Here’s what PM Viktor Orbán said during his state-of-the-nation address

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán delivered a combative annual state-of-the-nation address on Saturday at Budapest’s Várkert Bazár, focusing heavily on political opponents and the approaching parliamentary election rather than offering a traditional year-end policy review.

With less than two months until the vote, the speech was widely seen as a campaign message aimed at energising supporters of the ruling Fidesz.

Campaign tone dominates annual address

Although Orbán repeatedly expressed confidence that his party would secure victory, he devoted significant attention to the opposition. Without mentioning his main challenger by name, he accused rival political forces of operating under the influence of Brussels, multinational corporations and global financial interests.

According to Telex, the event itself was held behind closed doors and was attended largely by government figures, pro-government public personalities and invited guests. Independent media outlets were not permitted entry.

Opening his speech, the prime minister acknowledged that the upcoming 2026 election dominates public discussion, but insisted it was first necessary to assess the past year. He then returned to familiar themes, criticising Western policies related to the war in Ukraine and arguing that Hungary had resisted international pressure to become more directly involved.

He contrasted the current global situation with the leadership change in the United States, claiming that former president Joe Biden had pushed Europe toward conflict, while successor Donald Trump had shifted American priorities away from war.

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Sharp criticism of Brussels

Orbán’s address included strong criticism of the European Union, which he described as a growing threat to Hungarian sovereignty. He argued that Europe risks economic decline due to high energy costs and excessive regulation, saying the continent could become a “loser” in global economic transformation.

The prime minister stressed Hungary’s energy agreements with international partners, saying these ensure continued access to affordable oil and gas supplies. According to Orbán, this provides the foundation for economic growth and technological development. He also repeated earlier claims that foreign-funded civil organisations, media outlets and political actors are attempting to influence domestic politics, adding that such issues would be addressed after the election.

Economic record and promises

While acknowledging that challenges remain, Orbán portrayed Hungary’s economic situation in positive terms. He pointed to investment levels, job creation and inflation control as major achievements.

The prime minister also outlined a series of pledges, including creating 300,000 additional jobs, raising the average wage to one million forints, expanding tax exemptions for mothers and introducing favourable housing loans for young people. He described his government as one that “delivers proof rather than promises”, emphasising social benefits such as pension bonuses and family support programmes.

Focus on political opponents

A large portion of the speech was devoted to criticism of opposition forces. Orbán claimed they were backed by international economic interests and European political elites. He alleged that global financial players and energy companies stood to benefit if Hungary altered its current policies, particularly regarding energy supplies and taxation.

The prime minister also warned that an opposition victory would lead to the dismantling of government price controls, family subsidies and other social measures. He drew historical parallels with Hungary’s 2002 election, when Fidesz lost power, saying the country had suffered economically in the years that followed. According to Orbán, this experience should serve as a cautionary reminder for voters.

Youth support and campaign outlook

Orbán rejected polling data suggesting declining support among younger voters, insisting that many young Hungarians share his government’s positions on migration, national sovereignty and cultural issues. He characterised his political community as optimistic and united, contrasting it with what he described as anger and resentment among his opponents.

PM Orbán’s closing message is as strong as usual

Concluding his speech, the prime minister framed Fidesz not merely as a political party but as a national mission dedicated to protecting Hungary’s independence. He expressed confidence that the upcoming election would result in another victory for his party, promising continued economic growth and national strength.

Featured image: Facebook/Orbán Viktor