How to Build Democracy — in an Authoritarian Country | Tessza Udvarhelyi | TED | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Hungary's current government has eroded democracy and implemented oppressive policies, but grassroots activists and organizations are working towards social justice and change.

Key Insights

• 🇭🇺 Hungary has experienced a shift towards authoritarianism under a right-wing government, characterized by the promotion of nationalism, racism, and homophobia.
• 🤝 Democracy requires active participation and dissent, rather than mere consent. It is a continuous process that must be enacted by the people.
• 🌿 Grassroots organizations and movements in Hungary are working towards social justice, environmental justice, workers' rights, and quality public services, despite being less visible internationally.
• 🏠 The Hungarian housing movement, such as "The City Is for All," demonstrates the power of working together for housing justice and involving homeless individuals in decision-making processes.
• 🤝 Local grassroots organizations and participatory budgeting initiatives in Budapest and the 8th district have allowed citizens to directly decide how municipal budgets are allocated, empowering local communities.
• 💡 It is crucial to challenge oppressive systems and imagine alternative possibilities, even in the face of oppressive governments and limited political freedom.
• 🐸 Democracy requires constant vigilance and should not be taken for granted, as complacency can lead to the gradual erosion of freedoms.
• 🌍 The struggle for democracy and social justice is universal, and individuals everywhere must be active participants in shaping their own societies.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: How has Hungary's government eroded democracy and implemented oppressive policies?

Hungary's right-wing government, in power since 2010, has utilized nationalism, racism, homophobia, and oppressive legislation to erode democracy. They have criminalized homelessness, passed exploitative labor laws, marginalized LGBTQ individuals, and suppressed education and free speech.

Q: What role do grassroots organizations play in Hungary's fight for social justice?

Grassroots organizations, such as The City Is for All, are at the forefront of Hungary's fight for social justice. They empower homeless individuals, create a sense of belonging, and allow marginalized voices to become movement leaders. These organizations actively challenge oppressive policies and work towards housing justice and other social causes.

Q: How does participatory budgeting contribute to democracy in Hungary?

Participatory budgeting, introduced in Budapest and other districts, gives local residents a say in how municipal budgets are spent. This power allows citizens to decide on local priorities, creates alternative avenues for public spending, and challenges the central government's concentration of power and resources. It fosters a sense of belonging and empowers local communities.

Q: What obstacles does Hungary face in achieving social and political change?

Hungary faces several obstacles in achieving social and political change. The government's oppression has created a belief that change is not possible, and many Hungarians are unaware of grassroots movements or alternative perspectives. Overcoming fear and passivity is crucial to imagining and creating a different future.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Hungary, after decades of state socialism, had a functioning democracy in the 1990s, but the right-wing government elected in 2010 has undermined democratic principles and embraced nationalism, racism, and homophobia.

• The government has criminalized homelessness, passed exploitative labor laws, marginalized LGBTQ individuals, and suppressed education and free speech.

• While Hungary still has regular elections and some independent media, the government's authoritarianism and the passive response of its citizens have led to widespread emigration.

• Grassroots organizations, such as The City Is for All and participatory budgeting initiatives, offer hope for change, encouraging citizen engagement and creating a new vision for democracy.