On 4 September 2026, former and current BSSSC Secretaries General, Board representatives and long-standing partners met online for the first BSSSC Alumni meeting to reflect on the organisation’s future role in the Baltic Sea Region.

Drawing on more than three decades of cooperation, the discussion brought together institutional memory and current perspectives on how BSSSC can remain relevant in a changing political and regional context. Participants reflected on the organisation’s distinctive role as a network of regions, its political contribution to Baltic Sea cooperation, and the areas where the regional level can make the greatest difference.

The meeting also provided input for the ongoing review of BSSSC’s strategic priorities, helping to ensure that the network’s future focus reflects the changing geopolitical context, the role of regions in implementing policy, and the issues where Baltic Sea cooperation can bring the greatest added value. Particular attention was given to BSSSC’s political role in representing regional interests, building strong links across the Baltic Sea Region, and ensuring that youth perspectives remain part of the network’s work.

The Alumni format was positively received as a way to retain experience accumulated within the network and make it available for BSSSC’s future development. Participants agreed to keep the dialogue open and continue using the Alumni network as a space for strategic reflection and exchange.

Prepared by Anita Āboliņa, Head of Communications and Public Relations, Vidzeme Planning Region, and Communications Manager, BSSSC Secretariat. E-mail: anita.abolina@vidzeme.lv