Unlike many European Union member states, Hungary has consistently resisted reliance on immigration to address demographic challenges, focusing instead on policies that promote family growth and strengthen Hungarian cultural values.
Prime Minister Orbán contrasted Hungary’s approach with that of countries like Germany and Austria, which address population decline through immigration. He highlighted Europe’s population crisis—marked by more deaths than births and an aging demographic—as a trend set in motion over the last 30 to 40 years. Addressing this, he argued, requires a family-centered culture rather than simply financial incentives.
"Simply handing out money won’t lead to more children," he explained, emphasizing that “the more we respect life, the more children we will have.” He added that establishing deeply rooted family values is essential for demographic sustainability.
On Europe’s economic struggles, PM Orbán expressed serious concern, describing the continent as “suffering from pneumonia.” He pointed to Brussels’ energy policies as a key issue, noting that European companies face electricity prices up to three times higher—and gas prices four times higher—than their American competitors. "In such conditions, competition is impossible," he warned, cautioning that without an overhaul of EU energy policy, “companies will collapse.”
PM Orbán also addressed what he sees as Europe’s division over migration. He distinguished between countries that welcome foreign cultures—predominantly Islamic—and those that do not, placing Hungary firmly in the latter camp. In Hungary, he explained, foreign workers are permitted entry only as needed, and work permits are temporary. "Hungarians believe illegal migration will only worsen the situation," he said, linking increased crime, anti-Semitism, and homophobic incidents to rising migrant populations in other European nations. "In Hungary, no one wants illegal migrants to come in," he asserted, positioning Hungary as a "conservative island" within Europe.
The prime minister also criticized what he sees as a dominant liberal influence over EU politics, which he believes was built up with financial backing from George Soros. PM Orbán contended that this funding has contributed to a hegemonic culture in Brussels, where "those who are not liberal are not seen as democratic." He added that while “European liberals have their place under the sun,” he encouraged them to share their views openly, believing that “ultimately, it’s the people who will decide,” advocating for defeating liberal policies “in as many elections as possible.”
Looking to the future, the prime minister expressed hope for more “patriotic” leadership in the EU, which he argued would be crucial for positive change. He voiced optimism that Austria’s Freedom Party could soon take power and speculated that Marine Le Pen’s party might form a government in France. With “four or five patriotic prime ministers,” he suggested, EU policy would shift significantly toward people-centered governance.
PM Orbán also reiterated his pro-peace stance on the Ukraine conflict, noting the serious risks of global escalation. Referring to the conflict as a “fraternal war,” he advocated for a swift ceasefire and the start of peace negotiations, which he believes are essential for de-escalation. He underscored the significance of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, viewing former President Donald Trump as a potential leader who could foster peace.
“If there is anyone in the world who could achieve a ceasefire, it is Donald Trump,” Orbán stated, voicing his hope that Trump’s leadership could yield a more stable global order and improved U.S.-European cooperation.