Show notes
Just days before a crucial election in Serbia, reports emerge of spyware targeting activists and prominent public figures. Meanwhile, Albania's anti-government protests are turning increasingly violent, putting Prime Minister Edi Rama under growing pressure.In this week's Talk Eastern Europe News Roundup, Alexandra Karppi and Adam Reichardt examine two unfolding political crises in the Balkans and what they could mean for the region's democratic future.We also discuss Azerbaijan's crackdown on protests over restrictions on hijabs in schools, Bulgaria's upcoming presidential election, and growing security concerns in the Black Sea as Russia's war against Ukraine continues to affect neighbouring countries.TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Introduction: Protests, surveillance and elections00:34 – Welcome and updates from Talk Eastern Europe01:54 – Albania: Violent protests and mounting pressure onEdi Rama06:37 – Azerbaijan: Hijab restrictions spark protests andarrests08:52 – Serbia: Spyware targets activists ahead of theelection12:00 – Bulgaria: Presidential elections and politicaluncertainty14:18 – Black Sea: Maritime attacks and regional securityconcerns15:48 – Poland scrambles fighter jets as the war spills over16:40 – Trump's Russian diesel deal and its implications forUkraine18:05 – Final thoughts and election weekend ahead Support independent analysis of Central and Eastern EuropeWe need jut 5 more! Join our Patreon community for additional content, discussions and opportunities to connect with the Talk Eastern Europe team: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeSubscribe to Talk Eastern Europe for weekly news roundups, expert interviews and in-depth analysis of the politics and security of Central and Eastern Europe.What do you expect from Serbia's upcoming election? Could the growing protest movement in Albania force political change? Share your thoughts in the comments.