EU think tank tackles comparative research
The Centre for European Studies at the Middle East Technical University (CES-METU), in Ankara, Turkey represents a new dawn in Europe-wide research and policy formation. The EU-funded project 'Enhancing the comparative research capacity of the CES' (Cescer) aimed to strengthen the Centre's research capabilities, widening its research scope to include many more topics and regions. Cescer worked on creating an interdisciplinary arena for comparative research, particularly on the topics of security and governance in Europe, as well as EU enlargement. It sought to reinforce links with top European research institutions and support the CES-METU in launching new research projects. Efforts also aimed at exploring social, economic and political change in Turkey from the perspective of governance and security, studying the Europeanisation of Turkey's foreign policy and institutions as well. These research initiatives have helped understand the dynamics between Europeanisation and European integration, examining topics such as democracy, EU enlargement, institutions, economic development and societal concerns. A new, broader understanding of security, as well as comparative studies on different regions (Balkans, Black Sea, Mediterranean) have also emerged from the project. Eventually, the improved research capacity of the CES-METU will not only strengthen the European Research Area (ERA) but will also offer guidance on enlarging the EU and on guaranteeing its citizens' well-being.
