BEST OF CHOICE 2024

The past twelve months have been important for China-CEE relations and for CHOICE, as we deepened our focus on key topics such as de-risking, economic security, and the evolving EU-China relationship. Our team expanded its engagement with policymakers, media, and academic circles, providing timely analysis on China’s growing global influence.

We launched new digital initiatives, strengthened existing networks, and organized internal activities to foster creativity and collaboration. The CHOICE newsletter continued to deliver in-depth insights, reaching an ever-growing audience. Behind the scenes, our analysts worked tirelessly to produce research, policy recommendations, and expert commentary, ensuring Central and Eastern European perspectives are heard in the broader European debate.

As we bid farewell to 2024, we look back at a year filled with challenges, progress, and impact. Here are our top 10 highlights!

1. 1. TOP CHOICE Article: The Porcupine Strategy
   Our most-read piece of 2024 was The Porcupine Strategy: Taiwan’s Road to Self-Defense by Dominika Urhová & Dominika Remžová. It offered insights into Taiwan’s asymmetric defense strategy amidst growing PLA threats.

2. Most Significant International Appearance

In September, Ivana Karásková, the head of AMO’s China team, delivered a testimony before the U.S. Congress, specifically at the House Subcommittee on Europe. Her presentation focused on China’s growing influence in Europe, including its economic activities, political strategies, and implications for Central and Eastern Europe.

This appearance underscored the importance of regional perspectives in shaping a cohesive transatlantic approach to China. Ivana’s detailed insights, drawn from years of research and expertise, highlighted the unique challenges faced by CEE countries in the context of China’s global ambitions.

This testimony not only elevated AMO’s profile on the international stage but also reinforced the value of CHOICE’s work in providing nuanced, region-specific analyses to inform global policy discussions. It was a proud moment that showcased the impact and credibility of our team’s efforts.

3. Best New Initiative: Women Insight on China (WiCH)
This year, CHOICE launched Women Insight on China (WiCH) to address the underrepresentation of women in China studies across Europe. WiCH fosters mentorship, collaboration, and amplifies the voices of women analysts, creating a pan-European community where they can thrive.

Through skill-building workshops, research support, and a speaker series featuring prominent experts, WiCH aims to empower women to take on leadership roles in China-related research and policymaking. By bridging gaps and promoting gender diversity, this initiative will ensure more inclusive perspectives in shaping Europe’s approach to China. WiCH has already gained momentum as a vital platform for driving meaningful change.

4. Best Education Initiative: Future CHOICE Summer School

Held in Kutná Hora, Czech Republic, the 2024 Summer School brought together Europe’s brightest minds to explore Indo-Pacific dynamics. Expert-led sessions, cultural experiences, and simulations made it a standout program.

5. Most Inspiring Team Event: AMO China Team Strategy Planning Workshop

In October, our team gathered to brainstorm future projects, refine strategies, and share insights. This strategy planning workshop reinforced collaboration and creativity within the team.

6. Most Listened to Podcast Episode: Voice for CHOICE

Our episode featuring Dominika Remžová on EVs and critical raw materials supply chains was the most streamed in 2024. It tackled EU-China tensions and their implications for the CEE region. Listen to the full episode now!

7. Best Collaboration: AMO (CHOICE), ECFR, and OSW Project

This year, the Association for International Affairs (AMO), the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), and Poland’s Centre for Eastern Studies (OSW) launched an ambitious initiative aimed at amplifying Central and Eastern Europe’s voice in the EU-China debate. Supported by the Mercator Stiftung, this collaboration focuses on bridging gaps in understanding China’s influence across Europe and integrating CEE perspectives into the broader European policy discussion.

8. Best New Digital Platform: Instagram @AMO.Cina

Our Czech-language Instagram profile launched in September 2024, sharing weekly news, book & film reviews, and updates from our team. A fresh way to engage Czech and Slovak audiences on China!

9. Most Viral Cartoon: U.S. Elections and Taiwan

Stellina Chen’s cartoon brilliantly depicted Taiwan’s close watch on U.S. elections. The visual captured the intersection of geopolitics and democracy, resonating across platforms.

10. True Color of Xi: Our New Year Anti-Stress Coloring Sheet

To wrap up 2024 with a touch of humor and creativity, CHOICE presents True Color of Xi, an anti-stress coloring sheet inspired by Andy Warhol. In these stressful times, we invite you to take a break, unleash your artistic side, and reimagine the world of global politics in vibrant hues.

Thank you for your continued support. We wish you a joyful and resilient New Year!