Orbán Unites European Far-Right Amidst Political Shifts and Global Events

Budapest is set to host a significant gathering of far-right leaders on Monday, March 23, 2026, as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán seeks to bolster support ahead of parliamentary elections on April 12. The rally, dubbed “the first Patriotic Grand Assembly,” will feature Marine Le Pen of France’s National Rally, Matteo Salvini, Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and head of the League party, Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and Dutch politician Geert Wilders. This display of unity comes as Orbán’s Fidesz party trails behind Péter Magyar’s Tisza party in recent opinion polls .

Far-Right Consolidation and European Politics

The assembly underscores a growing alignment among far-right movements in Europe, many of whom share Orbán’s stance on immigration and skepticism towards the European Union. Le Pen and Salvini have consistently voiced support for Orbán’s policies. These leaders are also members of the Patriots for Europe, the third-largest political group in the European Parliament .

Trump’s Potential Visit and US Relations

The event takes place against the backdrop of uncertainty surrounding a potential visit by former US President Donald Trump to Budapest. In January, Trump indicated his intention to visit during the election campaign, praising Orbán as a “great leader” and acknowledging his commitment to national sovereignty .

Other Key Events in the Week of March 23-29, 2026

• March 24: Parliamentary elections are held in Denmark, potentially impacting the future of current Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who has been in power for nearly seven years.
• March 25: European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde delivers a speech in Frankfurt, addressing economic concerns related to ongoing global conflicts.
• March 26: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro faces further legal proceedings in New York, accused of drug trafficking. The launch of a new Paris-Berlin night train service by European Sleeper also occurs on this day. France’s national football team plays a friendly match against Brazil near Boston.
• March 27: Moody’s agency releases updated ratings for Spain and Italy, reflecting improved economic health.
• March 28: Pope Leo XIV makes a historic visit to Monaco, delivering a mass at the Louis-II stadium. Anti-Trump protests, dubbed “No kings” day, are planned across the US.
• March 29: Most of Europe switches to summer time.

Global Economic and Political Landscape

Beyond the European political developments, the week of March 23-29, 2026, also features significant events in the energy sector. The CERAWeek conference in Houston brings together industry leaders to address rising energy prices influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East . A major tech forum in Washington, D.C., will host CEOs from leading technology companies, including Nvidia’s Jensen Huang.

France’s Political Turmoil

France is grappling with political upheaval following a March 31, 2025, court decision that banned Marine Le Pen from holding public office for five years due to embezzlement of public funds . The verdict has sparked outrage from Le Pen’s supporters and condemnation from international figures like Matteo Salvini, who described it as a “declaration of war by Brussels.” Russia also criticized the decision as undemocratic .