Giorgia Meloni on Relationship with Viktor Orbán
Giorgia Meloni's relationship with Viktor Orbán, the Prime Minister of Hungary and leader of Fidesz, is often framed by observers as a complex alliance of shared right-wing ideology within the European Union.
Ahead of the 2022 election, fears existed that a Meloni-led government could lead Italy towards a similar path as Hungary under Orbán, suggesting a recognized ideological proximity between the two.
However, Meloni has also taken steps to distance herself from Orbán's alignment, particularly on foreign policy, such as condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine and stressing her commitment to NATO, which differentiates her approach from Orbán's more ambiguous stance toward Moscow.
Context
The relationship between Giorgia Meloni and Viktor Orbán is significant due to both leaders heading major Eurosceptic, national-conservative parties (Brothers of Italy and Fidesz, respectively) in key EU member states. Their alignment (or lack thereof) directly impacts the balance of power and the direction of right-wing politics within the European Union framework.
Orbán was one of the first international leaders to congratulate Meloni following her victory in the 2022 general election, signalling a recognition of a potential political ally on the European right.
Timeline
- Following Meloni's projected victory in the general election, Orbán was among the first leaders to congratulate her, suggesting a hopeful view of a right-wing alignment.
- Fears were cited among the European Commission that Meloni could lead Italy toward a path similar to Hungary under Orbán, highlighting a perceived closeness in political direction.
What Others Say
Orbán congratulated Meloni after her projected 2022 election win, indicating a welcoming of a right-wing partner.
Comparison
- Policy/Direction: Observers expressed concern that Meloni might steer Italy toward Hungary's political model under Orbán prior to the 2022 election.
- Russian Stance: Meloni's firm condemnation of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine and commitment to NATO contrasts with Orbán's more nuanced and sometimes conciliatory approach toward Russia.
- EU Relations: While both leaders are described as Eurosceptic, Meloni reframed her stance as 'Eurorealist' and has generally maintained a more constructive engagement with EU institutions than Orbán is often perceived to do.