Rethinking Sovereignty in Europe

SOVEREIGN is a research and policy initiative examining how national and European notions of sovereignty can be aligned. In an era marked by democratic shifts and geopolitical challenges, the project explores how new interpretations of sovereignty can improve EU governance, legitimacy, and effectiveness.

What We Aim to Achieve

Develop innovative, actionable models that harmonize national and EU sovereignty
Create a platform for dialogue between scholars, policymakers, and civil society
Strengthen democratic resilience and informed policymaking across the V4 region and Ukraine  

Project Activities

Project activities refer to the specific tasks and actions carried out to achieve the objectives of a project. These activities are essential steps that contribute to the project’s progress, ensuring that it stays on track, meets deadlines, and delivers the desired outcomes. They are typically planned, organized, and executed by the project team throughout the project lifecycle.

Country Reports

We will produce expert analyses on sovereignty in Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, and Ukraine. Each report will explore national debates, legal frameworks, and external influences.

Visegrad Perspectives Book

An edited scholarly volume will synthesise research findings and offer comparative insights into regional sovereignty. It will be published in print and open-access format.

Essay Prize

We will launch a regional essay competition for MA and PhD students on sovereignty-related topics. Winning entries will be published and highlighted across project platforms.

Public Presentations

Findings will be presented at public events, including a high-level session in the Polish Senate. Additional presentations across the region will engage policymakers and the public.

Annual Partner Meetings

Project partners will meet annually to coordinate research and plan future cooperation. Meetings will rotate across countries to strengthen regional ties.

Who We Reach

Citizens across Central and Eastern Europe
Scholars in political science, international law, and EU studies
Policymakers in V4, Ukraine, and EU institutions
Civil society and research institutions

Key Results

Key Results are the measurable metrics that reflect progress toward achieving our goals. They are clear, quantifiable, and time-bound, providing a way to track success and ensure alignment with our objectives. Below are the key results that demonstrate our ongoing progress and impact.

A series of country-specific and comparative policy reports

A published book: V4 Perspectives on Sovereignty

Webinars, blog posts, and info-videos engaging over 1,000 citizens

Recognition and support for early-career researchers