orbán’s Győr Rally: Security Measures and Controlled Messaging Dominate Event
A Telex journalist’s account reveals a tightly controlled environment at Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s “Digital Civil Circles” event in Győr on November 18, marked by unusual security procedures and a carefully curated message surrounding the war in Ukraine. The event, framed as an anti-war rally, followed a period of public tension between Orbán and the Telex news outlet, wiht the Prime Minister recently explaining his refusal to grant them an interview.
A Suspiciously Easy Entry, Followed by Intense Scrutiny
The initial entry to the Olympic sports park in Győr appeared deceptively straightforward. Attendees with confirmed registrations waited in a long line, while journalists enjoyed relatively free access, even engaging with those waiting to enter. However, this ease quickly dissolved upon reaching the security checkpoint. Journalists were subjected to airport-style screening – emptying pockets, removing belts, and having bags searched – before being informed they couldn’t proceed without explicit permission. Even restroom access required a security escort.
“We waited for about a quarter of an hour at the entrance, locked in a small space with all the othre journalists,” a reporter detailed, highlighting the restrictive atmosphere.
Segregation and Delays Before the Program
After a further hour-long wait, during which security repeatedly cautioned journalists about the difficulty of accessing restrooms, the press was directed to a separate area, physically isolated from the main event space by a two-meter-high movable wall. While attendees underwent the same security screening, journalists were left milling about, effectively sidelined. One photographer required a security escort to use the restroom,and a journalist who considered leaving the designated area was warned against it,fearing re-entry would be denied.
carefully Choreographed Messaging and Limited Debate
The first half of the program mirrored a previous event on Kossuth Square, featuring a carefully orchestrated presentation by philip Rákay and Zsófi Szabó, interspersed with performances by gigi Curtis and Radics. Speakers consistently emphasized the importance of peace and the horrors of the russian-Ukrainian war, but notably avoided assigning blame for the conflict.
Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó delivered a lengthy speech, unexpectedly focusing on his 2006 electoral defeat in Győr and making remarks directed toward Péter Magyar. He initially appeared uncomfortable but gained momentum as the speech progressed, receiving keen applause.
Orbán’s Interview and Audience Reaction
Prime Minister orbán was then interviewed by TV2 presenter Gergő Váczi for three-quarters of an hour. Váczi posed questions regarding recent controversies, including exemptions from Russian sanctions and the issue of migration. Orbán reportedly appeared uncomfortable, dismissing some questions as too complex. Though, the audience’s reaction was mixed, with some openly scoffing at Váczi’s inquiries and shouting objections like “Where did this come from?” and “this is stupid!”
According to reports, Orbán stated that the duration of any exemption from American sanctions was ultimately inconsequential.
A Shift in Tone with Pre-Selected Questions
The Prime Minister’s demeanor shifted when answering pre-selected questions from the audience,becoming more confident and engaging. This change in approach was well-received, and the atmosphere noticeably lightened.
Demographic Concerns and Generational Divide
Notably, the event’s attendees were primarily in their 50s and 60s, with a conspicuous lack of younger participants. Conversations overheard revealed a sentiment that younger generations do not support Orbán due to a perceived lack of “adequate past knowlege” or a preference for opportunities abroad.
The event in Győr took place shortly after a separate event hosted by the Tisza Party.
