Twenty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of communism, America.gov, as part of its feature “The Evolving Work of Democracy,” is asking academics and journalists from the United States and elsewhere to comment on the challenges to democracy that still lay ahead for countries of the former Eastern Bloc. What follows are their responses – and yours are welcomed as well.

What is the greatest challenge facing democracy in Hungary?

Democracy in practice is not challenged in Hungary. Elections are free and fair. Citizens are free and equal before the law. Although there are worrying elements of discrimination and violence against Roma communities in the country, including the growth of extremist political factions (present in many democratic states, which cannot be tolerated), the basic principles of democracy in Hungary and their practice are strong. But democracy today encompasses more than ballot boxes and free choice. In a larger sense, democracy today is about belonging to a greater community of same-minded states, a democratic community of nations that are allies in word and deed — no matter their size, large or small. Challenging democracy in Hungary today is the nation’s belief in and sense of belonging to this democratic community.

When allies make policies outside of this democratic community, especially decisions impacting the Central and East European region, faith in this community of allies — of democratic states — slowly erodes. There is a need for communication within this community to generate greater cooperation and collaboration on issues of mutual concern. There are many domestic and foreign challenges that Hungary needs help with: tackling the impact of the global financial crisis, managing extremist political elements, working with Hungary to ensure security and stability on the region’s borders, to name just a few. Working together with allies to overcome challenges is preferable to going it alone. More regular meetings could be held in response to crises and could include lower-ranking officials and specialist agencies, as well as parliamentarians and policy analysts. It is therefore essential to keep a constant commitment from the allies, especially the United States, and this is the biggest challenge facing Hungarian democracy today.

Learn more about Ilona Teleki.