Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is focusing on enhancing his global alliances, particularly with far-right groups, in anticipation of the forthcoming US election. His connections with former US President Donald Trump, highlighted by a recent visit to the US, play a significant part in his strategy, aiming to shift the leadership landscape in Washington, DC. This international alignment is part of Orbán’s broader effort to fortify his position amid domestic and international criticisms regarding his governance and foreign policies.

In Slovakia, a recent decision by the government to restructure the public radio and television broadcaster has ignited widespread concerns. Led by Prime Minister Robert Fico and Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová, the planned changes involve replacing the existing broadcaster, RTVS, with a new entity governed by a council appointed by the state. Critics argue this could lead to increased government control over media content and potentially shift the country towards a more pro-Russian stance. Large-scale protests have occurred, reflecting fears over the diminishing independence of the media and democracy. The Parliament is set to review the proposed changes in June.

Meanwhile, in Georgia, extensive protests have erupted in the capital, Tbilisi, against a proposed “foreign agent” law, which could impact NGOs and media organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad. Protesters, supported by European leaders, fear that the legislation could undermine democratic freedoms and hinder Georgia’s integration into European institutions. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has defended the bill as a transparency measure, while detractors view it as a move that could align Georgia more closely with Russian rather than European values. These demonstrations have continued for over ten days, underscoring significant public dissent and concerns about the country’s democratic trajectory.