Billboards erected in the night to 20 November 2023, launching a campaign for next June’s European parliamentary election, depict Commission chief Ursula Von der Leyen alongside Alex Soros, the son of liberal Hungarian-born financier George Soros, a perennial target of hostility from Orbán’s Fidesz Party. The text reads “Let’s not dance to their tunes”. [X, formerly Twitter]
The Smartencyclopedia Staff & Agencies
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has initiated a new “national consultation” aimed at rallying popular support for his anti-EU stance. Simultaneously, he has proposed a “sovereignty” law, raising concerns about potential crackdowns on dissent.
Background
Viktor Orban, often labeled the “troublemaker of the EU” for fostering what critics call an “illiberal” state, has regained prominence after a period of relative political quiet. His recent letter to European Council President Charles Michel hinted at a potential veto of talks regarding Ukraine’s EU accession.
Anti-EU Rhetoric and National Consultation
Orban’s anti-EU rhetoric has intensified, comparing the EU’s actions against Hungary to the Soviet suppression of the 1956 Hungarian revolution. The “national consultation” targets Ukraine and critiques EU migration policies. Leading questions in the survey touch on “aggressive LGBTQ propaganda” and alleged EU plans for “migrant ghettos.”
Sovereignty Law and Crackdown on Dissent
In a move reminiscent of Russian legislation, Orban has proposed a “sovereignty” law set to be debated in parliament. If passed, it criminalizes foreign funding for political entities and establishes a “sovereignty protection office” with broad investigatory powers. Critics fear this could be used to harass and silence dissenting voices.
Orban’s Russia Connections
Orban has consistently blamed the West for the Russia-Ukraine war, advocating for normalized relations with Moscow and the removal of EU sanctions. Hungary’s lucrative deals with Russia, such as the expansion of the Paks nuclear power plant, demonstrate the nation’s unique approach within the EU.
Protests and Criticism
The proposed “sovereignty” law has sparked protests in Hungary, with civil society groups accusing the government of attempting to suppress critical voices. Legal experts argue that the vague draft is unconstitutional and conflicts with EU law. Orban, however, asserts that Hungary is not the “black sheep” but the “first swallow” in the EU.
As Hungary navigates these developments, concerns grow within the EU about the direction of Orban’s government and its impact on democratic values and freedom of expression.