The Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have a rich Jewish history. Since the Middle Ages, Jewish communities have shaped the region’s culture and economy. Riga and Vilnius were centers of Jewish scholarship, art, and science. During the German occupation in World War II, these communities were almost entirely destroyed.

In July 2025, a research trip will take place for students from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Germany. The program includes visits to historical sites, former synagogues, Jewish quarters, and memorials. Discussions with historians, civil society representatives and members of the Jewish communities will provide deeper insights into Jewish history and its contemporary relevance.

The trip also includes visits to sites of Nazi crimes such as Rumbula, Ponary, and Klooga, which serve as stark reminders of the Holocaust. A key focus will be on memory culture and how different societies address the past, fostering multilateral dialogue on remembrance and responsibility.

About the Project:

The project aims at university students from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Germany. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the project, we welcome applications from students of various academic disciplines and study programs. Participants are expected to submit an essay (max. 5 pages) in English on one of the project topics by mid-August 2025 and actively contribute to a travel blog during the trip. Participation in all program activities is mandatory. The project language is English. Accommodation (in double-bed rooms) as well as program, food, and travel costs will be covered.

Applications:

Please submit your application by April 13, 2025. Your application should include a motivation letter, a CV, and a research outline (the latter max. 1-2 pages) for your essay. Please answer the following questions for your outline:

What topic would you like to address, how will you approach it, and which partners (e.g., for interviews) would be import- ant for the outcome? All documents must be submitted in English, compiled into a single file, and sent via email.

We are committed to approaching this topic with the utmost sensitivity and stand firmly against all forms of antisemitism and other extremist manifestations. Through this research trip, we aim to foster a safe and inclusive environment for all participants, free from discrimination, and strive to ensure the project is as accessible as possible to everyone.