RSU Launches Handbook on the Security and Resilience of Academic Institutions

Riga Stradiņš University (RSU), in collaboration with the Kharkiv Aviation Institute of Ukraine, has developed a unique handbook focused on strengthening the security and resilience of universities and research institutions. This international cooperation project offers new, practical guidelines to mitigate the threats of foreign hostile influence while enhancing institutions' ability to adapt to global geopolitical and technological challenges. The presentation of the handbook will take place in the form of a roundtable discussion on Thursday, November 28, at 3:00 PM in the RSU Senate Hall.

The Dean of the RSU Faculty of Social Sciences, Karina Palkova, explains: “The increasing geopolitical tension, technological dependencies, and hybrid threats make Latvian universities and research institutions potential targets for foreign influence. Therefore, the question arises whether Latvian universities are prepared for such challenges; how to mitigate the impact of foreign pressure on academic freedom and research, and what lessons can be learned from Ukraine's experience— a country that has preserved its academic and scientific potential even in wartime conditions. These issues are not only relevant but also strategically important for Latvia's future security. The handbook offers specific solutions that would be beneficial not only for the academic community but also for society at large.”

The unique handbook will cover topics such as risk management, specifically how to identify and mitigate threats to the academic environment; the protection of staff, students, and infrastructure—how to maintain security in both physical and digital spaces. It will also include experiences from conflict zones, highlighting a real example from Ukraine, demonstrating how resilience in the academic environment can strengthen national security.