Central Europe Reports: Every year on February 15th, the nations of Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary come together to celebrate International Visegrád Day. This day commemorates the historic meeting held on February 15th 1991, at Visegrád Castle in Hungary, where the leaders of these countries convened to foster regional cooperation and integration into European structures. The alliance formed from this meeting is known as the Visegrád Group, or V4 for short.
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Origins of the V4
The Visegrád Group’s roots trace far back to the early 14th century when the kings of Hungary, Poland, and Bohemia met in the town of Visegrád in 1335. Their goal was to establish new trade routes and strengthen political alliances. Centuries later, inspired by this historical precedent, the modern V4 was established in 1991 with the aim of helping each other in navigating through transition period.
90’s and early 2000’s were a transitioning period when all four countries struggled to shift from communisitc regimes to a new era. The main task was to join European Union and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. By 2004, all four countries had achieved EU membership, marking a significant milestone in their collaborative efforts.
„All V4 countries aspired to become members of the European Union, perceiving their integration in the EU as another step forward in the process of overcoming artificial dividing lines in Europe through mutual support. Czechia, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia reached this aim on May 1 2004, when they jointly became EU member states.
The V4 format was neither created as an alternative to the all-European integration efforts, nor does it try to compete with other existing central European structures. Its activities are also in no way aimed at weakening ties with other countries. On the contrary, the group aims at encouraging optimum cooperation with all countries—in the neighborhood in particular—its ultimate interest being stable and prosperous democratic development in Europe.”
International Visegrád Day
Initiated by the International Visegrád Fund and public service media from the V4 countries, International Visegrád Day was first celebrated on February 15, 2016, marking the 25th anniversary of the group’s founding. The day emphasizes the historical and social ties binding the people and institutions of these nations and promotes their ongoing cooperation. Public broadcasters in each country commemorate the day by airing content that highlights shared issues, cultural heritage, and collaborative projects.
Perspectives
In recent times, differing approaches to international conflicts have quite tested the group’s cohesion. There’s strong support for Ukraine from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland. Polish politicians are extremely motivated to support Ukraine and to act against Russian state. But on the contrary Hungary doesn’t seem to share the same sentiment to have a solid stance in the so called new cold war era.
Hungarian government still has fine diplomatic relations with Russia and Belarus. Hungarian lack of will to subordiante often infuriates European Union and that’s one of those cases. In this context it is infuriating to Poland as well, as it is one of the biggest anti-russian actor on Europe’s current political scene.
„This is not the best of times for the (Visegrád) format, and Hungary’s different attitudes are significantly influencing and complicating the situation.”
Commented on the situation Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala
Despite these challenges, the V4 continues to serve as a platform for dialogue and regional cooperation. Its initiatives span various sectors, including cultural exchanges, educational projects, and economic collaborations. The International Visegrád Fund plays a pivotal role in supporting these activities, providing grants and fostering people-to-people connections among the member countries.
Will there be 35th Visegrád Day?
As the Visegrád Group navigates the complexities of regional and global politics, its future will depend on the member countries ability to reconcile differences and reinforce shared values. International Visegrád Day serves as a reminder of the historical bonds and mutual aspirations that unite these nations. While challenges persist, the V4’s commitment to collaboration and dialogue remains a testament to the enduring spirit of Central European unity.
Soon we will celebrate of 35th anniversary of the Visegrád Group. Perhaps it will be a more joyful and louder anniversary after long awaited peace will finally come back to the right side of Central Europe’s border.
Central Europe Reports >> Law&Politics >> KWA >> Photo: Visegrád, Hungary by Irina Balashova >>15.02.2025
