In recent days leading up to the election, Viktor Orbán, who has been in power in Hungary for sixteen years, is facing the possibility of losing his political survival. He is known as a prominent figure of the hard right in Central Europe, serving as an inspirational figure for many far-right parties in neighboring countries. The Hungarian regime under Orbán has become a model for them to follow. Jacques Rupnik, an expert in Eastern Europe, analyzes the “illiberal” nature of Orbán’s leadership.
When asked about how Viktor Orbán’s regime can be described, Jacques Rupnik explains that he labels it as an “illiberal democracy,” characterized by the absence of rule of law and separation of powers. Orbán advocates for a democracy that does not need to be liberal, allowing him to exercise control without accountability to opposition or checks and balances.
Regarding the influence of Hungary on neighboring countries in Central Europe and the Balkans, Orbán’s regime has inspired several nations to adopt a similar nationalistic and populist approach. This has led to the formation of a group of European Patriots including Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Serbia, who share anti-liberal political and societal values.
Comparisons have also been drawn between Orbán and Trumpism, as both leaders share similar ideological views on questioning liberal democracies. Orbán’s admiration for Trump’s victory in 2016 has led to a strong partnership between the two, emphasizing their shared rejection of liberal values in favor of nationalism and conservatism.
Despite the historical context of Hungary’s past as part of the socialist bloc, Orbán’s popularity is not solely attributed to its Soviet past but rather to the weaknesses in the democratic traditions of Central Europe. The rise of far-right movements in Hungary and neighboring countries has also impacted European debates, with Orbán aiming to unite nationalist and populist forces across Europe.
If Orbán were to lose the elections, it would signal a potential shift in Hungarian politics and a message to Brussels and its allies that change is possible. However, dismantling Orbán’s entrenched system after sixteen years of consolidation will prove to be a challenging task.
[Context: Viktor Orbán is facing a tough election battle in Hungary amid concerns over his illiberal leadership style. Fact Check: Jacques Rupnik is an expert in Eastern Europe and provides insights into the characteristics of Orbán’s regime.]
