At the premises of Anglo-American University in Prague, a conference organized by the Strategeo Institute in cooperation with AAU took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
The event marked the upcoming 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America.
The conference brought together historians, economists, and political commentators, offering a broad perspective on the development of American democracy and its current role in the world.
The conference was opened by the President of Anglo-American University, Jiří Schwarz, together with the Ambassador of the United States to the Czech Republic, Nicholas Merrick.
In his remarks, the Ambassador emphasized the importance of shared values and the transatlantic partnership:
“The United States and Europe are united not only by history, but above all by a shared belief in the importance of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. These values are just as important today as they were 250 years ago.”
History, ideas, and political philosophy
The first panel discussion focused on the historical roots of the American republic, its political philosophy, and its influence on Europe and the Czech lands.
The speakers examined, among other topics, how the American concept of freedom has shaped European thought and political traditions.
The panel featured:
- Milada Polišenská, Professor Emerita, Anglo-American University (AAU)
- George Hays, Dean of the School of International Relations and Diplomacy, AAU
- Mats Braun, Director, Institute of International Relations
- Roman Joch, political scientist and Director, Civic Institute
Moderator:
- Jan Macháček, President, Strategeo Institute
The panel was followed by a presentation by Jan Macháček titled “The Romanticized Czech Perception of America,” which offered a brief historical overview of how Czech views of the United States have evolved over time.
Politics, economy, and security
The second part of the conference focused on current topics – American politics, economic development, and security challenges. The discussion addressed both internal dynamics within the United States and its role in the global context.
The panel featured:
- Kateřina Weissová, Director of the Center for Transatlantic Relations, CEVRO University
- Ondřej Jonáš, banker and investor
- Ondřej Hejma, musician and commentator
- Jan Švejnar, economist, CERGE-EI
Moderator:
- Jan Macháček, President, Strategeo Institute
The speakers agreed that the United States remains a key actor in global politics, while at the same time facing new challenges that shape its position and its relations with Europe.
The conference thus offered not only a reflection on historical developments, but also a contemporary assessment of the role of the United States in today’s world. It confirmed that the debate on American democracy and transatlantic relations remains essential for both Europe and the Czech Republic.
