Last weekend, many world leaders and right-wing politicians publicly expressed their support for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections in April. Notable supporters include Alice Weidel from Germany's AfD, Marine Le Pen, Matteo Salvini, Mateusz Morawiecki, as well as representatives from Argentina, Israel, Serbia, Italy, and the USA. Former US President Donald Trump highlighted Orbán's leadership and his stance on migration and sovereignty.
This support is tied to shared views on migration policy, criticism of European institutions, and a focus on traditional values. Orbán and his Fidesz party emphasize family, culture, border protection, and national sovereignty. However, some analysts note that the Hungarian government's actual policies often contradict these stated values, especially amid economic difficulties, reliance on China and Russia, corruption scandals, and public dissatisfaction.
Recent polls indicate that the opposition TISZA party is currently ahead of Fidesz among decided voters, increasing risks for Orbán ahead of the elections. The main factors behind the decline in support include high inflation, lower living standards, youth emigration, and corruption issues. Furthermore, anti-migration rhetoric and confrontation with Brussels are less effective in mobilizing voters than before.
Opposition leader Péter Magyar advocates for changing Hungary's foreign policy, regaining investor trust, and unlocking EU funding. He says he will work pragmatically with different partners to defend Hungary's interests.
Support for Orbán is presented as a consolidation of right-wing and populist forces in Europe and globally, creating a united right-wing front. However, if the opposition wins, Hungary may shift toward a more pro-Western course.