Château Béla Central European Strategic Forum 2018
7-9 December 2018
A DISTINCTLY CENTRAL EUROPEAN FORUM
The Château Béla Central European Strategic Forum is a three-day closed convening that brings together policymakers and thought leaders from Europe and the United States to discuss the foreign, economic and security policy challenges impacting the region. To encourage frank and dynamic talks, each year only a limited number of representatives are invited to participate. The setting is kept intimate and informal with the Chatham House Rule applying for the entire duration. Our guests are expected to offer policy options and solutions on the most pressing issues affecting Central Europe and broader international community.
A DECADE OF DISCUSSION
The 10th annual Château Béla Central European Strategic Forum is a cause for celebration in every sense of the word. Over the past decade, GLOBSEC has consistently attracted leading political figures, experts from influential public and private sector organisations and renowned academics to discuss Europe’s present and future. Previous participants include Gen. (Ret.) John Allen, Anne Applebaum, Sec. Michael Chertoff, Philippe Étienne, Martina Larkin, Katarína Mathernová, Maroš Šefčovič, Radek Sikorski, Amb. Alexander Vershbow, Damon Wilson, Amb. Kurt Volker and many others.
Key talking points from a decade of discussion include:
- The West’s political institutions will survive the current tide of populist politicians
- Increased media literacy is a key component in the fight against disinformation and fake news
- The EU increasingly works to the rhythm of differentiated and multi-speed arrangements
- NATO should play a more active role in the Middle East and North Africa
GLOBSEC is confident that Château Béla 2018 will build on the Forum’s reputation for facilitating fruitful and thought-provoking discussions. Traditional paradigms associated with international politics are experiencing serious challenges to their legitimacy – from multilateralism through hard security to integration and cooperation. After the initial shock of Brexit, Europe seeks to find a common vision for its future unity. The multilateral order that has shaped international politics for more than seven decades is being questioned. While the Western world faces hybrid threats and disinformation campaigns from Russia, the transatlantic partnership is hindered by economic and political disagreements. Through multi-stakeholder and structured dialogue, Château Béla 2018 will address these challenges and aim to define the future we desire for our region and the world.
To reflect on key findings, conclusions and observations, GLOBSEC will publish the Top Takeaways from Château Béla 2018 in the days after the Forum. To get a sense of what makes this event such a unique occasion head on over to our social media pages between 7-8 December.
For press enquiries please contact Adam Dempsey (Director of Media and External Communication) tel. +421 904 869 171 email: [email protected], or Henrieta Kunová (Regional Communication Manager) tel. +421 904 869 303 email: [email protected].
