3rd International Black Sea Symposium 2010

The International Centre for Black Sea Studies (ICBSS) hosted the 3rd International Black Sea Symposium on “The Black Sea Region in Flux” at Hotel Danae in Aegina, from 29 June – 4 July 2010. The 3rd International Black Sea Symposium enjoyed the support of 14 international sponsors and partners.

The 39 young professionals who participated in the event were diplomats, academics, civil society leaders and researchers. They represented 20 countries including those of the Black Sea region, EU member states, the United States, Australia and Uzbekistan. They attended two days of sessions with 25 renowned experts presenting on topics such as security concerns, economic development and the roles of NATO, Russia, and the EU. During the following two days participants learned about conflict resolution methods in a workshop series guided by expert facilitator Prof. Benjamin J. Broome (Arizona State University, Tempe, USA).

Participants, speakers and guests praised the ICBSS for the event’s interesting content, lively debates as well as the smooth organisation despite the general strike on 29 June. Participants stated “Much better than everything else I have been attending so far. I think that this is a fantastic opportunity to get to know the region and [for] networking”; “Thanks again … I gained so much - information, perspective and a great network of young leaders in the Black Sea region”. Speakers also commented positively: “The Symposium was interesting for speakers and participants. Participants were well chosen and diverse”; “Highly professional, very positive (both in terms of logistics and essence, speakers, format)”.

Participants, speakers and guests used the Symposium to network, to form ideas for new joint projects and to explore Aegina, learning about Greek history and culture.