Investigative Report Reveals Viktor Orbán’s Propaganda Network and Hungary’s Billion-Dollar Opinion Influencers
In a recent documentary, political analyst Roland Freudenstein issued a stark warning about the future of liberal democracy, stating, „Our liberal democracies, our open societies are seriously threatened, and maybe there will be no liberal democracy left on this planet in 20, 25 years.“ This chilling prediction comes as right-wing populists across Europe are gaining momentum, shaping societal debates, and forming alliances that transcend national borders.
Utilizing strategies and PR methods from China and Russia, these political factions have capitalized on various crises, including the Russian war against Ukraine, to spread their messages through social media. Viktor Orbán’s Hungarian government has constructed a multi-billion-dollar network of companies, foundations, and educational institutions to promote autocratic and far-right ideologies throughout Europe. Hungary has funded right-wing populist conferences in Italy, collaborated with neo-fascists, and established think tanks in Brussels. In a bold move, they even purchased a university in Austria.
But where does the funding for this network come from? How do individual national actors operate, and what role do energy markets play in this complex web of influence just days before the European elections?
As the European political landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial to delve deeper into the mechanisms behind these power plays and their potential impact on the future of democracy in the region. Stay informed and stay vigilant as we navigate through these turbulent times.