Central and Eastern Europe: the Globalization Process, and Hybrid Threats, Viewed through Political and Legal Aspects

Abstract

Central and Eastern Europe have a special place in the new multipolar world order, shaped by the influence of the European Union, the United States of America, People’s Republic of China, and the Russian Federation. To understand the European perspective in the rules-based international order, the geopolitical trajectory of the region and its status in international law should be discussed with regard to the whole scope of historical, political, economic, and ecological issues. The hybrid globalization process includes divisions and armed conflicts initiated for the sake of far-reaching global interests. Central and Eastern Europe today, after the Russian aggression against Ukraine, is turned into a frontline of the conflict between the global East and West. Russian militarism, predictably dangerous and insidious, in propaganda presents its thrusts as a reaction to the militarization of the region by the NATO forces. The annexation of Crimea, military invasion into Eastern Ukraine, and arms race are examples of Russian imperialist policies. Robust strategy and meaningful transformations are needed to prepare Central and Eastern Europe for future challenges and threats in a contingent geopolitical environment.

Keywords

• globalization
• central and eastern europe
• sustainable development
• multipolarity
• hybrid war
• terrorism