Hungary’s Orban Signals $1.8 Billion Pre-Election Pension Bonus

The Hungarian government has announced plans to provide a one-time, $1.8 billion pension bonus ahead of the April 2022 elections. Prime Minister Viktor Orban's administration intends to make the extra monthly pension payment as part of a broader effort to appeal to the country's retiree population, a key voting bloc. The move comes amid concerns over the country's economic performance and Orban's political standing. Observers note that the pension bonus is likely aimed at shoring up support among older voters, who have traditionally been a reliable base for Orban's Fidesz party. While the government has framed the measure as a way to help pensioners cope with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, critics argue that it is a transparent attempt at vote-buying ahead of the closely watched elections. The announcement has sparked debate over the appropriate use of public funds in the lead-up to a national poll.