Encompassed in the overview, you will find key insights from Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia including the European Union (EU) candidate states Serbia and Ukraine. International dynamics will play a huge role, especially with Hungary’s Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of the year. While the relationship between Budapest and Brussels remains tense, Hungary’s economy is starting to recover from recession. The region, characterised by its diverse political landscape, has seen a rise in populist movements, which have often clashed with Brussels over issues such as judicial independence, media freedom and minority rights. However, there’s a growing recognition within CEE that the path forward requires a more collaborative stance between the EU and CEE, especially in leveraging the economic benefits of reforms brought on by the ‘twin’ digital and green transitions. Our report will provide businesses with an easier understanding of what to expect and how to plan for the future.

A report by Grayling is available here.