltic Sea related research, combining expertise from across disciplines and faculties, whilst being firmly anchored in the social sciences and humanities. Historically, cooperation across the Baltic Sea emerged from security issues. The advances of collaboration nurtured regional development, while narratives of inter- and transnational cooperation legitimised cross-border initiatives. The transnational and regional ties that have developed over centuries in this integrated and economically networked maritime region transfer the transformation pressure of jointly experienced fragility of ecosystems, social upheavals and structural changes to the societies of the Baltic Sea Region. The changes are also the basis for cultural adaptations of technical and economic as well as social and cultural innovations. The IFZO therefore focuses its research on the course, appropriation and effects of globally relevant transformation processes in the Baltic Sea Region. It is accordingly organised in seven interdisciplinary clusters: “The Topicality of Cultural Heritage”, “Energy”, “International Relations and Security”, “Regional Development and Rural Areas”, “New Nationalisms”, “Sustainability” and “Land Use Patterns”.
Find out more about the IFZO.