Two-thirds of Hungarians against Ukraine's EU accession
The issue only came to the forefront of Hungarian public discourse after Brussels placed Ukraine's EU accession—despite its ongoing war—on a fast-track political agenda. In response, the Hungarian government announced a public vote on Ukraine's integration, offering citizens a transparent and democratic opportunity to express their views. While the government has taken a clear and direct position, Tisza Party leader Péter Magyar continues to give evasive answers on the subject.
At the same time, the Tisza Party has aligned itself with Brussels' narrative by launching a petition to test public backing for Ukraine's membership in the EU. But the recent Nézőpont poll results dismantle this attempt at political theater. The data shows no genuine grassroots support for Ukraine's accession. Instead, the Hungarian electorate has drawn a firm line: No to rushed enlargement, no to externally driven decisions.
The rejection seen in the Nézőpont Institute poll is near-universal. Every demographic—regardless of age, gender, location, or education—shows majority opposition. Even among university graduates, often seen as more sympathetic to Brussels, 54 percent oppose membership. Among government supporters, the number rises to 88 percent. Only Tisza Party voters show a slim 51 percent in favor, making clear how narrow and politically driven that support really is.
While others attempt to pressure Hungary with symbolic gestures, the government has created the only legitimate forum for decision-making: a public vote. Unlike petitions or partisan lobbying, this vote allows every Hungarian to speak under equal, secure, and verifiable conditions. And it is this vote—not any staged initiative—that will carry the authority of the people.
Brussels may press forward, but Hungary insists on democratic control and national interest. The stakes are clear. Ukraine's accession would bring major economic and security risks. Yet Brussels seems unmoved by these concerns, rushing ahead without proper assessment or consensus. Only the will of the Hungarian people stands in the way.
In a Europe increasingly shaped by top-down agendas, Hungary is making the opposite choice: to ask its people and act on their decision. The upcoming vote will do more than measure opinion—it will reassert sovereignty. And it will ensure that Hungary's future is not decided elsewhere, but at home, by Hungarians themselves.
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