Has Orban's Reign Come to an End? A Closer Look at the Hungarian PM's Struggling Hold on Power
Article by Moritz Gathmann
- Questionable solitude at Viktor's residence?
At the EU summit, Viktor Orban, known for his boisterous demeanor, shouts, "Veto!", sending shockwaves through the crowd after vetoing a joint statement by the 27 EU leaders in Brussels. "We will ask the Hungarian people about Ukraine's EU membership," he declares. "Until then, we cannot support a common position on this issue."
- Viktor Orban
- Peter Magyar
- EU
- Hungary
- Ukraine
- Europe
- Fidesz
- USA
- EU summit
- Marine Le Pen
- Matteo Salvini
Key Insights
With Viktor Orban's recent move to amend the Hungarian Constitution, allowing for the expulsion of dual-passport citizens deemed a threat to national security, it's clear that he continues to tighten his grip on power within his own country. He also promises to stamp out a perceived "shadow army" of political opponents, including journalists and NGOs, by removing their financial support and eliminating them from the political landscape[1][2][3].
Despite his efforts to consolidate power domestically, Orban's relationship with the EU has become increasingly fraught. He is known for railing against the EU, often likening it to oppressive historical empires that threaten Hungarian freedom. He accuses Brussels of misusing its power and seeking to colonize Europe through war[1][3]. Orban's reluctance to support Ukrainian membership in the EU reflects wider tensions between Hungary and the EU, particularly in areas like immigration and sovereignty.
On the issue of Ukraine, Orban has made it clear that he does not endorse its entry into the EU, claiming that EU expansion would only lead to further conflict. This stance mirrors his broader skepticism of EU policies and supports his nationalist agenda. Orban's government's approach to Ukraine is also influenced by historical and cultural connections with Russia, as well as a desire to maintain good relations with Moscow[1][3].
But Orban is not without opposition. Recent protests in Budapest, led by opposition leader Peter Magyar, reveal a growing discontent among the people. The opposition shows promising electoral potential and may challenge Orban's Fidesz party in upcoming elections[1]. The EU has also criticized Orban for eroding democratic norms and the rule of law in Hungary. However, the EU has found it challenging to effectively counter Orban's nationalist policies due to internal divisions and the nuances of EU governance structures[4].
In a Nutshell
Viktor Orban maintains a strong position domestically, but his confrontational tactics and stance on the EU and Ukraine have heightened tensions within Hungary and the EU. With opposition growing both at home and abroad, Orban's strategies face increasing scrutiny as he maneuvers through complex international relations.
The Commission is also proposing to extend the scope of its programme to include the areas of rising tensions within Hungary and the EU, such as the objections raised by Viktor Orban on Thursday on the issue of Ukraine's EU membership, which reflects the wider tensions between Hungary and Brussels. This suggests that the proposed programme may cover the ongoing criticisms directed towards Orban by the EU for eroding democratic norms and the rule of law in Hungary. On the other hand, the EU summit in Brussels, where Orban made his announcement to veto a joint statement, is one of the venues where such objections and tensions are being played out.
