In an ever-shifting global landscape, where economic prowess meets geopolitical ambition, the allure of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has cast its shadow over Europe, leaving behind a trail of concerns and risks. Euro News’ recent report underscores a disturbing trend: while the BRI is losing its sheen globally, it’s morphing into a tool of authoritarian influence closer to home, with Hungary at the forefront of this paradigm shift.
Hungary’s early embrace of the BRI, epitomized by its enthusiastic participation in the Serbia-Hungary railway project, reflects a pattern seen in many other nations ensnared by China’s infrastructure largesse. Yet, beneath the surface of these grand projects lies a stark reality: debt distress, corruption, and projects that fail to deliver on promises made. Hungary, like others, finds itself shackled to a burden of debt with little hope of reaping the promised benefits anytime soon.
But the true danger of the BRI lies not in its failed projects, but in the insidious undercurrents of authoritarianism it fosters. As China extends its surveillance and security apparatus to willing participants, including Hungary, the specter of repression looms large over Europe. Through the sale of sophisticated surveillance technology, China is exporting its model of control, finding eager customers in regimes that share its disdain for dissent and penchant for centralized power.
Hungary’s slide into authoritarianism under Viktor Orban has made it a prime target for China’s security-driven BRI ambitions. The Orban government’s affinity for illiberalism aligns eerily well with Beijing’s vision of a world order shaped by strongman politics and high-tech repression. By cozying up to China under the guise of BRI cooperation, Hungary not only jeopardizes its democratic values but also undermines the very foundations of European unity and security.
Moreover, Hungary’s economic entanglement with China poses risks that extend far beyond its borders. As Chinese companies establish a foothold within Hungary, the specter of undue influence looms large over European markets. From dominance in electric vehicle supply chains to the infiltration of strategic industries, China’s economic tentacles threaten to undermine European autonomy and competitiveness.
While the US and its allies awaken to the perils of overreliance on Chinese supply chains, Hungary’s shortsightedness poses a direct challenge to European solidarity. By prioritizing economic gains over strategic prudence, Hungary not only places itself at risk but also exposes the entire EU to the whims of Chinese manipulation and exploitation.
As the BRI evolves into a tool of authoritarian influence, Europe must confront the stark realities of its entanglement with China. For Hungary, the choice between short-term gains and long-term security is clear. It’s time for Europe to stand united against the encroaching tide of authoritarianism, lest the continent find itself shackled to China’s ambitions, with Hungary as the gateway to its influence.