Viktor Orbán’s New Slogan for Hungary’s EU Presidency: “Make Europe Great Again”
On Tuesday, Viktor Orbán’s government outlined its priorities for Hungary’s upcoming presidency of the EU Council, set to begin in the second half of the year. The government adopted a slogan reminiscent of Donald Trump’s famous campaign: “Make Europe Great Again.”
Hungary will take over the presidency on July 1 from Belgium, at a pivotal moment marked by the start of a new legislative term in the European Parliament and the emerging distribution of high-ranking positions among popular and socialist factions. During this second semester, Hungarian authorities are set to lead negotiations on critical issues.
Orbán’s priorities beyond the new slogan
The priorities of the Hungarian presidency are structured around several key pillars. Hungary aims to enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the EU, focusing on economic growth and particularly supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
A significant emphasis is placed on strengthening Europe’s defense capabilities, including its borders. Tackling illegal immigration will be a primary focus, with efforts directed towards finding effective solutions through closer cooperation with the EU’s neighboring countries, as well as countries of origin and transit. Orbán highlights the importance of protecting external borders.
Hungary will promote a strategic debate on the future of cohesion policy to reduce regional disparities and ensure economic, social, and territorial cohesion. The country aims to promote employment and competitiveness, and to ensure food security for Europeans.
A settled trio of front runners for the top jobs
An informal summit on Monday did not achieve the necessary breakthrough, even though there was a settled trio of leading candidates for the top positions: Ursula von der Leyen for the European Commission presidency, António Costa for the European Council presidency, and Kaja Kallas for the role of High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
On paper, the selection appears ideal: politically diverse, geographically varied, and gender-balanced. It also consists of well-known figures who have interacted with leaders over the past five years, making them unlikely to introduce any major surprises.
However, no agreement was reached. Numerous bilateral and trilateral meetings between the three main groups – the European People’s Party (EPP), the Socialists, and the Liberals – helped narrow the differences but stalled due to the EPP’s maximalist demands. A summit is scheduled for June 27 to make another attempt at reaching a deal.
