This article was published in Vol. 4 No. 2 of our print edition.
In the unfolding narrative of Europe’s ideological evolution, a pivotal juncture is emerging, and it prompts reflection on the path forward. Will Europe shift even more towards a United States of Europe, underpinned by progressivism? Or, alternatively, will it revert to a mosaic of sovereign nation states, each guarding its autonomy and heritage? This divergence embodies the profound choice facing Europeans as we head towards the European elections in June.
Central to this decision is the recognition that Europe possesses an internal diversity that is both rich and substantial. This diversity, rooted in centuries of history, cultural exchange, and shared heritage, forms the tapestry of European identity. Importantly, this diversity is inherently European, a product of the continent’s unique range of languages, traditions, and beliefs. Therefore, the notion that diversity must be imported from external sources is misguided. In fact, such attempts often lead to fragmentation and discord, rather than enriching the fabric of European society. As Europeans contemplate their future, they must acknowledge that diversity within Europe itself is sufficient and indeed desirable. This diversity, when nurtured and celebrated, fosters a sense of belonging and unity among European nations. It is a diversity that reflects the essence of Europe’s identity and should be preserved and cherished.1
Ultimately, the choice between a federal EU or a resurgence of sovereign nation states is not merely a question of political allegiance, but a reflection of deeper ideological convictions and aspirations. It is a choice that will shape the path of Europe for generations to come, defining its place in the global landscape and its commitment to the values that underpin its identity. It is a call to arms to safeguard Europe’s very soul.2
Upholding Heritage, Tradition, and Faith in the Face of Progressivism
Across the diverse landscape of Europe, a shift is undeniably underway. In the Western regions, there is a surge in progressivism, characterized by an embrace of social change and liberal ideals. Meanwhile, in the Central and Eastern parts of the continent, there remains a steadfast commitment to the sovereignty of individual nations, rooted in a deep-seated desire to preserve cultural autonomy and traditional values. This ideological dichotomy sets the stage for a profound divergence in the trajectory of European development.
The EU, once firmly anchored in conservative principles that emphasized the importance of peace, national identity, and sovereignty, now appears to be adrift on a sea of progressive ideals. This departure from its traditional roots signals a significant departure from the principles upon which it was originally founded. As the EU continues to distance itself from its core essence, the very foundations of European civilization tremble under the weight of secularism and multiculturalism. The erosion of these traditional values poses a formidable challenge to the cohesion and unity of European society, raising fundamental questions about the future direction of the continent.
Amidst the tumult of change, however, one enduring source of stability remains: Christianity. Embedded deep within the cultural fabric of Europe, Christianity serves as a moral compass in turbulent times, offering guidance and solace amidst the storms of progressivism. As a cornerstone of European identity, Christianity provides a sense of continuity and tradition, anchoring individuals and communities alike to their shared heritage.3
In this context, the preservation of traditional family values emerges as a crucial bulwark against the encroaching waves of progressivism. By upholding the sanctity of the family unit and promoting values such as responsibility and resilience, conservatives can strengthen the very foundation of European society. In doing so, they not only safeguard the cultural heritage of the continent, but also lay the groundwork for a legacy that transcends the currents of political ideology.
As Europe stands at this crossroads of history, the imperative to chart a course that honours its heritage and values has never been more pressing. By embracing the timeless teachings of Christianity and upholding the sanctity of traditional family values, it may be easier to navigate the turbulent waters of progressivism with unwavering resolve. In doing so, we can ensure that Europe remains true to its identity and continues to serve as a beacon of civilization and enlightenment for generations to come.4
The EU’s Progressive Agenda: A Rebranded Communism?
The EU’s drift towards progressivism bears a striking resemblance to the objectives of communist regimes throughout history. Just as communism sought to erode national identities and establish a hegemonic ideology, today’s so-called liberals within the EU advocate for open borders, multiculturalism, and the dilution of traditional values. By centralizing power and imposing a uniform set of progressive values, the EU undermines the sovereignty of its member states, mirroring the ambitions of communist regimes.5
By advocating for open borders, the EU undermines the ability of member states to control the flow of illegal immigration and protect their citizens’ security. Furthermore, the promotion of multiculturalism dilutes the cultural picture of European nations, eroding the unique identities that have shaped their histories for centuries.
Moreover, the EU’s progressive agenda extends beyond social policies to encompass the economic and political realms. Through initiatives such as the European Green Deal and efforts to centralize fiscal policy, the EU is seeking to exert greater control over member states’ economies and governance structures. This consolidation of power mirrors the ambitions of communist regimes, which sought to establish centralized control over all aspects of society.
In its pursuit of progressivism, the EU often employs tactics reminiscent of authoritarian regimes, silencing dissent and marginalizing voices that diverge from the prevailing ideology. The EU’s progressive agenda can easily be labelled intolerant or regressive, effectively stifling debate and undermining democratic principles. This erosion of free speech and intellectual diversity mirrors the tactics employed by communist regimes to maintain their grip on power.
Emerging Progressivism and Its Challenges
The surge of progressivism within the EU presents multifaceted challenges, exacerbated by the globalists’ influence on migration policies, the propagation of gender ideology, and the ongoing Russia–Ukraine War. Firstly, the West’s approach to migration, driven by progressive ideals, has resulted in significant demographic shifts across European nations. This influx of illegal migrants, often from very different cultural and religious backgrounds, has strained resources and tested the social fabric of host countries. Additionally, misdirected integration measures have fuelled concerns about social cohesion and national identity.6 The migration challenges have been exploited by liberal factions to consolidate their authority within the EU utilizing these socio-political dilemmas as a pretext for further entrenching their centralized control, much to the detriment of diverse national identities and the principle of subsidiarity. Furthermore, incidents of anti-Jewish sentiment and violence have increased in certain communities, stoking fears and tensions among Jewish populations across the continent. This resurgence of anti-Semitism underscores the complexities and challenges associated with managing migration and maintaining social harmony within diverse societies.
Another negative aspect of progressivism is the imposition of gender ideology by globalist forces in the West. This ideology seeks to redefine traditional concepts of family, promoting alternative family structures and breaking away from biological gender roles. Such radical departures from established norms threaten to undermine both the traditional family unit and common sense itself.7
Another fault line that we can register within the EU is connected to the Russia–Ukraine War. Hungary’s stance on matters of conflict emphasizes the importance of pursuing peace and diplomatic solutions. From the beginning, Hungary has advocated dialogue and negotiation as the primary means to resolve conflicts, rather than resorting to military escalation. Contrary to this, the globalist approach prioritizes war over peace, by allocating significant financial resources for financing the war, providing weapons, or embracing the idea of deploying troops to conflict zones, which are contrary to the interests of Europe and the broader international community—both from humanitarian and economic perspectives.
Proponents of peace over war align themselves with a broader vision of stability, cooperation, and prosperity in the region and beyond. This approach not only reflects a commitment to upholding international norms and values, but also recognizes the inherent interconnectedness of global security and prosperity.8
Sovereign Stability in Central and Eastern Europe
In contrast to the progressive tide sweeping the West, Central and Eastern European nations have reaffirmed their commitment to sovereign stability. Faced with the legacy of communist oppression and external pressures to conform to Western progressive norms, these nations have steadfastly defended their cultural, religious, and national sovereignty. Embracing conservative values, Christianity, and a pragmatic approach to immigration, these countries prioritize the preservation of their unique identity and autonomy.
Numerous historical instances highlight the resilience of Central and Eastern European nations in upholding their sovereign stability amidst external pressures. The communist regime in Hungary, like elsewhere in Central and Eastern Europe, imposed strict control over all aspects of society, including politics, the economy, culture, and education. The communist era in Hungary was characterized by political repression, censorship, and human rights abuses. Opposition to the regime was met with harsh measures, including arrests, imprisonment, and even execution. The secret police, known as the ÁVH (State Protection Authority), played a central role in enforcing the regime’s control and suppressing dissent.9 Economically, Hungary underwent a process of collectivization and central planning, with agriculture and industry nationalized and placed under state control. While the regime initially pursued ambitious economic development plans, including heavy industrialization and infrastructure projects, inefficiency, corruption, and mismanagement plagued the economy, leading to stagnation and decline.
The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 stands as a pivotal moment in the country’s history, symbolizing the desire for freedom and independence among the Hungarian people, but the Communists crushed the revolution and discontent with the communist regime persisted, fuelling underground opposition movements and dissent throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The regime’s grip on power began to loosen in the late 1980s, as Hungary, along with other Central and Eastern European countries, embarked on a path of political liberalization and democratization. The fall of communism in Hungary was precipitated by the collapse of the Soviet Union and the wave of democratic revolutions that swept across Central and Eastern Europe in 1989.
We find a similar story in Poland, a country with a rich history of defending its national sovereignty and cultural identity. Throughout centuries of challenges, including foreign invasions and partitions, Poland has maintained a steadfast commitment to its independence and heritage. Even during the dark days of communist rule, the Polish people resisted attempts to suppress their language, traditions, and faith, ultimately playing a pivotal role in the downfall of the Soviet Union. Likewise, the Czech Republic and Slovakia emerged from the dissolution of Czechoslovakia as independent nations, each asserting its sovereignty and embracing democratic principles. Despite their shared history, both countries have pursued distinct paths in preserving their cultural and national identities, while also fostering economic development and regional cooperation.
The experiences of communism in Hungary, as well as in other countries of the former Eastern Bloc, have left a lasting imprint on the collective consciousness of the Hungarian people. These nations have learned valuable lessons from the past and are committed to avoiding a return to such dark times, preserving their sovereignty and national identity. It has also reinforced the importance of maintaining cultural, religious, and national sovereignty. Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, among others, have taken proactive measures to preserve their unique identities and traditions in the face of external pressures and influences. Through initiatives promoting cultural heritage, education, and civic engagement, these countries aim to instil a strong sense of national pride and unity among their citizens, reinforcing their commitment to sovereignty and autonomy.
Additionally, the communist era underscored the dangers of economic centralization and state control. Hungary and other post-communist countries have embraced free-market principles and economic reforms aimed at promoting competition, innovation, and entrepreneurship. By encouraging economic diversification, investment, and trade, these nations seek to foster prosperity and resilience while reducing dependence on external actors and supranational entities.
Strategies for Conservative Resilience
To counter the encroachment of progressivism and safeguard European cultures, Christianity, and common sense, conservatives and sovereigntists must adopt proactive strategies. Firstly, fostering a sense of national pride and cultural identity is essential in resisting the homogenizing effects of progressivism. Promoting traditional family values, civic engagement, and education rooted in European history and heritage can fortify societal resilience against ideological indoctrination.
Furthermore, conservatives must prioritize the restoration of national sovereignty and border security to mitigate the risks posed by uncontrolled illegal migration and external influence. Strengthening alliances among like-minded nations in Central and Eastern Europe can be a bastion against encroachments on sovereignty and traditional values. Additionally, advocating for policies that prioritize economic self-sufficiency, energy independence, and strategic autonomy can reduce reliance on supranational entities and safeguard national interests.
Viktor Orbán, the prime minister of Hungary, has exemplified this approach by prioritizing the preservation of Hungary’s cultural identity and national sovereignty. The government has implemented policies that promote traditional family values, such as providing financial incentives for families to have children and reinforcing the importance of the nuclear family structure in Hungarian society. These initiatives not only strengthen Hungary’s demographic situation, but also serve as a breakwater against the erosion of traditional values by progressive ideologies. The Hungarian government has also emphasized the significance of civic engagement and education in shaping the collective consciousness of the Hungarian people. By investing in educational programmes that highlight Hungary’s rich history and cultural heritage, and by pursuing a policy of architectural restoration, it aims to instil a strong sense of national pride among citizens, fostering resilience against external influences that seek to dilute Hungarian identity.
In addition to cultural preservation, there is a focus on restoring Hungary’s national sovereignty and border security. Under Orbán’s leadership, Hungary has taken a firm stance on immigration, implementing border control measures to mitigate the risks posed by uncontrolled illegal migration. Hungary has constructed physical barriers along its borders and enacted legislation to deter illegal immigration, effectively asserting Hungary’s right to protect its borders and maintain control over its territory.
The prime minister and his government have also pursued policies aimed at reducing Hungary’s reliance on supranational entities and external actors, ensuring that Hungary retains control over its economic and political destiny. By prioritizing economic independence and energy security, the government seeks to safeguard Hungary’s sovereignty and insulate it from external pressures that may compromise its national interests.
Orbán’s leadership in Hungary serves as a positive example of how proactive strategies can effectively counter the encroachment of progressivism and safeguard European values. His proactive approach offers valuable insights for conservatives and sovereigntists across Europe who seek to defend their cultural heritage and national sovereignty against the forces of progressivism.
Lastly, it is crucial for conservatives and sovereigntists across Europe and the world to unite and stand together on the international stage. In the face of encroaching progressivism and challenges to traditional values, solidarity among like-minded nations is paramount in defending European cultures, Christianity, and common sense.10 By forming alliances and coalitions, conservatives can amplify their voices and increase their influence on the global stage. Standing together enables conservatives to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and support one another in their efforts to counter the spread of progressivism. By fostering strong bonds of cooperation and mutual support, conservative governments can bolster their resilience against external pressures and effectively safeguard their national interests. A united front of conservative nations also sends a powerful message to the international community about the importance of preserving cultural diversity, protecting traditional values, and upholding the principles of sovereignty and self-determination.
Summary
Europe finds itself at a critical situation, faced with a fundamental choice between unity in progressivism or sovereignty in diversity. As the European Parliament elections in June draw nearer, this decision is becoming increasingly pressing. Central to this decision is the recognition of Europe’s intrinsic diversity, rooted in centuries of history, cultural exchange, and shared heritage. This diversity, inherently European, forms the essence of the continent’s identity and should be cherished and preserved. Importantly, efforts to import diversity from external sources often lead to fragmentation and discord, rather than enriching European society. Europeans must acknowledge that diversity within the continent itself is sufficient and desirable. Nurturing and celebrating this diversity fosters a sense of belonging and unity among European nations, reflecting the essence of Europe’s identity.
The choice between a federal EU or a resurgence of sovereign nation states reflects deeper ideological convictions and aspirations. This choice will shape Europe’s trajectory for generations to come, defining its place in the global landscape and its commitment to its values. The upcoming European Parliament elections in June represent a pivotal moment for the people of Europe, carrying significant implications for the future direction of the continent. At stake is not just the composition of the European Parliament, but also the fundamental values and principles that underpin European society. These elections serve as a crucial opportunity for European citizens to voice their preferences and shape the path of European integration. The outcomes will determine the balance of power within the European Parliament and influence key policy decisions on issues ranging from economic governance to migration and social welfare.
Moreover, the elections are a referendum on the competing visions of Europe’s future. Will Europe continue on the path towards deeper integration, guided by progressive ideals, or will there be a resurgence of conservative sentiment, leading to a Europe characterized by sovereignty and strong nations? Ultimately, the elections will shape Europe’s role on the global stage. A Europe based on the strong pillars of independent member states can assert its influence and promote its values internationally. The European Parliament elections in June are not just about choosing representatives; they are about defining and defending the future of Europe itself. The decisions made by voters will shape the continent’s identity, values, and place in the world for years to come. It is a critical moment for European democracy and a chance for the people of Europe to chart a course that reflects their aspirations and values, and which serves the interests of the European population.
NOTES
1 Yoram Hazony, The Virtue of Nationalism (Basic Books, 2018), 168–173, 228.
2 Tamás Fricz, ‘Föderalizmus vagy nemzeti identitás?’ (Federalism or National Identity?), Kommentár, 3 (2020), http://kommentar.info.hu/cikk/2020/3/foderalizmus-vagy-nemzeti-szuverenitas, 33–35.
3 Rod Dreher, Live Not by Lies: A Manual for Christian Dissidents (Sentinel, 2020), 51–208.
4 Douglas Murray, The War on the West (Broadside Books, 2022), 255–274.
5 Ryszard Legutko, The Demon in Democracy: Totalitarian Temptations in Free Societies (Encounter Books, 2016), 73–144.
6 Václav Klaus, and Jirí Weigl, Völkerwanderung: Kurze Erläuterung der aktuellen Migrationskrise (Manuscriptum, 2016), 71–84.
7 Marguerite A. Peeters, The Gender Revolution: A Global Agenda (Nouvelle Imprimerie Laballery, 2013), 71–109.
8 Balázs Orbán, Hussar Cut: The Hungarian Strategy for Connectivity (MCC Press, 2024), 164–185.
9 László Borhi, A túlélés stratégiái. Élet és halál a náci és kommunista diktatúrákban (1944–1953) (Strategies of Survival: Life and Death in Nazi and Communist Dictatorships) (Bölcsészettudományi Kutatóközpont, Történettudományi Intézet – ELKH, 2022), 245–340.
10 Miklós Szánthó, ‘Protecting the Values of Creation Is a Shared Task’, Hungarian Conservative (31 March 2022), www.hungarianconservative.com/articles/current/protecting-the-values-of-creation-is-a-shared-task/.
