Cities across Central and Eastern Europe are facing challenges in providing affordable housing, with the transformation of old industrial sites into new neighborhoods being a potential but debatable solution. The luxury of home ownership is increasingly out of reach for many, particularly in capital cities like Budapest, Prague, and Sofia, due to inflated prices, speculation, and rising material costs. The conversion of these large brownfield sites into residential areas is underway, but there is skepticism about how much this will alleviate the housing shortage, given policy issues and the need for low-cost housing.

Since his election as Slovak Prime Minister, Robert Fico has been vocal about nationalist and populist policies, raising concerns in the West about the potential undermining of EU and NATO unity. His government's stance on not sending arms to Ukraine or supporting new sanctions against Russia aligns with his pre-election promises and reflects a significant portion of the Slovak population's favorable view of Russia. However, some analysts believe Slovakia's small size and economic dependence on the EU limit its ability to disrupt Western policy. Fico is considered a pragmatist who may soften his rhetoric in Brussels to secure EU funds for Slovakia's stability. Despite fears, Fico's actions suggest he is unlikely to form an alternative power bloc within the EU or significantly alter Slovakia's foreign policy.

Robert Fico's return as Slovakia's Prime Minister raises concerns among Western partners due to his national-populist agenda and pro-Russian rhetoric. His statements at an EU summit about not supporting sanctions against Russia and not sending arms to Ukraine have activated alarm signals regarding NATO's security interests in the region. Despite Slovakia's small size and economic dependence on the EU, Fico's victory is seen as a symbolic blow to EU and NATO unity. Analysts suggest that Fico may act more moderately behind the scenes, given Slovakia's need for EU funds. The Slovak armament industry continues to fulfill orders, indicating that Fico's threats may not significantly impact support for Ukraine.

Robert Fico's Smer party won the Slovakian election with 23% of the vote, amidst public scepticism towards Kyiv. Fico, who has served as prime minister twice before, has vowed to stop arming Ukraine, a stance that contrasts with Slovakia's current pro-Western alignment. The country has been a significant hub for arms supplies to Ukraine and has taken in a large number of Ukrainian refugees. Fico's victory was congratulated by Hungarian leader Viktor Orban. President Zuzana Caputova will task Fico with forming a government. Concerns have been raised by Progressive Slovakia's leader, Michal Simecka, about potential isolation within the EU, though coalition requirements may moderate Fico's stance.

Former Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has returned to power after his party Smer-SD won the early parliamentary elections with 23.3% of the votes. Observers expect a shift in Slovakia's foreign policy, potentially weakening support for Ukraine and aligning closer to Hungary's stance. Fico's campaign promises included blocking further sanctions against Russia and stopping military aid to Ukraine. The liberal opposition is disappointed, fearing a return to corrupt governance. The election results suggest Fico will easily form a coalition, likely with the right-wing Slovak National Party (SNS) and Hlas, a party that split from Smer. The international community is concerned about Slovakia's potential isolation within the EU similar to neighboring Hungary.

The Progressive Slovakia party, led by Michal Simecka, is competing with Robert Fico's Smer-SD party for leadership in the upcoming Slovak government. Simecka, the European Parliament vice president, aims to prevent Fico, accused of fostering a mafia state during his previous tenure, from becoming prime minister again. Fico's return is feared due to his extremist positions, including anti-Western sentiment and promises to halt support for Ukraine. The election is seen as crucial for Slovakia, Central Europe, the EU, and NATO. Simecka emphasizes the need for Slovakia to be a constructive EU and NATO member and is concerned about the country's democracy and rule of law under Fico. The PS party seeks to offer more than an anti-Fico stance, addressing the chaos of the past three years and presenting solutions for the economy, education, and healthcare. The election campaign is expected to be contentious, with the possibility of a fragmented political landscape complicating coalition-building post-election.

Glenn Pushelberg and George Yabu, founders of Yabu Pushelberg studio, discuss their design philosophy and notable projects such as La Samaritaine in Paris and Moxy and AC hotels in LA. Their work is characterized by an exclusive yet informal style, with a focus on storytelling and sparking joy. Upcoming projects include Aman Tokyo residences, Park Hyatt Los Cabos, and product collections with various brands.

Czechia's fight against corruption is characterized by repeated promises and limited action. Despite the coalition government's pledges, progress is slow, with the country ranking 41st on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index. The recent Dosimeter scandal highlighted the influence of mafia-linked figures in politics, and the government's response was seen as inadequate. Efforts to tighten conflict-of-interest rules and protect whistleblowers have been made, but significant gaps remain, such as the lack of a lobbying law. The current government, led by the Civic Democratic Party, which has its own history of corruption allegations, faces skepticism about its commitment to genuine reform.

Central European countries are intensifying efforts to build more nuclear power plants and reduce reliance on Russia's Rosatom following the war in Ukraine. The region's historic dependence on Rosatom for nuclear fuel, financing, and waste disposal is challenging to overcome. Alternatives to Russian nuclear fuel are being explored, with contracts signed with Westinghouse and Framatome, but waste disposal remains a significant issue. Hungary, in particular, is closely tied to Rosatom, and diversifying the nuclear supply chain is expected to be a lengthy process. The EU's green energy taxonomy and technical screening criteria impose strict requirements on new nuclear projects, complicating the financing of new reactors. Finland is the only European country constructing a permanent disposal facility for high-level radioactive waste, with operations expected to begin around 2025. Hungary is developing a deep geological disposal facility for high-level waste, with the International Atomic Energy Agency acknowledging progress. Speculation exists that Rosatom could offer to recycle spent fuel for Hungary's Paks 2 project, but Euratom regulations largely forbid the export of nuclear waste. Small modular reactors (SMRs) are considered a potential future alternative, but the technology is still in early stages.

The Czech Republic is expanding its nuclear power capacity but faces challenges in managing radioactive waste. The government's energy strategy includes building up to four new reactors, with the first tender expected in 2024. Current waste is stored at two nuclear plants, but a long-term solution involves constructing a deep geological repository. EU rules require new nuclear projects to have a building permit by 2045 and plans for high-level waste storage by 2050 to be considered sustainable. Local opposition from municipalities is a significant obstacle, with demands for transparency and the right to veto projects. The government is attempting to accelerate the site selection process and aims to identify a location by the end of the decade, with construction to be completed by 2050 to meet EU requirements.

The unresolved murder of Robert Remias in 1996 continues to affect Slovak democracy and the rule of law, highlighting the country's struggle with political crimes and corruption. Remias' death, linked to the kidnapping of President Michal Kovac's son and the Slovak Information Service, has not seen justice despite numerous arrests and confessions. The case exemplifies the challenges Slovakia faces in dealing with powerful criminals and the legacy of former Prime Minister Meciar's regime. Recent high-profile murders, including that of journalist Kuciak, have further underscored the political ramifications of such crimes. Despite changes in leadership and efforts to join Western alliances, Slovakia's inability to fully address past injustices allows the same problematic figures to re-emerge in politics.

Descendants of Holocaust survivors, including UK citizens David Garratt and Katie Heller, are struggling to obtain Czech citizenship due to a communist-era law that disowned them. The Association of Jewish Refugees is advocating for an amendment to allow these descendants to claim citizenship. A bill was introduced in 2021 but stalled with a change of government. The current Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala's administration, dealing with crises like the coronavirus pandemic and the Ukraine war, has not made progress on the issue. Meanwhile, Germany and Austria have expanded eligibility for their citizenship to more descendants of Holocaust survivors, contrasting with the Czech situation. The Czech government acknowledges the issue but has not provided a timeline for action.

Journalist Tim Gosling reports on the unique situation of FC Dac 1904, a football club based in Dunajska Streda, Slovakia, with a predominantly Hungarian identity. The club's success has been overshadowed by political tensions, as Slovak nationalists have targeted the club with legislation that makes it an offense to sing foreign national anthems, a direct hit at FC Dac's fans who sing the Hungarian anthem. The club's owner, Oszkar Vilagi, and spokesman, Krisitan Nagy, remain defiant against the political pressure. The article also touches on the historical context of the region and the influence of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who uses football as a cultural tool. The club's success has made it a symbol for Hungarians in the region, but it has also attracted criticism for the ultras group YBS's exclusionary practices and desire for an all-white, Hungarian team, which fuels Slovak nationalist sentiment.

The article discusses the efforts of Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban to unite Europe's radical right parties following Fidesz's departure from the European Parliament's EPP. Orban has been meeting with leaders like Santiago Abascal of Spain's Vox party and Marine Le Pen of France's National Rally to discuss forming an alternative EU power center. The coalition aims to challenge the EU on issues like migration, LGBTQ rights, and national sovereignty. Despite inherent contradictions and differing views on topics such as Russia and migration policies, Orban is pushing forward with the initiative. The article also touches on the potential waning influence of these parties, as they face various challenges domestically and their agenda has already influenced EU policies, such as migrant pushbacks.

The Czech parliament postponed a vote on a law that would initiate a tender for building a nuclear reactor at the Dukovany plant, with a Russian bid being a point of contention. The U.S. and Czech security services have warned against allowing Russia to build the plant due to potential security risks. The Czech government, led by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, has offered to exclude China from the bidding to gain opposition support and possibly align with the new U.S. administration's preferences. Despite political pressure, Russia remains a strong contender due to technical advantages and political allies within the Czech Republic. The delay in the vote may push the tender decision past the upcoming parliamentary election and after President Miloš Zeman's term ends in March 2023.

Slovakia's presidential election is poised to shape the country's democratic future, with the departure of liberal President Zuzana Caputova and the rise of former Prime Minister Robert Fico's Smer party. The election could see a face-off between Peter Pellegrini and pro-Western Ivan Korcok, with the latter gaining ground due to Fico's pro-Russian stance. The presidency, while mostly ceremonial, holds significant power in nominating judges and prosecutors and symbolizes the political tone. Analysts fear that a Pellegrini victory could lead to increased control by Fico, potentially resulting in the 'Orbanization' of Slovakia, a reference to the illiberal policies of Hungary's Viktor Orban.

The article discusses the impact of reduced Russian gas supplies on Central European countries and their efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on Russia. Poland's investment in LNG and pipeline infrastructure has paid off, while Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia face challenges due to their geography. The EU's embargo on Russian oil and sanctions have pressured V4 economies, leading to inflation and potential recessions. The energy crisis has prompted increased interest in alternative energy sources, including nuclear and renewables, with Poland showing significant growth in solar power capacity. The article also highlights the geopolitical complexities of energy, particularly in nuclear power, and suggests that the crisis is accelerating the transition to green solutions in Central Europe.

Andrej Babis, a populist billionaire, is contending for the Czech presidency against a former NATO general, Petr Pavel, and a female economist. Voting started yesterday and concludes today, with Pavel leading in two out of four final polls and Babis leading in the other two. Babis, who leads the biggest opposition party, has campaigned with the slogan 'Help the people'.

Robert Fico's return to power in Slovakia has sparked concerns over the rule of law as he pushes for fast-track changes to the justice system, including scrapping the special prosecutor's office and limiting whistleblower protections. Opposition parties, protests, and the European Commission have expressed alarm, but Fico's government appears undeterred. President Zuzana Caputova has pledged to veto the amendments, but her term is ending, and the government can override her objections. The EU's response is anticipated, but there is skepticism about its ability to influence the situation quickly.

The Czech government has been criticized for its lack of concrete action against disinformation, despite facing a growing threat from networks that have been spreading Kremlin narratives and conspiracy theories. While the COVID-19 pandemic saw the rise of Czech-language disinformation, the government, led by Prime Minister Petr Fiala, has yet to propose a strategy for dealing with it. Stakeholders are calling for a well-written legislative framework and a detailed, long-term blueprint to combat disinformation. The government's media commissioner, Michal Klima, is reportedly frustrated by limited resources, and the Strategic Communications Unit is expected to launch in early 2023. Analysts suggest that populist politicians like President Zeman, former Prime Minister Andrej Babis, and far-right leader Tomio Okamura are exacerbating the problem by amplifying disinformation.

Robert Fico, Slovakia's former prime minister charged with running an organized criminal gang, may return to power after the ruling coalition collapsed. Fico resigned in 2018 amid protests over a journalist's assassination linked to corruption investigations. The current Prime Minister Eduard Heger lost his majority following the SaS party's exit from the coalition, and he faces challenges in maintaining a viable government.

The Czech Republic is contemplating leaving China’s 16+1 investment platform, which has failed to deliver on its promises of investment and trade benefits. The Czech foreign minister, Jan Lipavsky, supports the exit, aligning with the government's pledge to reassert Western ties. The move could provoke economic and political repercussions from China, similar to those faced by Lithuania after its departure from the platform. Despite potential consequences, Czech officials argue that the country has little to lose given the current poor state of Czech-Chinese relations and the minimal impact of the 16+1 initiative. The situation raises broader questions about the EU's stance on trade with authoritarian regimes and its support for member states in the face of economic coercion.

Hungarians will vote on April 3 to elect 199 MPs to the National Assembly. Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party, which has held a super-majority and moved to the right, faces United for Hungary, a coalition of diverse opposition parties. The election is dominated by issues such as Fidesz's anti-LGBTQ policies, claims of corruption, and the war in Ukraine. Orban, known for his close ties with Putin, has positioned himself as a guarantor of peace, while the opposition has been labeled as warmongers. Concerns about the fairness of the election have led the OSCE to monitor the vote. Opinion polls suggest a lead for Fidesz. The outcome is significant for Hungary's direction and its role in the EU and NATO, with implications for the global political landscape.

Yemen's national football team has qualified for the Asian Cup finals for the first time, despite the ongoing civil war and humanitarian crisis in the country. The team's journey to the tournament has been fraught with challenges, including a suspended football league, destroyed infrastructure, and players facing dire personal circumstances. Some players have been kidnapped, joined the fighting, or died. The team, which will compete against Iran, Iraq, and Vietnam, has had to prepare under unusual conditions, with new coach Jan Kocian unable to enter Yemen due to his contract. Despite the hardships, the team's participation offers a glimmer of hope and distraction for Yemenis. The players, particularly those still in Yemen, see the Asian Cup as an opportunity to potentially secure professional contracts abroad. Yemen's team is considered an underdog in the tournament, but they are determined to prove themselves on the international stage.

Wisla Krakow, a prominent Polish football club, has been brought to the brink of collapse due to the criminal activities of a hooligan group known as the 'Sharks', led by Pawel Michalski, aka Misiek. The club, which faced the threat of demotion to the fifth tier, was temporarily saved by Poland's most-capped player, Jakub Blaszczykowski, who provided loans and played for free. Blaszczykowski, along with local entrepreneurs, is seeking investors to secure the club's future. The Sharks are accused of financial mismanagement, violence, and using the club for criminal activities. A documentary by TVN highlighted these issues, and despite the arrest of some members, the club still faces challenges in eradicating criminal influence. The club's financial woes were exacerbated by a failed takeover by a supposed billionaire, Vanna Ly, leading to police investigations into financial crimes by the former management.

Austria is set to enter a national lockdown on Monday due to a surge in coronavirus cases, marking the fourth wave of the pandemic in Europe. The lockdown, which includes a mandate for all adults to be vaccinated, will last between ten and 20 days. During this period, people are required to stay at home with limited exceptions. Restaurants, pubs, and non-essential shops will be closed, but most schools will remain open and remote work will be encouraged. In contrast, the UK has no current plans to reimpose similar restrictions, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson stating that there is no need for a plan B.

The European Commission's plan for all new cars to be emissions-free by 2035 has been met with criticism from Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis, who fears it could damage the Czech automotive industry. The industry is vital to the Czech economy, contributing significantly to GDP and industrial output. Major car manufacturers like Skoda, Hyundai, and TPCA have started producing electric vehicles, but the transition to e-mobility is challenging, especially for suppliers still relying on cheap labor. The Czech government's support is deemed insufficient by industry figures, despite the EU recovery fund allocating funds for sustainable transport and a potential gigafactory for battery production in the country. The article emphasizes the need for a strategic shift towards e-mobility and the potential opportunities for the Czech economy in embracing this change.

The article discusses the unexpected defeat of Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis and his ANO party in the recent parliamentary elections by the democratic bloc, consisting of the centre-right Spolu and liberal PirStan coalitions. Despite Babis's significant media and economic influence, the democratic bloc's victory signals a potential shift away from populism in Central Europe. The article also touches on the health of President Milos Zeman and the potential impact on government formation. It compares the Czech political situation with that of Hungary and Poland, where opposition parties are also attempting to counter populist leaders. The article suggests that the success of the democratic bloc could serve as a strategy for other European countries dealing with populist governments, although it also cautions that maintaining unity post-election can be challenging, as seen in Slovakia.

Czech President Milos Zeman plans to use his powers to appoint the leader of the largest party, likely Andrej Babis's Ano party, as prime minister after the October 8-9 elections, regardless of the party's ability to form a government. This move has been criticized as a presidential coup that sidelines voters and threatens Czech democracy. Political analyst Jiri Pehe and opposition leader Ivan Bartos express concerns over Zeman's intentions and the potential for an unstable minority government. Civic movement A Million Moments for Democracy is prepared to protest if Zeman undemocratically keeps Babis in power. The article discusses the implications of Zeman's plan on Czech foreign policy and the political landscape.

Hungary's political opposition, led by Budapest Mayor Gergely Karacsony, is attempting to block the construction of Fudan University's campus in Budapest, citing financial and security risks. The Hungarian government, under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, is pursuing the project, which is expected to cost 1.5 billion euros funded by a loan from China, as part of a strategy to strengthen ties with Beijing. This move has raised concerns about Hungary's increasing reliance on China and potential divergence from its EU and NATO alliances. Critics also question the impact on academic freedom, while supporters argue the campus will enhance education and economic growth. The project is part of China's broader efforts to expand its influence in Central and Eastern Europe.

The article discusses the challenges faced by the European Union in securing COVID-19 vaccine supplies and meeting vaccination targets. With the EU's common procurement system faltering, countries like the Czech Republic and Slovakia, facing high infection rates, have considered or obtained vaccines like Russia's Sputnik V and China's Sinopharm, which are not approved by the European Medicines Agency. The situation has led to political turmoil, exemplified by the resignation of Slovakian Prime Minister Igor Matovic. The article also touches on the geopolitical implications of vaccine diplomacy by Russia and China, which are seen as attempts to sow disunity within the EU and NATO. It highlights the urgency for the EU to improve its vaccine rollout to maintain unity and counter the influence of authoritarian regimes.

The article discusses the conviction of Slovak neo-Nazi MP Marian Kotleba, who was sentenced to four years and four months in prison for promoting neo-Nazi ideology. The Specialised Criminal Court in Pezinok found Kotleba guilty of using Nazi references during a charity event. The conviction is part of a broader effort by Slovak authorities to combat extremism, including the establishment of a National Counterterrorism Police Unit and special prosecutors. The article also mentions similar legal actions against far-right parties and figures across Europe, such as the Golden Dawn party in Greece and Matteo Salvini in Italy. It highlights the challenges of addressing the root causes of public support for extremist ideologies and the importance of using legal measures as part of a comprehensive strategy to defend democratic values.

Slovakia is grappling with pervasive corruption as it approaches elections, with the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak two years ago bringing the issue to the forefront. The oligarch suspected of ordering Kuciak's murder, Marian Kocner, has exposed the extent of corruption within the state. The centrist opposition parties are optimistic about unseating the ruling Smer party, which has been in power for 12 of the past 14 years and is associated with numerous corruption scandals. The European Union's anti-corruption watchdog GRECO has highlighted significant issues in Slovak politics, and Transparency International Slovakia points to a lack of high-profile convictions. The upcoming election is seen as a critical moment for Slovakia to address its corruption problems and restore public trust in democracy.

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis faces renewed pressure from two major corruption cases involving EU subsidies to Agrofert and a fraud investigation into the Capi hnizdo leisure complex. Opposition parties and mass protests demand his resignation, citing threats to democracy and the independence of investigations. Despite the controversies, Babis remains defiant, refusing to resign and planning to negotiate for higher EU funds. The government's stability is uncertain as the opposition considers a vote of confidence and the junior coalition partner's support is unclear.

Slovakia's parliament debates a no-confidence vote in the government amidst pressure from revelations linking officials to a mafia-linked oligarch, Marian Kocner, charged with the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak. Despite the governing coalition's unity, leaked messages and public outrage suggest deep mafia influence in the political and judicial systems. The situation has sparked a potential liberal political revival, symbolized by President Zuzana Caputova's election, but also raises concerns about the rise of nationalist and extremist groups. The country faces a pivotal moment in its political trajectory.

The Czech coalition government is on the brink of collapse as Prime Minister Andrej Babis reverses his support for a ministerial nominee, aligning with President Milos Zeman who refused the appointment. Critics accuse Zeman of a 'presidential coup' for his influence over the government and links to Russia and China. The Social Democrats (CSSD) face internal divisions and declining public support, while Babis is weakened by accusations of conflict of interest and potential criminal charges. The president's strategy could lead to a minority government dependent on far-right and communist parties, as tensions are expected to resurface in the fall.

Massive protests in Prague demand the resignation of Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis over corruption allegations. The largest since the 1989 Velvet Revolution, the protest saw over 250,000 participants. Babis faces fraud charges related to EU subsidy misuse and conflict-of-interest findings from an EU audit. Despite this, his ANO party holds a strong approval rating. The opposition, including the Pirate Party, is unlikely to succeed in a no-confidence motion. Protests are expected to resume in the autumn, coinciding with the finalization of the EU audit and potential prosecutorial decisions.

Far-right leaders Marine Le Pen and Geert Wilders rallied in Prague, urging Czechs to resist the European Union's efforts. The event, organized by Tomio Okamura of the Freedom and Direct Democracy Party, aimed to strengthen the Europe of Nations and Freedom faction in the upcoming European Parliament elections. Despite strong anti-migrant sentiment in Central and Eastern Europe, the far-right faces competition from nationalist-populist mainstream parties. Counterprotests occurred, criticizing the exploitation of vulnerable people by these parties. Analysts note a lack of cooperation among the European far right and a low support for a 'Czexit'.