The course focuses on the transition to democracy in Central Europe – former Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Hungary and Poland. It focuses on the communist regimes in these countries as a basic starting point for the study of transition processes. The process of transition to democracy is discussed with emphasis on the specifics of each transition. The course analyzes the problems of democratic consolidation – building democratic institutions, economic transition, etc. Last but not least, the course focuses on the international factors of democratization in Central Europe, especially the influence of the European Union, and the relations of Central European states to the EU.   Short-term mobility will be required in April / May (the specific dates will be provided by the lecturer at the start of the course). Please, make sure to consult mobility coordinator at your institution to explore potential funding opportunities.