We opened Wednesday with the last panel, which examined the close relationship between diplomacy and memory culture. “Nations in Europe grapple with their pasts, particularly regarding colonialism and totalitarianism, as these memories shape national identities and influence foreign policies” – stated Izabella Agárdi (iASK), Chair of the panel. Collective memory has become increasingly important in fostering reconciliation and understanding, yet disagreements over historical interpretations can exacerbate tensions, which we could hear in the panel.

Presenting the UN’s role in shaping cultural heritage, András Nagy (iASK) described the paradoxes of the committee established in response to the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. Elaborating on the Red Cross, he highlighted the role of Dunant’s work, emphasizing the role of discrimination and universal helpfulness in UN missions at all times.

In regards to Agárdi’s words, panelists covered topics on micro cultural heritage management in the Western Balkan. Astrea Nikolovska (Czech Academy of Sciences) presented the bumpy road of the Belgrade landmark which was bombed by NATO in 1999 and the many projects surrounded it throughout the years to the actual plans of an “International Trump Hotel”. She was followed by Zala Pavsic (iASK, Hungary, CEU Democracy Institute, Hungary), who elaborated on the importance of friendship in cultural dialogue and bridge-building between nations after the Yugoslav Wars. The role of cultural heritage in supporting dialogue was also discussed in the cases of Kosovo – by Afrim Hoti (University of Prishtina, Kosovo) – and North Macedonia – by Rubin Zemon (iASK, Hungary, Center for Advanced Researches, North Macedonia).

To the question if ‘Are we capable of achieving enduring peace within the emerging new world order?’, a discussion panel was established to the participants to debate on topics covered throughout the last four days.

After the heated discussions, we ended the day with a Hungarian and Roma Folk Dance House, for which the Kanizsa Csillagai ensemble provided the backing.

Thursday was designated for participants to make remarks and prepare presentations that would allow them to present their cases on the covered topics and provide feedback to the Institute on Friday. We concluded the academic discussions with an excursion to discover the juice of the Kőszeg vines.

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