Historically and geographically located in the heart of Europe, Hungary has been serving as the bridge connecting Europe to Asia. Today, Budapest stands ready to reclaim its role as a meeting point between the West and the East connecting traditional values with modern politics. This city sets a perfect stage for dialogue in times of great-power competition, constantly shifting geopolitical dynamics, and global cultural identity crisis. The rising agency of the global South and its expanding geopolitical consciousness fundamentally alter the dynamics of European power and politics. Hungary recognizes this relevance because we share more than we might realize. The Budapest Global Dialogue brings the global South to European soil to discuss and debate our common economic and political futures as well as the future of the planet and our societies.
First, sovereignty in a supranational age: Nations are reclaiming autonomy, challenging global governance even as collective action is needed for crises. How can sovereignty and supranational cooperation coexist? What new models can balance national interests with global solutions?
Second, a new Europe for a new America: The transatlantic alliance faces new challenges as power shifts. How can Europe and the US adapt their partnership for security, technology, and trade in a multipolar world? Can Europe assert autonomy while preserving vital ties?
Third, the West redefined: As new powers rise, the West’s role and values are being reassessed. Can Western nations remain united and relevant? How should they respond to internal divisions and external pressures?
Fourth, Europe in emerging domains: Europe must define its place in digital innovation, climate action, and security. How can it lead in technology and sustainability while balancing sovereignty and global cooperation?
Fifth, nations in the age of connectivity: Countries must choose to be bridge-builders, active players, or bystanders in a connected world. How can states shape networks and infrastructure to benefit both local and global interests?
A resurgence of national identity and control challenges the existing framework of global governance as states grapple with the balance between autonomy and collective action. As global challenges-from pandemics to climate change-demand collective action, many countries are simultaneously reclaiming control over borders, regulations, and decision-making, often in response to perceived overreach by international institutions.
The transatlantic bond faces a critical juncture, requiring a re-evaluation of shared interests and strategic alignment amidst a shifting global landscape. With shifting power dynamics and evolving leadership on both sides of the Atlantic, this theme addresses the future of the US-Europe partnership. The transatlantic relationship faces challenges from changing US foreign policy, European strategic autonomy debates, and global security threats. The dialogue will examine how both partners can adapt to maintain stability, prosperity, and shared values in a more contested world.
The very definition of "the West" is in flux, prompting a reassessment of its role and influence as new power centers emerge on the world stage. The concept of the West is being re-evaluated as alliances fragment and non-Western powers assert themselves. The forum will debate how Western institutions, values, and partnerships can remain relevant and inclusive in shaping the global order.
Europe stands at a crossroads, navigating its position in the digital realm, technological advancements, climate initiatives, and evolving security paradigms. Europe faces the challenge of defining its place in critical new arenas such as digital sovereignty, technological innovation, climate action, and security. This theme will explore how Europe can lead or collaborate in these domains, balancing internal cohesion with external engagement.
Nations must strategically position themselves within an increasingly interconnected world, determining whether to foster collaboration, actively participate, or remain on the sidelines. In an interconnected world, countries must choose whether to act as bridge-builders, active players, or passive bystanders. This pillar investigates how states-large and small, developed and developing-navigate global networks, alliances, and rivalries. The discussion will focus on agency, influence, and the responsibilities of nations in shaping a more connected yet fragmented world.
