Vienna Coffee House Conversations with Ivan Vejvoda

Institute for Human Sciences, Ivan Vejvoda
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Vienna Coffee House Conversations with Ivan Vejvoda

At this pivotal moment for Europe and the liberal democratic order, this podcast series from the Institute For Human Sciences explores the undercurrents, tensions and dilemmas that the continent is facing and will will face in the near term. In conversation with leading figures in the field, civil society pioneer Ivan Vejvoda is your guide to the diverse and complex preoccupations of an uncertain time.

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode 45: European Struggles in the Age of Trump with Niccolò Milanese

    In this episode of the Vienna Coffee House Conversations, Ivan Vejvoda welcomes Niccolò Milanese, a political thinker, activist, and co-founder of European Alternatives, a transnational civil society movement dedicated to democracy and equality beyond nation-states. Milanese brings his expertise on European political trends, democratic struggles, and the challenges posed by rising authoritarianism. Their conversation explores the fragility of democracy in Europe amid global turbulence, touching on the European Union’s role in upholding democratic values, the impact of the Russo-Ukrainian War, and the resurgence of great power politics. Milanese reflects on the continuity of struggles for freedom, linking Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty to past democratic revolutions. He critiques the failures of Western elites in conveying the existential stakes of these conflicts and examines how corporate and technological forces have eroded democratic engagement. The discussion also delves into populism’s rise across Europe, the socioeconomic factors fueling far-right movements, and the urgent need for a democratic response to authoritarian tendencies. Milanese highlights the importance of grassroots activism, drawing on recent movements in Serbia, Georgia, and other regions resisting democratic backsliding. The episode concludes with insights into transnational civil society’s role in shaping the future of European democracy and the EU’s strategic direction in an increasingly unstable world.

    41 min

  2. FEB 12

    Episode 44: Defense of Democracy in Central Europe and the US with Leszek Jażdżewski

    In this episode of the Vienna Coffee House Conversations, Ivan Vejvoda welcomes Leszek Jażdżewski, a Polish journalist, political analyst, and editor-in-chief of Liberté!. As a leading advocate for liberal democracy in Central Europe, Jażdżewski has been at the forefront of the fight against authoritarianism and populism. He is also the founder of Freedom Games, a major intellectual forum that brings together experts, intellectuals, and writers to address key challenges facing modern European societies. Their discussion explores the growing influence of populist leaders, the European Union’s struggle to address democratic backsliding, and how the return of Donald Trump to the US presidency could reshape transatlantic relations. Jażdżewski provides insights into Poland’s shifting political landscape, the ideological battle between liberal and illiberal forces, and the role of media in shaping democratic discourse. He also examines the broader European response to the Russo-Ukrainian War, the future of European security policy, and Poland’s upcoming presidency of the EU Council. As Poland recalibrates its position in the EU following years of right-wing governance, Jażdżewski considers whether recent political shifts signal a long-term return to liberal values or just a temporary setback for populist movements. With the rise of authoritarian-leaning governments in Hungary and Slovakia, he discusses the broader implications for Europe’s democratic resilience and whether civil society can push back against these forces.

    40 min

  3. JAN 29

    Episode 43: Trump, Orbán, and Tainted Democracy with Zsuzsanna Szelényi

    Ivan Vejvoda welcomes Zsuzsanna Szelényi, foreign policy specialist, former Hungarian politician, and director of the Central European University Democracy Institute Leadership Academy. As a former member of the Hungarian Parliament (1990–1994, 2014–2019), she has advised governments on democracy, human rights, and governance. Her book Tainted Democracy: Viktor Orbán and the Subversion of Hungary (2022) has been widely recognized, including by Foreign Affairs as one of the best books of 2023. In this episode, the conversation explores the potential impact of Donald Trump’s presidency on Europe, the security challenges facing the EU, and the rise of illiberal democracy. Szelényi provides insight into the ideological shifts within Europe, the increasing influence of populist leaders like Viktor Orbán, and the structural weaknesses in the European Union’s response to democratic backsliding. She discusses how Trump’s unpredictability has prompted European leaders to rethink their security and defense strategies, yet divisions in threat perception among EU countries remain a challenge. The discussion also turns to Hungary’s evolving role within the EU, its relationships with China and Russia, and its balancing act between economic dependence on Europe and ideological alliances with authoritarian states. With Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar gaining ground, Szelényi examines whether Orbán’s grip on power may be weakening. She emphasizes that while illiberalism is on the rise, the fight for democracy is still alive—especially with younger generations in Central and Southeastern Europe demanding accountability and rule of law.

    45 min

  4. JAN 15

    Episode 42: Europe’s Strategic Autonomy and Transatlantic Relations with Stefan Lehne

    In this episode of the Vienna Coffee House Conversations podcast, Ivan Vejvoda speaks with Stefan Lehne, Senior Fellow at Carnegie Europe and former Austrian diplomat, to examine the challenges facing the European Union amid a period of persistent crisis. They explore the EU’s response to a series of disruptions, including the financial crisis, Brexit, the pandemic, and the Russo-Ukrainian War, and discuss the broader implications of these events for European integration and global positioning. The conversation highlights how the EU’s institutional framework has adapted under pressure, shifting power dynamics between its institutions, and the increasing influence of external factors, such as U.S. foreign policy under Donald Trump and China's growing global role. Lehne offers insights into the EU's struggles with internal cohesion, its capacity to manage security and economic challenges, and the tension between national sovereignty and collective decision-making. The episode also addresses the future of EU enlargement, particularly in the context of Ukraine’s candidacy, and proposes the creation of a European Union Security Council to strengthen the bloc’s foreign policy effectiveness. Concluding with a look at Austria’s political landscape, the discussion underscores the challenges posed by populism and the need for strong, unified leadership to navigate a fragmented geopolitical environment.

    46 min

  5. 11/27/2024

    Episode 41: Europe Under Trump: Strategic Challenges and Opportunities with Rosa Balfour

    In this episode of the Vienna Coffee House Conversations podcast, Ivan Vejvoda hosts Rosa Balfour, Director of Carnegie Europe, for a deep discussion on the implications of Donald Trump’s return to the presidency for Europe. They explore how Europe has adjusted—or failed to adjust—since Trump’s initial term, focusing on key challenges in trade, defense, and foreign policy. Balfour outlines the vulnerabilities Trump’s policies exploit, including Europe's dependence on the U.S. for security and energy and its fragmented approach to strategic autonomy. The conversation transitions to broader themes of European Union dynamics, from its struggle with internal reforms to balancing technocratic governance with democratic accountability. Balfour reflects on the stagnation in EU integration and how internal divisions undermine its global standing. The discussion also highlights the geopolitical challenges presented by Ukraine, Russia, and the EU’s enlargement ambitions, offering cautious optimism about Europe's ability to adapt to these pressures over time. Ending on a hopeful note, the episode underscores the importance of leadership and unity in navigating the turbulent geopolitical landscape. Despite grim short-term prospects, Balfour expresses confidence in Europe’s resilience and creativity to address the challenges ahead, urging collaboration between policymakers, civil society, and the public sphere.

    48 min

  6. 11/13/2024

    Episode 40: Strengthening European Defense with Nicole Koenig

    In this episode of the Vienna Coffee House Conversations, host Ivan Vejvoda welcomes Nicole Koenig, Head of Policy at the Munich Security Conference, to discuss the evolving landscape of European security. Against the backdrop of the Russo-Ukrainian War and other global crises, they explore how the European Union has responded to these challenges with initiatives that include joint defense spending, the inclusion of Finland and Sweden in NATO, and the establishment of a European Defense Union. Koenig highlights the complexities of fostering deeper EU-NATO cooperation and overcoming political, legal, and financial barriers to a more integrated defense framework. Recorded just before Donald Trump's victory, they discuss the U.S. presidential election and it's impacts on European security policy. The conversation explores the necessity for Europe to take on a greater share of its defense responsibilities. Koenig underscores the strategic importance of unity in defense and the push for a more coherent security policy. Additionally, they touch on the geopolitical imperative of EU enlargement, particularly in light of the Russo-Ukrainian War and the broader European neighborhood's security dynamics. Finally, Koenig offers insights into her role at the Munich Security Conference, providing a preview of the key themes likely to shape the agenda, including transatlantic relations, regional conflicts, and emerging threats like AI and climate security. She emphasizes the importance of fostering dialogue to address these multifaceted challenges.

    34 min

  7. 10/30/2024

    Episode 39: Wartime Economics and Frontline Realities in Ukraine with Luke Cooper

    Guest: Luke Cooper, Europe's Futures Fellow 2018/19 of the IWM and ERSTE Foundation, historical sociologist, and director of the PeaceRep Ukraine Program. Key Topics: Ukrainian Resilience: Luke Cooper shares insights from his recent trip to Ukraine, describing the resilience and relative normalcy displayed by Ukrainians amid the devastation. He highlights the complex emotions and strong morale that persist even in heavily affected areas. Economic Strategy During Wartime: Ukraine’s transition to a Keynesian wartime economy has been crucial, focusing on public spending and tax adjustments to sustain economic activity. Labor shortages and rising demand due to conscription and migration pose challenges, but Ukraine’s economic adaptability remains a significant strength. Endgame Scenarios for the Conflict: Cooper discusses Ukrainian public opinion on possible resolutions, noting widespread opposition to a frozen conflict and nuanced views on negotiation conditions. He also assesses the critical international factors at play, including oil prices and the upcoming U.S. elections. Impact of UK Politics on EU and Ukraine Relations: Vejvoda and Cooper conclude by exploring the recent shift in UK politics with Labour's win, the implications for UK-EU relations, and the consensus in UK support for Ukraine despite internal political shifts.

    44 min

  8. 10/16/2024

    Episode 38: Political Shifts in Slovakia with Grigorij Mesežnikov

    In this episode of the Vienna Coffee House Conversations, Ivan Vejvoda sits down with Grigorij Mesežnikov, a political scientist and president of the Institute for Public Affairs in Slovakia. They discuss the complex political history of Slovakia, which has transitioned from an authoritarian regime in the 1990s to a successful democracy, only to face significant regression in recent years. Mesežnikov outlines the rise and fall of democratic governance in Slovakia, emphasizing the return of Robert Fico and his national-populist party to power. Fico’s return, Mesežnikov explains, was driven by public dissatisfaction with the previous government and his desire to escape legal prosecution by reasserting political dominance. The conversation then shifts to Slovakia’s relationship with Russia and the influence of pro-Russian sentiment within the country, particularly in the wake of the Russo-Ukrainian War. Mesežnikov highlights how historical and cultural ties between Slovakia and Russia have shaped public opinion, creating a divide between those who support liberal democracy and those more aligned with nationalist, anti-systemic forces. Despite this, Mesežnikov points out that support for EU membership remains high, though attitudes toward NATO have grown more skeptical. Finally, the discussion touches on the future of Slovakia’s democracy. Mesežnikov expresses cautious optimism that opposition parties, if united and strategically focused, may have a chance to reverse the recent backsliding in the next elections. The conversation ends on a note of hope, emphasizing the resilience of democratic institutions and the potential for change.

    42 min
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At this pivotal moment for Europe and the liberal democratic order, this podcast series from the Institute For Human Sciences explores the undercurrents, tensions and dilemmas that the continent is facing and will will face in the near term. In conversation with leading figures in the field, civil society pioneer Ivan Vejvoda is your guide to the diverse and complex preoccupations of an uncertain time.

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