Viktor Orban, Donald Trump

Orbán Took a Big Risk and Won

Analysis
For Hungary’s prime minister, who has backed Donald Trump for years, a victory in the U.S. presidential election means more than a symbolic win – it could also deliver concrete advantages. In the short term, such a result would bolster Viktor Orbán’s position both internationally and domestically. However, differences in political priorities and in economic interests in particular could create friction between Washington and Budapest in the medium to long term. Given Trump’s unpredictability, there is no guarantee that Orbán’s promises – such as swift peace in Ukraine and an economic boom – will come to pass. 
By Political Capital

The 2024 Elections in Georgia: descent into hegemonic authoritarianism

Commentary
Georgia’s 2024 parliamentary elections signal the country’s descent into hegemonic authoritarianism. The ruling Georgian Dream party won by engaging in election manipulation, adopting the classical illiberal-authoritarian playbook, spreading disinformation about simultaneously remaining on the EU enlargement track and instrumentalizing Russia’s threat to the country. If the government stays in power despite these violations, Georgia’s relationship with the EU will further deteriorate.
By Dr. Sonja Schiffers
International Institute for Environment and Development

The European green transition as an opportunity for African industry

The European Union places special importance on its relations with African states and the African Union in its geostrategic thinking. Key areas of cooperation include trade (225 billion euro annually), security issues such as terrorism, migration, human rights, democratic processes, and economic development (65 billion euro annually). However, these efforts have been affected by unequal power dynamics and resource differences. The challenges posed by climate change and ongoing energy security issues in Europe have prompted the shift towards green energy and the diversification of trade partnerships for raw materials. This presents an opportunity to redefine the relationship between Europe and Africa. 
By Aleksandra Pluta

“Democracy cannot 'do the magic' and protect itself”

Interview
As part of an EU Democracy research project funded by the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union office, Sophie Pornschlegel interviewed European Commission Vice-President for Values and Transparency, Věra Jourová, during the summer break of the European Commission. In their conversation, Vice-President Jourová reflected on five years of efforts to safeguard democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the EU, amid increasing threats against democracy and a shifting geopolitical context, not least due to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. 
By Sophie Pornschlegel and Věra Jourová
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