Orbán’s Vision for Hungary’s Independence
In a fervent speech coinciding with Hungary’s national holiday commemorating the 1848 revolution against Habsburg dominion, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán declared his intention to purge Hungary of individuals and organizations he claims are operating under foreign influence. Orbán, known for his populist rhetoric, accused these entities of serving the interests of a global ‘shadow army’ tied to the European Union and a ‘liberal American empire.’
During his address to a select gathering of thousands, Orbán, in power since 2010, likened foreign-funded media outlets and organizations to pests, stating, “After today’s festive gathering comes the Easter cleaning. The bugs have overwintered.” He emphasized his government’s resolve to dismantle what he described as a corrupt financial network that allegedly uses foreign funds to sway politicians, judges, journalists, and activists.
Confrontation with the European Union
Orbán has increasingly utilized the March 15 celebrations as a platform to assail the European Union, equating its current influence over Hungary to past imperialist ambitions of the Habsburg Empire. “There is always an empire that is trying to take away the freedom of the Hungarians,” Orbán asserted, drawing parallels between Brussels and historical Vienna. He accused the EU of overreaching its power, echoing past grievances against Austrian rulers.
Orbán claimed that the EU has embroiled itself in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and suggested that its support for Ukraine’s EU membership is a guise for colonial ambitions. He proposed a radical solution: “Union, but without Ukraine.”
Crackdown on Civil Society and Media
Following the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump, Orbán has intensified his clampdown on media outlets and civil society organizations, which he accuses of undermining Hungary’s sovereignty through foreign funding. Citing USAID as an example, he pledged to eliminate such entities and predicted legal repercussions for those benefiting from its funds.
Constitutional Amendments and Social Policies
Recently, Orbán’s Fidesz party proposed constitutional amendments targeting dual citizens perceived as security threats, allowing for the suspension of their citizenship and deportation. Additionally, an amendment aimed at restricting LGBTQ+ rights was introduced, aiming to ban Budapest’s annual Pride event from public spaces.
National Identity and Immigration
On the topic of immigration, Orbán reiterated themes from the ‘great replacement theory,’ suggesting a strategic plan to replace Europe’s native population with outsiders. “The battle today is actually being fought for the soul of the Western world,” he declared, warning against what he perceives as a threat to European civilization. Furthermore, he criticized the EU’s support for Ukraine, framing it as an attempt at colonization, and announced a national poll to let Hungarians decide on Ukraine’s EU membership aspirations.
