International Scientific Conference “Russia and the Greater Mediterranean 2023. Human in the face of a new energy agenda”
On October 26-28, 2023, the Institute of Europe of the Russian Academy of Sciences and HSE University successfully hosted a discussion on the problems facing the Mediterranean and Black Sea region. Mateo Rojas Samper, a 2nd year student of the program, took part and shared his insight of the event.
On October 26-28, 2023, the Institute of Europe of the Russian Academy of Sciences and HSE University successfully hosted a discussion on the problems facing the Mediterranean and Black Sea region. This event served as a platform to address the escalating internal and external contradictions that have emerged in this particular area over the past decade.
The competition between new and old players in the Mediterranean extends beyond the traditional military and political realms. It has become an arena where different civilizational projects clash, each representing unique paradigms of political and economic development. Notably, energy plays a significant role in these projects. The discussions during the event explored the impact of various energy sources, including hydrocarbons, nuclear energy, traditional sources, and emerging green energy technologies, on the development of Mediterranean societies.
Furthermore, the forum delved into the usage of energy-related topics in public diplomacy and the different ways in which both major global powers and regional players are represented in the region. The diversification of energy sources, their availability, and the resultant potential long-term objectives for regional integration into the Mediterranean and global economy were also addressed.
In addition to the discussions held at the Institute of Europe of the Russian Academy of Sciences and HSE University, an insightful presentation was delivered by Mateo Rojas Samper, a master's student at the Higher School of Economics. Mateo presented on the topic of "Energy Transition in Spain: Challenges and Opportunities."
Mateo's presentation began with the thesis that the Spanish government is steadfast in its determination to take a leading role in the environmental transition both within Europe and globally. This commitment is evident as 40% of European funds from the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan are designated to support the green transition in Spain. Mateo further elaborated on the ambitious goals set by the Spanish government and the measures being undertaken to achieve them.
In his presentation, Mateo highlighted that the energy transition in Spain extends beyond being merely an energy transition; it is also a social transition. He emphasized that the process involves not just the adoption of alternative energy sources but also the integration of social and economic factors. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of energy systems with society, and how transitioning to sustainable energy sources can have wide-ranging societal impacts.
Throughout his presentation, Mateo provided a detailed analysis of the challenges and opportunities specifically pertaining to the Spanish context. He explored various aspects such as policy frameworks, investment plans, technological advancements, and the involvement of different stakeholders.
The event proved to be a fruitful platform for scholars, experts, and policymakers to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and propose potential solutions to the challenges faced by the Mediterranean and Black Sea region.
