Security research plays a crucial role in strengthening national defense by providing an in-depth understanding of regional and global processes. Dr. sc. pol. Toms Rostoks, Director of the Center for Security and Strategic Research at the National Defense Academy of Latvia (Defence Academy), focuses his research on security issues in Latvia and the Baltic region, NATO’s deterrence strategy, and the analysis of state intentions, contributing to a well-informed and knowledge-based defense policy.
“The National Defense Academy of Latvia is a higher education institution, so science and research are an integral part of it,” emphasizes Associate Professor Toms Rostoks. He highlights that interest in security and defense issues has significantly increased in recent years, both in Latvia and internationally.
T. Rostoks, a political science doctor, has conducted significant research on NATO’s deterrence measures in the Baltic region, changes in Latvia’s security policy since 2014, and public opinion on national defense. From his perspective, security issues require an interdisciplinary approach: “Are people and research conducted by military-educated researchers important for national defense? Yes, of course, but there is also a role for sociologists, economists in military affairs, political scientists, as well as engineers and natural scientists.”
“Science helps me understand the world, gives me the opportunity to be part of the international scientific community, and allows me to contribute to discussions on international security and Latvia’s place in it,” says Dr. sc. pol. Toms Rostoks.
The work of the Defence Academy researchers also helps the international community better understand Latvia’s security situation: “We enhance the knowledge and perceptions of researchers from other countries about how processes unfold in Latvia because we are one of the countries bordering Russia, which is why we receive special attention.”
Dr. sc. pol. Rostoks’ research and analysis contribute not only to academic understanding but also to practical efforts in strengthening national security, making him an essential part of the team shaping Latvia’s defense and security policy.
About the science calendar “Research Latvia 2025”
This initiative is carried out within the framework of the European Regional Development Fund Project No. 1.1.1.1/1/24/I/001, “More Effective and Smarter Implementation and Management of Latvia’s Science Policy”, implemented by the Ministry of Education and Science. The project is developed by the creative team of SIA “Entuziasti Digital”, including Mārtiņš Pavasaris, video director Kristaps Mozgirs, and photographer Mārtiņš Goldbergs, in collaboration with the researchLatvia team.
Since 2018, the science calendar “Research Latvia” and traveling exhibition have been created to promote the recognition of Latvian scientists’ achievements, enhance public understanding of the importance of science, and inspire young people to pursue careers in science.
