Are we on a slippery slope? Mapping democracy threats in central and Eastern Europe [Articol]

Abstract

The extremist and populistic forces are undeniably on the rise all over the Old Continent. However, the countries of Central and Eastern Europe seem to be more fragile, when it comes to maintain their democracy. Latest results of the elections in Slovakia, Austria or the Czech Republic, whether the continuing support for Viktor Orbán’s policies, show the strength of Eurosceptic groupings and empower their leaders to take a firm stance on issues currently under discussion in the European Union. Lastly discovered election interference during the first round of the presidential elections in Romania raises concerns about the readiness of other countries to detect extraneous engagement in electoral process or governing. Finally, the great polarization of the societies, that can be spotted in numerous Central – Eastern European countries, significantly impedes achieving social consensus, which is necessary to maintain social cohesion as a pillar of democracy. The analysis of the current electoral trends in countries of Central- Eastern Europe and identification of factors influencing support for extremist or populistic options allows to indicate general and specific factors weakening democracy in the region.