Who We Are

Our Mission

We connect and inspire people committed to improving society and fostering trust within it. By providing an open, interdisciplinary platform in Central Europe, we facilitate meaningful public and policy dialogues and encourage leadership grounded in democratic principles.

Open Dialogue, Multiple Points of View

Aspen Institute Central Europe is an independent platform that mediates interdisciplinary and regional cooperation and supports young Central European leaders. It serves as a politically and ideologically neutral platform for democratic discussions about global, political, economic and social issues to promote the functioning and development of democratic values. Aspen Institute Central Europe fosters values-based leadership with the belief that it is essential for a free, just and equitable society. With the participation of experts from politics, business and public institutions as well as personalities from the arts, sports and science, the Institute organizes public conferences, seminars, workshops and expert discussions.

Aspen Institute Central Europe brings together individuals who positively influence the society and strives to support strategic thinking that goes beyond local and sector-related boundaries. By hosting interdisciplinary policy and public discussions, the Institute contributes to open dialogue that explores topics relevant to current society and its advancement. Specifically, the Institute focuses on the priorities of Values-based Leadership, Education, Transatlantic and EU activities, Technology, Innovation and Quality of Governance: Effectiveness of Civil Service. Through our programs, we also aim to encourage young leaders to further develop leadership based on values such as honesty, morality and respect.

Our Core Pillars

Leadership

MULTIPLYING THE POTENTIAL OF LEADERS
The Leadership Programs convene exceptional leaders across various fields and disciplines from Central Europe in order to step away from the daily routine to reflect upon various aspects of values-based leadership. The Alumni become part of an international informal group with the objective of promoting professional ties with one another and triggering possible further cooperation.

Policies

LOOKING FOR EFFECTIVE POLICIES TO CURRENT CHALLENGES
Aspen Institute Central Europe serves as a nonpartisan platform for policy programs that allows for a multifaceted dialogue among policymakers, influential businesses, and public figures. They address themes that reflect education, the effectiveness of civil service, the impact of innovation and technology on the development of society, democracy and quality of life. Global issues, transatlantic relations and the problems that Europe and the Central European region are facing are also discussed.

Public

HIGHLIGHTING TOPICS OF PUBLIC INTEREST
The Public Programs aim to actively involve a large number of participants in debates, conferences and analyses related to current Central European issues and opportunities for regional development. The Institute organizes these events for a broader audience of interested individuals who wish to discuss fresh ideas and look at a wide range of social, political and economic issues from a new perspective. The highlight of the public program is the Aspen Annual Conference where the results of the year-round work of expert groups are presented.