CPAC Europe embraces right-wing authoritarians

CPAC Hungary, the Budapest edition of the Conservative Political Action Conference, gathered American and European conservative activists, politicians, and commentators to discuss what organizers called the decline of Western civilization. Sessions focused on immigration, resistance to progressive social policies, and critiques of liberal democracy. Hungary’s prime minister Viktor Orbán was a prominent speaker, and some remarks echoed the “great replacement” language while emphasizing national sovereignty and cultural preservation.

The conference’s access rules drew attention when some American journalists were barred, raising questions about press freedom at the event. Organizers and hosts framed CPAC Europe as part of a broader effort to build an international conservative network, with sister conferences on multiple continents. Observers say the meetings aim to coordinate ideas and political support across borders, prompting debate about potential impacts on democratic norms and alliances with illiberal leaders.