Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has pledged to crack down on media outlets and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) receiving foreign funding, emboldened by US President Donald Trump’s move against the US Agency for International Development (USAID). The opposition is rallying in response, with the Tisza party surging in popularity as it poses a threat to Orbán’s 15-year rule.
Orbán has vowed to “clean up” organizations receiving foreign funding, labeling them “bugs” that need to be eliminated. This move has been met with criticism from the EU and international community, who see it as an attempt to stifle dissenting voices and undermine press freedom.
The Tisza party’s surge in popularity is seen as a response to Orbán’s efforts to suppress opposition. The party’s leader, Marta Póczi, has called for increased transparency and accountability from the government, saying that Hungarians deserve better representation.
Orbán’s move against media outlets and NGOs has sparked concerns about the erosion of democracy in Hungary. Critics argue that it is an attempt to consolidate power and limit dissenting voices.
As tensions rise, opposition leaders are calling on citizens to take to the streets and demand change. The EU and international community have also spoken out against Orbán’s moves, warning that they could damage Hungary’s relations with key partners.
The situation remains fluid, but one thing is clear: Orbán’s crackdown on media and NGOs has sparked a fierce reaction from the opposition, and Hungarians are demanding greater accountability and transparency from their government.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/hungarys-orban-vows-fast-crackdown-media-ngos-over-foreign-funding-2025-03-15