CEU’s billionaire founder, George Soros, believed that the region, with the university as its engine, could become a powerhouse for democracy and truly vibrant societies. But such diversity of thought and character were no match for the era of illiberal democracy in Hungary, and the university’s departure is the latest and perhaps most profound sign that Hungary’s democracy truly is failing. The university’s departure is the latest and perhaps most profound sign that Hungary’s democracy truly is failing. CEU students, faculty, staff and supporters flooded the streets of the Hungarian capital, insisting on academic freedom and criticizing the government’s campaign to single out and shutter the institution. But it’s a cautionary tale about how the steady chipping away of norms and principles can cause irreparable harm.

Source: Huffington Post November 04, 2018 12:56 UTC