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Democracy Called - Hungary Answered, Cuba Didn't Have Power

Welcome to our latest edition! Political change, crisis, and shifting global power dynamics define this edition - from electoral developments in Hungary and Japan to worsening instability in Cuba and Spain, as well as broader debates on security, technology, and international order.

This month, we examine Hungary’s political turning point after Viktor Orbán’s long rule, Cuba’s deepening crisis, and Spain’s growing domestic tensions under Pedro Sánchez. We also look to Asia, where Japan’s new leadership is raising expectations at home and abroad.

Our video revisits 75 years of European integration, while an in-depth interview sheds light on the global threat posed by scam centres in Southeast Asia. From our gallery, we explore how art in Ukraine bears witness to war and sustains resilience.

We also highlight our impact on the ground in Ecuador, break down Germany’s recent local elections in our audio feature, and introduce Dr. Daniel Schwake, who advances dialogue and mutual understanding in Jerusalem.

Enjoy exploring our latest analysis and insights!

SHORT ARTICLE

Hungarian Parliamentary Elections 2026

After 16 years of Viktor Orbán’s dominance, Hungary has delivered a political upset few saw coming. Challenger Péter Magyar didn’t just win - he has abruptly shifted the country’s political direction.

What does this mean for Hungary’s role in Europe? Can frozen EU funds finally be unlocked - and at what political cost? And why might migration policy remain tougher than expected, despite the change in leadership?

A new government is taking shape, but the bigger question is whether this marks a genuine turning point - or simply a recalibration of power.

Read our full analysis to understand what lies ahead for Hungary - and why it matters far beyond its borders.

POLITICAL ANALYSIS

The Cuban crisis in 2026: background, outlook, and impacts

Cuba’s crisis has deepened sharply in 2026. Economic stagnation, prolonged power outages, and rising external pressure are pushing living conditions to the brink.

How did things escalate - and what does it mean for the country’s future? Read our analysis to understand the causes, consequences, and what may come next.

                                                          Read it here!

VIDEO

75 Years of the European Coal and Steel Community: The Origins of the European Union

From coal and steel to a shared future - 75 years ago, a bold experiment changed Europe forever. What began as a fragile post-war pact grew into the foundation of unprecedented cooperation and integration.

How did the Montanunion shape the Europe we know today - and can its legacy withstand the pressures of a rapidly changing world?

Watch our video to explore the origins, evolution, and future of one of Europe’s defining projects.

Find it here!

POLITICAL ANALYSIS

Spain is different, again - this time, thank Pedro Sánchez

Abroad, Pedro Sánchez is seen as a defender of the international order. At home, a very different picture is emerging.

A fragile coalition, corruption allegations involving former close allies, and growing concerns over institutional independence are putting Spain’s prime minister under increasing pressure.

How wide is the gap between Sánchez’s global image and domestic reality - and what does it mean for Spain’s political future?

Read our analysis to understand the tensions shaping one of Europe’s key governments.

SHORT ARTICLE

Japan in Transition: Political Change and Global Implications

 

Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, has secured a historic two-thirds majority, raising expectations at home and abroad.

Early diplomatic signals are promising -but can she deliver the economic reforms needed for lasting stability?

INTERVIEW

"Scam States" in Southeast Asia

Scam centres in Southeast Asia are no longer isolated crimes - they have become a global threat. Blending cyber fraud, human trafficking, and forced labour, these networks are expanding rapidly and intersecting with conflict, weak governance, and organised crime.

In an interview, Jason G. Tower explains how this shadow industry operates - and why it demands urgent international attention.

Read the full conversation to understand the scale of the problem and its implications far beyond the region.

FROM OUR GALLERY

Art During Times of War 

How creativity sustains, connects, and bears witness in conflict

Art plays a vital role during times of war, including in Ukraine, as both a personal and collective response to crisis. It can serve as a coping mechanism, helping individuals process trauma, fear, and loss when words fall short. At the same time, it becomes a source of resilience and motivation, offering hope and a sense of continuity amid destruction. On a broader level, art functions as a powerful tool of public diplomacy and awareness, communicating the human reality of war in Ukraine and beyond, and fostering empathy, dialogue, and reflection across borders.

HSS IN ECUADOR
- Breaking barriers, transforming destinies - 

Breaking barriers in Ecuador: in one of South America’s most diverse countries, marginalized youth are gaining the tools to lead with dignity and shape their society.

What today appears as a proud and visible indigenous presence is the result of a long struggle for recognition and equality. How is educational support helping drive this change?

Watch the video and read the full story to explore Ecuador’s journey - and the people shaping its future.

AUDIO

German Elections Explained: Interview with Dr. Gerhard Hirscher on State and Local Voting Trends

Germany’s recent state and local elections reveal shifting voter sentiment and key political trends across the country.

What do the results say about the current political mood - and where is it heading next?

 

BEST OF SOCIAL MEDIA


HSS South Africa

🌍Exploring how migration, rule of law, and democracy intersect in South Africa 🇿🇦 - and why defending constitutional democracy ⚖️ and human dignity 🕊️ remains at the heart of public debate

HSS UK

👥 AI Dialogue 🤖: Experts debate Europe’s role between Washington 🇺🇸 and Beijing 🇨🇳 as AI reshapes geopolitics and security 🌍

HSS Italy

👩‍💼 Women’s Breakfast ☕: 50 participants discuss digital transformation, regulation ⚖️ and rising threats 🌐 in politics and society

WHO IS...?

Dr. Daniel Schwake?

Dr. Daniel Schwake is a Jerusalem-based academic leader advancing interreligious dialogue, ethical leadership, and cross-cultural understanding through Notre Dame Jerusalem and the Hanns Seidel Foundation. With German, Israeli, and Palestinian roots, he works at the intersection of academia and practice to promote mutual understanding in the Middle East.

He leads Notre Dame Jerusalem, developing programs in education, research, and dialogue, and contributing to international discussions on religion, society, and governance in the region.

In case you are interested you can get in touch with Daniel via LinkedIn here
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The articles in this newsletter reflect the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the Hanns Seidel Foundation.