Consider This from NPR: “Dismantling Democracy: Lessons from Hungary's Viktor Orban”
Release Date: April 20, 2025
Host: Rob Schmitz

Introduction: The Symbolism of Power in Budapest

The episode opens atop a cobblestone hill overlooking Budapest’s historic Danube River, where Rob Schmitz sets the scene at Buda Castle. Here, Akos Hadhaji, an independent member of Hungary's parliament, leads a tour that starkly highlights the corruption and power consolidation under Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Hadhaji remarks, “If you're looking for a symbolic place for corruption, power, and the waste of public money, this is a beautiful venue for that” (00:02), as Chinese tour groups pass by, underscoring the contrast between Hungary’s rich history and its current political climate.

Viktor Orban’s Consolidation of Power

Orban, in his fourth consecutive term, has systematically dismantled democratic institutions in Hungary. Hadhaji points out the strategic relocation of the Prime Minister’s offices to the castle, a move that echoes historical authoritarian practices. “Orban wants to play king,” Hadhaji states (03:11), drawing parallels to Hungary’s oppressive past under leaders like Matthios Rakosi. The construction activities surrounding the castle are criticized as “Orban's gifts to cronies in the form of lucrative contracts,” ensuring Orban’s dominance both symbolically and practically.

Erosion of Media Freedom

A significant focus of Orban’s strategy has been the suppression of independent media. Hadhaji explains that Orban utilized European Union funds to dominate Hungary’s media landscape, a tactic that has led to the shutdown of numerous independent outlets. “Orban took control of much of the country's independent media,” Schmitz narrates (03:11). The remnants of independent journalism, such as the newly formed Mogherhang (Hungarian Voice), operate under precarious conditions. Lukac, the managing director, shares the challenges faced: “Nobody was brave enough to print in Hungary… our newspaper is printed in Slovakia” (04:16), highlighting the lengths to which journalists must go to maintain an independent voice.

Academic and Judicial Manipulation

Political scientist Peter Krekkos outlines Orban’s methodical approach to weakening Hungary’s democratic framework. Orban began by infiltrating the judiciary with loyalists, thereby eroding judicial independence. Subsequently, he targeted media companies and universities, appointing leaders who align with his vision. Krekkos notes, “Orban focused on ridding Hungary of any institution capable of checking his power” (05:01), drawing a blueprint that some fear could inspire similar authoritarian shifts elsewhere.

Comparisons with U.S. Politics

Krekkos draws unsettling parallels between Orban’s tactics and those employed by President Donald Trump during his second term. He observes, “Trump went further in two months than Orban could in 15 years” (06:33), likening it to a “constitutional coup where everything happens very rapidly.” While Trump has publicly praised Orban, calling him “fantastic” and “respected” (06:46), Krekkos doubts the depth of influence Orban’s strategies have had on American politics, suggesting that Hungary serves more as an aspirational model for certain conservative factions rather than a direct influence.

Anti-LGBTQ Legislation and Civil Society Suppression

Orban's government has intensified its crackdown on civil liberties, particularly targeting the LGBTQ community. In a recent parliamentary session, Hungary passed a law banning assemblies that “promote homosexuality” to “protect children” (07:26). Johanna Majerczik, a spokesperson for the Pride Parade, warns, “If the government succeeds in banning such a peaceful protest, that means that in the future they will be able to ban or restrict any other peaceful event” (08:00). This legislation has sparked widespread protests, with tens of thousands taking to the streets to oppose the new restrictions, signaling a growing resistance movement against Orban’s authoritarian measures.

Public Response and Ongoing Resistance

Despite Orban’s tightening grip, public dissent remains robust. Weekly protests, including significant disruptions like halting traffic and blocking bridges, demonstrate the populace’s resilience. Critics argue that Orban is strategically using the LGBTQ community as a pretext to limit broader civil freedoms, particularly as opposition forces begin to regain momentum. The societal pushback underscores the tension between Orban’s authoritarian ambitions and Hungary’s democratic aspirations.

Conclusion: Orban’s Endgame and Future Implications

As Viktor Orban nears the end of his fourth term, his adaptability in maintaining power continues to evolve. Political analysts suggest that Orban’s incremental dismantling of democratic institutions serves as a cautionary tale for democracies worldwide. The episode concludes by emphasizing the ongoing struggle within Hungary, balancing Orban’s authoritarian legacy against the determined efforts of civil society and opposition forces striving to restore democratic norms.

Notable Quotes:

• Akos Hadhaji (00:02): “If you're looking for a symbolic place for corruption, power, and the waste of public money, this is a beautiful venue for that.”
• Akos Hadhaji (03:11): “Orban wants to play king.”
• Lukac (04:16): “Nobody was brave enough to print in Hungary… our newspaper is printed in Slovakia.”
• Peter Krekkos (05:01): “Orban focused on ridding Hungary of any institution capable of checking his power.”
• Peter Krekkos (06:33): “Trump went further in two months than Orban could in 15 years. The United States. It reminds me of a constitutional coup where everything happens very rapidly.”
• Peter Krekkos (06:46): “Hungary serves as more of a conservative fantasy land that mega Republicans can aspire to.”
• Johanna Majerczik (08:00): “If the government succeeds in banning such a peaceful protest, that means that in the future they will be able to ban or restrict any other peaceful event.”

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights from the NPR episode, providing a clear understanding of Viktor Orban’s strategies in undermining democracy in Hungary, the implications for civil society, and the broader resonance of these actions in the global political landscape.