The Baltic Sea

Parliamentary Conference

Representatives of all national and regional parliaments of the Baltic Sea region, the European Parliament, the Baltic Assembly, and the Nordic Council attended — a clear expression of unity and the continued relevance of interparliamentary cooperation in the Baltic Sea Region. Kristina Herbst opened the meeting by thanking the Åland Islands for hosting the 34th BSPC in Mariehamn, noting that the conference had provided important momentum for the political work now being taken forward. She stressed the central role of parliamentary dialogue in safeguarding democratic resilience, regional stability and cross-border trust: “Cooperation among our parliaments is not a formality — it is a necessity. The Baltic Sea region faces shared challenges, and only together can we find the solutions our citizens expect.” Delegates in Kiel discussed the follow-up to the 34th BSPC, the Presidency’s strategic priorities for 2025–2026, and the ongoing work in the BSPC Working Group and Rapporteurships. They exchanged views on key regional issues, including the future of the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) based on the recent Wise Persons Report. The discussions reflected the breadth of the regional agenda and the BSPC’s role as a platform for long-term parliamentary coordination. In light of current developments, the Standing Committee agreed today to issue a joint statement under the title ‘Nothing About Ukraine Without Ukraine. The Statement reaffirms the BSPC’s unwavering solidarity with Ukraine and underlines that any international initiative must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. It stresses that no proposal or negotiation format may be pursued without Ukraine’s consent or at the expense of its security and freedom. Kristina Herbst emphasised: “Our message from Kiel is clear: Ukraine decides its future. As our Statement states, Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity are inviolable. Any path to peace must be anchored in international law — and must strengthen Ukraine rather than reward aggression.” Delegates stressed that Ukraine’s defence remains directly linked to the security and democratic resilience of the entire Baltic Sea region and expressed deep respect for the determination of the Ukrainian people in defending shared democratic values. The Presidency also presented the upcoming 35th BSPC, to be held in Lübeck from 30 August to 1 September 2026 — the first time since 1998 that Schleswig-Holstein will host the annual Conference. Delegates welcomed the choice of venue and the Presidency’s intention to make Lübeck a central forum for political dialogue in the region. In her concluding remarks, Kristina Herbst thanked all delegations for their constructive engagement and emphasised the value of the intensive political exchange during the Kiel meeting. The Standing Committee will reconvene in early March 2026 in Brussels to continue its work under the Schleswig-Holstein Presidency.

The debate also marked the first parliamentary address by Cornelia Schmachtenberg , newly appointed Minister for European and Baltic Sea Affairs of Schleswig-Holstein . In her maiden speech, she underlined that Baltic Sea cooperation will be a central priority for the state government. She expressed full support for the BSPC Presidency, congratulated the President and the Secretary General, and highlighted the importance of hosting the 2026 BSPC Annual Conference in Lübeck . She confirmed that the government will report on the implementation of the Resolution as mandated by Parliament. The Parliament congratulated Kristina Herbst , President of the Schleswig-Holstein Parliament and President of the BSPC , for returning the BSPC Annual Conference to Schleswig-Holstein for the first time since 1998. Members also welcomed the appointment of Jan Diedrichsen as Secretary General of the BSPC , tasked with steering the organisation through the Schleswig-Holstein presidency. Cross-party perspectives Christian Democratic Union (CDU) – Rasmus Vöge Rasmus Vöge highlighted Schleswig-Holstein’s long-standing role in Baltic Sea cooperation and the international recognition associated with the BSPC Presidency. He emphasised the importance of hosting the 2026 Annual Conference in Lübeck and the region’s tradition of consensus-driven cooperation. Alliance 90/The Greens – Eka von Kalben Eka von Kalben stressed that the Baltic Sea has become one of the EU’s most security- and environmentally sensitive regions. She focused on maritime security, the protection of critical infrastructure, democratic resilience and ecological renewal, emphasising the Resolution’s united stance for international and maritime law. Social Democratic Party (SPD) – Marc Timmer Marc Timmer highlighted the importance of cross-border dialogue in times of geopolitical tension. He pointed to strong youth participation at the Mariehamn Conference and underlined the interdependence of security, environmental protection and democracy. He welcomed the launch of the new BSPC Working Group on strengthening cyber and information resilience and emphasised Schleswig-Holstein’s active role. Free Democratic Party (FDP) – Dr. Heiner Garg Dr. Heiner Garg stressed the seriousness of the current security environment. He warned against proposals undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty and highlighted the need to strengthen maritime security, counter hybrid threats and address the risks posed by the “shadow fleet”. He emphasised the centrality of societal resilience and the protection of minorities. SSW (Party of the Danish Minority and the North Frisians) – Jette Waldinger-Thiering Jette Waldinger-Thiering emphasised that youth participation must be a central focus of the upcoming BSPC Annual Conference in Schleswig-Holstein, noting that young people are essential for the future strength of democratic societies. She underlined that the Baltic Sea – long a connecting element between neighbouring states – has increasingly become an area of geopolitical tension, making the united signal from Mariehamn all the more important: solidarity with Ukraine, cohesion among the Baltic Sea states and a shared commitment to regional resilience. The unanimous vote demonstrates strong political backing for the BSPC’s work in Schleswig-Holstein and marks a clear commitment to strengthening security, democracy and sustainability across the Baltic Sea region.All parliamentary groups and the state government backed the BSPC Resolution in a full plenary debate – a rare unanimous vote that sends a clear message of unity, resolve and shared responsibility across the Baltic Sea region.

Baltic Assembly and BSPC reaffirm close cooperation in Riga – Clear messages on unity, security and regional resilience At the joint session of the Baltic Assembly and the Baltic Council in Riga, Kristina Herbst, President of the BSPC, highlighted the long-standing and close cooperation between the Baltic Assembly and the BSPC. “For the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference, the Baltic Assembly is more than a partner — it is one of its foundations,” Herbst stated. She expressed her appreciation for Professor Jānis Vucāns, President of the Baltic Assembly and former President of the BSPC, noting: “His advice during my first months as BSPC President has been very valuable.” Herbst addressed the current geopolitical situation with clarity: “Russia’s continuing aggression against Ukraine has shaken the foundations of European security. This war is not only about territory. It is also about our values — freedom, democracy and the rule of law.” She paid tribute to the role of the Baltic States, stating: “Your citizens have proved that unity and determination can protect democracy even under pressure.” A key theme of the session was connectivity as a strategic element for unity, economic development and security. Herbst stressed that “connectivity means more than roads, ports and railways. It means building the links that keep our region united — politically, economically and digitally.” She referred to the BSPC Working Group on Strengthening Cyber and Information Resilience, where members from the Baltic States play an important role in addressing disinformation and hybrid threats. Herbst underlined the shared mandate of both organisations: “Through dialogue and recommendations, we give a joint voice to the parliaments of the Baltic Sea. Our work helps to show that this sea does not divide us — it connects us.” She added that “democratic cooperation is not a weakness, but a source of strength.” On the evening before the session, the Baltic Assembly Prizes and Medals Award Ceremony at the Mežaparks Grand Bandstand offered a warm and culturally rich opening to the Riga meetings. In the historic surroundings of the Baltic song festival grounds, the atmosphere was open and familiar. The awards recognised achievements in literature, the arts, science, innovation and contributions to cooperation — a reflection of the cultural depth that continues to support regional cohesion. Together, the events in Riga showed once more how essential the partnership between the Baltic Assembly and the BSPC remains for stability, resilience and democratic strength in the Baltic Sea region.

On 29 October 2025, Kristina Herbst , President of the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference (BSPC) , took part in the 77th Plenary Session of the Nordic Council , held in the Swedish Parliament ( Riksdag ) in Stockholm. The session gathered Nordic parliamentarians, heads of government and ministers from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, the Faroe Islands and Åland under the theme “The Nordics, together – Nordic value and cohesion in troubled times.” The debates focused on cooperation for security, societal preparedness and the green transition. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen opened the plenary with a keynote address that highlighted the Nordic countries’ long tradition of democracy, equality and openness, and their leading role in supporting Ukraine and strengthening Europe’s resilience. In her greeting to the assembly, BSPC President Kristina Herbst expressed appreciation for the Nordic Council’s invitation and for its long-standing cooperation with the BSPC. She emphasised the importance of maintaining strong parliamentary dialogue across the Baltic Sea Region, especially at a time when the security situation in Europe demands unity and trust between democratic institutions. Herbst underlined that the BSPC Presidency of Schleswig-Holstein is focusing on youth, resilience and cross-border cooperation under the motto “Youth.Set.Sail – For a Thriving Baltic Sea Region.” The Presidency aims to strengthen parliamentary cooperation on energy transition, digital transformation and civic participation in line with the BSPC’s ongoing work on regional security and democratic stability. The participation of the BSPC President in the Nordic Council’s annual session reflects the close ties between both organisations and their shared goal of fostering dialogue, democracy and peace in Northern Europe.

At the BSSSC Day of Cities and Regions in Sopot on 28 October 2025, Kristina Herbst , President of the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference (BSPC) , underlined the importance of democratic cooperation and resilience for the future of the Baltic Sea Region. Speaking in the high-level panel “Viewpoints on Baltic Sea Region Security from the Parliamentary, National and EU Level,” President Herbst called for closer links between parliaments, regions, and governments to respond to the growing challenges of security and societal cohesion. “We can only be resilient if we work together – across borders, across policy fields, and across generations,” she said. Herbst recalled that the BSPC was founded in 1991 “on hope” — as a platform to connect all Baltic Sea parliaments in dialogue and cooperation. That period of inclusive cooperation ended with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which “turned the Baltic Sea once again into a strategic frontline — between democracy and aggression.” In response, the BSPC strengthened its work on energy security, resilience, and connectivity , culminating in the final report of the BSPC Working Group on Energy Security and Resilience presented at the 33rd Annual Conference in Mariehamn. The report calls for faster renewable energy development, stronger cross-border interconnections, protection of maritime and digital infrastructure, and tighter controls on Russia’s “shadow fleet.” “Security is more than defence — it is resilience. And resilience is built through cooperation, trust, and shared democratic values,” Herbst emphasised. Presenting the priorities of the current BSPC Presidency under the motto “Youth.Set.Sail – For a Thriving Baltic Sea Region,” she stressed that youth engagement and security policy must go hand in hand. “If young people believe in cooperation and democracy, the Baltic Sea Region will remain strong,” she said. Herbst also highlighted the need for better coordination between regional organisations such as the BSSSC , CBSS , BSPC , and the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region , noting that parliamentary participation adds democratic legitimacy and long-term political commitment to regional cooperation.

By Rovena Berga-Minkeviča On 12–13 October 2025, parliamentarians from across the Baltic Sea region convened in Tallinn, Estonia, for the inaugural meeting of the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference (BSPC) Working Group on Strengthening Cyber and Information Resilience to Promote Democracy (WG SCIRPD). Delegates from the Åland Islands, the Baltic Assembly, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Schleswig-Holstein, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland and Sweden joined officials and experts to discuss strategies for enhancing cybersecurity, protecting critical information infrastructure and promoting democratic resilience across the Baltic Sea region. Chair of the WG SCIRPD, Mr Meelis Kiili , opened the meeting by emphasising that digitalisation uses data and technology to boost efficiency and create new value. As artificial intelligence reshapes economies and governance, up to 20% of jobs may be affected. At the same time, non-democratic states exploit digitalisation for strategic gain, threatening democratic stability and resilience. He underlined that this poses a direct and growing challenge to democratic governance, economic autonomy, cognitive resilience and societal stability. On the Frontlines of Cyber Resilience Participants of the WG SCIRPD engaged in a series of high-level site visits, gaining first-hand insights into Estonia’s leading institutions in cybersecurity and digital resilience. NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE): Established in 2008, the CCDCOE is a NATO-accredited institution dedicated to advancing cyber defence capabilities and international cooperation. As of January 2018, CCDCOE is responsible for identifying and coordinating education and training solutions in cyber defence for all NATO bodies across the Alliance. By 2025, the CCDCOE has grown and expanded, bringing together 39 member nations, both NATO Allies and like-minded partners. Director of the CCDCOE, Mr Tõnis Saar , introduced participants to the Centre’s work in research, training and exercises, including the renowned Locked Shields live-fire exercise - the largest and most complex international cyber defence drill in the world. The visit highlighted the Centre’s role in fostering interoperability, testing defensive strategies, and promoting collaboration among NATO partners and allies. Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech): Founded in 1918, TalTech is the only university of technology and is currently the most innovative university in Estonia. About 10,300 students study at TalTech, of which 1350 are international degree students coming from nearly 100 different countries. TalTech Centre for Digital Forensics and Cyber Security works towards enhancing the competence and ability of the Estonian computer security field through education, research and development. Head of the Centre, Mr Rain Ottis , presented it as Estonia’s leading academic and research institution in cybersecurity. Participants learned about its wide-ranging research in network security, digital forensics, cyber operations, cryptography, including post-quantum and blockchain technologies, maritime cybersecurity, legal aspects and human factors. The visit underscored the importance of combining academic research, innovation and practical training to enhance national and regional cyber resilience. Expert Perspectives on Cyber and Information Resilience Manager of the Cyber Security Masters Programme at the Tallinn University of Technology, Dr Adrian Venables , informed about the programme, which equips students with the expertise to protect information systems. Courses in human factors, law, threat intelligence, space cybersecurity and the Internet of Things provide specialist knowledge, opening opportunities across various industries. Students also have the possibility to learn directly from top cybersecurity experts, alongside industry professionals. The programme is taught in English and is tuition-free for EU citizens. Each year, approximately 50-60 students are admitted, with about half coming from Estonia and the remainder from other EU member states. Head of International Cyber Security Cooperation at the Estonian Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs, Mr Kaido Tee , and Cyber Security Legal Adviser at the Estonian Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs, Mr Guido Pääsuke , provided information about the management of national cybersecurity in Estonia. For example, Estonia is currently implementing its fourth Cybersecurity Strategy, developed in response to the growing complexity and frequency of cyber threats. The strategy builds on lessons learned from numerous cyberattacks, including the large-scale attacks of 2007, and reflects the continued commitment of Estonia to strengthening national resilience, protecting critical infrastructure and enhancing international cooperation in the digital sphere. It was concluded that the overall goal of cybersecurity is to keep digital data and systems protected by confidentiality, availability and integrity. Afterwards, Head of International Relations of the Information System Authority (RIA), Ms Carolina Leis , informed about the role of RIA in strengthening cyber and information resilience. It is the central government agency responsible for cybersecurity, information security and the management of state information systems. It operates under the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications and plays a key role in ensuring the security, availability and reliability of the digital infrastructure. She also emphasised that the number of cyber incidents is on a rising trend, the largest part consisting of fraud, such as scam pages and phishing attempts, used by both cybercriminals and state-sponsored threat actors. Lastly, Commander of the Estonian Defence League Cyber Defence Unit, Col Andres Hairk , informed that the Cyber Defence Unit is a specialised volunteer unit within the Estonian Defence League that protects information infrastructure, supports crisis management and enhances national cyber defence capabilities. It leverages the expertise of IT professionals from the private sector to bolster national cyber resilience and provides an opportunity for volunteers who are not physically present in Estonia to contribute to the defence of the state. The presentation emphasised that the basics of national defence are the need for each citizen to play his or her part in defending the nation. Looking Ahead During the meeting, WG SCIRPD members discussed the chairmanship, approved the work programme and set the agenda for future meetings, establishing a strong foundation for their work over the next two years. It was agreed that the next session will be hosted in Poland and that the group will operate with a permanent and rotating co-chair to ensure continuity and shared leadership. The participants also drew key conclusions regarding regional cybersecurity and information resilience. Members underscored the essential role of every citizen in contributing to national resilience and highlighted the urgent need to prepare for emerging challenges, including quantum technologies and the increasing frequency of cyberattacks. They emphasised the importance of reviewing and assessing existing cybersecurity regulations, noting that in cyberspace, geography is irrelevant, as threats can emerge from anywhere. It was also agreed that a coordinated, proactive approach to cybersecurity is critical. Early planning enables effective reaction, which in turn builds public confidence and strengthens societal security, resilience and cohesion, promoting democracy. Photos © Erik Peinar (Riigikogu) and Secretariat of the Baltic Assembly