Baltic Security Crisis

An explosion shakes a prestigious Russian-language school in Riga, Latvia. Participants find themselves in the middle of a "gray zone" crisis, navigating unconventional security challenges that exceed normal peacetime competition but fall below the threshold of overt armed conflict. Students will need to work together to develop creative responses to cutting-edge security dilemmas posed by Russian competition in the Baltic states.

Roles include the European Union, Latvia, Russia, an ethnic group known as Ursa Minor, and the United States. Participants attempt to resolve several crises, while preserving their own national interests. Instructors send news updates (pre-loaded) and other messages in this simulation to provide additional realism. A scenario is provided along with a private role sheet to give students additional information about their assigned role's positions and interests. Appropriate for courses in international relations, European security and politics, and crisis decision-making, among others.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

• One or more Internet-connected computers or devices per team. (Optimized for desktop and laptop computers.)
• Up-to-date web browser. (Internet Explorer is not supported.)
• JavaScript and pop-up windows must be enabled. (Check your browser settings.)
• No plug-ins or additional software required.