NATO ENSEC COE Subject Matter Expert discussed energy security challenges in Baltic-Russia Youth Forum

NATO ENSEC COE Subject Matter Expert of Strategic Analysis Division Ms Julia VAINIO attended Baltic-Russia Youth Forum in Vilnius, Lithuania. It is a three day event held for the 8^th time which brings together young students and professionals across Europe, Russia and Caucasus to discuss security related themes in the Baltic Sea Region, focusing in particular on the maritime defence and deterrence, energy security of the Baltic region, relations between NATO and Russia, hybrid threats, cyber security as well as NATO's presence in Eastern Europe.

The forum was organized and sponsored by the Estonian Atlantic Treaty Association (EATA) in a cooperation with NATO Headquarters, Estonian Ministry of Defence, Friedrich Ebert Foundation and Lithuanian Atlantic Treaty Association.

Ms Vainio took part in the panel discussion “Energy security in the Baltic Sea region, different energy sources, actors and players”. Other panellists included Mr. Robert JUODKA, Managing Partner from Primus Derling, Mr. Linas SABALIAUSKAS, CEO of Enefit Green, and Mr. Vaidotas MALINIONIS, the Director of National Defence Foundation. The panel was moderated by Ms Anu ESLAS, the CEO of Estonian Wind Power Association.

The main aim of the forum was to give an opportunity for young people from over ten states -- Russia, the Baltics and Nordics as well as from the Eastern Partnership states - to hear presentations by experts and take part in discussions and workshops to better understand security challenges in the present-day world.