Peter Pavel and Zuzana Čaputová to appear at Pohoda 2026, opening a debate on identity in a polarised world

Czech President Petr Pavel and former Slovak President Zuzana Čaputová will take part in the programme of the 30th edition of Pohoda Festival. Together, they will join a discussion titled Identity in the Heart of Europe, exploring the search for identity in an increasingly polarised world.

19. June 2026

The debate will be moderated by Erik Tabery, Editor-in-Chief of the Czech weekly magazine Respekt and one of Central Europe’s most respected journalists and public commentators.

Bringing together two of the most prominent public figures from the Czech Republic and Slovakia, the discussion will focus on democratic values, civic society, European identity, and the challenges facing Central Europe today. The discussion will take place on Saturday, July 11, in the afternoon as part of the traditional discussion segment of the Pohoda Festival program at Café Európa, organized by the Representation of the European Commission in Slovakia.

Petr Pavel has served as President of the Czech Republic since 2023. Before entering office, he was Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Armed Forces and later Chair of the NATO Military Committee.

Zuzana Čaputová served as President of the Slovak Republic from 2019 to 2024. During her presidency, she became one of Europe’s most respected advocates for democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and international cooperation.

Pohoda Festival will take place from 8 to 11 July 2026 at Trenčín Airport in Slovakia. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the festival will once again bring together leading international artists, inspiring speakers, literature, theatre, visual arts, and public debate in a unique cultural setting.

The 2026 Pohoda Festival is officially sold out, only one-day tickets for Wednesday, July 8—The Cure Extra Day—are still available.