Hungary is set to gauge public opinion on Ukraine's potential membership in the European Union, according to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. This announcement follows Orbán's decision not to endorse a joint EU statement supporting Ukraine, which was backed by 26 other EU leaders during an emergency summit in Brussels. The prime minister emphasized that any decision regarding Ukraine's accession will involve Hungary's approval.
In his remarks to state radio, Orbán expressed concerns that Ukraine's EU membership could impact Hungary's economy, stating, “This process must be stopped in time.” To facilitate public input, the Hungarian government plans to conduct a “national consultation,” a political questionnaire sent to all eligible voters. While the survey aims to represent public sentiment, it has faced scrutiny regarding its design and phrasing.
Orbán asserted that the consultation would allow citizens to express their opinions on Ukraine's EU aspirations, although the results will not be legally binding. He did not specify when the survey would take place. Some observers argue that these consultations may reflect leading questions that could influence the outcomes.
Since taking office in 2010, Orbán's administration has launched numerous national consultations on various issues, from migration to LGBTQ+ rights. These surveys have been characterized by some as potentially biased, with questions crafted in a way that may shape public response. For example, a recent consultation about EU migration policies suggested Hungarians would support the creation of “migrant ghettos,” to which a significant majority of respondents opposed.
Orbán's government maintains that these consultations strengthen Hungary's bargaining power within the EU by demonstrating a national consensus on key issues. However, opposition parties and civil society organizations argue that the process may limit genuine democratic engagement.
As Ukraine seeks EU membership to secure its future against potential Russian aggression, Hungary's stance could significantly impact the broader European response. Orbán has indicated that Hungary may exercise its veto power, which could complicate Ukraine's aspirations to join the EU.