Central and Eastern Europe Hub (CEEhub)

Discover Research on central and eastern Europe at Maastricht University

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The CEEhub at Maastricht University is a research group focused on exploring the social, economic, political, and cultural landscapes of the diverse countries in central and eastern Europe (CEE). Our aim is to engage with the complexities and unique identities of individual nation-states in this area. We produce and promote critical research that seeks to address contemporary challenges facing CEE countries, including EU enlargement, geopolitical tensions, energy security, historical memory, and the effects of polarisation and misinformation.

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Explore Our Research Focus Areas:

At the CEEhub, we examine the evolution of political systems, governance models, and democratic practices in countries such as Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and throughout the Western Balkans, Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia. A key focus of our research is the process of democratisation in the CEE countries, where we investigate the challenges and successes of transitioning to democratic governance. We also assess the impact of EU enlargement policy on these processes, exploring how EU membership impacts on political reforms, institutional development, and civil society engagement.

We highlight concerning trends, including the rise of authoritarianism, the erosion of democratic norms, and the increasing influence of external actors like Russia and China. Our analyses of Russia’s war against Ukraine and its broader implications for security in Europe include investigating Russia's imperialist ambitions and their effects on democratic reforms, local governance, and national identity. Additionally, we assess the responses of the EU and NATO to these geopolitical challenges, focusing on military cooperation, sanctions, and diplomatic strategies aimed at maintaining stability and security. Our research also addresses societal challenges, as well as human rights practices and the role of civil society in promoting democracy and social justice in the face of rising authoritarianism.

Energy security is another critical area of our research. We investigate issues of energy dependence, diversification, and the urgent transition to renewable sources, especially in the context of the ongoing energy crisis exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine. Our studies evaluate national energy policies and their impacts on economic development, environmental sustainability, and social equity.

We also aim to foster a deeper appreciation of the CEE countries' rich and complex histories. Our research focuses on the unique historical trajectories that shape the political, social, and cultural landscapes of individual CEE countries. We explore how past events, such as imperial rule, conflicts, war, and the legacy of communism, for example, influence contemporary domestic politics and geopolitics. Furthermore, we explore the interplay between cultural identity and historical memory, and how historical narratives shape current political identities and influence societal cohesion, recognising the deep historical roots of contemporary politics within and between the CEE countries.

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Join Us:

The CEEhub at Maastricht University aspires to be a leading centre for research on central and eastern Europe, committed to addressing the unique complexities of individual countries while contributing to a global understanding of their dynamics. We invite you to join us in this vital work, particularly in light of recent geopolitical developments and tensions, and their profound implications for European security. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and showcasing our members' innovative and leading research on central and eastern Europe, the CEEhub aims to make a meaningful impact on both academic and policy spheres.

- Engage with Our Activities and Initiatives:
  
  At the CEEhub, we facilitate interdisciplinary research projects that engage staff, students, and external partners to address pressing issues facing Central and Eastern European countries. Our seminars and workshops bring together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss research findings, share best practices, and foster collaboration on topics such as EU enlargement, energy security, and the impacts of autocratisation.
  
  We contribute to academic discourse and aim to inform public policy through the production of research articles, policy briefs, and other publications that focus on the latest developments and challenges in CEE countries. We build networks with other academic institutions, NGOs, and governmental bodies to enhance our research impact and outreach.
  
  We also provide opportunities for students to engage in research projects, internships, and study programmes related to CEE countries, fostering a new generation of scholars equipped to understand the histories, politics, and societies of the region.