In a significant week for conservative politics in Europe, the US-backed CPAC, or Conservative Political Action Conference, has taken center stage in Poland and Hungary. This comes right before Poland's crucial presidential election runoff featuring nationalist candidate Karol Nawrocki, supported by CPAC, and liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski. The stakes have been framed as a "battle for Western civilization" by CPAC speakers, highlighting the urgency of their campaign.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, at the forefront, claimed that this gathering symbolizes resilience rather than defeat. Describing former President Trump as a "truth serum," Orban articulated a vision for a "new Europe" rooted in nationalism, traditional family values, and a specific interpretation of Christianity. The conference was characterized by loud applause as he and other speakers criticized the European Union's environmental initiatives and railed against what they described as mass immigration and "woke madness."
Orban's rhetoric resonated with attendees, asserting that "Europeans do not feel safe in their own towns." His remarks echoed concerns voiced by fellow nationalists like Alice Weidel of Germany’s extreme-right AfD and Geert Wilders from the Netherlands, as they collectively aim to redefine European conservatism away from traditional liberalism.
The conference featured prominent political figures, including former British Prime Minister Liz Truss, Australian ex-Prime Minister Tony Abbott, and leaders from across Europe. Notably, US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem endorsed Nawrocki during her visit to Warsaw, reaffirming US military support contingent upon his victory.
Despite a confident narrative, the MAGA-inspired movement, dubbed "Mega" (Make Europe Great Again) in Europe, faces setbacks, including recent liberal victories. The nationalist fervor appears to be under pressure as Orban's governmental support wanes, with the Hungarian fertility rate dropping amidst his policies aimed at increasing it.
As the CPAC event concluded in Budapest, enthusiasm remained high, particularly focused on the Polish election. However, cracks appear in the overarching unity of European nationalists, underscoring a complex and evolving political landscape that will shape the future of conservatism in the region.
