Central Europe’s Future: A Dialogue with Prof. Petr Drulák
Title: Professor Petr Drulák Discusses the Future of Central Europe in an Exclusive Interview
Introduction
Renowned Czech scholar, diplomat, and activist, Professor Petr Drulák, shares his insights on the future of Central Europe in an exclusive interview. As the Professor of the Department of Political and International Relations at the University of West Bohemia and the founding President of the Czech Svatopluk Association, Drulák’s expertise sheds light on various pressing issues, such as the German-dominated EU, migration, and the Visegrad 4 Alliance.
The Need for New Alternatives
Professor Drulák highlights the necessity of exploring alternative options that can shape a meaningful vision for the future of Central Europe. He emphasizes that the social model established over the past 30 years has reached a dead end. It is now the duty of the intelligentsia to propose fresh alternatives that resonate with people and unite them.
Defining Central Europe
Drulák acknowledges the challenge of defining Central Europe, particularly as it is often viewed as part of Eastern Europe by many in Germany and Anglo-Saxon countries. However, he emphasizes the importance of finding a definition that speaks to the people and helps them rally behind the concept of Central Europe. This is crucial to counter cultural nihilism and the attempts to redefine Europe, including Central Europe, with new ideologies.
The Crisis of the West
Drulák believes that the relevance of Central Europe stems from the current crisis in the West. When Central European countries turned towards the West three decades ago, they expected security guarantees, prosperity, and a preservation of their shared values. However, the West is now unable to provide these guarantees, actively questioning them instead. The migrant crisis, influenced by EU policy, has undermined security, while liberalization has relegated Central Europe to a secondary economic role. Moreover, there is a divergence in values between the West and Central Europe. Drulák argues that these circumstances necessitate the exploration of sovereign solutions within the region.
A Central European Community
While acknowledging criticisms of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s approach, Drulák suggests that Orbán’s policies are reactions to how the rest of Europe treats Central Europe. Similar sentiments were expressed by former Czech prime minister and president, Václav Klaus. Drulák highlights the existence of a Central European mentality shaped by the heritage of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and geopolitical factors. He identifies Central Europe as the space between Prussio-German, Russian, and Turkish power centers. By working closely together, the Central European nations can guarantee security, prosperity, and values rooted in their traditions.
Conclusion
Professor Petr Drulák’s vast experience and expertise provide valuable insights into the future of Central Europe. His analysis of the challenges facing the region and the need for alternatives will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing debate surrounding the Central European identity and its path forward. As Central Europe strives to define itself in the face of a changing world order, the voices of scholars and diplomats like Professor Drulák will play a crucial role in shaping the region’s destiny.
