Centrum Balticum will host the next Baltic Sea Region Forum in May 2026, bringing together policymakers, researchers and practitioners to examine the evolving security landscape. As shifts in geopolitics, technology and climate reshape the region, this year’s theme “Security in Northern Europe and the Arctic” offers timely perspectives on challenges that cut across borders.
Panel discussions tackle core dimensions of regional security
The programme consists of three expert panel discussions.
– The opening panel “Strategic Competition in the High North” looks at how the Arctic and sub-Arctic are becoming arenas of growing geopolitical interest. Changing sea routes, military postures and access to resources all raise new questions for cooperation and stability, says Kari Liuhto. Liuhto is a professor of intelligence studies and the director of the Centrum Balticum Foundation.
The second panel “Strategic Intelligence and the Region” examines the role of strategic intelligence in safeguarding societies, improving preparedness and supporting cross-border collaboration.
– Effective decision-making relies on understanding fast-moving developments, from hybrid threats to technological disruptions, Liuhto explains.
Liuhto tells that the final discussion “Critical Natural Resources and Logistical Infrastructure” focuses on the materials and systems that keep economies running. The panel looks at regional dependencies, vulnerabilities and the opportunities for future-proofing transport, energy and communication networks.
Registration is now open
Baltic Sea Region Forum 2026 is organised on Monday 4th of May 2026 at the University of Turku. If you want to stay ahead of key security trends shaping Northern Europe and the Arctic, now is the time to register! We welcome you to join the audience in Turku, but it is also possible to follow the event online.
Registration and more information about the event can be found at the event website
