The International Centre for Black Sea Studies (ICBSS) (est. 1998) is an independent research and training institution focusing on the wider Black Sea region, and a related body of the Organisation of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) and its think tank.

The ICBSS’ main objective is to advance knowledge on important issues of the Black Sea region and foster multilateral cooperation among regional and international partners. 

ICBSS’ diverse activities include the organization of scientific events, the management of research projects, the elaboration and publication of research papers and studies, and the development of capacity building and networking activities. As BSEC related body and think tank, the ICBSS participates in the deliberations of the BSEC Organisation, and drafts policy documents and coordinates scientific activities upon specific mandates by BSEC. 

The Centre invests in policy-oriented research and capitalizes on its dual role to support advocacy in fields of acute interest for the wider Black Sea region, inter alia, tourism, culture, blue economy, education, transport, energy, environment, science, technology and innovation. Placing special focus on fostering relations between the EU and the Black Sea region, the ICBSS is the Coordinator of the Ad hoc Group of Experts on BSEC-EU Interaction, since 2008.

As part of TOURAL, the ICBSS leads WP2 that will support policy pathways, stakeholders’ engagement and co-creation of business models.