Café Europa
Slavenka Drakulić | |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Writer |
| Known for | Author of "Café Europa: Life After Communism" |
Café Europa: Life After Communism is a 1996 publication authored by Croatian writer Slavenka Drakulić. The book delves into the realities faced by Eastern European populations following the collapse of socialism and the Iron Curtain. While recognizing the emergence of new liberties, Drakulić offers a critical perspective on the ongoing social and economic difficulties that remain after decades of Soviet influence.
Yugoslavia
Drakulić draws a comparison between socialist Yugoslavia and the nations within the Warsaw Pact, emphasizing Yugoslavia’s comparatively better living conditions and greater freedom of travel during Josip Broz Tito’s leadership. Nonetheless, she perceives Yugoslavia as still restrictive, metaphorically describing it as a larger form of confinement.
Poverty and deprivation
In her visits to countries such as Romania and Bulgaria, Drakulić points out the worsening state of infrastructure, linking this deterioration in part to an enduring post-communist mentality that hampers economic progress.
Aspirations to a European identity
Eastern European countries strive to reconnect with Western Europe after years of Soviet-era separation. However, Drakulić notes a chilly reception from NATO and European Union member states, implying that "Europe" continues to be more of an ideal than a reality for these nations. She stresses the importance of their common cultural background despite existing divisions.
Authoritarianism in post-independence Croatia
Although communism has ended, Drakulić observes that under President Franjo Tuđman, Croatia still exhibits authoritarian traits. The administration includes numerous former communist officials, and nationalist discourse echoes the fascist Independent State of Croatia period from WWII, complicating the country’s democratic development.
Sequel
Penguin Books published Café Europa Revisited in January 2021, a follow-up consisting of 15 essays that revisit topics from the original book, such as nationalization, Balkanization, food apartheid, and antisemitism.