National Consultation on Immigration and Terrorism

Original questionnaire.

Original letter of introduction.

During the second half of May 2015, the Orbán government sent its National Consultation Regarding Immigration and Terrorism to eight million voters in Hungary. The government estimates that its newest national consultation will cost 960 million forints, or 3.14 million euros (source in Hungarian). Recipients will have until July 1, 2015 to return the questionnaire to the Prime Ministry in a provided postage-free envelope. Below is an Orange Files translation of Prime Minister Orbán’s introductory letter as well as the 12-question consultation.

LETTER OF INTRODUCTION

Esteemed Compatriots!

In 2010 we Hungarians decided that we would discuss all important questions with one another before we make decisions. This is why we initiated national consultations regarding the country’s new Fundamental Law, our social security and improvement of the situation of pensioners, among other things. And this is why we have now initiated national consultation on the question of subsistence [megélhetési] immigration.

As you certainly remember, an unprecedented terrorist act jolted Europe at the beginning of the year. In Paris they extinguished the lives of innocent people in merciless cold blood and with frightening brutality. That which took place appalled every one of us. At the same time, this humanly incomprehensible monstrosity also showed that Brussels and the European Union are not capable of handling the question of immigration in an adequate manner.

Subsistence immigrants cross the border illegally and although they portray themselves as refugees, they in fact come for social benefits and work opportunities. In just the past few months, the number of subsistence immigrants in Hungary has risen around twentyfold. This represents a new type of threat that we must stop.

Since Brussels has failed in the handling of immigration, Hungary must take its own path. We will not permit subsistence immigrants to threaten the workplaces and subsistence of Hungarian people.

We must decide how to defend Hungary against illegal border-crossings. We must decide how to limit explosively increasing subsistence immigration.

I respectfully ask you to get into contact with us, tell us what you think with regard to the question raised [above], fill out and return the questionnaire. I count on your opinion.

Best regards,

Viktor Orbán

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QUESTIONNAIRE

National Consultation on Immigration and Terrorism

1] One can hear many different opinions with regard to the increasing acts of terrorism. How important do You consider the advance [térnyerés] of terrorism (the massacre in France, the alarming acts of ISIS) from the perspective of your own life?

-Really Important -Important -Not Important

2] Do You believe that Hungary could be the target of terrorist acts over the coming years?

-There is a serious chance of this -It could happen -It is totally excluded

3] There are those who believe that the advance of terrorism is connected to the poor handling of immigration by Brussels. Do You agree with these opinions?