In a move to tighten his grip on power ahead of the upcoming elections, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is intensifying his crackdown on individuals with dual citizenship and those working for civil society organizations and independent media that he deems as threatening national sovereignty. A draft constitutional amendment, presented by Mate Kocsis of Orban's Fidesz party, outlines the potential expulsion of Hungarians owning multiple passports whose work is seen as undermining the government's interests.
Orban's drive to eliminate what he labels as "fake" civil society organizations and "so-called" independent media mirrors a broader effort to quash dissenting voices in the lead-up to the election. With Fidesz controlling a two-thirds majority in parliament, the amendment could easily be passed, granting the government even more power to shape and control public discourse.
Inspired by the tactics of his ally, former US President Donald Trump, Orban's crackdown has taken aim at foreign-funded media and non-governmental organizations, marking a significant push towards silencing opposition and critics. The move highlights Orban's determination to maintain his grasp on power amidst growing discontent over issues such as corruption and a cost-of-living crisis.
Facing a challenger in Peter Magyar, a former establishment figure leading the Tisza party, Orban is feeling the pressure as recent polls indicate a shift in support away from Fidesz. Magyar's surge in popularity underscores voters' concerns about corruption and a desire for change in Hungary's political landscape.
Orban's proposed constitutional amendment to protect the "rights of children" comes amidst his controversial stance on LGBTQ rights, including attempts to restrict LGBTQ-themed literature and limit adoption rights for same-sex couples. These moves have drawn criticism from the European Union, which has suspended funding to Hungary over concerns about the erosion of the rule of law during Orban's decade and a half in power. As Hungary stands at a critical juncture, the outcome of the upcoming elections will shape the future trajectory of the country and its relationship with the rest of Europe.