Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to Meet with Former U.S. President Donald Trump

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is set for a Friday meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump, an admirer—and potential emulator—of the far-right European leader as progressive voters in Europe, the United States, and dozens of other countries push back against a surging worldwide wave of “soft fascism.” Trump—who has all but officially secured the Republican presidential nomination—will welcome Orbán to his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida for what’s being described as a “strategy session.”

Orbán and Trump: Birds of a Feather?

Viktor Orbán has gained a reputation as a staunch nationalist and a critic of liberal democracy. His Fidesz party has been accused of eroding democratic institutions in Hungary and curbing press freedom. On the other side of the Atlantic, Donald Trump’s presidency was marked by similar tendencies, with attacks on the media and divisive rhetoric that appealed to his base of supporters.

Pushback Against Authoritarianism

The meeting between Orbán and Trump comes at a time when progressive voters in both Europe and the United States are pushing back against the rise of far-right leaders who are seen as authoritarian and against the values of democracy. The term “soft fascism” has been used to describe the growing trend of leaders who use populist rhetoric to consolidate power and undermine democratic norms.

The Global Impact

The alliance between Orbán and Trump is likely to raise concerns among advocates of democracy and human rights around the world. As two influential leaders with a history of challenging democratic institutions, their meeting could signal a shift towards more authoritarian policies in both Hungary and the United States.

How Will This Affect Me?

As a citizen of a democratic country, the meeting between Orbán and Trump should be a cause for concern. The erosion of democratic norms in one country can have a ripple effect on others, leading to a global decline in human rights and freedoms. It is important to pay attention to these developments and hold leaders accountable for their actions.

How Will This Affect the World?

The Orbán-Trump alliance could embolden other far-right leaders around the world to follow a similar path, leading to a rise in authoritarianism on a global scale. This could have serious implications for international relations and cooperation, as countries with strongman leaders may prioritize their own interests over the greater good.

Conclusion

The meeting between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and former U.S. President Donald Trump represents a troubling trend towards authoritarianism in both Europe and the United States. As progressive voters push back against the rise of “soft fascism,” it is crucial to remain vigilant and defend democratic values in the face of growing threats to freedom and human rights.