Why Some Ethnic Hungarians Support Romanian Ultra-Nationalists
A Surprising Shift: Some Ethnic Hungarians Back Romanian Ultra-Nationalist Candidate
In a notable turn of events, certain Hungarians from Transylvania and the Szekler Land in Romania are publicly supporting ultra-nationalist candidate George Simion in the upcoming presidential elections, opting for him over liberal candidate Nicușor Dan. This unexpected allegiance has sparked considerable discussion among political analysts, with many questioning the motivations behind this decision.
Political expert Zsolt Pászkán, from the Hungarian Institute for Foreign Affairs in Budapest, shared insights on this paradox. Proponents of Simion argue that his foreign policy aligns with those of leaders like Viktor Orbán, Giorgia Meloni, and Donald Trump. However, Pászkán highlights a critical distinction: the latter leaders are not anti-Hungarian, while Simion’s sentiments appear to diverge significantly.
Pászkán further posits that the ultra-nationalist camp might be strategically attempting to sway Hungarian voters by emphasizing themes of sovereignty and compatibility with Orbán. He recalls that Simion, through his affiliations in the European Parliament, has sought to isolate Orbán’s Fidesz party. This tactic has so far failed due to Orbán’s countermeasures, including the establishment of the Patriots for Europe faction.
The analyst raises concerns about the sincerity of Simion’s purported "sovereigntism," especially following his recent admission that promises made to voters, like affordable housing, may have been more marketing than substance. "Is his emphasis on ‘sovereigntism’ merely a marketing strategy that some Hungarians might fall for?" Pászkán questions.
He also expresses doubt regarding Simion’s ability to maintain his current stance in light of potential pushback from European entities. The issue seems to extend beyond Simion himself, involving a team that includes notable figures with a history of hostility towards Hungarian interests. Pászkán cites Călin Georgescu, a proposed prime ministerial candidate, whose past remarks suggest a dismissive attitude towards Hungarian concerns.
Moreover, individuals associated with Simion have a track record of opposing Hungarian developments in Transylvania, making life difficult for ethnic Hungarians. Vandalism, legal actions against Hungarian symbolism, and organized protests against Hungarian leaders have characterized their actions.
Pászkán emphasizes a crucial lesson from the past; Hungarians in Transylvania have previously suffered from backing Romanian politicians deemed “anti-establishment,” like Traian Băsescu and Klaus Iohannis, who ultimately did not represent their interests.
He concludes that there are "no ‘good’ anti-Hungarian politicians," just various degrees of detrimental leadership. The anti-Simion camp arguably stands to gain more from Hungarian support than the anti-Hungarian elements of Simion’s AUR party.
In addressing the potential for collaboration between Simion and Orbán, Pászkán notes that Orbán’s role entails representing all Hungarian citizens, indicating a necessity to navigate political alliances pragmatically. He posits that should Simion rise to power, Orbán might have to engage on specific issues but would still require Simion to demonstrate a reduction in his antagonism towards Hungary for any substantial support to blossom.
The community’s complex political landscape and shifting allegiances serve as a stark reminder of the nuances in regional identities and political affiliations, with implications that reach beyond mere electoral outcomes.
