White But Not Quite: Central Europe's Illiberal Revolt

Long-simmering tensions between the Western members of the European Union and its 'new Eastern members' have fueled rebellion against liberal values and policies. Ivan Kalmar argues that Central European illiberalism is a misguided response to global neoliberalism and explores the close relation between racism towards Central Europeans and racism by Central Europeans.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 334 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2022
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Since the ‘migration crisis of 2016, longstanding tensions between the Western members of the European Union and its ‘new Eastern members – Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary – have proven to be fertile ground for rebellion against liberal values and policies. In this startling and original book, Ivan Kalmar argues that Central European illiberalism is a misguided response to the devastating effects of global neoliberalism, which arose from the areas brutal transition to capitalism in the 1990s. Kalmar argues that dismissive attitudes towards ‘Eastern Europeans are a form of racism and explores the close relation between racism towards Central Europeans and racism by Central Europeans: a people white but not quite.

The book also examines the complex relationship between Central European illiberalism and the rise of far-right political movements, which have gained significant support in recent years. Kalmar argues that the far-right's appeal to Central Europeans is rooted in their frustration with the failure of mainstream political parties to address their concerns about immigration, economic inequality, and cultural identity.

Despite the book's critical analysis, Kalmar remains optimistic about the potential for change in Central Europe. He suggests that the region can learn from the experiences of other countries that have successfully transitioned to more liberal and democratic systems, and that the growing influence of civil society organizations and social movements can help to push for reform.

Overall, 'Central European Illiberalism' is a thought-provoking and important book that provides a fresh perspective on the complex political and social dynamics in the region. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges facing Central Europe and the potential for positive change in the future.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 139 x 217 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529213607