Hungary’s government alleges Facebook is politically interfering in upcoming elections by limiting Prime Minister Orbán’s content and boosting opposition posts.
Facebook’s Alleged Political Intervention
A pro-government Hungarian weekly, “Mandiner,” reported on what it calls “open political interference” by Facebook in the lead-up to the Hungarian elections, specifically through restricting posts by Prime Minister Orbán.
“Mandiner” cited a post by Lebanese-Australian political commentator Mario Nawfal, who noted that Tisza Party leader Péter Magyar is achieving disproportionately high engagement rates, “exceeding global benchmarks despite operating in a much smaller country.”
Meta Employee’s Political Stance
Concerns have been raised regarding how Meta, the corporation that owns Facebook, moderates political content in Hungary. A Meta employee publicly revealed a political position aligned with European mainstream narratives, including pro-Ukrainian messaging and content perceived as anti-government in Hungary, according to Nawfal.
Concerns Over Free Speech and Democratic Integrity
If Facebook continues to restrict Orbán’s content while amplifying opposition accounts before the elections, serious questions will arise about freedom of speech and democratic integrity, requiring urgent investigation, Nawfal added.
Government Spokesman’s Accusations
Zoltán Kovács, Orbán’s government spokesman, wrote on X that the Meta employee referenced by Nawfal has “repeatedly expressed sympathy for the Hungarian opposition” and demonstrates “strong pro-Ukrainian views” and opposition to the former Polish Law and Justice government.
MEP Accuses EU Commission of “Facebook Blockade”
Csaba Domotor, a Member of the European Parliament from Orbán’s Fidesz party, stated on Wednesday, March 18th, that the European Commission has activated a regulatory tool that could limit content on social media platforms ahead of the Hungarian elections, accusing the institution of a “Facebook blockade.”
Latest Polls Show Opposition Leading
The Tisza party is currently leading in most independent polls. A February survey by Median showed Magyar’s party with a 20-point lead among decided voters. The Hungarian elections will be held on April 12th.
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