Since the organising of the first so-called national consultations in early 2010 that also marks the beginning of the first legislature of Fidesz- Hungarian Civic Union - citizens have been able to answer a series of questions posed by the governing party. The latter wished to facilitate its own decision making by polling the public opinion about diverse topics such as pensions, taxing, or the new Constitution of 2011, but also about sensitive questions like those about immigration, terrorism. For the last consultation, which took place in the beginning of October 2017, questions were asked about György Soros and his concept of migration. In these articles will illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of the Hungarian national consultations.

The new law on Polish universities, also referred to as the Constitution for Science or Act 2.0 is a comprehensive reform plan of Polish higher education. Everyone agrees that in whichever way higher education is transformed, will have important repercussions for the whole of Polish society. That however seems to be the only common point that everyone can agree on.

The murder of investigative journalist Ján Kuciak and his fiancée Martina Kušnírová sent shock waves through political circles in Slovakia. Citizens took to the streets and many public figures stepped down as a sign of their protest or as a consequence of accusations of corruption. Where will this leave Slovakia after the upheaval?

The "Belt and Road initiative" that many refer to as a modern Silk Road or Silk Road 2.0 is one of the largest infrastructure and investment projects in modern history. The initiative comes from China, but the corridors once finished, would cross 68 countries in the world. Where does Poland come into the picture in this ambitious plan and what can the country gain from a partnership with the Asian giant?

The upcoming Hungarian elections in 2018 are increasing the tension between the governing conservative Fidesz party and the opposition more and more. What arguments can urge a change of government or justify Fidesz staying in power?

Intermarium was given its name because this regional cooperation was to federate the Central and Eastern-European countries between the Baltic, the Black and Adriatic Seas. Efforts have been made throughout the 20th century to build and revive this cooperation. But is this constellation still viable and above all desirable in the 21st century? Would Intermarium compete with existing regional unions or on the contrary, would its full revival largely benefit its members?

Besides ideological debates, Hungary also has to give an answer to a practical question concerning its European integration. Should we say goodbye to the forint and introduce the euro in our country?

The Polish parliament recently passed a new bill that will change how the Supreme Court functions. What are these new changes and what will be the implications? Is the Polish legal order threatened by this new reform?
Michał Wiewióra, a Polish student, argues that things will change for the worse.

Healthcare is an evergreen topic of Hungarian politics. How have hospital conditions and circumstances for doctors and patients changed under the Orbán-government? The following pro and con arguments guarantee to give you the whole picture of the situation.

"Adopt or not to adopt the Euro, that is the question". This topic is frequently discussed in the Czech Republic, even more now, after recent legislative and presidential elections, where every candidate or party platform took position on its potential adoption. What would be the benefits and disadvantages of joining the Eurozone for the Czech Republic? Read the analysis of expert Mojmir Hampl - Vice-governor of the Czech National Bank (CNB), and Martin Blaha - International Relations and Political Science student.