202. How Labour should fight the election, taking on the British press, and Orbán's future far-right axis
Dec 20, 2023
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The discussion dives into the challenges facing the Labour Party as it gears up for the election, urging a bolder stance against parliamentary attacks. The spotlight is on Viktor Orbán, dissecting his authoritarian tactics and how they mirror other far-right leaders. There's also a deep dive into Michelle Mone's controversial rise amid public scrutiny and the importance of media ethics, referencing high-profile scandals that have shaped public trust. Additionally, holiday fashion tips and tech insights add a light-hearted touch to the mix.
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Quick takeaways
Victor Orban's consolidation of power in Hungary poses serious threats to democracy, media, and minority rights.
Aleksandar Vucic's control over media, institutions, and elections solidifies his dominant leadership in Serbia and the region.
The integration process for Serbia, Kosovo, and other Western Balkan countries into the EU faces challenges related to unresolved tensions, democratic backsliding, and opposition to EU demands.
Deep dives
Victor Orban and his vision for an anti-democratic age
Victor Orban, the Prime Minister of Hungary, is a strong advocate for a world led by strong men and believes that democracy is failing. He has undermined media, political parties, and the judiciary in Hungary, creating a one-party state. Orban aligns himself with anti-LGBTQ issues and promotes the conspiracy theory of the great replacement, where white Christians are being replaced by people of color. He is also sympathetic towards Russia and China. Orban's influence extends beyond Hungary, as he seeks to consolidate power within the European Union by opposing measures like Ukraine's accession and blocking financial support for Ukraine. He envisions a world where strong men dominate and democracy gives way to nationalism.
The rise and influence of Aleksandar Vucic in Serbia
Aleksandar Vucic, the President of Serbia, has established a strong grip on power by controlling the media, institutions, and elections. His party, the Serbian Progressive Party, has won multiple elections, and Vucic is sympathetic towards the populist right and supportive of Russia and China. He aims to reunite Serbia with northern Kosovo and the Serbian part of Bosnia-Herzegovina, challenging the status quo established by the international community to maintain peace and stability in the Western Balkans. Vucic's recent election win reinforces his position as a dominant leader in Serbia and his influence in the region.
The challenges of reenergizing the EU integration process
The EU integration process for Serbia, Kosovo, and other Western Balkan countries faces significant challenges. While these countries aspire to join the EU, leaders like Orban and Vucic are skeptical of the EU's values and alignment with their national interests. Issues like unresolved tensions between Serbia and Kosovo, disagreements over recognition, and opposition to EU demands contribute to the complexity of the integration process. Additionally, concerns about democratic backsliding and infringements on media freedom and minority rights impact the credibility of these countries' EU aspirations. Reenergizing the integration process requires addressing these challenges and maintaining a delicate balance between EU values and national interests.
The unraveling of the old liberal world order
The old liberal world order, which upheld stable and frozen borders in Europe, is unraveling. Leaders like Orban and Vucic are capitalizing on the changing geopolitical landscape, including the rise of populism, anti-immigration sentiments, and skepticism towards global institutions. They challenge the status quo, promote nationalism, and seek closer ties with Russia and China. This shift towards populism and nationalism undermines the traditional Western liberal order and poses challenges for the future of European integration, democracy, and stability in the region.
The need for continued attention to preserve stability
The recent developments in Hungary and Serbia highlight the importance of continued attention to preserve stability in Europe. As leaders like Orban and Vucic consolidate power, undermine institutions, and promote nationalist agendas, it is crucial to uphold democratic values, media freedom, and minority rights. The EU integration process for Serbia, Kosovo, and other Western Balkan countries must be guided by a balance between promoting stability, addressing regional disputes, and advancing democratic principles. Vigilance and proactive measures are necessary to ensure that the old liberal world order does not crumble further, and that Europe remains a beacon of democracy and cooperation.
Who actually is Michelle Mone? Does Starmer need to be braver in how he respond to attacks from his opponents? How much power does Viktor Orbán have in the EU?
Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all this and more on today's episode of The Rest Is Politics.
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