In a recent speech delivered in Romania, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban took a firm stance against the European Union, accusing it of engaging in an “LGBTQ offensive.” Orban, known for his criticism of Brussels, emphasized his government’s commitment to preserving Hungary’s Christian heritage. This comes in the wake of his controversial 2021 law, which prohibited the use of materials perceived as promoting homosexuality and gender change in schools, sparking a confrontation with the EU over what Orban referred to as “LGBTQ propaganda.”
Beyond the LGBTQ issue, Orban’s speech also addressed broader concerns related to the EU’s increasing federalist tendencies, epitomized by countries like Germany and France. He expressed hope that the upcoming European parliament elections would favor governments that reject such federalism. Orban’s firm anti-federalist stance has led to clashes with Brussels over various matters, including the rule of law, media reforms, and the judiciary in Hungary.
Notably, Orban also shed light on Poland’s political landscape, as the neighboring nation gears up for parliamentary elections. The conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party, which shares many policies with Orban’s government, seeks to secure a third term. However, Poland, like Hungary, faces the suspension of certain EU funds due to a rule-of-law dispute with the bloc.
The Prime Minister lamented that the departure of Britain from the EU had disrupted the delicate balance between federalist forces and nations resisting further centralization in Brussels. Presently, only Hungary and Poland uphold a strong anti-federalist position within the EU.
Amidst Hungary’s mounting economic challenges, Orban has escalated his rhetoric against the LGBTQ community. With annual inflation surpassing 25% in the first quarter, he now alleges that the EU is rejecting its Christian heritage, facilitating population replacement through migration, and conducting an “LGBTQ offensive.”
As Hungary and Poland continue their resistance to EU pressure on various fronts, tensions between the governments and the bloc remain a significant concern, both domestically and internationally. The outcome of next year’s European parliament elections could be pivotal in shaping the future trajectory of the EU and its member states.
