Hungary, under the leadership of conservative Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has announced its slogan for the upcoming presidency of the European Council. The phrase, “Make Europe Great Again,” is inspired by Donald Trump’s famous campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again,” which he used during his first presidential campaign in 2016. According to Hungarian Minister for EU Affairs János Bóka, the slogan represents an active presidency, emphasizing the idea that Europe can be a stronger global actor when working together while maintaining individual identities.
Hungary and the United States have a strong relationship, with Prime Minister Orbán visiting President Trump at his Florida home in March. In previous statements, Orbán had expressed his belief that a victory for the nationalist right in the European Parliament elections, followed by a successful reelection for Trump in the US, could help end the conflict in Ukraine.
The presidency of the European Council rotates between EU member countries and Hungary will hold the position from July to December this year. With this leadership role comes Orbán’s vision for Hungary’s future within the EU and on the global stage. He sees this as an opportunity to promote unity and strength within Europe while maintaining individual identities and promoting an independent European identity on a global scale.
The use of this phrase is not without controversy as it echoes similar sentiments that led to Trump’s election in 2016. However, it reflects Orbán’s stance on promoting nationalism while still being part of a united Europe.
In conclusion, Hungary’s upcoming presidency of the European Council is set to focus on unity and strength within Europe while maintaining individual identities and promoting an independent European identity on a global stage with their slogan “Make Europe Great Again”.
