Prime Minister Orbán’s Vision for 2025: A Year of Breakthroughs
In his annual assessment speech delivered at Budapest’s Várkert Bazaar, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán outlined his vision for 2025 as a year of breakthroughs and continued struggle against external pressures. Orbán emphasized that Hungary has been in a state of rebellion, not just survival, and now seeks to turn this rebellion into victory. He likened Hungary’s situation to a "besieged fortress" and called for bold and ambitious thinking to break through the "empire’s battlements." The prime minister acknowledged that Hungary is not alone in its rebellion, as the United States has also joined the fight, but he cautioned against relying solely on external allies. He made it clear that Hungary’s success will depend on its own efforts, stating, "They can’t win for us, they can only improve our chances." Orbán also referenced U.S. President Donald Trump as a "comrade-in-arms" rather than a savior, stressing the importance of self-reliance.
Economic Battles and Strategies for 2025
Orbán addressed several key economic challenges, particularly the issue of high inflation, which he deemed unacceptable. He highlighted the sharp rise in prices of essential goods, such as milk and eggs, which have increased by 39% and 35%, respectively. To combat this, the prime minister ordered Finance Minister Márton Nagy to negotiate with supermarket chains to reach an agreement on price controls. If no agreement is reached, the government plans to limit commercial profits. Orbán also announced the "100 new factories" program, aimed at expanding industrial development rather than closing factories. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to economic growth and job creation.
Family-Friendly Tax Cuts and Social Policies
One of the most significant announcements in Orbán’s speech was the introduction of Europe’s largest tax reduction program, tailored to support families. The proposed tax cuts include deductions of 20,000 forints for one child, 80,000 forints for two children, and 200,000 forints for three children. Mothers with two or three children will also be exempt from income tax for life. These measures are part of the government’s broader strategy to encourage family growth and alleviate financial burdens on households. By prioritizing families, Orbán aims to strengthen social cohesion and ensure the country’s long-term demographic sustainability.
Cultural Wars and the Pride Parade Debate
Orbán also addressed the ongoing "culture war," reiterating his government’s stance on traditional values. He proposed amending the Hungarian constitution to explicitly state that a person is either male or female, a move that aligns with his conservative vision of society. In the same vein, the prime minister advised organizers of this year’s Pride parade "not to bother" with preparations, signaling his disapproval of the event. Orbán’s comments reflect his government’s efforts to assert control over cultural narratives and promote a more traditional understanding of gender and family.
Hungary’s Stance on Ukraine and the European Union
The prime minister discussed Hungary’s position on Ukraine, stating that the country will not become a member of the European Union. Orbán argued that Ukraine’s EU membership would harm Hungarian farmers by creating unfair competition, and he vowed to block any such move. He also suggested that Ukraine would once again become a "buffer zone" and would not join NATO. Orbán’s remarks underscore Hungary’s cautious approach to Ukraine’s integration into Western institutions, reflecting concerns about national interests and regional stability.
A Call to Rebellion and Gratitude to the Hungarian People
Orbán concluded his speech by expressing gratitude to the Hungarian people for their resilience and hard work, which he believes have helped the country withstand external pressures. He praised the "rebellious Hungarians" who have defended their homeland against the "empire," a term he uses to describe the European Union and other external forces. Orbán called on Hungarians to continue their efforts, emphasizing that the struggles of 2025 will require determination and unity. He also highlighted the unique opportunity Hungary has to "break out of the besieged fortress" and emerge victorious, urging citizens to think boldly and ambitiously about the future.
In summary, Orbán’s speech painted a picture of a nation in rebellion, fighting on multiple fronts—economic, cultural, and geopolitical. With a focus on family-friendly policies, economic growth, and traditional values, the prime minister outlined his vision for 2025 as a year of breakthroughs. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Orbán expressed confidence in Hungary’s ability to overcome them, provided its citizens remain united and determined.
