It is my conviction that Western Europe misunderstands the current situation and underestimates the potential of our region. Contemporary Western European thinking of Central and Eastern Europe is still dominated by clichés originating in the early 20th century. They see us as a troublesome region with only a few positive and considerably more negative attributes. Have you noticed, for example, that “populism”, “nationalism” and “anti-Semitism” are terms almost exclusively evoked in Central and East European politics? Has it come to your attention that the incontestable presence of the radical right is only worrying when it is discussed in relation to our region? Why do you think that in nearly every case, the negative aspects of Europe’s 20th century history should only be called to one’s mind when Central and Eastern Europe is mentioned?
Surely I am not saying we are faultless but in many cases, our countries have been more active–and in some respect more successful–than West European ones, be it in terms of structural reforms and crisis management, historic reconciliation or rebuilding strategic partnerships.