Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Department of Social Sciences

„Shifting Tides II: Exploring Security Dynamics and European Transformation in the Black Sea Region“

Summer School in Georgia (July 16–22, 2026)

We are pleased to announce the opportunity for 15 undergraduate students (B.A., in their third or fourth year of study) and, in exceptional cases, graduate students (M.A.) to participate in the Summer School „Shifting Tides II: Exploring Security Dynamics and European Transformation in the Black Sea Region“, a collaboration between Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.

This program is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with financial support from the Federal Foreign Office of Germany (AA).

Please note: This call for applications is exclusively open to students enrolled at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.

Program Overview:

When: July 16–22, 2026

Where: Tbilisi, Georgia

Working Language: English

Certificate: Participants will receive a certificate of participation (5 ECTS)

Financial support:

Accommodation and meals will be fully covered. In addition, participants will receive a travel allowance of 675 EUR. All costs are funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

Course Description:

The Black Sea Summer University offers a high-profile study program focusing on conflict dynamics and political transformations in the Black Sea region. The course includes lectures, interactive seminars, and discussions with renowned experts on Eastern Europe and the wider region.

Focus Areas:

  • Democratization and Europeanization: European values and democratic processes in Georgia and neighboring countries
  • Transformative Politics: Populism, corruption, and rule-of-law challenges for European integration

  • Security Policy: Hybrid warfare, energy security, and the EU’s strategic engagement

  • Civil Society Engagement: The role of civic actors in democratization and regional security

The Summer School programme is currently being finalised and will be published here as soon as possible.

Eligibility:

  • Applicants must be enrolled at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.

  • The Summer School is primarily designed for advanced undergraduate students (B.A.), ideally in their third or fourth year, pursuing studies in Social Sciences, Political Science, International Relations, or related fields. However, motivated students from earlier semesters are also welcome to apply.
  • Graduate students (M.A.) may apply in exceptional cases and must demonstrate strong motivation and academic suitability.

  • English language proficiency is required.

 

Application Deadline: May 25, 2026

 

If you are interested in this unique opportunity to explore the complexities of the Black Sea region, we warmly encourage you to apply.

For any questions, please contact Christian Wilhelm at christian.wilhelm@hu-berlin.de.

Join us in Tbilisi and discover one of the most dynamic regions in European and international politics!