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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.  

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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.

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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 –...

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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.

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What EU-US Relations Could Look Like After the 2024 US Election

Europe Future Forum experts on three possible outcomes 

The outcome of the 2024 US presidential election will have profound implications for the EU-US relationship, potentially reshaping global security dynamics, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe. Whether it’s a Trump return, a Harris presidency or political gridlock, Europe must prepare for a new transatlantic reality.

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V4 Divided on Georgian Elections: Poland Condemns, Hungary Backs, Czechia and Slovakia Stay Silent

Muted V4 response to Georgian election shows rift and shift in Eastern Partnership policy

Amidst Georgia’s contested elections, the Visegrad Four reveal cracks in their once-strong support of Eastern Partnership policy. With Poland vocally opposing Georgian Dream’s election conduct, Hungary standing in support, and Slovakia and Czechia staying on the sidelines, is coherence a fading ideal?

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Fico’s Stance on EU Tariffs: Why He’s Wrong on Chinese EVs

Fico’s resistance to EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles may backfire, undermining Slovakia’s long-term interests

Slovakia voted against adopting EU tariffs on China-produced electric vehicles (EVs), revealing its flawed approach to dealing with Beijing. Prime Minister Robert Fico’s opposition to these tariffs reflects a misunderstanding of the broader dynamics at play.

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Europe’s Democrats Need to Embrace Military Service. Otherwise, Only Nationalists Will – COMMENTARY

Defence debates in Europe must address citizen willingness to fight

Europe’s democrats must listen to Donald Trump’s words and get serious about their collective defence. Military purchases alone will not save democracies but military service might, if done right.

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Georgia: Has Orbán’s Dream Come True? EU Yet to Respond

Democratic Security Outlook 2024: 28 October-3 November

President Salome Zourabichvili has called on Georgians to protest against the country’s recent elections, after widespread reports of electoral fraud. Leaders from across Central Europe – like Radosław Sikorski – have called on the EU to stand with Tbilisi. Who is the odd one out? Viktor Orbán celebrates his pro-Russian,...

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From Green to Brown: How Progressive Young Voters Can Turn to the Far-Right

Young voters are disillusioned by traditional politics 

The rise of far-right parties among young voters across Europe, from Germany to Poland and France, has shocked many observers. What was once seen as a generational affinity for green and progressive movements has transformed into a right-wing shift, fuelled by economic concerns, migration issues and a growing frustration with...

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South Korea’s Defence Industry Finds Opportunity In Europe’s Insecurity

Rising arms exports and strategic diplomacy could cement South Korea’s role in Europe's defence sector

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, South Korea has rapidly emerged as one of the top arms exporters to European countries. If it navigates Europe’s complex political landscape and maintains momentum in defence contracts, it has a unique opportunity to strengthen European ties and bolster its economy.

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Ukraine Facility: Private Companies Have the Opportunity to Lead Ukraine’s Economic Resurgence

Why Ukraine's reconstruction is a golden opportunity despite war

The Ukraine Facility offers substantial rewards for companies investing in Ukraine, so why is business holding back?

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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.

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