Sovereignty and National Memory

Speaking at a press conference, Csizmadia emphasized the historical parallels between the 1848–49 Revolution and the current political climate.

"On the anniversary of the 1848-49 revolution and freedom fight... we must remember that Hungary has always stood up for its sovereignty and independence," he stated.

The organizers are positioning the march as a defense of national autonomy against perceived "imperialist" pressure from the European Union and Brussels, particularly concerning the war in Ukraine and migration policies.

The 2026 Election Context

The timing of the march is significant, as it falls in the final weeks of the campaign for the April 2026 parliamentary elections.

A "Show of Strength": Organizers aim for a turnout of "hitherto unseen proportions" to demonstrate the unity and mobilization capacity of the pro-government base.

The "Peace" Narrative: The march will lean heavily into the government’s "pro-peace" messaging, which contrasts its stance with what it describes as the "pro-war" stance of the domestic opposition and Western allies.

The Challenge: Recent polling suggests a highly competitive race between the ruling Fidesz party and the Tisza Party, led by Péter Magyar. The Peace March is seen as a crucial tool for Fidesz to reinvigorate its voters ahead of what many analysts call the most uncertain election in 15 years.

Event Details and Logistics

While the full route and start time are expected to be finalized in the coming days, the event traditionally concludes at a major symbolic location, such as Kossuth Square or the National Museum, where Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is expected to deliver his keynote national holiday address.

Historically, Peace Marches involve:

International Participation: Supporters often travel from ethnic Hungarian communities in neighboring countries (Romania, Serbia, and Slovakia) via organized bus routes.

The "Intellectual National Defense": CÖF-CÖKA leaders, including spokesperson Zoltán Lomnici Jr., have suggested the march will also serve to "fend off intervention attempts" from foreign NGOs and political entities.

COF-COKA: Peace March to show "example to Europe"

The head of the pro-government Civil Union (COF) and allied Civil Union Foundation (COKA) told press conference on Monday that he expected to see unprecedentedly large numbers the March 15 Peace March, which would "show an example to Europe".

Laszlo Csizmadia said this year's Peace March will proceed along the usual route, departing at 11am from Elvis Presley Square, proceeding along Szent Istvan Boulevard, through Nyugati Square and Alkotmany Street to Kossuth Square, where Prime Minister Viktor Orban will address the crowd.

Csizmadia said Hungary's sovereignty was under attack from outside and within. "We want to send a message to the conspirators preparing to replace our legitimate government that we will defend our Prime Minister Viktor Orban," he said. 

"We will defend the independence of our beloved country, reject illegal migration and resist the gender craze."

Industrialist Gabor Szeles said the processes currently taking place in the world would be difficult to manage if the country had a new government.

"We are witnessing an explosion in energy prices," he said. Unpredictable political movements "can only bring about bad things for the economy," he added. It was not worth taking the risk of entrusting people with governance who had no experience, Szeles insisted.

Andras Bencsik, editor-in-chief of the Demokrata newspaper, said the April 12 election would determine whether there should be war or peace in Europe. He said that if the opposition Tisza Party came to power, they would take the country to war "without a second thought". 

"If the government of peace wins on April 12, Hungary will continue to have the strength to curb this hysteria and preserve peace," Bencsik said. People must give each other strength, faith and hope at the march, he added.
 

*********************************************************************************************

You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: 

Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoop’s groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary

You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters

Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop:

As an independent portal we’re grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here.