Dialogues on Education in Central Europe’s Totalitarian Past

This editorial introduces a thematic issue of *Dialogues in Education* exploring education in Central Europe’s totalitarian past. Through historical and philosophical perspectives, six contributions examine ideological formation, educational transformation and responses to totalitarianism. They highlight continuities across political ruptures and question straightforward oppositions between indoctrination and freedom. Together, they invite reflection on the role of dialogue, pluralism and critical judgement in sustaining democratic education.