Three Seas Initiative (3SI) Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is the main purpose of the Three Seas Initiative?
political and economic platform aimed at boosting connectivity in energy, transport, and digital infrastructure among 12 EU countries located between the Adriatic, Baltic, and Black Seas.
When was the 3SI launched, and by whom?
2015 by Croatia and Poland
When and where was the first summit held?
2016 in Dubrovnik
Which countries are part of the Three Seas Initiative?
Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia.
What are the main goals of the initiative?
Diversify energy sources (reduce dependency on Russian gas).
Improve regional infrastructure (roads, railways, ports).
Enhance digital connectivity.
Strengthen North–South economic integration in Eastern Europe.
How does Realism explain the 3SI?
geopolitical strategy to balance Russian influence and assert regional power within Europe, particularly led by Poland as a rising actor.
How would Liberalism interpret the initiative?
cooperative framework fostering regional integration, economic interdependence, and alignment with EU and U.S. values.
What would Constructivism highlight about the 3SI?
shared regional identity among post-communist EU states seeking to redefine themselves as modern, independent actors in European politics.
How has the U.S. supported the Three Seas Initiative?
strongly backs the initiative as a counterweight to Chinese and Russian influence, pledging financial and political support
What is the purpose of the 3SI Investment Fund?
2020, the fund is meant to finance infrastructure projects across member states, with a goal of leveraging private and public investment.
Is the 3SI part of the European Union?
independent platform, but aligns with EU objectives, especially cohesion and connectivity.
What are some key infrastructure projects in the 3SI framework?
Via Carpathia and Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) terminals
What is the Via Carpathia?
Transnational highway spanning across Eastern Europe
When will Via Carpathia open?
2025
What countries will be connected via the highway?
Lithuania-Greece
Why is the 3SI geopolitically important?.
reshapes Eastern European cohesion, reduces dependency on Russia, offers alternatives to Chinese Belt and Road investments, and reasserts U.S. presence in Central and Eastern Europe.
What are some criticisms or obstacles for the initiative?
Uneven participation by members.
Concerns over overlapping roles with EU programs.
Skepticism from Germany and France, who fear fragmentation of EU unity.
What does the 3SI imply for intra-EU balance of power?
empower Central and Eastern Europe, challenging Franco-German dominance and promoting a more multipolar EU internal structure.
