A working meeting took place at the Research Service of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine between its leadership and the Director of the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM), Sebastian Schäffer.

During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for further interinstitutional cooperation, particularly in the areas of analytical support to the legislative process, exchange of experience in the preparation of research materials, and engagement of the expert community in supporting Ukraine’s European integration. Special attention was given to opportunities for organising joint events, as well as developing research and analytical initiatives and professional development programmes.

As part of the visit, Sebastian Schäffer delivered a presentation to the staff of the Research Service on the history and current activities of the Institute. He outlined its key research priorities and highlighted its role as an important centre contributing to regional expert discourse.

The presentation also addressed current issues related to European Union enlargement, including challenges and opportunities for candidate countries, the EU’s institutional readiness for further enlargement, and the importance of regional cooperation in the context of integration processes.