The Ocean Geopolitics Centre examines the sea as a strategic space where geography, economics, security, technology, and diplomacy converge. Our research explores the evolving geopolitical dynamics shaping the Atlantic basin, including the relationships between Europe, Africa, the Americas, and the wider international system. Particular attention is given to emerging power structures, maritime connectivity, international competition, and the growing strategic significance of Atlantic routes and resources.
Maritime Security and Ocean Governance
The oceans are essential to global stability, trade, and prosperity. The Centre studies maritime security challenges including piracy, illegal fishing, hybrid threats, cybersecurity, critical maritime infrastructure, and the protection of sea lines of communication. We also promote discussion on international maritime law, ocean governance, sustainable management of marine resources, and the role of international institutions in maintaining security and cooperation at sea.
Blue Economy and Strategic Sovereignty
The sustainable use of marine resources is increasingly linked to national prosperity and strategic autonomy. The Centre analyzes the development of blue economy sectors such as fisheries, offshore energy, marine biotechnology, ocean industries, and maritime innovation. We explore how nations and regions can balance economic growth, environmental responsibility, and strategic sovereignty in an era of increasing competition for ocean resources.
Energy, Infrastructure and Maritime Logistics
Global supply chains, ports, submarine cables, energy corridors, and transport networks constitute the backbone of the modern economy. The Centre investigates the strategic implications of maritime infrastructure, port development, logistics corridors, offshore energy systems, and digital connectivity. Research in this area seeks to understand how infrastructure contributes to economic resilience, regional development, and geopolitical influence.
Lusophone Cooperation and South Atlantic Relations
The Atlantic connects diverse nations through history, language, culture, and shared strategic interests. The Centre promotes cooperation among Portuguese-speaking countries and encourages dialogue between Europe, South America, and Africa. Particular focus is given to South Atlantic relations, maritime cooperation, educational partnerships, cultural diplomacy, and the strengthening of transatlantic networks that support sustainable development and international understanding.
Governance
Strong institutions are essential for stability, prosperity, and strategic resilience. The Centre examines democratic governance, public administration, institutional modernization, transparency, accountability, and public policy reform. Through research and public debate, we seek to contribute to discussions on how institutions can adapt to the challenges of technological change, globalization, demographic transformation, and growing societal expectations.
Climate, Environment and Human Security
Climate change has become a major geopolitical and security challenge. The Centre studies the relationship between environmental transformation, maritime sustainability, resource management, disaster resilience, and human security. Particular attention is given to rising sea levels, coastal vulnerability, marine ecosystems, energy transition, and the strategic implications of environmental change for nations and communities.
Strategic Culture and Civilizational Studies
Understanding the historical, cultural, and intellectual foundations of societies is essential for understanding international affairs. The Centre promotes the study of strategic culture, maritime identity, civilizational development, historical memory, and the ideas that influence political behavior and international relations. This area encourages interdisciplinary dialogue between history, philosophy, geopolitics, culture, and public policy.
Global Power Transitions and Emerging International Order
The international system is undergoing profound transformation. The Centre analyzes shifts in global power, the emergence of new actors, multipolarity, technological competition, economic realignment, and the future of international governance. Research seeks to understand how these transformations affect the Atlantic region and how states, institutions, and societies can adapt to an increasingly complex global environment.
Strategic Education and Public Awareness
Knowledge is fundamental to effective citizenship and responsible leadership. The Centre develops educational initiatives, public lectures, seminars, publications, youth programs, and strategic communication projects designed to make complex geopolitical issues accessible to broader audiences. By connecting academic research with public engagement, the Centre contributes to a more informed, aware, and strategically literate society.