Hungary Voters Want New EU Approach, Tough Stance on Ukraine

A recent survey ahead of Hungary’s April 12 general election indicates that a majority of voters are open to modifying the country’s relationship with the European Union. Yet, the same poll highlights a lack of enthusiasm for financial aid to Ukraine, with citizens placing greater emphasis on local concerns. This trend suggests that while there is a desire for some EU adjustments, the public remains cautious about Ukraine’s role in the conflict with Russia.

The latest poll by IDEA reveals that 30% back Viktor Orban’s Fidesz party, while 39% support Peter Magyar’s Tisza. A notable 21% of respondents are still undecided, creating uncertainty about the election outcome. The findings reflect shifting sentiments, as even Orban’s core supporters show hesitancy on specific foreign policy issues, according to the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR).

“Despite Viktor Orban’s long-standing criticism of the European Union, our new survey shows that two-thirds of Hungarians trust the EU and strongly favor retaining their membership,” said Pawel Zerka, a senior policy fellow at ECFR.

The ECFR study notes that Orban’s opposition to Ukraine support has resonated with the public, who largely oppose Kyiv’s aspirations to join the EU. However, this stance is not universal, as a majority of voters—across both major parties—express a wish for a more cooperative relationship with Brussels. The current US administration’s approval is divided along party lines, with Washington actively backing Orban’s bid for a sixth term.

A representative survey of 1,001 individuals, conducted between March 26 and April 1, underscores a preference for smoother EU ties. While this sentiment is strongest among Tisza supporters, it also gains traction among roughly half of Fidesz’s base. The poll highlights that domestic matters, such as corruption and cost-of-living concerns, take precedence over international policy debates.

“Hungary’s European partners shouldn’t anticipate a full reversal of foreign policy positions if Tisza wins,” noted Piotr Buras, head of ECFR’s Warsaw office. “There is clear division and skepticism within both voter blocs regarding future financial support for Ukraine and its EU accession.”

Orban has framed his campaign around challenging EU policies and maintaining a firm position on Ukraine. At last month’s EU summit, he stalled a significant loan agreement for Kyiv, which had been approved in December. This action reinforced public sentiment against Ukraine support, though the ECFR data suggests that the broader electorate may not be fully aligned with Orban’s approach.

Despite these divisions, foreign policy issues are not the primary focus for most voters. Only 6% of respondents, including 10% of Tisza supporters and 2% of Fidesz backers, ranked EU relations as the top concern. Instead, Tisza voters prioritize corruption, public services, and inflation, while Fidesz supporters emphasize energy security and economic stability. The undecided group, comprising around 60% of the electorate, is expected to turn out in significant numbers on Sunday.