By linking the study of the processes of integration to the issues of governance and comprehensive security, the Center intends to pursue a multidimensional strategy of comparative research. The main axis of this strategy entails the following research clusters:

1. Integration, Neighbourhood and Cross Border Issues

The research programme explores the ways in which the recent enlargement and EU’s neighbourhood policy is affecting individual country’s foreign and security policies and the implications for European security. In this respect, it focuses on socioeconomic and political transformation and integration within the Black Sea, the Caucasus and the Balkan regions, and the Eastern Mediterranean. The research programme also concentrates on Turkey’s potential contribution to the development of neighbourhood relations, conflict resolution, energy, and cross border issues within these regions.

2. Social, Economic and Territorial Governance

This research programme examines institutional design, policy performance, and politics of economic, social and territorial governance. Current and planned focus of the research programme include political economy of European integration, modes of regulation, welfare regimes, models of regional governance, public administration reform in a comparative perspective; and issues of economic, social and territorial cohesion.

3. Comparative Studies of Europeanisation and Transformation

This research programme focuses on the impact of European integration and Europeanisation comparatively on European economies and societies. The research agenda examines different themes such as immigration, gender equality, labor markets, justice and home affairs, democratic consolidation, transformation of the role of supranational, national and local actors, policy processes, institutions and the legal framework at both EU and national levels.