The project highlights several main goals, united around the study of aspects of the history of diplomacy and intelligence in the Balkans in the period 17th – 19th centuries that have not been examined by historiography to date. The emphasis is placed, on the one hand, on the role of the human factor, and on the other hand, on the organization, functioning and effectiveness of networks of influence. The vastness of the issue confronts researchers with a number of challenges, while at the same time providing an opportunity for original, contributing publications.

Following the model of case studies that have gained popularity in recent decades, the focus is on specific individuals and their techniques and practices in intelligence activities in the Balkans within the framework of European modernity. Based on the general trends and problems in the time period under consideration, the ambition of the project team is to outline clear problems that will have a contributing nature not only among Bulgarian historiography, but also among the global academic community.