Hungary is determined to uphold its migration policy, which prioritizes national security and aligns with public sentiment, declared Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s chief security advisor György Bakondi on the M1 news channel. He emphasized that the government bases its approach on national interests and is committed to maintaining the country’s security.
Bakondi expressed Hungary’s hope that its approach to managing illegal migration and securing borders—implemented since 2015—could serve as a model for other European nations. At the very least, he suggested, mounting public pressure in various EU member states might eventually push their political leadership to reconsider their stance on migration.
He voiced confidence that the EU Migration Pact, hastily adopted by the previous European Parliament, would either be repealed or undergo a radical transformation. According to Bakondi, national governments should prioritize their citizens’ interests, as Hungary does, when formulating security and economic policies. He also pointed to developments in the United States, suggesting that stricter immigration measures there could inspire similar shifts in Europe.
Bakondi highlighted what he sees as a significant change in US policy, the full implications of which have yet to be grasped by the international community. However, he argued that the initial signs are clear, especially regarding actions taken against illegal migration. In his view, political forces advocating for stricter immigration policies are gaining momentum across Europe, which may eventually lead to policy changes within the European Council, the European Commission, and, later, the European Parliament.
Speaking on Kossuth Radio, Bakondi also referred to growing public discontent in Germany regarding illegal migration. He cited data suggesting that 70 per cent of Germans favour stricter immigration controls, a reduction in the number of arrivals, and stronger measures against migrant-related crime. Despite campaign promises from various political parties, Bakondi expressed scepticism about any substantial policy shift in Germany that would fully align with public demands.
The security adviser also reported a sharp increase in migration pressure at Hungary’s southern border. He noted that, compared to the same period last year, when 441 illegal border crossers were apprehended, the number has risen to 2,860 this year. Additionally, he pointed out that migration flows into Greece are increasing, not only from Türkiye but also from Libya, with many of these individuals quickly making their way along the Balkan route.
As migration remains a key political issue across Europe, Hungary continues to advocate for a security-first approach, arguing that other EU nations should adopt similar policies to protect their citizens.
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