Caspian Institute of Strategic Studies (CISS)

Established in 2021 in Moscow. Performs fundamental and applied research of the situation in Caspian region and South Caucasus.

Key focus areas

• Studies of the countries in Caspian region and South Caucasus, analyzing the impact various regional factors have on the global processes.
• Information, analytical and expert support of the ministries and agencies of the Russian Federation when performing foreign political and economic activities.
• Monitoring of implementation of the implementation of the Trilateral Statement by the Leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia dated 10 November 2020 and follow-up agreements at the top level.
• Research of military potential of the countries in the Caspian region and South Caucasus, analyzing military expenditures and procurement of armament, military equipment and special-purpose vehicles.
• Expert review and assessment of political, military, energy and other risks in Caspian region and South Caucasus.
• Analysis and forecast of the military and political situation developments in Caspian region and South Caucasus, developing proposals about the ways and methods to prevent and to settle crisis situations.
• Comprehensive studies on energy policy of littoral Caspian nations and on the impact of the key projects in hydrocarbons production and transportation on the global energy security.
• Studies of political, law enforcement and business elites of the countries in the Caspian region and South Caucasus, analyzing cross-elites communications and specifics of their public administration systems.
• Promotion of experts' dialogues and interaction with the key think tanks of the countries in the Caspian region and South Caucasus.
• Organization of regional and international conferences, forums, round-table sessions, political and social events.
• Performing fundamental and applied research commissioned by organizations and legal entities.
• Provision of consulting services.

CISS has in-house skillful analysts and researchers, in case of need it can engage leading Russian and foreign experts within specific projects and programs.

CISS organization

• International Programs Directorate
• Regional Programs Directorate
• International Monitoring Group
• Azerbaijan Sector
• Armenia Sector
• Georgia Sector
• Iran Sector
• Kazakhstan Sector
• Sector of Peri-Caspian Regions of Russia
• Turkmenistan Sector
• Turkey Sector
• Sector of Energy Markets and Infrastructure Projects
• Military and Political Studies Sector
• Applied Research Sector