Viktor Orbán and Walter Rosenkranz: A Populist Alliance in Europe

Orbán's Visit to Vienna Cements Ties with Austrian Far-Right

Viktor Orbán, the controversial Prime Minister of Hungary, recently visited Vienna and met with Walter Rosenkranz, the leader of the far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ). The visit has raised concerns among some observers about the growing alliance between populist and nationalist leaders in Europe.

Orbán and Rosenkranz have both been criticized for their anti-immigrant and anti-EU rhetoric. Orbán has been accused of dismantling democratic institutions in Hungary, while Rosenkranz has been linked to neo-Nazi groups.

A History of Cooperation

The meeting between Orbán and Rosenkranz is the latest in a series of contacts between the two leaders. In 2018, Rosenkranz attended Orbán's annual "Tusványos" summer camp in Transylvania, where Orbán delivered a speech attacking the EU and calling for a "Christian Europe".

In 2019, Orbán and Rosenkranz met in Budapest to discuss the upcoming European Parliament elections. The FPÖ is a member of the Identity and Democracy Group in the European Parliament, which is also home to Orbán's Fidesz party.

Concerns About Populist Alliances

The growing alliance between Orbán and Rosenkranz has raised concerns among some observers. They fear that the alliance could lead to the further erosion of democratic values in Europe.

Orbán has been accused of using his power to suppress dissent and consolidate his own power. He has also been criticized for his close ties to Russia and China.

Rosenkranz has been linked to neo-Nazi groups and has called for a "Greater Austria" that would include parts of neighboring countries.

The Future of Populism in Europe

The alliance between Orbán and Rosenkranz is a sign of the growing strength of populist movements in Europe. These movements are often fueled by anti-immigrant and anti-EU sentiment.

It is unclear how far the alliance between Orbán and Rosenkranz will go. However, it is a reminder of the challenges facing Europe as it grapples with the rise of populism.