Featured

Your Central European Intelligence

Democratic security comes at a price. What is yours?
Subscribe now for full access to expert analysis and policy debate on Central Europe.

Central Europe Cannot Ignore Indo-Pacific Tensions

As Asia’s influence grows, Central Europe must ace the global ripple effect

As Asia’s geopolitical and economic influence continues to grow, Central Europe must face the reality that distant conflicts in the Indo-Pacific could have direct consequences on its security and prosperity. From Russia’s partnerships with China and North Korea to growing tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, the...

Read more

Can Aid Fix Ukraine’s Infrastructure Before Winter Exodus?

Energy shortages and humanitarian aid are key, but not sole, factors as Ukrainians brace for winter

As Ukraine braces for winter amidst escalating Russian offensives targeting power infrastructure, the country faces the real possibility of another wave of refugees. With rolling blackouts expected to last hours each day and millions already displaced, the looming cold season places further strain on Ukraine’s crisis response.

Read more

1K Days of War: Poland Rallies Leaders to Revamp European Security 

Democratic Security Outlook 2024: 18-24 November

Poland has summoned European leaders to Warsaw on 19 November, for the 1000th day of Russia’s War on Ukraine. This will provide the context for what Warsaw hopes will be a reset in European decision-making – elevating Poland’s place at the table ahead of its European Council Presidency and the...

Read more

Peace or Appeasement? Trump’s Unpredictable Diplomacy in Ukraine – INTERVIEW

Any solution that fails to deliver just and lasting peace is no solution at all

President-elect Donald Trump repeated throughout the US election that he could end Russia’s war on Ukraine in a day if re-elected. Now, fears abound that he could soon forge a deal with Vladimir Putin that sells out Kyiv. But what does the return of Trump really mean for Ukraine and...

Read more

Trump is Back. What Does It Mean for the Western Balkans?

Indirect consequences of decisions taken elsewhere may impact the Western Balkans more than any direct engagement

The Western Balkans stand on the periphery of Trump’s priorities. Overshadowed by China, Ukraine and the Middle East, it is difficult to envision any tectonic changes in the region. Yet, it might be precisely Trump’s decisions taken elsewhere that stand to challenge the status quo.

Read more

Will the Rule of Law Reforms Fast-Track or Delay Ukraine’s EU Membership?

Rule of Law demands should be strict – but not a delay tactic

EU accession requires Ukraine to solidify the rule of law and establish robust democratic institutions. It is crucial not to overlook this requirement – nor to use it as a pretext for a subtle rejection of Ukraine’s membership bid.

Read more

Orbán’s Ambitions vs. Tusk’s Diplomacy. EU’s Path Forward with Trump

Democratic Security Outlook 2024: 11-17 November

Viktor Orbán was quick to celebrate President-elect Donald Trump’s victory last week – declaring that the duo have big plans for the future. But despite the Hungarian PM’s positioning, is Donald Tusk set to become the actual leader on EU-US relations?

Read more

European Commission Report Highlights Ukraine’s Gains in Governance, Reform and Resilience

Negotiation clusters to open by 2025: What are the next steps?

The EU’s latest enlargement report marks a critical milestone for Ukraine, validating its progress in governance, judicial reform and anti-corruption. With plans to open negotiation clusters by 2025, the report provides a clear path forward while underscoring the demanding work ahead in Ukraine’s EU membership journey.

Read more

Trump’s Second Term a Crossroads for Central Europe – COMMENTARY

Central Europe braces for impact across security, trade and democratic resilience

Trump’s return to the White House signals a major shift for Central and Eastern Europe. His policies could upend alliances or serve as a chance for deepened regional cooperation and economic independence.  

Read more

Ukraine’s Reconstruction: A Second ‘Big Bang’ for European Business?

How CEE business investment could transform Ukraine and bolster Europe's economic and political future

The fight for Ukraine’s future extends beyond the battlefield to its recovery and integration into the European Union. While security challenges remain, Ukraine’s reconstruction offers unprecedented growth opportunities for European businesses and a pathway to a stronger, more resilient Europe.

Read more

Sandu Defies Russia: Moldova Sets the Tone for Election Week

Democratic Security Outlook 2024: 4-10 November

With 99% of votes counted, Maia Sandu has defied expectations and won the Moldovan presidential run-off with 55% of votes – to Aleksandr Stoianoglo’s 45%. This is despite ‘massive interference’ from Russia, both at home and abroad. It is a huge win for Moldova and the EU’s democratic outlook –...

Read more

Czech Gaming Tycoons Expand Kremlin-Linked Media into Poland

Controversial Czech outlet Parlamentní Listy crosses borders, fuelling concerns about disinformation

A controversial Czech media outlet, notorious for promoting Kremlin-backed narratives, has crossed into Poland, raising alarms in an already fragile Polish media landscape.

Read more
img

STRATEGIC FORESIGHT
We map out scenarios for Europe’s future 

CLICK HERE
img

PODCAST
Weekly outlook by our team
Interviews with special guests

LISTEN NOW
img

EU Values Foresight from the Visegrad Four Civil Society Leaders

Click to Learn More
Read more
raport-img

How Democracy Can Win and Europe Lose

This report analyses the various outcomes of the upcoming EP elections as well as the formation of the new commission on democracy and the global position of the European Union. It systematically examines internal and external challenges, mapping EU responses to safeguard democratic resilience and electoral processes.

Read More