Cathedra Adenauer is a scientific and educational platform where students, experts and academics discuss and share their views on current topics related to the impact of the Russian military aggression in Ukraine in regards to the Euro-Atlantic integration of the Western Balkans countries, as well as the security and external challenges in the region.

The first lecture under the title “The Balkans revisited - Between the transatlantic alliance and foreign influence in light of the Russian aggression in Ukraine” was held at the University of St. Clement of Ohrid in Bitola on 17 October 2023.

The event focused primarily on the security and external challenges faced by the region, especially regarding the Russian military aggression in Ukraine.

Key discussion points included:

Russian military aggression in Ukraine: The speakers analyzed the implications of Russian military aggression in Ukraine on the Western Balkans region, discussing potential diplomatic, economic, and security measures to address this challenge.

Legal perspectives on security challenges: The speakers explored the legal frameworks and international conventions that could be utilized to enhance regional security and mitigate external threats.

Economic dimensions of security challenges: In the framework of the discussion, an insight was given into the economic repercussions of security challenges, emphasizing the importance of sustainable economic policies and international cooperation in promoting stability.

The discussion was followed by questions and comments from the students and other experts present at the event.

The Second lecture under the title “EU and NATO in the Western Balkans in context of the new political and security developments” was organized on 19 October at the Faculty of Law at the University "Goce Delchev" in Stip.

The event provided a platform for extensive discussions and analysis of the Russian military aggression in Ukraine and its implications on Euro-Atlantic integration in the Western Balkans, with a specific focus on North Macedonia. Also at this event, students, media representatives and other present experts had the opportunity to share their views on the topics.