The region of Central and Eastern Europe is a complex one with an often forgotten history of multiculturalism and co-existence. Despite this, the region is also one of conflict, imperialism and wars, which continue even today. As Great Powers once again attempt to decide the fate of Central and Eastern Europe it should be useful to reflect on this region’s past and ensure that peaceful co-existence is a legacy that is not forgotten. That is why in this issue we have decided to dig deeper to uncover the various layers of legacy, many of which point to a strong multicultural past, unlike what many Western Europeans nations experienced. This in fact is what makes this region unique. From the Baltics down to the Western Balkans, various societies have long been shaped by a confluence of cultures, religions and traditions. Empires such as the Habsburg, Ottoman and Russian left lasting imprints, creating a mosaic of identities that continue to influence the region today. Yet, this diversity has often been overshadowed by nationalist narratives and geopolitical struggles. In this issue, we explore how this historical multiculturalism persists in memory, language and everyday life, and how it might serve as a foundation for a more inclusive and stable future amid ongoing challenges.
But these lessons are not all positive. As Tomas Venclova points out in the opening interview of this issue, the threat of Russian imperialism looms large. And as we set this issue to print, this statement could not be more relevant. At the end of February, we will commemorate the third anniversary of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The level of destruction and terror brought on by this invasion has yet to be fully comprehended, as the war continues to take lives, displace millions and challenge the very foundations of European security. As we reflect on the region’s history, we must ask: have we truly learned from the past, or are we doomed to repeat the same mistakes? Following the recent moves by the President Donald Trump and his administration, we can only hope that the path forward will not be paved by concessions and appeasement to the Kremlin.
New Eastern Europe is a new bi-monthly magazine dedicated to Central and Eastern European affairs. The magazine is the sister edition of the Polish version Nowa Europa Wschodnia, which has been on the Polish market since 2008. Countries in particular focus in New Eastern Europe include Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, as well the Caucasus region - Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Chechnya, etc.
Articles in New Eastern Europe focus on a wide range of social, political and cultural issues facing this region. The journal includes original opinion and analytical texts; historical accounts; reports from correspondents in the countries with full colour photos; and reviews of books, music and film about and emerging from Eastern Europe.
But these lessons are not all positive. As Tomas Venclova points out in the opening interview of this issue, the threat of Russian imperialism looms large. And as we set this issue to print, this statement could not be more relevant. At the end of February, we will commemorate the third anniversary of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The level of destruction and terror brought on by this invasion has yet to be fully comprehended, as the war continues to take lives, displace millions and challenge the very foundations of European security. As we reflect on the region’s history, we must ask: have we truly learned from the past, or are we doomed to repeat the same mistakes? Following the recent moves by the President Donald Trump and his administration, we can only hope that the path forward will not be paved by concessions and appeasement to the Kremlin.
New Eastern Europe is a new bi-monthly magazine dedicated to Central and Eastern European affairs. The magazine is the sister edition of the Polish version Nowa Europa Wschodnia, which has been on the Polish market since 2008. Countries in particular focus in New Eastern Europe include Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, as well the Caucasus region - Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Chechnya, etc.
Articles in New Eastern Europe focus on a wide range of social, political and cultural issues facing this region. The journal includes original opinion and analytical texts; historical accounts; reports from correspondents in the countries with full colour photos; and reviews of books, music and film about and emerging from Eastern Europe.
