From 20 to 21 June 2023, the College of Europe in Natolin held the annual Natolin Neighbourhood Days organized by the European Neighbourhood Policy Chair. This anticipated event brought together distinguished experts and policymakers from the European Union and its neighbouring countries, fostering dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding.
On Tuesday, 20 June, the event commenced with a thought-provoking panel discussion titled "Russia's Neoimperialism: Ideas, Policies, and Impact". Esteemed speakers Prof. Andreas UMLAND from The Stockholm Centre for Eastern European Studies (SCEEUS) at the Swedish Institute of International Affairs and Dr Anton SAIFULLAYEU from the Centre for East European Studies, University of Warsaw, shed light on Russia's neo-imperialistic tendencies exploring its implications and possible policy responses. Prof. Kataryna WOLCZUK, the new Chairholder of the European Neighbourhood Policy Chair at the College of Europe in Natolin, moderated the panel.
Later that day, the audience had the privilege of hearing Mr Youssef CHERIF, Founding Director of Columbia Global Center Tunis, discuss the political, social, and economic challenges faced by Tunisia in a session titled "A new Tunisia? Navigating the political, social, and economic challenges". Dr Emile BADARIN, Research Fellow at the ENP Chair of the College of Europe in Natolin, expertly moderated the session, leading to fruitful insights and discussions.
The first day's evening session focused on Ukraine's journey on the topic "Revolutions and War: Ukraine's Road to EU's Membership". Mr Oleh RYBACHUK, former politician and civil society leader, Chairman, and Co-founder of the Centre of United Actions, shared his valuable experiences and perspectives on the topic.
The second day, Wednesday, 21 June, commenced with a fascinating panel discussion titled "The South Caucasus: War, Peace, and Political Shifts". Dr Laurence BROERS, Programme Director at Chatham House, London, and Dr Laura LUCIANI, Postdoctoral Researcher at Ghent University, explored the complex dynamics of the region, analyzing the interplay between conflicts, peace processes, and political shifts. Dr Andriy TYUSHKA, Senior Research Fellow at the European Neighbourhood Policy Chair of the College of Europe in Natolin, skilfully moderated the session, facilitating a deep understanding of the South Caucasus.
