Authoritarianism and Christian Nationalism in Viktor Orban’s Hungary

Since 2010, Viktor Orban has consolidated power as prime minister of Hungary, a central European country whose democratic institutions he has weakened primarily through a form of governance he terms "illiberal democracy" as well as through the nationwide advancement of Christian nationalism. Dr. Ben Novak will discuss the intersections of modern Hungarian politics and religion, how the people there are impacted by Orban's autocratic policies, and why some here view Orban's leadership and the national and cultural values he has engendered as a model for the United States in 2025 and beyond.

 

Thank you to Iowa City City Channel 4 for the recording and to the Iowa City Public Library for hosting this event.