Nearly 300 guests filled the Aula of Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” on October 20 for an engaging discussion with the world-renowned historian, journalist, and Pulitzer Prize winner Anne Applebaum.

The public discussion, entitled “Europe in the Era of Global Populism,” organised by the Faculty of History at Sofia University and PanEuropa Bulgaria, with the support of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Bulgarien, attracted exceptional interest and provided a platform for an in-depth exchange on some of the most pressing issues in contemporary international politics.

🌍 In conversation with President Rosen Plevneliev, Anne Applebaum explored key issues related to the rise of populism and authoritarian tendencies, the defining characteristics of authoritarian leadership, and the challenges facing democratic institutions. Other major topics included the future of the United States and its role in the evolving international order, the development and resilience of democracies, and the strategic importance of Europe’s support for Ukraine.

🎙️ The discussion continued with a lively Q&A session, during which members of the audience had the opportunity to ask Anne Applebaum their questions, further exploring the future of Europe, ways to counter populism, and the protection of democratic values.

🏆 A special highlight at the end of the evening was the presentation of PanEuropa Bulgaria’s “Prof. Ivan Shishman” Award for European Contribution. The award was presented to Anne Applebaum by Gergana Passy, President of PanEuropa Bulgaria, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to defending and promoting democratic values and her role as an international ambassador for democracy.

👏 We extend our sincere thanks to Anne Applebaum and President Rosen Plevneliev for the insightful discussion, to our partners for their support, and to all the guests who joined us for this memorable evening!