The analytical think tank, marking its 18th year of operation, has changed its name and will now be known as the Geopolitics and Security Studies Center (GSSC). Along with this name change, the Center is refocusing its research areas to concentrate on Eurasian affairs, transatlantic security, and strengthening societal resilience. This announcement was made today at the Center’s 10th annual international conference in Vilnius, attended by prominent security policy experts and diplomats from Lithuania and abroad.
“We are at a symbolic point of organizational maturity. Over 18 years, we have produced more than 1,000 studies, publications, and reviews, and organized an equal number of discussions, events, and forums. On average, we publish analyses every 2.5 days, and well-attended events occur every three days,” said Linas Kojala, Director of the Geopolitics and Security Studies Center. “However, our future goal is to focus on quality and depth over quantity. Achieving this requires strengthening our team and building on years of experience.”
Key achievements that have established the Center as an influential member of the European think tank community include events organized in major Western political hubs such as Brussels, Munich, Paris, and Washington, D.C. These include a public forum during the NATO Summit in Vilnius attended by representatives from 20 NATO member states, and two official side events hosted at the prestigious Munich Security Conference (MSC) – a first for any Lithuanian organization. Additionally, the Centre’s Director has become the first Lithuanian expert to be regularly invited to participate in the MSC and join the Munich Young Leaders program.
“The Center has been one of the most professional and pleasant partners we have ever worked with. It combines deep expertise with pragmatism and an obsessive perfectionism“, said Benedikt Franke, CEO, Munich Security Conference.
Plans for doubling growth by 2027
The Center’s development plan aims to double its team size and output within three years, attracting new management and analytical specialists. This growth will enable a stronger focus on long-term, high-value research and publications.
“We also aim to respond swiftly to the evolving security environment by producing rapid-response analyses for decision-makers and the public within three working days of significant geopolitical events,” explained Kojala. By 2027, the Center plans to employ 24 analysts and project managers.
This growth will be supported by collaborations with leading global institutions, such as NATO. “ The team did an outstanding job as our local partner for the Public Forum during NATO’s Vilnius Summit. It combines an excellent analytical capacity with a first-rate network”, highlighted Boris Ruge, NATO Assistant Secretary General Political Affairs and Security Policy.
80% of partners view the Center as an influential European think tank
In preparation for this new phase, the GSSC team conducted a survey of over 20 institutional partners to evaluate the Center’s content quality, management, collaboration, and perceived influence. The survey results revealed a 9 out of 10 rating for the quality of the Center’s work. Partners expressed confidence in the Center’s reliability, relevance, and insightful analyses. More than 80% recognized the Center as an influential member of the European think tank community, with significant contributions in transatlantic, Eurasian, and security research. These expectations align closely with the Center’s plans for expansion and increased impact.
Jörn Fleck, Senior Director at the Atlantic Council, highlighted the Center’s contributions: “The Atlantic Council’s Europe Center is delighted to work with the Center on the occasion of its sixth annual Central Europe Week conference to bolster strong connections between the United States and its vital Central and Eastern European partners at a critical moment of global uncertainty.”
Symbolism of the new identity
The Center’s updated visual identity retains national symbolism and core values. The letter “G” in the logo represents a focus on geopolitics and highlights the Center’s identity, expertise, and openness.
The sword symbolizes the spirit of vytis, Lithuania’s historic defender of freedom, representing the power of defense, a commitment to safeguarding independence, and ensuring security. The Jagiellonian Cross reflects Lithuania’s historical ties to Europe, shared values, and the Center’s broad analytical horizon—examining global trends in geopolitics, security, and disinformation.
About the Center
The Geopolitics and Security Studies Center (GSSC), established in 2006 in Vilnius, is an independent, non-profit think tank focused on analyzing international political processes and Lithuania’s role in them. The Center brings together experts from various fields, publishes analytical materials, organizes events, and implements both international and national projects. Founded by the Government of Lithuania and Vilnius University, GSSC is committed to providing objective and comprehensive research and recommendations, free from ideological or political bias.