Time: 22 October 2025, 19:00-21:00
Location: MaHalle, Waldemarstr. 110, 10997 Berlin
As Hungary approaches its pivotal 2026 parliamentary elections, a crucial question emerges: What happens when autocrats refuse to accept electoral defeat? How do citizens protect democratic outcomes when those in power use every tool at their disposal to maintain control?
Join us for an evening of discussion with experienced activists and civil society leaders from across Central and Eastern Europe who have confronted these challenges first-hand. Our speakers will share insights from successful – and unsuccessful – resistance movements, examining the strategies, tactics, and coalitions that have made the difference between democratic breakthrough and authoritarian consolidation.
Speakers:
- Eva Yakubovska, former Euromaidan citizen activist and Board Member of the Ukrainian diaspora group Vitsche – civil society group advocating interest of Ukraine
- Goran Torlo, philosophy student in Berlin, who has been organizing in Serbia as an activist, working closely with Serbian NGOs, especially Ck13 in Novi Sad
- Franek Machowski, Berlin-based Polish activist and social worker, Board Member of the Polish Social Council e.V., active in the 2022 „Polish October Revolution”
Topics include:
- How citizens have successfully defended electoral outcomes against authoritarian manipulation
- The role of nonviolent resistance in democratic transitions
- Building broad coalitions across political and social divides
- Communication strategies when the regime controls traditional media
- Security challenges for civil society in repressive environments
- Lessons learned from Serbia, Ukraine, Poland, and beyond
This event brings together people committed to supporting Hungarian democracy at a critical juncture. Whether you’re connected to Hungary or simply concerned about democratic resilience in Europe, your voice and experience matter.
The conversation will be held in English.
Organised by the Freie Ungarische Botschaft
Light refreshments will be provided. Networking opportunity following the discussion.
