Why are CEE countries more prone to democratic backsliding than other EU member states?

Looking beyond the generic explanation that Central and Eastern Europe’s political cultures are still affected by their authoritarian past, this article aims to determine why is there such a contrast between them and the rest of the EU. Asking this question amidst an international crisis makes it even more acute, as the health crisis offers a frame for a deeper reflection on the resilience of European political systems to a critical situation. One can only hope the democratic cracks and shortcomings highlighted by this crisis will be mended in the aftermath of the pandemic, to ensure our political systems will be more resilient during the impending environmental crisis. 

You can read the whole article HERE.