Hungary’s Political Shift Offers Lessons for US Populism, New York Times Reports
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the New York Times has published an analysis suggesting that Hungary‘s historic political transformation, marked by the downfall of right-wing nationalist leader Viktor Orbán, offers significant lessons for the United States in its struggle against populism, especially concerning President Donald Trump.
Tens of thousands gathered in front of the Hungarian Parliament building to celebrate the inauguration of Péter Magyar as the new Prime Minister, an event signaling the official end of the “Orbán era.” Magyar’s victory initially seemed improbable, given that Orbán had meticulously constructed a comprehensive system of political, media, and judicial dominance. He controlled the media, weakened opposition, manipulated electoral laws to favor his party, and gradually transformed the government into an authoritarian-like regime masked by a democratic facade.
However, the unexpected occurred when Péter Magyar’s party achieved a decisive victory, an outcome sufficient to dismantle many of Orbán’s established systems within the political, judicial, and media spheres. The New York Times posits that this pattern of victory could be replicated in other nations, notably the United States. The first crucial element identified in this formula is extensive grassroots organization. Magyar’s campaign relied not only on advertising and media but also on a vast network of volunteers and local groups.
In contrast, Orbán’s strategy often involved instilling fear regarding immigrants, minorities, and the European Union. The second key component highlighted is Magyar’s direct and forceful political rhetoric. While previous opponents merely labeled Orbán’s system as “corrupt,” Magyar described it as a “mafia state.” The third element emphasizes the need for a new face; any effort to challenge Trump in the U.S. may require a figure from outside the traditional political establishment, someone capable of connecting with disillusioned voters without being tied to old elites.
The role of non-party social movements was also deemed highly significant, as various groups contributed to Orbán’s downfall. These included teachers protesting government control over education, activists exposing abuses in childcare centers, students, human rights organizations, and other activists.
