V3? - Regional Cooperation After the Czech Parliamentary Election

The recent victory of Andrej Babiš at the polls in the Czech Republic could mark a turning point for Central Europe. With Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary now poised to align more closely on key issues, the prospects for renewed regional cooperation are stronger than ever.

This panel will examine how these political changes could foster shared positions on relations with Brussels, energy policy, and approaches to Russia and Ukraine. We will discuss the opportunities and challenges of coordinated action on European policy, the possibility of a unified Central European voice, and the obstacles facing the V4 in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. Special attention will be given to how the new leadership in Czechia could shape the region’s future, strengthen its negotiating power, and redefine its role in European affairs.

This panel will seek to answer the following questions:

• How will the new leadership in Czechia and the region impact the dynamics and effectiveness of the V4 alliance?
• In which policy areas—such as energy, agriculture, migration, or foreign affairs—can we expect deeper cooperation among Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary?
• Will these developments strengthen the traditional V4 framework, or give rise to new forms of regional collaboration within Central Europe?
• What advantages might closer cooperation bring to the representation of these countries’ interests in EU decision-making processes?

Featured Speakers:

• Karel Sál, Analyst, IPPS Institute for Politics and Society
• Juraj Šúst, Chairman, Ladislav Hanus Institute
• Péter Szitás, Senior Researcher, Danube Institute 

Moderator: Balázs Tárnok, Director of Research, John Lukacs Institute for Strategy and Politics

Details:

Date & time: Thursday, November 13, 2025, 3:00 P.M.
Venue: Lónyay-Hatvany Villa, 1 Csónak Street, 1015 Budapest (Entrance: Aranybástya Restaurant)
Gate opens at 2:40 P.M.
Language: English

Participation is free; however, due to limited seating, pre-registration is required by clicking the button below.