A Highlight of MRU Science and Innovation Week

During Mykolas Romeris University’s (MRU) Science and Innovation Week, taking place on October 13–17, a special focus will be placed on the newly published book “Escaping Stalin” by historian Brian Traantoft Rasmussen and journalist Thomas Græsholm Svaneborg. This unique historical account reveals, for the first time in greater depth, a nearly forgotten chapter of history – the dramatic escape of thousands of Estonians, Latvians, and Lithuanians across the Baltic Sea at the end of World War II, when their homelands were occupied by the Soviet Union.

A Story of Survival and Resilience

The book is based on meticulous research, archival documents, testimonies from refugees and their descendants, as well as letters and diaries. These sources allow the authors to portray the human experience – of loss, hope, courage, and a deep sense of community. It is not only a story of flight, but also of survival, of the desire to preserve one’s identity, and the belief that freedom and democracy must always be defended.

Relevance for Today’s Europe

Today, as Europe once again faces geopolitical challenges, these refugee stories resonate with particular relevance. They remind us that culture and memory are essential parts of the infrastructure of democracy. Cultural heritage strengthens community resilience, anchors the values of freedom, and helps to build bridges between nations.

Organized with Danish Partners

The presentation of “Escaping Stalin” is organized jointly with Mykolas Romeris University by the Danish Cultural Institute, in cooperation with the Embassy of Denmark in Lithuania, as part of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2025 cultural programme. The event symbolically brings these refugee stories back to the Baltics and highlights the close ties between Denmark and the Baltic region. It is a reminder that preserving and sharing history is not only an act of respect for the past but also a foundation of future solidarity.

A Living Witness

Adding a special dimension to the event, the organizers have managed to reach one of the living witnesses of these events – a person who personally endured the dangerous journey across the Baltic Sea. He will attend the book presentation and share his memories. This will offer the audience a rare opportunity to hear history directly from a first-hand witness and to more deeply feel the drama and the power of hope from that era.

MRU invites the academic community, students, cultural representatives, and the wider public to take part in this exceptional event. It is not only a book presentation but also a living testimony, a discussion about European unity, cultural diplomacy, and the resilience of our democratic values.

Participation is free of charge, but prior registration is required.

Details:

Date: October 17, 2025
Time: 09:30 am
Language: English
Venue: Mykolas Romeris University, Ateities St. 20, Vilnius, Room I-414
Facebook link. Invitation.