Populism in contemporary politics often rests on a simple division between the “honest people” and the “corrupt elite,” enabling appeals to a broad spectrum of voters while simultaneously undermining the foundations of democratic institutions. Hungary, under the leadership of the Fidesz party and Viktor Orbán, offers an example where such rhetoric has translated into tangible political changes. This thesis examines the causes of the emergence of populism in Hungary, its elements in Orbán’s government, and its impact on migration policy. It finds that historical traumas, particularly the consequences of the Treaty of Trianon and disillusionment with center-left governments, together with the economic crisis, corruption scandals, declining trust in institutions, and the perception of the EU as a constraint on sovereignty, have created fertile ground for populist ideology and ethno-nationalism. Orbán, through identity-based rhetoric and symbolic acts, strengthens his emotional bond with voters and consolidates his role as the sole representative of the “real people.” Non-institutional reforms, such as control over the Constitutional Court, the media, and academic institutions, have strengthened executive power. This is clearly reflected in migration policy, where measures emphasize the protection of national sovereignty and reinforce the populist logic of national unity and state authority.
|
