Economist Podcasts What Viktor’s spoiled: ten years of Orban
Apr 9, 2020
Joining the discussion are Matt Steinglass, a Europe correspondent for The Economist with deep political insights, and Emma Hogan, the deputy briefings editor focused on mental health. They dive into Hungary's troubling slide into authoritarianism under Viktor Orban, exploring the EU's ineffective response. The conversation shifts to the alarming mental health impacts of COVID-19, especially on youth. Lastly, they highlight Japan's #KuToo movement, advocating for the transformation of outdated workplace dress codes that impose gender-specific restrictions.
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Orban's Power Grab
- Viktor Orban, Hungary's Prime Minister, was granted power to rule by decree indefinitely.
- Critics view this as a power grab, consistent with Orban's authoritarian tendencies.
Orban's Transformation
- Viktor Orban, initially a liberal student leader during Hungary's transition from communism, has become increasingly authoritarian.
- He now effectively rules Hungary as a dictator, consolidating power over independent institutions.
Orban's Popularity
- Despite democratic backsliding, Orban remains popular by exploiting nationalistic sentiment.
- He frames opposition as foreign conspiracies and boasts a relatively strong economic record.