THE VIKTOR ORBÁN REGIME'S CONFLICT WITH EUROPEAN UNION VALUES 2021-2024

Abstract

This study describes forms of clashes against the fundamental values of the European Union as enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union by Viktor Orbán’s government. Within liberal democracy as the main framework, this research focuses on six EU values: respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and respect for human rights, including the rights of minorities. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the study examines various domestic policies under Orbán’s administration—ranging from electoral reform and judicial restructuring to media consolidation, anti-immigration measures, and anti-LGBT regulations. The findings show that while Hungary formally maintains electoral procedures, its political practices increasingly diverge from EU values Orbán’s consolidation of power and illiberal agenda represent a structural conflict against the normative foundations of EU membership