John Chin
Romania’s Constitutional Court has annulled the country's recent presidential elections, alleging Russian meddling. John Chin, Mirren Hibbert and Staten Rector argue that its decision raises profound questions about the legacy of Romania’s 1989 revolution, and the future of democracy and Western influence in this frontline state Read more
Andreea Tănasie
Memory is a buzzword in many political and cultural debates, for building a shared identity to legitimising right-wing populism. Andreea Tănasie explores the institutionalisation of memory through museums across Europe, revealing how curatorial choices hide broader dynamics of legitimacy and exclusion Read more
Kinga Korányi
Péter Magyar poses an unprecedented threat to Viktor Orbán’s rule. Kinga Korányi argues that Magyar’s sudden success is the result of his agenda-setting capabilities as a former Fidesz affiliate who caught Orbán’s government by surprise. However, she warns that Magyar’s lasting success is still contigent on several factors. Read more
Mimi Mihăilescu
Gypsy folk-pop – manele – played a key role in Romania’s 2024 presidential elections. In Roma tradition, manele expresses celebration and resilience. But Mimi Mihăilescu argues that for decades, Romania's politicians have exploited this musical genre for their own ends. Read more
Camil Ungureanu
Camil Ungureanu and Delia Dumitrica examine the phenomenon of Diana Șoșoacă, Romania's far-right strongwoman leader and TikTok sensation. While the populist right tends to champion traditional gender roles, Șoșoacă is crafting fresh gender narratives that resonate with female voters, Read more
Mimi Mihăilescu
In an unexpected twist to Romania’s 2024 presidential election, Călin Georgescu, virtually unknown a year ago, has emerged as a serious contender. Georgescu's ascent has been marked by antisemitic rhetoric, anti-Western discourse, and a sophisticated disinformation strategy. This, argues Mimi Mihăilescu, reveals the vulnerabilities of modern politics to social media manipulation. Read more
Dragomir Stoyanov
Liberal democracy is backsliding in another EU member state. After more than a decade of GERB-party governance in Bulgaria – and the erosion of democracy and media freedom – the latest elections show how far the country is struggling to guarantee free and fair election process. Dragomir Stoyanov and Milen Lyubenov take a deep dive. Read more
Mimi Mihăilescu
Far-right Romanian presidential candidate George Simion is not just running a campaign, he’s waging a meme war. In today’s digital age, argues Mimi Mihăilescu, the way politicians communicate with the public has fundamentally shifted – and internet memes are emerging as powerful weapons for shaping public perception and discourse. Read more
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