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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Disinformers reacted like a pack of wolves to the threat to EU funds. However, they continue to legitimise corruption and praise Russia
In response to EU scrutiny over the misuse of agricultural funds in Slovakia, disinformation actors launched a coordinated smear campaign against the European Union and its representatives, portraying the audit as an attack on national sovereignty. The report by Infosecurity.sk reveals how Slovak politicians and far-right figures used manipulative narratives to legitimize corruption, deflect criticism, and praise Russia—while demonizing the EU and invoking inflammatory historical comparisons. Read the full analysis of how disinformation is reshaping public discourse around accountability and EU relations.
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From Poland with Love. May
Karol Nawrocki’s razor-thin presidential victory has shaken Poland’s political landscape, marking a shift toward anti-establishment conservatism. His controversial past, far-right alliances, and promises of institutional confrontation signal turbulent times ahead for Donald Tusk’s government. Meanwhile, Poland is asserting its strategic role in Europe—from building the continent’s largest logistics hub to signing a historic defense pact with France. Read more in the latest edition of monthly From Poland with Love newsletter.
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A year after the assassination attempt on the prime minister, Slovakia is rebelling against the pandemic treaty. Disinformation spreaders are enjoying the Pfizergate case
A year after the assassination attempt on Slovak PM Robert Fico, disinformation actors are reviving hostile narratives, blaming the opposition and media for spreading hatred. Slovakia's abstention from the WHO's Pandemic Agreement has been exploited by conspiracy theorists to fuel fears about global vaccination control and lost sovereignty. Meanwhile, the "Pfizergate" scandal—centered on undisclosed vaccine deal texts—has become a key tool for undermining the EU’s credibility, energizing anti-European rhetoric and far-right manipulation.
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Poland Faces Another Election: Will the Country Stay on the Path of Liberal Reforms?
A little bit less than two years after the change of power in parliament, Poles are now electing a new head of state. The presidential election will not only determine the political balance in the country, but could also have a decisive influence on the reform course of Donald Tusk's government – or block it altogether. Which direction will Poland take this time?
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The freeze is coming from the Kremlin, with Fico and co. lending a hand
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico's visit to Moscow on May 9, 2025, marked a new low in the instrumentalization of history and spread of Kremlin disinformation, as he praised Soviet liberators while ignoring the USSR's role in starting World War II. The visit was used to legitimize Russian aggression, attack the EU, and portray Slovakia's alignment with Moscow as sovereign success—despite widespread criticism. Meanwhile, Slovak disinformation actors continued targeting Ukrainian President Zelensky and the EU with Kremlin-inspired narratives, amplifying false claims and far-right propaganda.
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From Poland with Love. April
Poland’s presidential race heats up with 13 candidates, viral debates, and explosive scandals—from ghoulish signature fraud to a real estate controversy and shocking live TV moments. Meanwhile, Poland bids farewell to its last “LGBT-free zone.” Don’t miss the latest twists shaping Poland’s politics, society, and identity. Read our latest edition of From Poland with Love newsletter.
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The specter of fascism in the EU and vaccine skepticism. Disinformation actors return to tried and tested tactics
The call by the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs for European leaders not to attend Victory Day celebrations in Moscow was used by the disinformation scene to further glorify the USSR. Narratives about WW2 are becoming increasingly prevalent and the Prime Minister Fico is planning his trip to Moscow.
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Deterrence and Defence: Freedom Center in Vilnius
The Freedom Center in Vilnius opens with an international conference on building deterrence and defence - and an exhibition "Together till victory!" with Blue/Yellow on the war against Ukraine.
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Eternal liberators, ignoring war crimes and undesirable NGOs
How do you glorify “liberators” while turning a blind eye to war crimes? The latest bi-weekly report from Infosecurity.sk reveals how disinformation actors — including Slovak government figures — continue to distort history, excuse Russian aggression, and vilify civil society. From rewriting WWII narratives to smearing NGOs and spinning conspiracy theories about food safety, the disinfo machine is in full swing. Discover the key trends shaping the Slovak information landscape.
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From Poland with Love. March
In March, Polish politics were shaken by the death of Barbara Skrzypek, former chief of staff to PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński, following a controversial interrogation, sparking fierce political accusations and legal debates. As the presidential race heats up, a record number of candidates have entered, with polls showing KO’s Rafał Trzaskowski leading. Meanwhile, the government unveiled an EU-backed defence fund, and tensions with Germany over migration flared with a border protest. In cultural news, a botched shrine restoration caused national outrage, while internationally, Poland gears up to host its first CPAC conference, amplifying its conservative ties with the US.
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New enemy number one: European Union under the spotlight of Russian propaganda
The approaching 80th anniversary of the end of World War II is fueling a surge in propaganda narratives that glorify Russia. The disinformers continue their verbal attacks on European armaments and military aid to Ukraine. Quite predictably, the foot-and-mouth epidemic that swept Slovakia around 20 March 2025 opened the gates to disinformation narratives working with fear and scapegoating.
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Requests For Proposals
For our projects in 2025, the FNF Baltic States office in Vilnius requires proposals from potential service providers and partners. Please contact us if you want to apply for any of the following.
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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.
Social Media
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🛡️ Security for Freedom Why liberal democracies must act NOW. ⚠️ Freedom, human rights & the rule of law are under threat. In a time of global instability, we need to act — not react. 🎥 In this video: 🔹 Europe's security challenges 🔹 How to counter authoritarian regimes 🔹 Why security is key to freedom 🔹 What it takes to defend democracy in the 21st century 🙌 Featuring insights from: Delphine Pronk (European External Action Service - EEAS) Alice Stollmeyer (Defend Democracy) Maria Martisiute (European Policy Centre) Laura Tatarelyte (@FNF Baltic States) 📣 Because hope is not a strategy. Let’s build a future rooted in freedom, security & democracy.
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🇭🇺 🇵🇱 🇮🇹 Rising Against the Tide: The Future of Liberalism in the Age of Illiberalism 📘 Our latest study with @21_kutatokozpont explores how illiberalism is gaining ground in Hungary, Poland, and Italy — and what liberal actors can do to push back. 🔍 Featuring: 🔹 Hungary: How Orbán’s “spin-dictatorship” reshaped democracy 🔹 Poland: Why the opposition succeeded under Donald Tusk 🔹 Italy: Can Meloni’s government tip the balance? In partnership with 21 Research Center, we surveyed over 3,000 citizens to uncover: 💬 Who supports liberal values — and why ⚖️ What people really think about abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, EU integration, and independent courts 📉 Why liberal parties are underperforming — and how they can recover This is a wake-up call and a toolkit for liberals everywhere. 🌐 Full study available now! Link in the comments.
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🗓 Liberal Afterwork – Special Edition 📍 Brussels | 🕖 June 24, 19:00 Power in Partnership: Liberals, Coalitions & New Politics. Join us for an evening of ideas, dialogue, and networking. 🌍 Meet our delegation from South Africa 🤝 Insights, networking & exchange 🔗 Only 60 spots – register now: link in comments!
