About
Established on 30 September 2024 by decision of the Founding Assembly of the public organisation «Danube Research Institute».
The EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) began its implementation in June 2011. It aims to develop coordinated policies and actions within the river basin area, strengthening the commitments of the «Europe 2020» strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.
The EU Danube Strategy is a unique alliance of countries connected, like a thread, by the Danube. It is especially important that we are united not only by the river and a shared vision, but also by Russia’s war against Ukraine and the necessity of supporting the Ukrainian people.
Thus there is a need for scientific research on the Danube region, to contribute to a better understanding of the political, cultural and economic forces within it and their significance for a peaceful and united Europe. However, much remains to be done before a truly united Europe becomes reality, as the peoples and countries of the Danube region have evolved under very different political and economic conditions.
Our area of responsibility will continue to expand, and the European Union itself has recognised the crucial importance of developing the Danube region for the peace and stability of Europe as a whole. This is particularly evident in the EU Strategy for the Danube Region.
Vision
Regions are the future of Europe.
United by the Danube and beyond, the people of Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe share a common cultural heritage and face similar regional and global challenges. Democracy, freedom, equality, the rule of law, human rights and European values are realised through dialogue and discussion.
Preserving and developing this ethos, cooperation and cross-border communication is the key to a democratic, peaceful and stable Europe of the future.
Mission
Conservatism in cultural, religious and social life
The classical liberal tradition in the economy
Realistic Atlanticism in national security policy
These ideals are our roadmap. We are also committed to studying and expanding the related concepts of democracy and patriotism. We believe that the nation-state is the only reliable foundation for democracy, and that tolerant civic nationalism is the only basis for a successful democratic internationalism.
The Institute of Danube Research offers a wide range of academic and practical expertise, both from the Ukrainian Danube region and beyond. Our experts provide a platform of deep knowledge and offer various expert perspectives on today’s challenges, creating sustainable cross-border cooperation and promoting free and open discussion of emerging issues.
The Institute operates as a multilateral hub for a democratic and sustainable Europe — a collaboration between the Danube regions of different states. Scientific research is a priority component of the conventions defined in the UNESCO MAB Programme as one of the core functions of biosphere reserves. The Institute’s research activities are also aimed at achieving the goals of managing the largest nature conservation area in Ukraine.
Our primary audience is the global community of centre-right intellectuals, political leaders and civic organisations. We also plan to involve colleagues from the democratic left- and right-of-centre political spectrum in energetic and principled public debates.
Our methods
Activities
Fields
The Institute of Danube Research addresses topics that arise from cooperation with Danube partners, especially in specialised fields particularly relevant to the region.
