Hungarian leader Viktor Orbán has justified his government’s use of veto power in the European Union, claiming it is a countermeasure against what he perceives as political pressure from Brussels. At a press conference held in Belgium, Orbán emphasized his commitment to bolstering conservative and sovereigntist movements across the continent. He highlighted the growing influence of patriotic and anti-immigration parties, despite some electoral challenges, attributing their rise to widespread dissatisfaction with the EU’s approach to security, migration, economic competitiveness, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Addressing the issue of EU funding disputes, Orbán recounted how his previous administration viewed the suspension of funds as a tool of political coercion. He stated that Hungary responded by threatening to veto critical EU decisions, such as the approval of the bloc’s upcoming seven-year budget, to ensure the nation receives what it considers its rightful share of funds. Orbán suggested that Hungary should continue to wield its veto power when necessary to secure these financial resources.
The former prime minister also criticized EU policies that tie funding to political and legal conditions, arguing that such measures open the door for future political pressure on member countries. He contends that these mechanisms are used to exert control over national governments, thereby infringing on their sovereignty.
Looking to the future, Orbán predicted that conservative and patriotic parties would continue to gain traction throughout Europe. He suggested that center-right parties will eventually need to decide whether to align themselves with left-leaning political groups or to foster greater unity among right-wing forces.