History of Viktor Orbán in Timeline
Viktor Mihály Orbán, a Hungarian lawyer and politician, has held the position of Prime Minister of Hungary since 2010. He previously served in this role from 1998 to 2002. Orbán has been the leader of the Fidesz political party since 1993, with a brief interruption from 2000 to 2003.
1920: Treaty of Trianon
The Treaty of Trianon, signed in 1920, redrew the borders of Hungary, resulting in significant territorial losses.
1940: Birth of Győző Orbán
Viktor Orbán's father, Győző Orbán, was born in 1940.
1944: Birth of Erzsébet Sípos
Viktor Orbán's mother, Erzsébet Sípos, a speech therapist, was born in 1944.
1949: Replacement of the 1949 Constitution
The new constitution passed in 2011 replaced the Hungarian Constitution of 1949, marking a significant shift in the country's legal and political landscape.
1956: Hungarian Revolution
The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 was a nationwide revolt against the Hungarian People's Republic and its Soviet-imposed policies.
1956: Commemoration of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution
Viktor Orbán and Fidesz planned demonstrations for the anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution to commemorate the victims of the Soviet invasion and protest police brutality.
May 1963: Viktor Orbán's Birth
Viktor Mihály Orbán was born in Székesfehérvár on May 31, 1963, to Győző Orbán and Erzsébet Sípos.
May 1963: Birth of Viktor Orbán
Viktor Orbán was born in May 1963.
1965: Birth of Győző Jr.
Viktor Orbán's younger brother, Győző Jr., a businessman, was born in 1965.
1973: Move to Felcsút
In 1973, the Orbán family moved to Felcsút.
1977: Birth of Áron Orbán and Move to Székesfehérvár
Viktor Orbán's younger brother, Áron, a businessman, was born in 1977. That same year, the family relocated to Székesfehérvár, where Orbán was accepted into the esteemed Blanka Teleki grammar school.
December 1981: Martial Law in Poland
The declaration of martial law in Poland in December 1981 had a significant impact on Orbán's political views, leading him to question his support for the Communist regime.
May 1982: State Security Report on Orbán
A state security report from May 1982 described Orbán as "loyal to our social system".
1983: Minor Role in "Szegény Dzsoni és Árnika"
Viktor Orbán had a minor role as a footballer in the 1983 Hungarian family film "Szegény Dzsoni és Árnika."
1983: Orbán Attends Eötvös Loránd University
Orbán enrolled at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest in 1983 to study law, marking the start of his formal legal education.
1984: Orbán Becomes Chairman of College Committee
Orbán's leadership qualities were recognized early on, as he became chairman of the executive committee of the Lawyers' Special College in 1984. This position gave him valuable experience in leading and organizing his peers.
1985: Trips to Poland and Engagement with Solidarity Movement
Between 1984 and 1985, and again in 1987, Orbán made several trips to Poland with his classmates. These trips brought him into contact with the Polish Solidarity movement, which deeply influenced his own political thinking and future actions.
1985: Establishment of Századvég Journal
Viktor Orbán helped establish the college journal Századvég (End of the Century) in 1985. Funded by George Soros, it later became the press organ for Fidesz.
August 1986: Police Report on Orbán's Activities
In August 1986, a police source identified Orbán as part of an organization suspected of receiving Western support and potentially grooming future leaders.
1986: Marriage to Anikó Lévai
Viktor Orbán married Anikó Lévai in 1986.
November 1987: Seminar on Perestroika and Democracy
In November 1987, Orbán spearheaded a two-day seminar at the Lawyers' Special College, focusing on Gorbachev's Perestroika, conscientious objection, and the potential for a pan-European democratic movement. This event drew 150 delegates from 17 countries, highlighting Orbán's early involvement in international dialogues on democracy and political reform.
March 1988: Founding of Fidesz
On March 30, 1988, Viktor Orbán, alongside other students and activists, founded the Alliance of Young Democrats (FIDESZ) at the Lawyers' Special College of Social Sciences. This liberal-nationalist youth movement was formed as a direct political challenge to the Hungarian Young Communist League.
April 1988: Part-time Employment at the Soros Foundation
In April 1988, Viktor Orbán began working part-time at the Soros Foundation.
June 1989: Speech at Heroes' Square
On June 16, 1989, at the reburial of Imre Nagy and other martyrs of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, Viktor Orbán delivered a significant speech in Heroes' Square, Budapest. He called for free elections and the removal of Soviet troops, propelling him into the national spotlight and bringing Fidesz to wider public attention.
September 1989: Research Fellowship at Pembroke College, Oxford
Viktor Orbán began a research fellowship at Pembroke College, Oxford in September 1989, focusing on civil society in European political thought under Zbigniew Pełczyński's guidance. His fellowship was funded by the Soros Foundation, where he had been employed part-time since April 1988.
October 1989: Fidesz Becomes a Political Party
Fidesz transitioned from a movement to a political party in October 1989.
1989: Orbán's Rise in Politics
After his involvement in the Hungarian dissident student movement and a notable speech calling for the removal of Soviet forces, Viktor Orbán rose to national prominence in 1989. This period marked the beginning of his political journey, following the Revolutions of 1989.
January 1990: Return to Hungary for Post-Communist Parliament Election
In January 1990, Viktor Orbán ended his research at Oxford and returned to Hungary to participate in the country's first post-communist parliamentary elections.
April 1990: Elected to Parliament; Appointed Fidesz Parliamentary Leader
Viktor Orbán secured a parliamentary seat representing Pest County in the April 1990 election, subsequently becoming the leader of Fidesz's parliamentary group, a role he held until May 1993.
September 1992: Elected Vice Chairman of the Liberal International
Viktor Orbán was elected as vice chairman of the Liberal International in September 1992.
April 1993: Becomes President of Fidesz
Viktor Orbán was elected as Fidesz's president on April 18, 1993, succeeding the collective leadership that had been in place since the party's formation. Under his leadership, Fidesz transitioned from a radical liberal student group into a center-right people's party.
May 1993: End of Term as Fidesz Parliamentary Leader
Viktor Orbán's term as the leader of Fidesz's parliamentary group ended.
1993: Orbán Leads Fidesz
In 1993, Viktor Orbán became the leader of the Fidesz political party.
1993: Leading Fidesz's Parliamentary Caucus
Until 1993, Viktor Orbán led Fidesz's parliamentary caucus after being elected to the National Assembly.
1994: Fidesz Barely Reaches 5% Threshold; Orbán Becomes MP, Chairman of Committee
During the 1994 parliamentary elections, Fidesz narrowly achieved the 5% threshold for parliamentary representation. Subsequently, Viktor Orbán became a Member of Parliament representing Fejér County and served as the chairman of the Committee on European Integration Affairs from 1994 to 1998.
1995: Fidesz Adopts "Hungarian Civic Party" as Shortened Name
Under Orbán's leadership, Fidesz adopted "Hungarian Civic Party" (Magyar Polgári Párt) as its official shortened name in 1995. This coincided with the party's rise to dominance in the right-wing political landscape as the Hungarian Democratic Forum (MDF) lost support.
April 1996: Chairman of the Hungarian National Committee of the New Atlantic Initiative
In April 1996, Viktor Orbán assumed the role of chairman of the Hungarian National Committee of the New Atlantic Initiative (NAI).
1998: Positive Economic Developments Under Orbán's Government
Between 1998 and 2001, Hungary experienced positive economic developments. Inflation decreased, GDP growth remained consistent, the fiscal deficit was reduced, and the national debt ratio decreased. These factors raised hopes for Hungary to join the Eurozone by 2009.
1998: Achievements of Orbán's First Term
During his first term as Prime Minister, from 1998 to 2002, Viktor Orbán oversaw a period of economic progress. Inflation and the fiscal deficit decreased, and Hungary successfully joined NATO.
1998: First Trip Abroad as Prime Minister
In 1998, Viktor Orbán's first trip abroad as Prime Minister was to attend the World Cup final in Paris, reflecting his keen interest in football.
1998: Scandals and Controversies Plague Orbán's Government
In 1998, Viktor Orbán's government faced several controversies and scandals. Two state secretaries resigned due to their involvement in a bribery case concerning the American military manufacturer Lockheed Martin Corporation. The head of the Tax Office also resigned amidst criticism from the opposition regarding his past business dealings. Further tension arose between the government and the Budapest City Council due to the national government's decision to cancel significant urban development projects, including a new national theatre and a subway line.
1998: Orbán Becomes Prime Minister of Hungary
In 1998, Viktor Orbán, leading a coalition of Fidesz with the Hungarian Democratic Forum (MDF) and the Independent Smallholders' Party (FKGP), won the parliamentary elections. This victory led to him becoming the Prime Minister of Hungary at the age of 35, making him the second youngest person to hold the position. Notably, he was the first post-Cold War leader in both Eastern and Central Europe who had no prior affiliation with the communist party during the Soviet era.
1998: Decline in Support for FKGP
Public support for the FKGP experienced a significant decline from 14% in 1998 to 1% in 2001.
1998: Orbán's First Term as Prime Minister
Viktor Orbán served his first term as Prime Minister of Hungary from 1998 to 2002.
1998: End of Term as Chairman of the Committee on European Integration Affairs
Viktor Orbán's term as the chairman of the Committee on European Integration Affairs ended.
March 1999: Hungary Joins NATO
Hungary, alongside the Czech Republic and Poland, became a member of NATO in March 1999, despite objections from Russia. This membership led to Hungary's involvement in the Kosovo crisis, requiring military modernization and impacting its economy due to the trade embargo on Yugoslavia.
1999: Slowdown in EU Accession Negotiations
Despite initial progress, negotiations for Hungary's entry into the European Union slowed down in the fall of 1999 after the EU decided to include six more countries in the accession talks. Orbán expressed his dissatisfaction over this delay.
1999: Hungary Passes "Status Law" for Ethnic Hungarians in Neighboring Countries
In 1999, Hungary, under Orbán's leadership, garnered significant international attention by passing the "status law." This legislation aimed to provide support and rights, including education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, to ethnic Hungarians residing in neighboring nations. It was seen as a measure to address perceived injustices stemming from the 1920 Treaty of Trianon.
November 2000: Fidesz Leaves Liberal International, Joins European People's Party
Fidesz, under Orbán's leadership, left the Liberal International and joined the European People's Party (EPP) in November 2000, reflecting the party's shift in ideological affiliation.
2000: Orbán's Comments on Life Outside the EU Spark Controversy
In 2000, opposition parties and media outlets criticized Orbán's remark suggesting there was "life outside the EU," interpreting it as evidence of his Eurosceptic views and right-wing leanings.
September 2001: Opinion Polls and Party Support
In September 2001, opinion polls showed Fidesz and the Hungarian Socialist Party (MSZP) with similar levels of support. A Gallup poll indicated that a joint Fidesz-Hungarian Democratic Forum party list could garner 33% of the vote, while the Socialists were at 28%.
December 2001: Agreement on "Status Law" With Romania
In December 2001, an agreement was reached between Viktor Orbán and Romanian Prime Minister Adrian Năstase concerning the controversial "status law." Romania, which initially viewed the law as interference in its domestic affairs, softened its stance after amendments were made.
2001: FKGP Support Plummets, Undecided Voters Remain High
By 2001, support for the FKGP had plummeted to 1%, while a considerable portion of the electorate (40%) remained undecided. The radical nationalist Hungarian Justice and Life Party (MIÉP), led by István Csurka, emerged as a potential factor in the 2002 elections.
2001: Orbán Receives Multiple Awards and Recognition
Viktor Orbán received several awards in 2001, including the Freedom Award from the American Enterprise Institute and the New Atlantic Initiative, the Polak Award, and the Grand Cross of the National Order of Merit.
2001: End of Orbán's First Term as Prime Minister
Viktor Orbán's first term as Prime Minister of Hungary ended.
2001: Political Scandals and Coalition Breakdown
Viktor Orbán's government faced more scandals and controversies in 2001. The International Federation of Journalists criticized the Hungarian government for its influence over the media. Internally, the governing coalition experienced a de facto breakdown, particularly after a bribery scandal involving the Independent Smallholders' Party led to numerous allegations and prosecutions.
October 2002: Elected Vice-President of the European People's Party
Viktor Orbán was elected as vice-president of the European People's Party (EPP) at their congress in Estoril in October 2002, a position he held until 2012.
2002: Fidesz Loses 2002 Parliamentary Elections
In the 2002 parliamentary elections, considered the most heated in Hungary in over a decade, Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party lost to the Hungarian Socialist Party, which formed a coalition government with the Alliance of Free Democrats. The election saw a record-high voter turnout of 70.5%.
2002: Orbán Becomes Leader of the Opposition
Viktor Orbán became the Leader of the Opposition in 2002.
2002: End of Orbán's First Term
Viktor Orbán's first term as Prime Minister of Hungary ended in 2002.
2002: Orbán Receives "Förderpreis Soziale Marktwirtschaft" Prize
In 2002, Viktor Orbán was honored with the "Förderpreis Soziale Marktwirtschaft" (Price for the Social Market Economy).
2002: Upcoming General Elections
In 2002, Hungary prepared for general elections with Fidesz and the MSZP as the main contenders. Public support for political parties remained relatively unchanged throughout the year.
2002: Approaching 2002 Elections and Potential Coalition Scenarios
As the 2002 elections approached, the possibility of a coalition government, potentially involving Fidesz and MIÉP, was a topic of discussion. The opposition, led by the Socialists, struggled to significantly increase their political support.
2002: Slovakia Accepts Amended "Status Law"
After the 2002 elections in Hungary, the new government made further concessions to the "status law." Slovakia subsequently accepted the amended law.
2003: Orbán Clarifies Stance on EU Integration
Amidst criticism, Orbán clarified that while joining the EU by 2003 wasn't strictly necessary, his government remained committed to European integration for economic benefits.
2003: Orbán Receives Economic Advice from Netanyahu
During Netanyahu's tenure as Finance Minister of Israel from 2003 to 2005, Orbán received personal advice from him regarding economic reforms, marking an early point in their long-standing relationship.
April 2004: Orbán Receives Papal Grand Cross
In April 2004, Viktor Orbán was awarded the Papal Grand Cross of the Order of St. Gregory the Great.
2004: Fidesz Wins 2004 European Parliament Election
The 2004 European Parliament election saw a significant victory for the opposition conservative Fidesz party, which secured 47.4% of the vote and 12 out of Hungary's 24 seats, defeating the ruling Hungarian Socialist Party.
2005: Orbán Receives Economic Advice from Netanyahu
During Netanyahu's tenure as Finance Minister of Israel from 2003 to 2005, Orbán received personal advice from him regarding economic reforms, marking an early point in their long-standing relationship.
May 2006: Gyurcsány's Controversial Speech
In May 2006, during a closed-door Hungarian Socialist Party meeting, Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsány delivered a speech containing strong language and controversial remarks.
September 2006: Leaked Speech Sparks Protests
The public release of an audio recording in September 2006, capturing Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsány's controversial speech from May 2006, ignited widespread protests across Hungary.
October 2006: Fidesz Wins Municipal Elections
Fidesz secured a significant victory in the October 2006 municipal elections, winning 15 out of 23 mayoralties in Hungary's major cities and gaining control of 18 out of 20 regional assemblies. This win helped counterbalance the power of the ruling MSZP-led government.
October 2006: Fidesz Initiates Referendum Process
Fidesz, led by Viktor Orbán, announced their intention to launch a referendum against the ruling MSZP's reforms in October 2006, marking the beginning of a process that culminated in the March 2008 referendum.
2006: Orbán and Fidesz Fail to Secure Majority in Parliamentary Election
In the 2006 parliamentary election, Viktor Orbán, as the Fidesz candidate, was unsuccessful in securing a majority, raising questions about his future as party leader.
May 2007: Orbán Re-elected as Fidesz President
Despite Fidesz's loss in the 2006 parliamentary election, Viktor Orbán's position within the party remained strong. Following a period of challenging the Socialist-Liberal coalition, Orbán secured another term as president of Fidesz in May 2007.
December 2007: Referendum Questions Approved
Three questions proposed by Fidesz for the upcoming referendum, concerning healthcare and education fees, were officially approved in December 2007, paving the way for the referendum to be held in March 2008.
2007: Western Financial Crisis
The Western world experienced a major financial crisis in 2007, later extending into 2008.
2007: Planned Demonstrations Lose Momentum
The demonstrations organized by Orbán and Fidesz, initially intended to be large-scale events, saw a decline in participation by the end of the year. Anticipated demonstrations in the spring of 2007 did not materialize.
January 2008: Referendum Officially Called
The national referendum, focusing on key government reforms, was officially called in January 2008, setting the stage for a public vote on the controversial measures in March of that year.
March 2008: Referendum on Government Reforms Passes
A national referendum held in March 2008, initiated by Fidesz, resulted in the overturning of government reforms related to healthcare and higher education fees. The referendum, which focused on abolishing copayments, daily hospital fees, and college tuition fees, marked a significant political victory for Fidesz.
2008: Western Financial Crisis
The Western world experienced a major financial crisis that began in 2007 and extended into 2008.
2009: Fidesz Achieves Decisive Victory in European Parliament Election
Fidesz, under Viktor Orbán's leadership, secured a landslide victory in the 2009 European Parliament election, capturing 56.36% of the vote and winning 14 out of Hungary's 22 seats.
2009: Projected Date for Hungary to Join the Eurozone
Hungary had aspirations to join the Eurozone by 2009; however, this goal was not realized.
2009: Creation of FIFA Puskás Award
In 2009, during a visit by FIFA President Sepp Blatter to the Puskás Academy, the creation of the FIFA Puskás Award was announced. The award, named after Hungarian football legend Ferenc Puskás, recognizes the most beautiful goal scored each year.
2010: Orbán's Initiatives Restricting LGBT+ Rights
Since his election in 2010, Viktor Orbán has introduced initiatives and legislation that curtail the human rights of LGBT+ individuals, citing incompatibility with Christian values.
2010: Decline in Fidesz's Share of the Vote
While Fidesz maintained its parliamentary majority in the 2014 election, their share of the national vote decreased compared to the 2010 election, indicating a potential shift in public support.
2010: Fidesz Wins Parliamentary Elections with Supermajority
Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party won the 2010 parliamentary elections with 52.7% of the popular vote, granting them a two-thirds supermajority in parliament. This victory empowered Fidesz to amend the constitution.
2010: Orbán's Second Term as Prime Minister
Viktor Orbán was elected Prime Minister of Hungary for a second time in 2010.
2010: Increase in Catholic Schools
The proportion of Catholic schools in Hungary rose from 9.4% to 18% between 2010 and 2018.
2010: Implementation of "Orbánomics"
Orbán's economic policies, dubbed "Orbánomics," were implemented, leading to significant economic changes.
2010: Orbán's Impact on Democracy and Freedom
Since Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party came to power in 2010, there have been concerns about democratic backsliding in Hungary. Critics argue that Orbán's policies have led to a decline in press freedom, judicial independence, and the strength of multi-party democracy.
2010: Orbán's Return as Prime Minister
In 2010, Viktor Orbán was re-elected as Prime Minister of Hungary.
2010: Decline in Press Freedom, Democracy, and Corruption Indices
Hungary's rankings in the Press Freedom Index, Democracy Index, and Corruption Perceptions Index declined significantly between 2010 and 2020.
2010: Decline in Abortion Rates
Between 2010 and 2021, Hungary saw a nearly 50% decrease in the number of abortions performed, from 34 to 23.7 per hundred live births.
2010: Doubling Family Spending
Between 2010 and 2019, the Hungarian government doubled its expenditure on family-related programs, aiming to reverse demographic trends.
2011: New Constitution Drafted and Passed
In 2011, Orbán's government drafted a new Hungarian constitution, which was debated for a short period in parliament and subsequently passed, largely along party lines. The new constitution included significant changes, such as a controversial electoral reform, and was seen as a move towards a more centralized and conservative system.
2011: Constitutional Changes Spark Controversy and Criticism
In 2011, constitutional changes implemented under Orbán's leadership triggered significant international controversy. Critics accused these changes of concentrating power, undermining civil liberties, suppressing free speech, and weakening the judiciary, including the Constitutional Court. These actions led to Orbán being labeled with various terms by his detractors, including "irredentist," "right-wing populist," "authoritarian," "far-right," "fascist," "autocratic," "Putinist," "strongman," and "dictator."
2011: New Hungarian Constitution Criticized for Anti-LGBT+ Discrimination
The 2011 Hungarian Constitution, drafted with significant contributions from József Szájer, a Fidesz MEP later involved in a controversy, faced criticism from Human Rights Watch for its discriminatory stance towards the LGBT+ community.
January 2012: New Hungarian Constitution Takes Effect
On January 1, 2012, the new Hungarian constitution, drafted and passed by Orbán's government, came into effect, replacing the 1949 constitution.
2012: Orbán Government Implements Flat Tax and Policy Changes
In 2012, Viktor Orbán's government introduced a flat income tax rate of 16% and implemented various policy changes, including restrictions on early retirement for police and military personnel, increased transparency in welfare programs, and a new central banking law. Orbán characterized his government's approach as "pragmatic."
2012: Exclusion of Western Contractors in Paks II Deal
Western companies, including Westinghouse and Areva, were initially considered for the Paks II nuclear power plant project but were eventually excluded from the competition by Orbán's government, which opted for a direct agreement with Russia's Rosatom.
2012: End of Term as Vice-President of the European People's Party
Viktor Orbán's term as the vice-president of the European People's Party ended.
2013: Repayment of IMF Loan
Hungary successfully repaid its International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan ahead of schedule in 2013.
2013: Establishment of the Center for Fundamental Rights
The Hungarian government founded the Center for Fundamental Rights in 2013, aiming to uphold national identity, sovereignty, and Christian social values.
2013: Constitutional Amendments
Viktor Orbán's second premiership, beginning in 2010, was marked by significant constitutional and legislative reforms. These included controversial amendments to the Constitution of Hungary in 2013, which sparked debates and discussions both domestically and internationally.
2013: Danube Institute Established to Support Orbán's Ideas
In 2013, the Danube Institute, a think tank, was founded with funding from the Batthyány Foundation, which itself receives support from the Hungarian government. The institute aims to promote and disseminate Orbán's political ideologies and policies on an international stage.
January 2014: Orbán Signs Paks II Nuclear Power Plant Agreement with Russia
Viktor Orbán traveled to Moscow in January 2014 to sign an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the construction of the Paks II nuclear power plant. The deal, which involved the Russian state-owned Rosatom and financing from Russia, sparked controversy due to the lack of a transparent bidding process.
April 2014: Fidesz Secures Victory in Parliamentary Election with Reduced Majority
Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party won the April 2014 parliamentary elections, securing 133 out of 199 seats. However, their share of the national vote decreased to 44.5%, down from 52.7% in the previous election.
July 2014: Speech at Bálványos Free Summer University
In July 2014, Viktor Orbán delivered a speech at the Bálványos Free Summer University and Student Camp in Romania, where he outlined his vision for an "illiberal democracy" in Hungary and framed the 2007–2008 financial crisis as a turning point in global affairs.
November 2014: Protests Against Proposed "Internet Tax"
In November 2014, widespread protests erupted in Budapest, Hungary, in response to Viktor Orbán's government's proposition of an "internet tax." This period also saw growing criticism of Orbán, particularly regarding concerns about corruption.
December 2014: Orbán Questions Nord Stream II Pipeline
In December 2014, Viktor Orbán expressed concerns over the Nord Stream II gas pipeline project between Russia and Germany. He questioned the rationale behind supporting Nord Stream II after the cancellation of the South Stream pipeline and called for a clear explanation.
2014: Gáspár Orbán's Religious Conversion
In 2014, Gáspár Orbán, son of Viktor Orbán, converted to the Faith Church, a Pentecostal denomination. He became a minister and has shared experiences of hearing from God and witnessing miraculous healings.
2014: Orbán's Re-election
Viktor Orbán was re-elected in 2014.
2014: Orbán's "Tusnádfürdő Speech" Outlines "Illiberal" State Vision
In his notable 2014 speech in Băile Tușnad, Romania (known as the "Tusnádfürdő speech"), Viktor Orbán articulated his political ideology, advocating for an "illiberal" state model. He rejected the classical liberal notion of the state as a collection of individuals, instead emphasizing the state's role in shaping and strengthening the national community. While acknowledging individual rights, he prioritized the community as the core political unit. Orbán argued that such a state should focus on national self-sufficiency, sovereignty, family values, full employment, and cultural preservation.
2014: Hungary Obtains Observer Status at Turkic Council
In 2014, Hungary, under the leadership of Viktor Orbán, was granted observer status at the General Assembly of Turkic-speaking States, signifying a step towards closer ties with the Turkic world.
2014: Gáspár Orbán's Football Career
In 2014, Viktor Orbán's son, Gáspár, played football for Ferenc Puskás Football Academy.
2015: European Migrant Crisis and Hungary's Response
During the 2015 European migrant crisis, Viktor Orbán's government took decisive action by ordering the construction of a barrier along the Hungary-Serbia border. The stated purpose of this barrier was to stem the flow of illegal immigration and ensure that Hungary could fulfill its obligation under the Dublin Regulation to register all migrants entering from Serbia.
2015: George Soros Criticizes Orbán's Approach to Migrant Crisis
During the 2015 European migrant crisis, philanthropist and political activist George Soros condemned Orbán's handling of the situation, arguing that Orbán prioritized national borders over the protection of refugees.
2015: Hungary Joins China's Belt and Road Initiative
In 2015, Hungary, under the leadership of Viktor Orbán, joined China's Belt and Road Initiative, strengthening ties between the two nations.
2015: Orbán Accused of Exploiting Migrant Crisis
In 2015, Orbán faced accusations of exploiting the migrant crisis for political gain. Critics alleged mistreatment of migrants in Hungary, followed by their transportation to Western Europe to fuel far-right sentiments. Orbán's actions, including erecting fences along Hungarian borders and rejecting the EU's asylum quota, drew condemnation.
2015: Orbán Criticizes EU Immigration Policy
In 2015, Viktor Orbán publicly criticized the European Union's immigration policies, characterizing them as "madness" in an article published in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. He argued that the EU's approach was responsible for the ongoing migrant crisis and called for the establishment of an official EU list of "safe countries" where migrants could be returned.
2015: Criticism of Orbán's Government and Policies
In 2015, prominent figures and academics criticized Viktor Orbán's government, alleging a shift towards illiberalism, systematic dismantling of democratic institutions, and undemocratic election practices.
2015: Parliamentary Vote on Migration Measures
In September 2015, the Hungarian Parliament held a vote on several measures related to migration. All proposed measures, with the exception of one concerning the surveillance of the archipelago (which was left under the purview of the Greek military), were successfully passed by the Parliament.
2015: Orbán's Migration Stance Gains Traction
The New York Times reported in 2015 that Orbán's stance on migration was gradually gaining acceptance in European politics, highlighting an interview where György Konrád, a critic of Orbán, acknowledged the validity of Orbán's approach to the migrant crisis compared to Angela Merkel's.
2015: Abolition of Progressive Income Tax
Hungary abolished progressive income taxation in 2015, replacing it with a flat rate of 16% on gross income.
2016: Orbán's Political System Labeled as Kleptocracy
A 2016 opinion piece in The New York Times characterized Viktor Orbán's political system as a kleptocracy, alleging the funneling of national wealth into the hands of Orbán and his close associates.
July 2017: Billboard Campaign Sparks Controversy
In July 2017, a billboard campaign backed by the Orbán government targeting George Soros and his support for open immigration drew criticism from Israeli ambassador and Jewish groups, evoking comparisons to Nazi-era propaganda. While Orbán's critics condemned the campaign, Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement criticizing Soros's actions against Israel.
2017: Hungary Applies for Accession to International Turkic Academy
Hungary, under Viktor Orbán's leadership, submitted an application to join the International Turkic Academy in 2017, further emphasizing the country's interest in strengthening ties with the Turkic world.
2017: Hungary-Ukraine Relations Deteriorate Over Language Law
Starting in 2017, relations between Hungary and Ukraine deteriorated due to a Ukrainian law mandating Ukrainian as the only language of instruction in state schools. Orbán and his administration criticized the law and threatened to impede Ukraine's EU and NATO integration efforts unless the law was changed.
2017: Comparison of Hungarian Elite to Russian Oligarchs
A 2017 Financial Times article drew parallels between the Hungarian elite under Orbán's rule and Russian oligarchs, noting that the former primarily benefited from EU subsidies, unlike their Russian counterparts. The article highlighted the significant increase in the wealth of Lőrinc Mészáros, a close friend of Orbán, attributed to favorable state contracts.
April 2018: Fidesz-KDNP Victory in Parliamentary Election
The Fidesz–KDNP alliance, led by Viktor Orbán, secured a victory in the April 2018 Hungarian parliamentary election, maintaining its two-thirds majority. This victory, with Orbán remaining as prime minister, was widely interpreted as a testament to the rising influence of right-wing populism in Europe, particularly given that the campaign had centered on issues like immigration and alleged foreign interference.
October 2018: Orbán and Erdoğan Discuss Migration
In October 2018, Viktor Orbán met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Budapest to discuss migration. Orbán stated that a stable Turkey was crucial for preventing Hungary from facing risks associated with overland migration.
2018: Hungary Gains Observer Status in Turkic Council
Hungary's efforts to foster closer relations with the Turkic world culminated in obtaining observer status within the Turkic Council in 2018.
2018: Orbán's Speech on Diversity
In 2018, during his speech at the meeting of the Association of Cities with County Rights, Viktor Orbán expressed his views against diversity, stating that Hungary does not aspire to be a multicultural society. He emphasized a desire to preserve the nation's existing cultural and ethnic makeup.
2018: Orbán Promotes Great Replacement Theory
In a 2018 speech, Viktor Orbán articulated views aligning with the Great Replacement conspiracy theory. He suggested that certain groups aim to dismantle Christian Europe by deliberately replacing its cultural foundation through mass migration of non-Christian ethnic groups. This statement sparked further debate and heightened concerns about Orbán's stance on immigration and cultural change.
2018: Increase in Catholic Schools
The proportion of Catholic schools in Hungary rose from 9.4% to 18% between 2010 and 2018.
2018: Orbán's Re-election
Viktor Orbán was re-elected in 2018.
January 2019: Orbán Praises Bolsonaro's Brazil as Model of "Modern Christian Democracy"
In January 2019, Viktor Orbán praised the then-president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, and his administration. He asserted that Brazil, rather than Europe, represented the most accurate embodiment of "modern Christian democracy" at that time.
February 2019: Netanyahu Thanks Orbán for Support on Jerusalem Embassy
In February 2019, Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Viktor Orbán for Hungary's decision to extend its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, a move reflecting the close relationship between the two leaders.
March 2019: Fidesz Suspended from European People's Party
Fidesz was suspended from the European People's Party in March 2019.
April 2019: Orbán Attends Belt and Road Initiative Forum
In April 2019, Viktor Orbán attended the Belt and Road Initiative forum in Beijing, where he met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
June 2019: Orbán Meets with Aung San Suu Kyi
In June 2019, Viktor Orbán met with Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi to discuss bilateral relations and the issue of illegal migration.
2019: Investigation Reveals Favoritism in Farm Land Leases
In 2019, a New York Times investigation exposed how Orbán's government granted leases for farm land to politically connected individuals and Fidesz supporters, enabling them to receive a disproportionate share of EU agricultural subsidies intended for Hungary.
2019: Government Control of Hungarian Academy of Sciences
In 2019, legislation was enacted granting the Hungarian government control over the Hungarian Academy of Sciences.
2019: Orbán's Stance on Immigration and Pro-Natalist Policies
In 2019, Orbán voiced his opposition to immigration as a solution for declining birth rates, advocating for pro-family policies and Hungarian children instead.
2019: Freedom House Downgrade to "Partly Free"
Freedom House reclassified Hungary from "free" to "partly free" in 2019, reflecting a decline in democratic freedoms.
2019: Increase in Foreign Worker Immigration
Despite Viktor Orbán's government's strong stance against immigration, Hungary witnessed an increase in the influx of foreign workers starting in 2019. This policy shift was primarily driven by the need to address labor shortages within the country.
2019: Doubling Family Spending
Between 2010 and 2019, the Hungarian government doubled its expenditure on family-related programs, aiming to reverse demographic trends.
February 2020: Interview at National Conservatism Conference
In February 2020, Viktor Orbán participated in an interview conducted by Christopher DeMuth at the National Conservatism Conference held in Rome.
March 2020: Passage of Emergency Legislation
The Hungarian parliament, on March 30, 2020, passed legislation granting Prime Minister Viktor Orbán sweeping powers to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation, passed with 137 votes in favor and 53 against, enabled a state of emergency with no set time limit, empowering Orbán to rule by decree.
May 2020: European Court of Justice Ruling on Migrant Transit Zones
The European Court of Justice ruled against Hungary's use of migrant transit zones in May 2020. In response to the ruling, Orbán abolished the zones but simultaneously introduced stricter asylum regulations within the country.
June 2020: End of State of Emergency and New Emergency Powers
In June 2020, the Hungarian Parliament made two significant decisions. They voted to end the state of emergency that had been in place since March 2020. However, on the same day, they also passed a new law that granted the government the authority to declare future "medical" states of emergencies by decree, bypassing the need for parliamentary approval.
July 2020: Orbán on Rule-of-Law Debate
In July 2020, Viktor Orbán acknowledged that disagreements regarding the connection between European Union funding and adherence to rule-of-law principles were ongoing. Despite this, he expressed a sense of victory in a state radio interview, stating that while they may not have won the entire conflict, they had prevailed in a significant battle.
August 2020: Speech at Treaty of Trianon Commemoration
During an event commemorating the Treaty of Trianon in August 2020, Viktor Orbán delivered a speech advocating for Central European nations to unite in defense of their shared Christian heritage. He contrasted this stance with what he perceived as Western Europe's experimentation with concepts like same-sex families, immigration, and atheism.
November 2020: Longest-Serving Prime Minister
Viktor Orbán became Hungary's longest-serving prime minister in November 2020.
2020: Decline in Press Freedom, Democracy, and Corruption Indices
Hungary's rankings in the Press Freedom Index, Democracy Index, and Corruption Perceptions Index declined significantly between 2010 and 2020.
2020: Danube Institute Starts Hosting Fellows
In 2020, the Danube Institute, established to support Orbán's political views, expanded its operations by starting a fellowship program to further promote its agenda and foster a network of like-minded individuals.
2020: Hungary Ends Legal Recognition of Transgender People
In 2020, Orbán's government abolished the legal recognition of transgender people, sparking criticism both domestically and internationally.
March 2021: Fidesz Leaves European People's Party
Fidesz left the European People's Party in March 2021.
August 2021: Appearance on Tucker Carlson Tonight
In August 2021, Tucker Carlson broadcasted his show from Budapest and interviewed Viktor Orbán, praising him as a conservative leader.
October 2021: Orbán Blames Green Deal for Energy Price Surge
In October 2021, Viktor Orbán attributed the record-high surge in energy prices to the European Commission's Green Deal initiatives. He argued that the policies were contributing to the rising costs of energy.
2021: Inspiration for Florida's "Don’t Say Gay" Law
A 2021 Hungarian law regulating sex education in schools inspired a similar law in Florida, dubbed the "Don’t Say Gay" law.
2021: Economic Growth and Unemployment Reduction
Between 2010 and 2021, Hungary experienced robust economic expansion and a substantial decrease in unemployment.
2021: Decline in Abortion Rates
Between 2010 and 2021, Hungary saw a nearly 50% decrease in the number of abortions performed, from 34 to 23.7 per hundred live births.
2021: Low Ranking in V-Dem Democracy Index
In 2021, Hungary ranked 96th in the V-Dem Democracy Index, a measure of electoral democracy and media freedom.
2021: Proposed Legislation to Censor LGBT+ Content
In 2021, Orbán's party put forward legislation to censor content deemed "LGBT+ positive" in various media and to restrict sex education in schools, drawing comparisons to Russia's "homosexual propaganda" law and facing strong criticism from EU leaders.
2021: Orbán Emphasizes Shared Heritage with Turkic Peoples
In 2021, Viktor Orbán highlighted the historical and cultural connections between Hungary and the Turkic peoples, emphasizing a shared heritage spanning centuries. He expressed pride in this heritage, even referencing historical depictions of Hungarians as "barbarian Huns and Attila's people."
2021: Controversial Remarks About Bosnia
In 2021, Viktor Orbán made remarks that sparked international controversy, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina. During a speech, he questioned how to integrate a country with "2 million Muslims," referencing Bosnia. These statements were widely condemned by Bosnian leaders, with some calling for the cancellation of Orbán's planned visit to Sarajevo.
2021: Orbán Visits Putin in Moscow
In 2021, amidst rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Viktor Orbán became the first EU leader to meet with Vladimir Putin in Moscow, characterizing the visit as a "peacekeeping mission." Discussions included Russian gas exports to Hungary.
2021: Transfer of Control of State Universities
In 2021, the Hungarian Parliament passed a law that shifted control of eleven state universities to foundations with leaders aligned with Viktor Orbán's government. This move sparked considerable controversy, with critics raising concerns about academic freedom and potential political influence over higher education.
2021: Privatization of Hungarian Universities
In 2021, the Hungarian government passed legislation to privatize 11 universities, endowing them with substantial assets and appointing conservative figures to their oversight boards.
January 2022: Endorsement from Donald Trump
In January 2022, Donald Trump endorsed Viktor Orbán for the 2022 Hungarian parliamentary election, praising his stance on immigration and safety.
March 2022: Orbán Condemns Invasion, Welcomes Refugees, Opposes Energy Sanctions
In March 2022, after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Viktor Orbán condemned the invasion and expressed Hungary's willingness to accept Ukrainian refugees. He also indicated support for Ukraine's EU membership. However, citing Hungary's dependence on Russian fossil fuels, he opposed EU sanctions on Russian energy.
April 2022: Orbán's Fidesz Party Wins Election Amidst Controversies
In April 2022, Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party secured victory with 54% of the vote, but the election was marred by accusations of gerrymandering, media control, and the weakening of democratic institutions.
April 2022: Fidesz Wins Parliamentary Election
Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party secured another victory in the April 2022 Hungarian parliamentary election, winning 135 out of the 199 seats. This triumph, despite concerns stemming from Orbán's close ties with Russia, solidified Fidesz's dominance in Hungarian politics. Notably, the election was closely monitored by a full-scale mission from the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
May 2022: Conservative Political Action Conference in Budapest
In May 2022, Budapest hosted a satellite event for the Conservative Political Action Conference, a prominent American conservative gathering.
May 2022: Orbán Promotes Great Replacement Theory
In a speech delivered in May 2022, Viktor Orbán openly promoted the "Great Replacement" conspiracy theory, a far-right ideology that alleges a deliberate plan to replace white European populations with non-white immigrants.
July 2022: Orbán's Remarks on Race and Culture
In July 2022, during a speech in Romania, Viktor Orbán made controversial statements against the mixing of European and non-European races, echoing the rhetoric of French far-right figure Jean Raspail. He declared that Hungarians were not a mixed race and expressed a desire to maintain this status. Orbán later clarified his comments in Vienna, asserting that his focus was on cultural preservation rather than race.
July 2022: Controversial Speech on Migration and Race
In July 2022, Orbán's speech at the Bálványos Free Summer University and Student Camp ignited controversy. He spoke against the mixing of European and non-European peoples, drawing criticism for promoting racial purity ideas. While condemned by some as reminiscent of Nazi rhetoric, Orbán later clarified that he was referring to cultural, not racial, mixing.
July 2022: Orbán's Speech on Race and Culture
In July 2022, Viktor Orbán sparked controversy with a speech where he criticized the mixing of European and non-European races. While he later clarified that he was referring to cultural mixing rather than genetics, his initial comments drew significant criticism and accusations of racism.
August 2022: Keynote Speaker at CPAC in Dallas
Viktor Orbán delivered the opening speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Dallas, Texas, in August 2022.
November 2022: Opening of Mathias Corvinus Collegium's Brussels Branch
The Mathias Corvinus Collegium, a conservative think tank supported by Orbán's government, inaugurated its Brussels branch in November 2022.
2022: Orbán's Re-election
Viktor Orbán was re-elected in 2022.
2022: European Parliament Declaration of Hungary as "Electoral Autocracy"
The European Parliament declared in 2022 that Hungary could no longer be regarded as a full democracy, characterizing it as an "electoral autocracy."
2022: Referendum on LGBTQ Issues in Education Fails
In 2022, coinciding with parliamentary elections, Orbán initiated a referendum on LGBTQ issues in education, which ultimately failed. The referendum, prompted by EU concerns over anti-LGBTQ laws, drew condemnation from human rights groups for promoting discrimination.
2022: Orbán's Comments on "Non-Europeans" Spark Condemnation
In 2022, the International Auschwitz Committee condemned Orbán for his remarks criticizing the mixing of "European and non-European peoples." They characterized his words as containing "racist undertones" and called for the EU to distance itself from him. While some accuse him of antisemitism, others point to his establishment of Holocaust memorials as contradictory evidence.
February 2023: Orbán Meets with Wang Yi, Backs Chinese Peace Plan
On February 20, 2023, Orbán met with Chinese Communist Party Politburo member Wang Yi in Budapest, expressing support for China's peace plan regarding the Russo-Ukrainian conflict.
February 2023: Orbán Supports Chinese Peace Plan for Ukraine Conflict
On February 27, 2023, Viktor Orbán voiced support for the Chinese peace plan aimed at resolving the Russo-Ukrainian conflict. Despite opposition from Western leaders, Orbán believes Beijing's 12-point proposal, which criticizes unilateral sanctions, could mitigate strategic risks, particularly concerning nuclear weapons, in Central and Eastern Europe.
July 22, 2023: Orbán Condemns EU's "LGBTQ Offensive"
During a speech in Romania on July 22, 2023, Orbán accused the European Union of waging an "LGBTQ offensive".
December 2023: Ukraine Amends Language Law
In December 2023, Ukraine amended its education law to allow for the use of official European Union languages, including Hungarian, in state schools. This followed criticism from Orbán and his government, who had opposed the previous version of the law, which made Ukrainian the sole language of education.
2023: Orbán Visits Kazakhstan, Highlights "Millennial Common Roots"
During his 2023 visit to Kazakhstan, Viktor Orbán stressed the "millennial common roots" uniting Hungarians and Kazakhs, underscoring the historical and cultural bonds between the two nations.
2023: Hungarian Government Supports Israel in Conflict with Hamas
During the 2023 Israel-Hamas war, the Hungarian government, led by Viktor Orbán, expressed strong support for Israel. Orbán affirmed Israel's right to self-defense and declared that Hungary would not tolerate rallies expressing sympathy for terrorist organizations. Furthermore, the ruling Fidesz party announced plans to introduce a parliamentary manifesto condemning Hamas's actions.
2023: Government-Subsidized Utility Bill Cap
In response to economic challenges, including the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, Orbán's government maintained a subsidized cap on utility bills, extending it into 2023.
2023: Orbán Attends Erdoğan's Inauguration
Viktor Orbán attended the inauguration ceremony of re-elected Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara in 2023.
July 2024: Zelensky Halts Petroleum Product Transfer to Hungary
In July 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made the decision to halt the overland pipeline transfer of petroleum products from Russia to Hungary. Viktor Orbán and his government vehemently protested this action. While Croatia offered the Adria pipeline as an alternative for Hungary, Orbán declined the offer, with his foreign minister deeming the pipeline unreliable.
2030: Target for Demographic Change
The Hungarian government, under Orbán, aims to achieve a significant shift in demographic patterns by 2030.