Freedom Breakfast: Commemorating the 1956 Hungarian Revolution

Commemorating the 1956 Hungarian Revolution
MCC Brussels' 2nd Freedom Breakfast

Date: 23rd October 2024
Time: 09.00 - 10.30
Location: Stanhope Hotel Brussels, Rue du Commerce 9, 1000 Bruxelles

Join us for the 2nd Annual Freedom Breakfast Commemorating the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.

The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 reverberated around the world. It demonstrated decisively that the Soviet ideology was hostile to all expressions of freedom. At the same time, it breathed new life into the concept of patriotism – those who loved their country stood proudly and bravely for its freedom and independence.

But patriotism is no stranger to solidarity among nations. The truly international dimension of the Revolution was illustrated in the deep connections between the Hungarian Revolutionaries and their contemporaries in Poland. This year, MCC Brussels looks at the shared history and resilience of the Hungarian and Polish peoples, two nations united not only by their rich cultural heritage but also by their enduring struggles for freedom. As we reflect on the post-war fight for independence against the backdrop of Soviet domination, we honour the sacrifices of those who courageously stood against oppression—defending national identity, religious freedom, and the fundamental rights we cherish today. Today, these two countries face a number of challenges in common – from the assaults on national independence to struggles over national memory.

The MCC Brussels Freedom Breakfast will pay tribute to the heroes of 1956, celebrating their legacy. At the same time, we want to start a conversation about the future. How can we carry forward the torch of independence and the patriotic spirit of freedom today? How can we ensure younger generations stay inspired by these historic moments of national freedom? What is needed to breathe life into these principles today?

Join us as we explore these vital questions, and mark a moment which changed Europe, and the world, for good.

Welcome by: Hungarian Ambassador His Excellency Dr Tamás Iván Kovács

Speakers:

Professor Frank Furedi, Executive Director, MCC Brussels

Jan Tarnas, Art historian, philosopher and critic of both art and literature

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