Since the end of the Cold War, the Baltic Sea Region (BSR) has developed into one of the most exciting regions in Europe. As in no other part of the continent, 'old' and 'new' Europeans have joined forces to create a common new region which is blossoming and prospering. The EU enlargement on May 1, 2004 turned the Baltic Sea almost into a 'Mare Europaeum'.

Some of the most dynamic developments have happened within the field of higher education and research. Many networks and joint projects link higher education institutions, scholars and students all around the Baltic rim. The BSR is a most interesting example of how building a knowledge-based society becomes part of building a European region. But how much of this is visible and known in other parts of the world? Seen from a global perspective, the Baltic Sea region with its higher education structures still appears to be a white spot on the world map.

To change this is the primary goal of BalticStudyNet. The project that is funded by the European Commission will globally promote the BSR as an area of top-quality, innovative higher education. The focus is on study and research opportunities regarding political, historical, economic and cultural perspectives on the BSR. Target regions are North America, Russia including the Caucasus and Central Asia, Australia, China and India.