Orbán accused of trying to silence all critics in Hungary with new law

Hungary’s leading civil society groups have accused Viktor Orbán of trying to “silence all critical voices” in the country after proposing legislation to create a “sovereignty protection office” investigating foreign influence.

For years, the Hungarian prime minister has promoted a narrative that external forces are trying to undermine his government and prop up his opponents.

In a speech this month, the longtime leader said “dark forces” would “continue to besiege the defensive lines of sovereignty, including those of Hungary”.

But Orbán’s critics say his rhetoric is designed to undermine opponents and that, ahead of European parliament and municipal elections next year, the government is stepping up efforts to create imaginary enemies and distract voters.