Central Europe Explained

🎧 Episode 60: What Will 2025 Bring? A View from the IDM 🌍✨ In this special season finale of Central Europe Explained, the IDM team gathers for a roundtable discussion reflecting on the decisive moments of 2024 and looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities of 2025. 💬 From personal highlights to professional achievements, we explore the lessons learned about democracy, resilience, and integration in Central and Eastern Europe. What role will citizens play in shaping the future? And how can institutions like the IDM continue to drive meaningful change? 🔍 Tune in for diverse perspectives from a team uniquely connected to the region, blending expert insights with heartfelt hopes for the year ahead. Hosted by: The IDM team Produced by: Gloria Becerril #CEEPodcast #CentralEuropeExplained #2024Reflections #2025Predictions #Democracy #EuropeanIntegration Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP 59 Ukraine recovery facilities 🌍🎙️ How do you rebuild a country while it’s still at war? In this episode of Central Europe Explained, host Sebastian Schäffer explores Ukraine's financial recovery and the immense challenges of reconstruction amidst ongoing war. 💬 Featuring insights from Olga Pindyuk, an economist at the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies, we dive into the urgent priorities for Ukraine, the need for international partnerships, and the critical role of private investment in rebuilding a stronger, more resilient nation. 🔍 From energy infrastructure repairs to leveraging Ukraine’s vast resources in renewable energy and IT, this conversation unpacks the strategies required to secure both immediate and long-term recovery. Discover why safeguarding financial sovereignty and addressing corruption are essential for Ukraine's future. 🎞️ Host recommendations: EU should drastically increase aid to UkraineFront-loading financial support to Ukraine: It’s now or neverAnthology «State of War» Нотатки про українську музику Thank you for joining us for this powerful discussion on resilience, recovery, and hope. Hosted by: Sebastian Schäffer Guest: Olga Pindyuk Produced by: Gloria Becerril #UkraineRecovery #Reconstruction #EconomicResilience #CEEPodcast #CentralEuropeExplained Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎧 Episode 58: How Democracy Can Fight Back? 🌍🎙️ In an age of growing far-right, nationalist and authoritarian movements across Europe and beyond, how can democracy respond? This episode of Central Europe Explained looks at the internal and external forces threatening European democracies and explores what it takes to safeguard democratic values. 💬 From the rise of populism and disinformation campaigns to the challenges of engaging citizens in the fight for democracy, this conversation highlights the urgent need for action. Discover how individuals, communities, and institutions can push back against polarising narratives and work together to protect the future of democracy. Tune in to uncover insights into the role of citizens and the shifting political landscapes, along with practical steps for building resilience in these challenging times. Host: Sophia Beiter Guest: Dr. Kinga Brudzińska Book recommendation: Autocracy, Inc #Democracy #HumanRights #Europe #CEEPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎧 Episode 57: Unlikely Activists? A Local View of the Polish-Belarus Border 🌍🎙️ What drives everyday people to risk legal and social consequences to help migrants stranded at the Polish-Belarus border? In this episode of Central Europe Explained, host Malwina Talik speaks with Marianna Wartecka, a social activist deeply involved in supporting refugees. 💬 From volunteering to full-time activism, Marianna shares her personal journey and the challenges her organization faces amidst increasing hostility toward migrants. Learn how local activism is reshaping lives and why the fight for dignity and human rights matters more than ever. 🎞️ Host recommendation: Human Flow by Ai Weiwei Hosted by: Malwina Talik Guest: Marianna Wartecka Produced by: Gloria Becerril #PolishBorder #Refugees #MigrationCrisis #HumanRights #CentralEuropeExplained #CEE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎧 Episode 56: Hungary’s EU Presidency 🌍🎙️ In this episode of Central Europe Explained, hosts Gloria Becerril and Peter Techet take a deep dive into Hungary's current presidency of the Council of the European Union. Join us as we discuss the implications of this controversial leadership with László Andor, a former EU Commissioner and renowned economist. 💬 We explore public sentiment surrounding Hungary's presidency, hearing from everyday citizens about their concerns and hopes for the future. How does Viktor Orbán's government shape their views on EU values and decision-making? 🔍 Tune in for insightful analysis on the potential impact of Hungary’s presidency on EU policies, defense, and enlargement, and learn why this moment in history is critical for Europe. Hosted by: Gloria Becerril & Peter Techet Guest: László Andor Produced by: Gloria Becerril #Hungary #EUPresidency #ViktorOrbán #EuropeanUnion #PublicSentiment #Podcast #CentralEuropeExplained #CEE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎧 Episode 55: Schengen What does the Schengen Area represent for Europe, and why are Bulgaria and Romania still waiting for full access despite fulfilling all the requirements? 🎙️ In the latest episode of Central Europe Explained, we explore these pressing questions with the Romanian and Bulgarian ambassadors. 🔑 One of our guests shares a personal story from his student days, when his Eastern European passport led to countless struggles at the border. His experience sheds light on the broader challenges facing millions and the significance of Schengen membership today. 🚪 We also discuss “Air Schengen,” migration challenges, and the ongoing political obstacles delaying full membership for Romania and Bulgaria. Join us as we discuss what Schengen means for Europe’s future and why it’s about more than just crossing borders. Our host recommendation: European Museum Schengen Hosted by: Sophia Beiter Produced by: Gloria Becerril #Schengen #Romania #Bulgaria #EuropeanUnion #Borders #Migration #Podcast #EuropeanIntegration #CentralEuropeExplained #CEE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️✨ Welcome to Central Europe Explained episode 54 Join us as we explore the intriguing world of minilateralism in Europe. We will touch upon the aim of alliances like the Visegrad Four and the Three Seas Initiative and how they shape the future of the EU. Our special guest, Romain Le Quiniou, will share his insights on the effectiveness and challenges of these formats, offering a deep dive into their role in European integration. Tune in for an engaging discussion and a unique memory game to kick things off! Hosted by Malwina Talik Produced by Gloria Becerril #Minilateralism #VisegradFour #ThreeSeasInitiative #EuropeanIntegration #CentralEuropeExplained Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎧 Episode 53: Future Enlargement 🌍🎙️ In this episode of Central Europe Explained, host Francesco Danieli chats with Sebastian Schäffer, director of IDM, about the future of the EU. Join us as we discuss the potential and challenges of EU enlargement and what lies ahead for Europe. Tune in for an insightful and engaging conversation! 🇪🇺✨ Book: "Balkan nach Europa - Sofort!" Meet our target region through our interactive map here! Produced by: Gloria Becerril #EUFuture #EuropeanUnion #CEEPodcast #EuropeNext #IDM #EUPolitics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎧 Episode 52: 20 Years of the EU enlargement 💭 Do you remember May 1, 2004, when the European Union had its largest expansion? In this episode of Central Europe Explained, we hear personal stories from politicians, writers, and key figures who were part of this historic event. Listen to Benita Ferrero-Waldner, Noémi Kiss, Jiří Šitler, Juraj Droba and Rudolf Schicker share their memories and thoughts from that important day. We also look at the future, discussing the hopes of eight candidate countries working to join the EU. 🇪🇺 This episode offers a heartfelt look at the past, present, and future of the EU. Produced by: Gloria Becerril 🔗 Click here to read more about the event 20 Years of EU Enlargement & EU Elections 2024: Summary and Outlook from the Danube Region. #EUEnlargement #EU2004Expansion #CentralEurope #EUHistory #EuropeanUnion #EnlargementAnniversary #EUIntegration #EuropeanPolitics #EasternEurope #WesternBalkans #EUMembership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 51: 2024 European Parliament elections 🌟 In our season 4 opener, Central Europe Explained unpacks the 2024 European Parliament elections with a diverse panel from across Europe. Discover personal stories, insights on the elections' impact, and the future of the EU. Tune in for a compelling discussion that goes beyond politics! 🌐 🎙️ Panel guests: Sebastian Schäffer, Kamila Bogdanova, Melanie Jaindl, Malwina Talik, Sophia Beiter, Daniel Martínek, Péter Techet. Produced by: Gloria Becerril 🔗 Click here to discover more about Parliamentary elections in our Youtube channel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Central Europe Explained is back for a fourth season! As the world evolves, so do the narratives within the Danube Region and Central Europe. Our next season aims to foster the engagement between our listeners and all the pivotal issues taking place in our target region and the world. We want to show our audience that everything that happens around us in the spheres of finance, politics and science shapes our personal journeys too. In this season, our podcast takes a bold step towards the heart of civil society, inviting guests to share their intimate narratives and personal journeys. Combining storytelling and the expertise of our team in ten episodes, our objective is to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that define our region. With the support and expertise of the IDM team, we will offer a unique lens through which we will examine these personal narratives. Our experts enrich each story with their insights, contextualizing individual experiences within the broader landscape of the Danube Region and Central Europe. Are you interested in the future of the Danube Region? Then stay tuned to Central Europe Explained and remember to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite streaming platform! Central Europe Explained is a podcast series produced by the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM) and powered by Erste Group. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 50: 70 years IDM - Locating the future 🎙️ Celebrate 70 years of history and hard work with us on The Central Europe Explained Podcast! 🌐 In this special episode, host Gloria Becerril takes you through the Platinum Jubilee of the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM). Hear insights from distinguished speakers, including Austria's Federal President and Minister of Education, as they reflect on IDM's crucial role in shaping a resilient Europe. 🔗 Dive into the event with exclusive audio clips on our YouTube channel and gain perspectives on IDM's past, present, and future. Director Sebastian Schäffer shares the challenges and achievements that define IDM's journey, offering a glimpse into the collaborative spirit of the dedicated team. Join us in celebrating this milestone and stay connected for more insights on our website and social media. 🙌 A heartfelt thank you to our collaborators over the years! Together, let's continue "Locating the Future" for another 70 years. Thank you for being part of the IDM community. 🌟 Edition: Gloria Becerril Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 50: 70 years IDM - Locating the future 🎙️ Celebrate 70 years of history and hard work with us on The Central Europe Explained Podcast! 🌐 In this special episode, host Gloria Becerril takes you through the Platinum Jubilee of the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM). Hear insights from distinguished speakers, including Austria's Federal President and Minister of Education, as they reflect on IDM's crucial role in shaping a resilient Europe. 🔗 Dive into the event with exclusive audio clips on our YouTube channel and gain perspectives on IDM's past, present, and future. Director Sebastian Schäffer shares the challenges and achievements that define IDM's journey, offering a glimpse into the collaborative spirit of the dedicated team. Join us in celebrating this milestone and stay connected for more insights on our website and social media. 🙌 A heartfelt thank you to our collaborators over the years! Together, let's continue "Locating the Future" for another 70 years. Thank you for being part of the IDM community. 🌟 Edition: Gloria Becerril Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

EP 49 Gender EquiCEEty: Representation, inclusion and intersectionality in Central and Eastern Europe Taking a brief look at statistics, it may seem that in many regards women in Central and Eastern Europe enjoy more (economic) equality and independence, especially if we consider the gender-pay gap, the percentage of female professionals in STEM fields, and female managers. But if we dig deeper will this image still hold? In the new episode “Gender EquiCEEty: Representation, inclusion and intersectionality in CEE” of our podcast “Central Europe Explained”, Malwina Talik together with her guests Vladislava Gubalova (GLOBSEC) and Joanna Talewicz (Fundacja w Strong Dialogu) take a closer look at two specific issues: 1) the position of female professionals working in media and start-ups, and 2) the standing of women from the Romani community. Tune in! Recommendations: Vladislava Gubalova A Bulgarian movie ‘Petya of my Petya’ (2022) Joanna Talewicz TaikonInfamy Reports mentioned in the episode: Women’s Voices in the Media: A Look at Central Europe Women in the Innovation Ecosystem Zooming in on Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia CEEHer Initiative Fundacja w Stronę Dialogu Host: Malwina Talik Edition: Gloria Becerril Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Belonging and becoming: strengthening the EU project In this episode Daniel Martínek engages in an exploration of European identity and the challenges it faces. Our guest, Niccolò Milanese, founding director of European Alternatives, sheds light on the need to strengthen the European Union in the thick of growing Euroscepticism. We touch upon the interplay of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in shaping the European identity, while considering the diverse interpretations of Europeanness across the region. Join us as we navigate these fundamental questions surrounding what it means to be European in today's evolving landscape. Our click here to know more about host's piece of art recommendation. Host: Daniel Martínek Production and Editing: Gloria Becerril Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Europe still a fortress? Refugees in Central and Eastern Europe In CEE (and beyond) migration has become an issue that polarizes and evokes a wide range of emotions. In their conversation, Melanie Jaindl and Malwina Talik discuss three important dates in the recent history of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE): 2015 (the 'long summer of migration'), 2021 (the humanitarian crisis on the Poland-Belarus border), and 2022 (the Russian invasion of Ukraine). They explore how these events have been perceived in CEE, offer explanations for different attitudes, and examine their collective impact on the region. Our hosts' pieces of art recommendations: The Passage by Selma Banich Book Jezus umarł w Polsce Host: Malwina Talik and Melanie Jaindl, associates at IDM Production and Editing: Gloria Becerril Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Timișoara Unveiled: A Journey through Multiculturality, Art, and Communism In 2023, the Romanian city of Timișoara holds the title of European Capital of Culture. Tourists are flocking to the city as it is thriving with art exhibitions and cultural events – one can literally find art around every corner in Timșioara these days. Amidst the art, visitors can also witness the historical heritage of Timișoara, a city with a rich and eventful past under the Ottomans, Austrians and Hungarians, and the first city to rise against the communist regime. This legacy has shaped Timișoara into a contemporary, multilingual and multicultural place that some consider to be quintessentially European. In this episode, Sophia Beiter shares her insights into this year’s European Capital of Culture. She talked to a variety of different guests – from the city’s mayor to young curators and independent artists. The episode delves into how multiculturality inspires the art scene in Timișoara, how inhabitants experienced the revolution in 1989, how communism still affects young artists in their work and how the title of European Capital of Culture can have a lasting positive impact. Take a look at Maria Nalbantova’s artwork here. Guests: Dominik Fritz, Ovidiu Mihaita, Maria Nalbantova, Cristina Stoenescu, Georgia Tidorescu, Oltea Zambori Host: Sophia Beiter, research associate at IDM Production and Editing: Gloria Becerril Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For most people holidays means a week at the beach, or a visit to picturesque cities. But that’s not the first things coming up in everyone’s mind. Some people seek the thrill, the misery: they visit places of previous genocide, natural and man-made catastrophes and former war zones. Places, of which Central-, East- and Southeast Europe have plenty – given the region’s specific historical, cultural and political context. Dark tourism describes these practices of travelling to places of human suffering. In this episode, Melanie Jaindl talks with Peter Hohenhaus to shed light on the motivations for visiting these extraordinary sites and how to deal with misery in a respectful manner. Hohenhaus runs a blog and website, where he shares his experiences of travelling the unconventional way, which he also put down in his book Atlas of Dark Destinations. Take a look at our guest's recommendation Shoes on the Danube Bank (Budapest): here. Host: Melanie Jaindl, Scientific Associate at IDM. In cooperation with: Darija Benic Editorial Support: Jade Penancier Production and Editing: Gloria Becerril, Trainee at IDM and student at University of Padua. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we will dive into the journey of the editor and author Rod Dreher, who recently announced that he is moving to Hungary to work for the think tank Danube Institute. Dreher aims to make Hungary the centre of the American conservative dialogue, as he considers Budapest a hub of a network against globalism, which has been under construction for a few years. We will explore the reasons behind the increasing interest of American conservatives in Hungary, the ongoing diffusion of frames, common goals, and enemies among American and Hungarian conservatives, and the implications of this transnationalisation of political polarisation. To give us insights into these issues, we will be joined by Flora Garamvolgyi, a Los Angeles-based journalist who has been investigating this issue. So stay tuned for an insightful discussion on the origins and intentions of this network and what it means for the upcoming elections. Our guest recommendations: Jordan Klepper Fingers the Globe: Hungary for Democracy - Full Special | The Daily Show Ron DeSantis: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Host: Daniela Apaydin, Research Associate at IDM. Production and editing: Gloria Becerril, Trainee at IDM and student at University of Padua. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While feminist foreign policy has been successful in promoting gender equality in some countries, it has also been criticised for imposing Western values onto other cultures and failing to address specific needs. This podcast episode explores the strengths and weaknesses of feminist foreign policy, its current state and the challenges it is facing in order to ensure a gender perspective is present in foreign policy decisions, as well as involving women in target countries in decision-making processes. In this episode, our host Gloria Becerril (IDM trainee) holds an insightful conversation with Dr Claudia Zilla, senior fellow at the Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP), who provides a nuanced look at the complexities of feminist foreign policy and ways to improve it in the future. Our guest recommendation: Todo cambia (Everything changes), Interpreted by Mercedes Sosa and written by Julio Numhauser. Production and editing: Gloria Becerril, IDM trainee and student at University of Padua. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.