Markus Vaher is researching anti-authoritarian and anti-war resistance in Russia and Belarus. He is intrigued by dissident literature and the recent history of democratization in Eastern Europe. Originally from Estonia, he also takes an interest in the national security of the Baltic states. Prior to entering the REECA Program, Markus worked as a research assistant on a team at the University of Chicago, investigating anti-war sabotage in Russia. He completed his mandatory military service in the Estonian Navy in June 2024.