Rudolph Angler Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has vowed to eliminate foreign-backed organizations operating within the country, accusing them of acting as a “shadow army” controlled by the European Union and the “liberal American empire.” The announcement, made during a speech on Hungary’s national holiday, signals an escalation in Orbán’s long-standing opposition to foreign influence and liberal values.
Orbán’s Fierce Criticism of the European Union
During his speech, Orbán drew parallels between the EU’s influence over Hungary and previous historical oppressions, particularly the Austro-Hungarian era. “An empire is always trying to take Hungarian freedom, and now that empire is Brussels,” he told his supporters. His remarks aimed to rally nationalistic sentiment against what he perceives as undue interference from Brussels.
Orbán also criticized the European Union’s involvement in Ukraine, asserting that their efforts were not motivated by genuine aid but by a desire for colonization. “We did not join this war, but Brussels jumped in headfirst. They want to use war to expand their empire,” he claimed, reflecting his opposition to Hungary’s involvement in EU-led initiatives related to the Ukraine conflict.
New Measures Against Foreign-Backed Entities
In the wake of Donald Trump’s re-election, Orbán has intensified his crackdown on foreign-funded organizations. His administration is preparing new legislation targeting groups receiving support from entities such as USAID. Legal consequences will reportedly include registration requirements, fines, and potential dissolution of non-compliant organizations.
Moreover, Orbán’s party has introduced constitutional amendments that grant authorities the power to suspend dual citizenship and deport individuals deemed threats to national sovereignty. This move aims to curtail the influence of foreign nationals perceived as undermining Hungary’s traditional values and political structure.
Restrictions on LGBTQ+ Rights and Civil Society
The new amendments also include measures against LGBTQ+ rights. Budapest Pride, one of Hungary’s largest LGBTQ+ events, has been banned from public spaces starting this year. Critics argue that these actions are part of a broader strategy to suppress civil society and limit personal freedoms under the guise of protecting national sovereignty.
Orbán has previously introduced laws restricting LGBTQ+ content in schools and media, sparking condemnation from human rights organizations and EU institutions. However, he remains steadfast in his belief that such measures are necessary to defend what he calls Hungary’s “Christian and cultural heritage.”
Immigration and National Identity
In his speech, Orbán also invoked the “great replacement theory,” a far-right conspiracy theory suggesting that Western elites are attempting to replace Europe’s native populations with foreign migrants. This rhetoric has been a recurring theme in Orbán’s speeches, bolstering his government’s strict anti-immigration policies.
He further reaffirmed his opposition to Ukraine’s membership in the European Union, promising a national referendum on the issue. “Union, but without Ukraine,” he stated, making it clear that he does not support further EU expansion that could shift the balance of power away from Hungary’s interests.
Future Implications and International Response
Orbán’s escalating rhetoric and proposed legal measures are likely to draw sharp criticism from the European Union, human rights organizations, and liberal democracies worldwide. However, his alignment with nationalist and conservative leaders, including Donald Trump, suggests he feels emboldened to pursue policies that openly challenge EU norms and international agreements.