On 2 December 2025, the Head of the Research Service of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Lesia Vaolevska, took part in the 14th International Black Sea Symposium, organized by the International Centre for Black Sea Studies (Athens, Greece). The event, held online in an expert-dialogue format, focused on the theme “Black Sea: Approaching a tipping point?” and brought together international experts to discuss key shifts in the region’s geopolitical and security landscape.

In her presentation, the Head of the Research Service outlined analytical approaches to assessing economic, environmental, and security risks in the Black Sea region. In particular, she highlighted the consequences of large-scale mine contamination, current environmental threats, challenges related to industrial pollution, as well as prospects for developing renewable energy and strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure.

The symposium served as an important platform for exchanging expert insights, deepening research engagement, and advancing cooperation on issues that shape the strategic future of the Black Sea region.