The Danube region has become increasingly significant in European geopolitics, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Serving as a vital corridor for trade, energy, and security, the Danube River connects numerous countries, both within and outside the European Union, thereby enhancing EU resilience and stability. A key instrument to that end is the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR), launched in 2011 with the aim at creating synergies and coordinating existing policies and initiatives across the Danube Region. This EUSDR is crucial for fostering economic growth, cross-border cooperation, and infrastructural connectivity. In the context of rising security concerns, particularly those emerging from the war waged by Russia, cooperative security frameworks are essential to ensure regional stability and mitigate external threats. How can the Danube region serve as a bridge between EU and non-EU countries in fostering security and economic cooperation? What role does the EUSDR play in enhancing resilience against geopolitical disruptions and energy crises? How can regional connectivity initiatives contribute to broader European security and economic integration?

This videoconference will delve into these critical issues. It will bring together the representatives of key countries from the region, in particular Austria and Bosnia-Herzegovina (EUSDR Presidency in 2024 and 2025 respectively), experts, and stakeholders to discuss and strategies that leverage the Danube region’s strategic importance for a more secure and integrated Europe.