The draft family policy framework of US President Donald Trump’s administration has recently circulated in the media, with a $5,000 incentive for mothers—dubbed the ‘baby bonus’—stealing the spotlight. However, behind this lies a far more extensive and multi-layered approach, incorporating initiatives inspired by Hungary’s world-renowned and successful family policy model.
‘Orbán and the Fidesz leadership are seeking lasting change to Hungarian politics and culture. They recognize that pro-life and pro-family issues are not just legal disputes; they are culture-wide struggles, and they must be addressed as such. Hungarian conservatives are not surrendering on these issues, and they are not acting recklessly…the Orbán government’s family policies are prudent.’
‘When I come to Hungary, I’m always amazed by how many young people are in important positions or leading organizations. That’s rare in Japan, where seniority and relationships established over decades is prioritized youth, talent and expertise. Japanese society doesn’t value young people enough,’ Japanese journalist Waka Ikeda pointed out in an interview with Hungarian Conservative.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán accused opposition parties of engaging in a ‘competition of provocations’ ahead of next year’s elections. Speaking on public Kossuth Radio, he addressed topics ranging from rural development and economic measures to European security and Hungary’s stance on war.
‘By rediscovering fundamental needs and values, we will eventually rediscover the need and motivation for having more children. This is a collective project that involves, first of all, ordinary people, philosophers, the church, artists, psychologists, and the government.’
In recent decades, Europe has faced many challenges, one of which is the demographic crisis. The ageing and declining population, labour shortages and emigration pose a major challenge for almost all European countries. The importance of demographic trends cannot be overestimated, as they will have a major impact on Europe’s future position.
The ‘Family 2025’ conference reaffirmed Hungary’s dedication to family-centric policies as a cornerstone of national stability and development. Hungary’s approach, combining financial incentives with ideological resistance, aims to ensure long-term family prosperity and national sovereignty in an evolving geopolitical landscape.
In a recent analysis by Asia Times looking at the effect of government family subsidy programmes on increased fertility rates, Hungary is cited as ’one of the world’s few demographic success stories.’
Much like in many European countries, marzipan enjoys a great popularity in Hungary, too. Marzipan first attained admiration in the Hungarian Kingdom under the rule of the Renaissance king, Matthias Corvinus. According to historic records, a chessboard from brown and white marzipan was the eighth course on King Matthias’ wedding with Beatrice of Naples in 1477.
Hungary’s culinary scene shines brightly as the 2024 Michelin Guide awards reaffirm excellence. Iconic venues like Tata’s Platán and Budapest’s Stand retained two stars, while eight other restaurants, including one newcomer, received their coveted Michelin star this year.
Hungarian Conservative is a quarterly magazine on contemporary political, philosophical and cultural issues from a conservative perspective.
