Concordia Contexts

Für die Reihe Concordia Contexts organisiert Außenpolitikexpertin Mirjana Tomić regelmäßig interaktive Expertengespräche zu aktuellen Themen aus den Bereichen Medien und Politik in Europa. Im Zentrum dieser für Journalist*innen und Expert*innen konzipierten Gespräche steht das Verständnis der jeweiligen lokalen Sichtweisen und Kontexten.

Vergangene Veranstaltungen

Czech Parliamentary Elections: Issues at stake and potential policy changes

An online conversation with Kateřina Šafaříková, Czech journalist and podcaster, head of OP-EDs desk at Seznam Zprávy. (24. September 2025)

Chinese Diaspora in Europe: Ideological Divides, Independent Media, and Political Control

Conversation with journalists: Vivian Wu (Wu Wei), founder and CEO of Dasheng Media; Filip Noubel, China-expert and author of a study on Chinese diaspora in Europe; and Chu Yang, political and media analyst (22. September 2025)

Can Russian independent media in exile survive Moscow’s information war?

Conversation with Galina Timchenko and Ivan Kolpakov, co-founders of Meduza, CEO and editor-in-chief respectively. Meduza is one of the most important independent media outlets outside of Russia, about Russia, and for Russia, published in Russian and in English. (16. September 2025)

A Conversation with Evgeny Morozov: Big Tech and Political Decisions

Evgeny Morozov ist ein international renommierter Schriftsteller, Forscher und Intellektueller aus Belarus, der sich mit den politischen und gesellschaftlichen Auswirkungen von Technologie beschäftigt. Am 24. Juni 2025 war er zu Gast im Presseclub Concordia.

Student Protests in Serbia: Impact, Challenges and Perspectives

What can be expected from the biggest student movement in Europe since 1968? (16. Juni 2025)

Poland’s Presidential Elections: political transition, migration, war, security

With Wojciech Szacki, head of political desk, Polityka Insight; Bartosz T. Wieliński, deputy editor -in chief, Gazeta Wyborcza, and Marek Świerczyński, head of security desk, Polityka Insight. (12. Mai 2025)

Voters’ Choices and International Influence in Romania’s Presidential Elections

Oana Popescu-Zamfir, Director and founder of GlobalFocus Center in Bucharest, will explore the Romanian political context and voters’ concerns.

A Conversation with Marty Baron: US Media and Politics in Times of Disruption

Martin (Marty) Baron is a prominent US journalist, editor and author who has overseen coverage and investigations leading to 18 Pulitzer Prizes. (4. März 2025)

Media and Society in Ukraine after three years of war. Current and future challenges.

With Anna Babinets and Kristina Berdynskykh (award-winning Ukrainian journalists), Vadym Miskyi (leading Ukrainian media analyst) and Daniela Prugger (award-winning international correspondent) (10.2.2025)

Conversation with Carlos Heredia: „Can Mexico absorb massive deportations from the US?“

US president Donald Trump promised to deport 12 million illegal migrants. Most of them are expected to be deported to Mexico, although not all migrants are Mexican. Is Mexico ready to absorb this flow? (29.1.2025)

Russian Media and Activists in Europe: What can be done from exile?

Russian Journalists, politicians and activists have continued their work abroad, trying to reach the audience who stayed in Russia, subject to permanent war and patriotic propaganda. What can they do in exile and from exile? What are their objectives? (16.1.2025)

A Conversation with Ivan Krastev: Lessons from 2024 / Outlook on 2025

Political scientist Ivan Krastev talks to Mirjana Tomic about the complex geopolitical situation at the end of 2024 (3. Dezember 2024)

The Multipolar World Order: Visions from China, Russia, India and Latin America

Is there a clear vision of the multipolar, de-westernised world order? Do major players coincide in their views? (21. November 2024)

Would Donald Trump’s Victory Pose a Threat to Press Freedom and Journalists?

What could Donald Trump do to undermine press freedom and threaten news outlets, if he wins the second term? Joel Simon is the founding director of the Journalism Protection Initiative at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, part of the City University of New York. (8. Oktober 2024)

Election Results in Eastern Germany: Implications of the AfD Success with Antonie Rietzschel

Ten days before the elections in Austria, where polls indicate that the Austrian Freedom Party (FPÖ) may obtain up to 30%, we have invited Antonie Rietzschel to share her analyses and observations related to the AfD rise and success, and explore the impact of the far-right electoral success on the media. (18. September)

UK-Elections: Understanding Voters’ Concerns and Political Challenges

Webinar with Eunice Goes, professor of politics, and Sir Julian King, diplomat and last British European Commissioner. (2. Juli 2024)

Vienna: A Spies’ Paradise. A Conversation with Christo Grozev

A discussion on the presence and influence of Russian (and other) spying networks in Austria: Impact and consequences. (25. Juni 2024)

Elections for the European Parliament and the Rise of the Far-Right: Which Policies could be in Peril?

Different polls predict an important increase of the far-right MPs in the European Parliament. If that is the case, on which policies could they have the greatest impact? (15. Mai 2024)

Concordia Contexts at Journalism Festival Perugia: „How should Europe’s mainstream media cover far-right political parties?“

How should Europe’s mainstream media cover far-right political parties? Should they denounce, ignore, contextualize, include, or mainstream far-right rhetoric and policies? With experts from Germany, France and Finland. (20. April 2024)

A conversation with Stephen Hutchings: Understanding Russian propaganda narratives

Stephen Hutchings has been studying Russian media several decades and he lived in the Soviet Union during the Cold war. He observes a major shift in how the West is portrayed. The focus of this conversation lies on understanding narratives and propaganda techniques designed for the Russian audience. (4. März 2024)

The Geopolitical Struggle for the Arctic: Climate Change, Economy, Security

The European Contexts event offers an overview of the most significant developments in the Arctic that are relevant for the rest of Europe and beyond. (26. Februar 2024)

A Conversation with Ivan Krastev: Outlook on 2024

Ivan Krastev in conversation with Mirjana Tomic on what's ahead in 2024 (12. Dezember 2023)

Russia’s and China’s Presence in the Western Balkans: Perceptions vs Realities

Western media often refer to the region as a bastion of Russian and Chinese presence. Is Chinese and Russian influence overestimated or underestimated? (20. November 2023)

Elections in Poland. Polarized Voters, Opposing Policies, and the War in Ukraine on the Border

Concordia Contexts seminar focusing on three topics: Internal electoral issues; international priorities based on internal political needs, and gender politics as electoral issues. (9. Oktober 2023)

Far-right Policies and Rhetoric are advancing in Europe: Is there a red Line?

Far-right parties have been advancing in Europe and some of their discourses and policies have become mainstream. Is there a red line that cannot be crossed? (22.9.2023)

Elections in Spain: Left and Far-Left vs Right and Far-Right. Gender, Climate Change, Migration, Culture

After defeats at municipal election, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called on snap elections for 23 July 2023. Which issues are at stake? Will Spanish Council of the European Union presidency be affected? (17.7.2023)

ORBANISATION: Experiences from Hungary, Lessons for Austria

Wie genau funktioniert der Demokratieabbau unter Orbán, welche Lehren gibt es für Österreichs Justiz & Medien? Diskussion mit der renommierten US-Expertin Kim Lane Scheppele, Nikolaus Forgó (Universität Wien) und Daniela Kraus (Concordia). (29.6.2023)

Struggle for the Arctic and the War in Ukraine Martin Breum, Danish Journalist, Expert in Arctic Affairs

Before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Arctic Council, an international organisation focusing on regional cooperation, was among the best functioning international bodies. Currently it is in crisis. One third of the Arctic belongs to Russia. Martin Breum addresses the major challenges affecting the Arctic. (14.06.2023)

Elections in Greece: between Economic Concerns and the Rule of Law

On 21 May 2023, Greece held general elections using a simple proportional representation system. What are voters concerned with and how will the elections affect Greece's foreign policy? (15.05.2023)

Sergei Medvedev: Can Russia’s History Explain the Context for Understanding the Invasion of Ukraine?

Sergei Medvedev explains the historical context that could help understand the ongoing war and political developments in Russia. (10.5.2023)

Elections in Finland: Between happiness and the Russo-Ukrainian war

This expert seminar addresses both domestic and security issues. Does Finland fear the spillover of the war? How does the war affect the elections? (28.3.2023)

Concordia Contexts Conference: Independent Russian Journalists in Exile and in Russia:

Combatting propaganda, reaching audiences, informing, doing journalism or activism (6.3.2023)

Europe’s Migrants and Refugees: Integrating into European Societies

What are the criteria for becoming an integrated migrant in Europe? Debates, realities and perceptions in Sweden, Italy, Austria and France (14.2.2023)

A Conversation with Ivan Krastev, political scientist 2023: Europe’s Challenges and Choices

Ivan Krastev is one of the most influential European public intellectuals and political thinkers, political scientist and book author, chairman of the Centre for Liberal Strategies, Sofia, and Permanent Fellow at the Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna (IWM). (11.1.2023)

Protests in China: A Conversation with Vivian Wu

Vivian Wu is an award winning journalist, media entrepreneur and founder of Mighty Voice LLC. She formerly worked at BBC, Initium Media, South China Morning Post among others. (30.11.2022)

Russo – Ukrainian War: US Policy Options and EU Plans

The Russo-Ukrainian war is entering its tenth month. US and EU have pledged to support Ukraine “as long as it takes”. What does this promise mean in practical terms? (29.11.2022)

„Europe’s winter challenges: energy, economy, and politics“ with Joseph E. Stiglitz

Bei dieser halbtägigen und hybriden Konferenz diskutierten internationale Expert*innen – darunter Nobelpreisträger Joseph E. Stiglitz – die drängendsten Herausforderungen für Europa (26.9.2022)

Elections in Italy: Democracy at Stake or Business as Usual?

Italy holds snap elections on 25 September 2022. Most opinion polls indicate that the far-right party with a fascist past, Fratelli d’ Italia could lead the new government. What can we expect? (15.9.2022)

Elections in Sweden: External and Internal Security Challenges

Sweden holds general elections on 11 September 2022: Which issues are of primary concerns for the voters and politicians? (6.9.2022)

Angelina Davydova: Russia’s Most Prominent Environmental and Climate Journalist

Angelina Davydova is the most prominent Russian environmental and climate journalist, writing for international media, NGOs and think-tanks. She co-hosts the English-language podcast The Eurasian Climate Brief. (11.7.2022)

War in Ukraine: Unity and Polarisations in Europe: Finland, Poland, Bulgaria, Italy, Czech Republic

Journalists and academics from five countries will explore the war’s impact on the political situation in their homelands: from newfound unity in Finland and Poland, to deepening polarisation in Bulgaria. (28.6.2022)

US Perspective on the War in Ukraine: Policy Choices, Political Debates, and Public Attitudes

Washington has pledged support for Ukraine and approved the biggest arms, economic and humanitarian aid package since 1945. It has also provided intelligence and training. What is the political and economic thinking behind the current policy decisions? (9.6.2022)

War in Ukraine: International Media Coverage

Since 24 February 2022, the war in Ukraine has been in the headlines of mainstream, alternative, general, specialized, international, national, and local media. How can the first three months of the coverage be evaluated? (24.5.2022)

Will Russia’s independent journalism survive the Kremlin’s crackdown?

Currently, Novaya Gazeta and Riga-based Meduza are the only remaining independent media outlets in Russia. What can they do now, as war escalates and Russophobia spreads? (10.3.2022)

Understanding RT: functioning, financing, narratives, goal, outreach, and impact

Stephen Hutchings, expert on Russian media and culture in a conversation about the Kremlin's international news medium: What's the modus operandi of RT and how big is its impact? (28.2.2022)

Elections in Hungary: What is at stake for the Voters and for Europe?

Expert background talk on the upcoming Hungarian elections and their impact in Europe. (24.2.2022)

Why do people migrate to Europe? Motives, Expectations and Realities: A Conversation with Melita H. Šunjić

Melita H. Šunjić is a communication expert specialized on designing information campaigns for different refugee groups: her field work focuses on motives that trigger migration, challenges along the journey and expectations/frustrations upon arrival. (15.2.2022)

The Future of the BBC: A conversation with Emily Bell

Daniela Kraus spricht mit der renommierten Medienexpertin Emily Bell über die Zukunft der durch den angekündigten Gebührenstopp existenziell bedrohten BBC. (10.2.2022)

European Contexts: Successes and Failures of Covid-19 Vaccinations Rates in Europe

Die Impfrate europäischer Staaten rangiert von 29% in Bulgarien bis zu 89% in Portugal. Wie kommt es zu diesen gewaltigen Unterschieden? Mirjana Tomic und Ivan Vejvoda haben spannende Gäste aus sechs Ländern eingeladen, um diese Frage zu erörtern. (3.2.2022)

Managing the EU external Borders and increasing Migration Policy Choices: Spain, Italy, Greece, and Poland

Wie haben Spanien, Italien, Griechenland und Portugal ihre EU-Außengrenzen organisiert? (2.12.2021)

European Contexts: The Backsliding of Women’s Rights in Central and Southeast Europe: Who is to blame?

Bei dieser Veranstaltung aus der "European Contexts" Reihe diskutieren Expert*innen über die prekäre Situation der Frauenrechte in Zentral- und Südosteuropa. (3.11.2021)

Ein Gespräch mit Gerard Ryle, Direktor des ICIJ

Hinter den Panama, Paradise und Pandora Papers: Wie funktionieren die globalen Riesenrecherchen? (19.10.2021)

(Ab)use of History for Political and Ideological Purposes Spain, Russian Federation, Poland, and Croatia

Political leaders in Spain, Russia, Poland, and Croatia have the experience in using and abusing history for political purposes. How does it work? (30.6.2021)

A Conversation with Cas Mudde Leading international expert on political extremism and far-right politics: Understanding the far-right in Europe. Do far-right parties have a common denominator?

Der dänische Politikwissenschafter Cas Mudde über die Gemeinsamenkeiten und Unterschiede der europäischen Rechtsaußen-Parteien (21.6.2021)

Conversation with Galina Timchenko: Can Meduza survive the “Foreign Agent” Status?

Galina Timchenko, Gründerin der Zeitung Meduza über die Zukunft des unabhängigen Journalismus in Russland (26.5.2021)

Russia and the West: Unmasking Spies and Expelling Diplomats. Business as usual or emergence of a new conflict?

Andrei Soldatov and Irina Borogan, Russia’s top investigative reporters specialised in security services, about the rising diplomatic tensions between Russia and the West. (11.5.2021)

A Conversation with Margrethe Vestager

Ein #ClubTalk mit der ausführenden EU-Kommisions-Vizepräsidentin, zuständig für Digitales und Wettbewerb. Moderiert von Nikolaus Forgó, Daniela Kraus und Mirjana Tomic. (22.4.2021)

Conversation with Nils Melzer: The Case of Julian Assange – How could this happen in European Democracies?

Ein Gespräch mit dem UN-Sonderberichterstatter für Folter Nils Melzer über schwere Menschenrechtsverletzungen in Rechtsstaaten. (20.4.2021)

#ClubTalk mit Věra Jourová über den Europäischen Aktionsplan für Demokratie

Die Vizepräsidentin der Europäischen Kommission war zu Gast im virtuellen Presseclub, um über den EU-Aktionsplan zum Schutz der europäischen Demokratien zu diskutieren. (12.2.2021)

Conversation with Christo Grozev (Bellingcat): International Clandestine Operations

Top-Investigativjournalist Christo Grozev (Bellingcat) war zu Gast bei Mirjana Tomic in der Concordia Cloud. (10.2.2021)

Can 2020 be a guide for what to expect in 2021? A conversation with Ivan Krastev

Ivan Krastev über seine Aussichten auf das Jahr 2021 (13.1.2021)

European Contexts: The Importance of the US Elections for Southeast Europe. Does the US have the last Word in the Region?

Why is the US so important when some countries in the region are already members of the European Union while others aspire to join the club? (30.11.2020)

Covering the US elections: What do voters talk about? What motivates them? How does one cover the Elections in the Time of Covid -19 Restrictions?

What do voters talk about? Do their concerns coincide with the headlines of the major national media? (27.10.2020)

Kommende Veranstaltungen

10. Dezember 2025, 16 Uhr: European Contexts: Donald Trump vs Venezuela, narco-cartels and Nicolás Maduro: Regional consequences of a (possible) military action

11. Dezember 2025, 16 Uhr: European Contexts: „Greenland vs President Trump. Is Greenland still on Washington’s agenda? Who can defend the island?“

Concordia Contexts

Vergangene Veranstaltungen

Kommende Veranstaltungen

European Contexts: Donald Trump vs Venezuela, narco-cartels and Nicolás Maduro: Regional consequences of a (possible) military action

European Contexts: „Greenland vs President Trump. Is Greenland still on Washington’s agenda? Who can defend the island?“