Artur Kirienko is the Project Manager of the initiative, responsible for coordinating activities, engaging with partners, and overseeing the implementation of the project’s key areas.

Phone: +420 776 772 765
Email: artur.kiriyenko@ccbsnews.info
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/artur-kirienko-a65974204

General Concept

The project is a multi-level platform aimed at strengthening trust, fostering sustainable dialogue, and developing joint approaches to security issues in the Black Sea and Caucasus region. The initiative seeks to reduce tensions, prevent conflicts, and promote cooperative mechanisms among the countries of the region.

Project Objectives

1. Promoting a Culture of Security Dialogue
Encouraging an open exchange of views on current challenges — ranging from military security to hybrid threats, including cybersecurity and information risks.

2. Strengthening Trust Among Regional States
Creating conditions for regular and institutionalized communication among government representatives, the expert community, and international partners.

3. Supporting Preventive Diplomacy
Developing early warning mechanisms and information-sharing practices to help prevent conflict escalation.

4. Aligning Approaches to Regional Security
Identifying common ground in the strategic priorities of regional countries and facilitating the development of joint solutions.

Key Areas of Activity

1. Expert Dialogues and Roundtables
Regular meetings involving analysts, diplomats, military experts, and representatives of international organizations.
Key topics include:

• regional conflicts and their resolution;
• security of energy infrastructure;
• maritime security in the Black Sea;
• the role of external actors.

2. Track II and Track 1.5 Diplomacy
Informal and semi-official channels of engagement between countries, enabling the discussion of sensitive issues beyond formal political frameworks.

3. Exchange and Training Programs
Support for young professionals, researchers, and public officials through:

• internships;
• training modules;
• joint research projects.

4. Analytical and Research Activities
Preparation of reports, policy briefs, and scenario analyses, with a focus on practical recommendations for decision-makers.

5. Digital Dialogue Platform
Creation of an online space for exchanging views, publishing analysis, and hosting virtual events.

Key Principles

• Inclusivity — participation of all regional countries without exception;
• Neutrality — avoidance of political bias;
• Transparency — open access to project outputs;
• Practicality — focus on actionable solutions rather than declarations.

Expected Outcomes

• Reduced levels of mistrust among regional countries;
• Improved quality of expert-level engagement;
• Establishment of sustainable communication channels in crisis situations;
• Development of policy recommendations considered at the governmental level;
• Strengthening of the regional security architecture.

Potential Participants

• Government institutions of regional countries;
• Independent think tanks;
• The academic community;
• International organizations;
• Civil society actors.

Geographical Scope

The project covers the countries of the Black Sea and South Caucasus regions, including coastal states and those directly involved in regional processes.

27.03.2026