Insightful Survey: Hungarian Perspectives on the War in Ukraine
The war in Ukraine continues to have a significant impact on public perceptions in Hungary, according to a recent study by Závecz Research. This study, commissioned by security policy expert Péter Tarjányi, examined Hungary’s perceived threat level, views on the defense capabilities of the Hungarian armed forces, and support for EU and NATO membership.
One of the key findings from the survey is a shift in public opinion regarding the nature of the conflict in Ukraine. While a majority of Hungarians still view the war as Russian aggression, there has been an increase in the number of people who believe that Russia acted defensively. In fact, the proportion of Hungarians who think Russia initiated the conflict for defensive reasons has risen from 13% to 22% over the past two years. Conversely, there has been a rise in the number of people blaming Ukraine for the conflict, from 16% to 26%. Interestingly, among supporters of the ruling Fidesz party, opinions have shifted significantly, with a majority now blaming Ukraine for the conflict.
The study also delves into Hungarians’ willingness to defend their country in the event of an attack. While there has been a slight decline in the number of people prepared to fight or assist the army, the majority still express a willingness to defend Hungary. Concerns about the war in Ukraine spreading to Hungary are more prevalent among certain groups, including Fidesz voters, rural populations, and those with lower levels of education.
When it comes to support for Ukraine, the survey found that humanitarian aid is the most favored form of assistance, with only a minority of respondents backing military aid. Support for remaining in the EU and NATO remains strong among Hungarians, with the majority favoring continued membership in both organizations. However, there are differences in opinion along party lines, with supporters of various parties having varying levels of support for EU and NATO membership.
Overall, the study highlights the complex and evolving nature of public opinion in Hungary regarding the war in Ukraine and the country’s relationship with the EU and NATO. Despite concerns about the potential impact of diverging from EU and NATO positions, a majority of Hungarians prioritize maintaining good relations with these organizations over Russia and China.
