Capturing the Essence of Budapest Forum 2024: Building Sustainable Democracies – PHOTO REPORT
The 2024 Budapest Forum, held on 18-19 September, brought together influential voices from across Europe and beyond to address the pressing issues facing democracies today. Organised by the Municipality of Budapest, Political Capital, and the CEU Democracy Institute, this year’s forum focused on “Building Sustainable Democracies” under the theme of “The Year of Elections.” Now in its fourth year, the event has established itself as a vital platform for pro-democratic dialogue in Central Eastern Europe.
With Hungary currently holding the rotating presidency of the Council of Europe, the 2024 Budapest Forum held at the CEU Nádor Event Centre held added significance. Key discussions revolved around the rule of law, democracy, media capture, the trajectory of European integration, and the implications of the upcoming 2024 elections. The event highlighted the critical role these elections play in shaping Europe’s future, as Hungary and other nations gear up for a pivotal year that will redefine their political landscapes.
Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony delivered a powerful speech at the forum, emphasizing the challenges facing democracy today. He highlighted the shift from a consensus around liberal democracy in Eastern Europe to the rise of authoritarian populism fueled by frustration with the existing political and economic order. Karácsony called for a strategy of “radical love,” focusing on meeting citizens’ needs and bridging societal divides to counter the divisive narrative of populism and restore faith in democracy.
U.S. Ambassador to Hungary David Pressman also spoke at the event, criticizing Hungary’s government for prioritizing words over actions and warned about the democratic crisis created by propaganda and fear to stifle dissent. Pressman urged a reevaluation of how Hungary’s words and policies are perceived by its allies to maintain relationships.
Discussions at the forum covered a wide range of topics, from European integration to Poland’s re-democratisation efforts and the potential implications of a second Trump presidency on Europe. The forum provided a platform for diverse perspectives on safeguarding democratic values against internal and external threats, underscoring the need for cohesive, cross-border strategies.
The 2024 Budapest Forum attracted more than 450 in-person participants and nearly 40,000 online viewers, highlighting public interest in crucial issues surrounding democracy. Looking ahead, the organizers aim to build on this year’s success by expanding their network and continuing to shape policy debates at both the local and international levels. The forum demonstrated that while the road to building sustainable democracies is challenging, collective effort and dialogue offer a hopeful and promising path forward.
