The inspiring misery of East-Central European small states

Abstract

This essay examines the contemporary relevance of István Bibó’s political thought from the perspective of republican political philosophy. I argue that Bibó’s work – especially his reflections on the transitions in East-Central Europe – offers valuable insights into the problems of the birth and crisis of the republic. One of the challenges of contemporary republicanism is how it can provide normative guidance in less than ideal, historically burdened contexts. Bibó offers theoretical and practical insights that can deepen republican reflection. The aim of this study is to initiate a dialogue between East-Central European historical experiences and contemporary political philosophy, contributing both to a reinterpretation of Bibó’s oeuvre and to the development of republican theory.