Central Europe
In 2004, the Central European countries joined the European Union as new members. The Prague office seeks to strengthen liberal forces, both political and intellectual, in the region. Our project office particularly supports the 4liberty.eu network, which serves as a centre of competence and a platform for dialogue.
News
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The collapse of NATO, the militarised EU and dictator Zelensky. Disinformers would like to capitulate to Russia on behalf of Ukraine
Disinformers are ramping up their attacks on NATO, the EU, and Ukrainian President Zelensky, using a mix of fearmongering and pro-Kremlin narratives to push their agenda. While some gleefully predict NATO’s collapse, others accuse the EU of warmongering for strengthening its defense and supporting Ukraine. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico continues to parrot Russian-friendly rhetoric, painting Zelensky as the villain behind Europe’s energy crisis. Meanwhile, far-right figures and disinformation actors glorify Putin and Trump as peacemakers while dismissing European security efforts as a conspiracy. Infosecurity.sk’s latest report uncovers these manipulative narratives and their dangerous impact on public discourse.
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From Poland with Love. February
Poland's delicate political balancing act is under the spotlight this February, as it navigates tense transatlantic relations amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine. President Andrzej Duda’s awkward encounter with Donald Trump and growing opposition to his approach highlight the complexities of maintaining strong ties with the US. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Donald Tusk advocates for Europe's independence from the US, urging a unified European defense strategy. Amid these tensions, Poland continues its staunch support for Ukraine, despite the challenges posed by both domestic and international political pressures.
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From Poland with Love. January
The January edition of From Poland With Love covers the growing list of presidential candidates, as well as new ideological battle brewing within the ruling coalition. This issue explores the latest political developments, including challenges to election integrity. Plus, a look back at the solemn anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.
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Polish EU Council Presidency: A Turning Point for Europe?
Poland's EU Council Presidency marks the start of a decisive phase for Europe. The focus is on security, resilience and border protection. Can Warsaw overcome the challenges and strengthen the EU?
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From Poland with Love. December
The December edition of From Poland with Love delves into critical developments shaping Poland and its role within the European Union. This issue examines the contentious asylum case of a Polish politician in Hungary, the implications of strategic reforms to media ownership in the lead-up to pivotal elections, and the socioeconomic impact of rising inflation exemplified by increasing butter prices. These topics offer a nuanced perspective on Poland's domestic and international challenges in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
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On the Path to Illiberal Democracy?
One year after Robert Fico's election, there is a trend towards illiberal democracy in Slovakia. He is centralizing power with pro-Russian, authoritarian policies, which reminds critics of Hungary and Poland.
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Even the disinformers are consolidating at the end of the year. The opposition and the EU are slandered, while odes to Russia are underscored by Fico's planned visit to Moscow
In the past two weeks in Slovak disinformation enviroment, a large number of posts contained negative sentiment towards the EU. Domestic topics were again dominated by attacks on the mainstream media and denigration of the opposition. And at the end of the year, there was no shortage of narratives glorifying Russia again,