The Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS) has the pleasure of inviting you to a seminar with EU Special Representative Peter Semneby on:

The South Caucasus after the conflict in Georgia

Wednesday, 17 December 2008, 14.30-16.00
Danish Institute for International Studies
Nordskov
Wilders Plads 8H, third floor, 1401 Copenhagen K

Background

The short August conflict in the Caucasus between Russia and Georgia left the EU at a crossroads. However, the EU managed to take immediate steps to secure a ceasefire, stabilise the situation and facilitate political talks between the parties. Under the present circumstances, the EU led by a vigorous French EU Presidency turned out to be the best suited international actor to engage in the difficult dialogue with Russia and Georgia to try to find a way forward. In record time, EU monitors were deployed to secure a Russian withdrawal.

The consequences of the conflict will be felt for a long time throughout the region. Relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan have been influenced and the conflict might also have an impact on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The balance of power in the Caucasus has shifted. And the question is now how to handle this delicate situation in a strategically and geopolitically important region.

As European Union Special Representative for the South Caucasus, Peter Semneby work to further the EU's agenda in the countries of the region – Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia – as well as contribute to the development of a comprehensive EU policy for the South Caucasus. Thus, he has first hand knowledge of the situation in the region.

Programme

14.30-14.40       Introduction
                        Jørgen Staun, Project Researcher, DIIS

14.40-15.25       The South Caucasus after the conflict in Georgia
                        Peter Semneby, European Union Special Representative for the South Caucasus

15.25-16.00       Open Discussion

Chair: Jørgen Staun, Project Researcher, DIIS

Practical Information

The seminar will be held in English.

Participation is free of charge, but registration is required. The seminar is fully booked at this time and it is no longer possible to register for the seminar.

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