CEA Talk

In this episode of CEA Talk, host Szilárd Szelpál speaks with Eglė Markevičiūtė, Representative of Consumer Choice Center, about one of the EU’s most divisive proposals — the so-called Chat Control regulation. The discussion explores why the plan to scan private messages was put on hold, what it means for the future of online privacy, and how policymakers can protect children without undermining encryption. From Germany’s last-minute pivot to civil society’s digital pushback, the conversation dives deep into the politics, technology, and values behind Europe’s next big digital rights debate. 🎧 Listen now on SoundCloud, Buzzsprout, or centraleuropeanaffairs.com. 👉 Support CEA Magazine: centraleuropeanaffairs.com/donate

In this in-depth conversation, Philip Hansen reflects on the evolving tobacco industry in Europe and across global markets. He discusses the dual forces of strict regulation and rapid innovation, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges they create. Hansen addresses taxation, exclusion from policymaking, the role of harm reduction strategies, and the importance of preserving consumer freedom of choice. He also explores how different regions—from Sweden to Germany, Asia, and the US—approach tobacco policies and innovation, offering insight into the balance between public health goals, economic interests, and industry transformation. Support independent journalism at CEA Magazine here: centraleuropeanaffairs.com/donation

In this episode of CEA Talk, host Szilárd Szelpál sits down with Dr. Emil Panzaru, Research Director at the Consumer Choice Center, to unpack one of the most controversial health and trade policies on both sides of the Atlantic: Most Favored Nation drug pricing. They discuss what MFN pricing actually means for U.S. patients, how EU regulatory reforms could reshape global access to medicines, and the trade tensions between Washington and Brussels on patents and pricing. The conversation also examines the role of pharmacy benefit managers in driving up patient costs and looks ahead to what the future may hold for innovation, access, and the global pharmaceutical market. This episode dives deep into the policy tug-of-war between affordability, innovation, and trade — and what it all means for patients, governments, and the pharmaceutical industry. Support independent journalism at CEA Magazine here: https://centraleuropeanaffairs.com/donate

In this first installment of a two-part conversation, Philipp Hansen, European Affairs Director at Japan Tobacco International, joins CEA Talk to reflect on his career in Brussels, his views on European policymaking, and the shifting role of liberal political forces in Germany and beyond. Drawing from years of experience at the intersection of institutions, industry, and politics, Hansen offers a thoughtful and clear-eyed perspective on what it means to represent corporate interests in today’s regulatory environment. He shares insights on the practical realities of public affairs work, the challenges of navigating political fragmentation, and the evolving dynamics of influence within the EU’s institutional framework. This episode is particularly relevant for those working in political strategy, EU affairs, corporate communications, and for anyone seeking a better understanding of how Brussels operates beneath the surface of formal policymaking. Hosted by Szilárd Szelpál, Host of CEA Talk. Part 2 — exploring tobacco regulation, ESG, and the ethics of advocacy — will follow in the next episode.

In this episode of CEA Talk, host Szilárd Szelpál sits down with Otto Brøns-Petersen, Director of Analysis at CEPOS, to discuss Denmark’s bold and multifaceted vision as it leads the EU Council Presidency. We delve into Denmark’s priorities — from strengthening European defence and security amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions to advancing ambitious climate targets and balancing them with industrial competitiveness. The conversation also addresses Hungary’s controversial veto on Ukraine’s EU accession, the EU’s future in a rapidly changing global trade environment, and the strategic importance of Greenland in light of renewed international interest. This episode offers a rare, in-depth look at how Denmark aims to shape the EU’s future, tackling the challenges of unity, sustainability, and innovation at a critical turning point in European history.

In this episode of CEA Talk, host Szilárd Szelpál is joined by political analyst and public opinion researcher Szabolcs Pék to unpack the dramatic shifts underway in Hungary’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 general election. With Fidesz's long-held dominance under pressure and Péter Magyar’s Tisza Party surging in the polls, this conversation explores what’s behind the changing public mood, how the opposition is reconfiguring, and whether a true political realignment is taking shape. From rural support patterns to polling trends and voter psychology, Pék brings a clear and data-driven perspective on where Hungarian politics may be headed—and what it tells us about the broader dynamics of populism, disillusionment, and electoral strategy in Central Europe.

In this episode of CEA Talk, host Szilárd Szelpál speaks with renowned Bulgarian economist Dr. Krassen Stanchev about Bulgaria’s upcoming adoption of the euro, set for January 1st, 2026. This moment marks a major milestone in the country’s path toward deeper European integration, but it also raises important questions about economic preparedness, public trust, and long-term structural reform. Dr. Stanchev draws on decades of experience in market reforms and EU policy to unpack the deeper meaning behind the transition. He reflects on the path Bulgaria has taken to meet the eurozone’s convergence criteria and assesses the country’s current economic vulnerabilities. The conversation touches on the inflation challenges of recent years, the lingering public skepticism rooted in past currency crises, and the opportunity for euro adoption to strengthen Bulgaria’s investment climate. Together, they explore the readiness of the Bulgarian private sector, especially small and mid-sized firms, to embrace the euro. Dr. Stanchev also considers the broader political and social narratives that could shape public sentiment during the transition, and he highlights the reforms still needed after accession—particularly in fiscal policy, pensions, and labor markets. Looking at the regional picture, the episode concludes with a discussion of how eurozone membership might reshape Bulgaria’s role within the EU and the Balkans, offering a potential geopolitical shift. This episode provides a clear, insightful look at what’s at stake for Bulgaria and what lies ahead as the country prepares to join the eurozone.

In this episode of CEA Talk, former Hungarian diplomat and legal expert Gábor Baranyai joins us from Brussels to share his personal and professional journey after leaving traditional foreign service. We discuss what it means to reinvent a career abroad, how life unfolds inside (and outside) the EU bubble, and what the future holds for European bureaucracy and climate policy. A thoughtful conversation on identity, adaptation, and diplomacy in transition.

In this follow-up episode, Szilárd Szelpál and Marlon Gilbert-Roberts dive deeper into the often-overlooked question: What happens after the final whistle? They explore the challenges and opportunities athletes face once their professional sports careers end — from identity shifts and financial planning to new roles in business, media, and beyond. With Marlon’s legal and executive insight, this episode offers a candid look at building long-term success, even after stepping off the field. Whether you're an athlete, advisor, or simply curious about life beyond the game — this is an episode full of perspective and purpose.

In this episode of CEA Talk, Dr. Emil Panzaru, political analyst and tobacco regulation expert, discusses the European Commission’s approach to taxing tobacco and vaping products. He dives into the unintended consequences of taxation, such as the growth of illicit markets, and reflects on what smarter regulation could look like. A critical look at public health, policy design, and the limits of prohibition.

In this episode of CEA Talk, Szilárd Szelpál sits down with Marlon Gilbert Roberts, international lawyer and CEO of Business 2 Sports Group, to explore the fast-evolving world where sports, business, and strategy intersect. From athlete career planning to governance challenges and investment opportunities in global sport, the conversation offers unique insights into how professionalism, innovation, and trust are reshaping the sports industry. Whether you're in law, business, or just passionate about football — this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, economist and Civil Development Forum VP Marek Tatala joins us to unpack the results of Poland’s presidential election and the political standoff between a PiS-backed president and Tusk’s pro-European government.

In this episode of CEA Talk, we sit down with Simon Verghote, a philosopher and bioethicist at Université Libre de Bruxelles, whose research explores the ethical and ontological implications of xenobots living organisms designed by artificial intelligence and constructed from real biological tissue. Verghote’s work offers a rare window into how synthetic biology and evolutionary algorithms are not only transforming medicine and biotechnology, but also challenging the very foundations of what we define as “life.” From laboratory practices that embed ethical reflection at every stage, to speculative conversations about post-human futures and the spiritual dimensions of creation, this dialogue moves beyond science fiction into urgent philosophical territory. We ask: Where does life begin and design end? What kind of ethical frameworks are needed when working with entities that are both programmable and alive? And what does it mean for science, for society, and for humanity when we create life from scratch? This episode is a journey across disciplines, from experimental biolabs to ancient systems of interpretation, from bioethics to the future of intelligence. If you’re interested in the edge of life, technology, and meaning, this conversation is for you. Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

In this episode of CEA Talk, host Szilárd Szelpál is joined by Eglė Markevičiūtė and Yaël Ossowski from the Consumer Choice Center to discuss the evolving trade tensions between the US and the EU—and what they mean for consumer rights, innovation, and transatlantic cooperation. Drawing on insights from CCC’s latest policy paper, the conversation explores regulatory challenges, opportunities for alignment, and the path forward for liberal democracies in a changing global landscape.

Daniel Kaddik talks about the alternatives of fossil fuels for the next couple of decades. He mentions many challenges mainly focusing on Germany, where producing car is more than just sheer production, but also many other sectors are connected to it. Kaddik mentions the future of hydrogen and other alternative fuels, and talks enthusiastically how free market capitalism will solve transform petrol stations to being more service driven rather than only focusing on selling fuel. He also says that present-day cars will still be around until 2040, so there is ample time to see how the alternatives could be used and to what efficiency.

In our podcast, Zoltán Levente Ember, CEO of Hungarian research Compass Institute delves into the pressing challenges facing Hungary’s energy sector. From the rapid expansion of solar power capacity to the political and financial risks foreign investors must navigate, the discussion uncovers the complexities of the country's energy landscape. Listeners will learn about Hungary’s efforts to become a leader in electromobility and battery manufacturing, while struggling with outdated grid infrastructure and rising energy demands. The conversation touches on the role of government incentives, such as the “utility reduction” policy, and the unpredictable nature of policy changes driven by Hungary's ongoing state of emergency. With the European Union's funds out of reach, the country’s future energy development hangs in the balance. Topics like the impact of the Robin Hood tax and MAVIR’s moratorium on solar connections add depth to the narrative. Zoltán highlights the difficulty for foreign investors to thrive under these conditions and points out the significant gap in wind power investment. Additionally, environmental and taxation concerns surrounding solar panels, along with legal challenges, create further uncertainty. As the podcast unfolds, the listener gains insight into both the opportunities and obstacles in Hungary’s renewable energy journey. The episode closes with a reflection on the urgent need for clearer energy policies and improved collaboration between stakeholders.

Daniel Kaddik talks about the alternatives of fossil fuels for the next couple of decades. He mentions many challenges mainly focusing on Germany, where producing car is more than just sheer production, but also many other sectors are connected to it. Kaddik mentions the future of hydrogen and other alternative fuels, and talks enthusiastically how free market capitalism will solve transform petrol stations to being more service driven rather than only focusing on selling fuel. He also says that present-day cars will still be around until 2040, so there is ample time to see how the alternatives could be used and to what efficiency.

One of Finland’s most impressive diplomats in the last two decades has been Jari Vilén, an accomplished envoy who served in the Finnish Parliament and represented the National Coalition Party between 1999 to 2007. In August of that same year, Mr. Vilén was tapped as Finland’s Ambassador in Budapest, and by mid-February 2012, he was assumed as Ambassador to Warsaw, which he began later that fall. In 2014, Mr. Vilén was also appointed EU ambassador to the Council of Europe. During a wide-ranging discussion as a guest on CEA Talk with István Teplán, Amb. Vilén addressed a litany of geopolitical topics in a most volatile time for the continent. In introducing his friend and colleague, Mr. Teplán reminded listeners that Jari Vilén currently has been serving as Ambassador to the Barents and the Northern Dimension in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Amb. Vilén “is very interested in Central Europe, and a great friend of Hungary,” observed Mr. Teplán, saying that the respected envoy has helped with “the democratization process of [Central European] countries for many years.”

In this episode of CEA Talk, our guest was Johannes de Jong, the director of the Sallux Foundation based in the Netherlands. Mr de Jong talks about the Christian democratic principles of Europe, how they are receding, and how crucial human dignity is for humanity. During the podcast, our guest talks about populist governments, autocratic regimes, and how the world has now been divided into two groups, countries where you have freedom and those where there is unfreedom.

In this edition of CEA Talks, Russia expert Dr András Rácz analyzes the gesture Orban is making to the Russian Federation by asking to have oligarchs removed from the EU sanction list. He also gives ample explanation to the tank situation regarding Germany. As for the Russian aggression in Ukraine, he describes the present stalemate and talks about why Belarus will actively not join on Russia’s side. Dr András Rácz is Senior Research Fellow at German Council on Foreign Relations.