Digital citizenship to kick off in Hungary – Chinese or Estonian style?

This move, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's administration, is part of a broader effort to modernize the state's infrastructure and streamline the delivery of public services. However, it has sparked significant controversy and raised numerous concerns about privacy, state control, and the potential for government overreach.

Centralization of personal data and digital identity

One of the most significant developments is the planned transformation of traditional ID cards into digital identities. This initiative, slated to begin in September, represents a substantial shift in how personal data is managed in Hungary. The government argues that this digital transformation will increase citizens' efficiency and convenience. According to Propaganda Minister Antal Rogán, a prominent figure in Orbán's administration, there is no need to fear the state's handling of personal data, as social media platforms like Facebook and Google already possess more detailed information about individuals than the government ever will.

Rogán's remarks reflect the government's broader attempt to downplay privacy and data security concerns, positioning the state as a more trustworthy guardian of personal information than private corporations. This narrative, however, has not been entirely convincing, particularly given Hungary's current political climate. Critics argue that centralizing personal data under state control could lead to significant risks, particularly in a country where democratic norms have been increasingly challenged under Orbán's leadership.

Privacy and security concerns

The centralization of data raises several critical issues related to privacy and security. There is widespread apprehension that the digital ID system could become a tool for increased surveillance. Introducing a digital ID system could further erode civil liberties in an environment where the government has already been accused of using its power to suppress dissent and monitor opposition activities. Concerns about potential data breaches or the misuse of personal information for political purposes are also prevalent.

Privacy advocates have voiced fears that the government's track record needs to inspire confidence that these systems will be used responsibly. For instance, under Orbán's rule, state power has been used to stifle media freedom and exert influence over the judiciary. In such a context, introducing digital IDs raises fears that these tools could be leveraged to monitor citizens more closely, potentially curbing freedom of expression and other fundamental rights.

Political and social implications

Beyond privacy and security, broader political and social implications should be considered. Hungary's democratic backsliding has been a concern both domestically and internationally. The centralization of digital identities could exacerbate this trend, providing the government with new mechanisms to control the population. Critics argue that this could lead to a situation where citizens' rights are further curtailed and the government's grip on power is strengthened.

Moreover, the digital ID system could disproportionately impact specific groups, such as political activists, journalists, and minority communities, who may be more vulnerable to state surveillance and harassment. The potential for these digital tools to be used in a discriminatory manner is a significant concern, particularly in light of Hungary's recent history of controversial policies targeting migrants and other marginalized groups.

The Hungarian government already has a history of using centralized databases for political campaign purposes. Just a couple of years ago, it set up an “information website” related to the COVID pandemic where citizens could sign up for vaccines, which the propaganda continued to use to spread government and party messages, especially around the 2022 elections. 

Public Perception and Response

Public response to these initiatives has been mixed, with some segments of the population expressing support for the government's modernization efforts while others remain deeply skeptical. The government's narrative, which portrays digital IDs as necessary for efficiency and progress, resonates with those who prioritize convenience and technological advancement. However, for many, the potential risks to privacy and civil liberties outweigh the promised benefits.

The debate over digital citizenship in Hungary reflects broader global concerns about the role of technology in society and the balance between state control and individual freedoms. As governments worldwide increasingly turn to digital solutions for managing public services, the Hungarian case serves as a critical example of the potential pitfalls of such approaches, particularly in contexts where democratic norms are under strain.

Chinese connections

Another concern of critics is that Hungary has been acting as the extended hand of the Chinese Communist Party in the European Union. Quite recently, Hungary has acquired a 1 billion euro loan from China, has been participating in mutual projects to allow the Chinese to build critical infrastructure, and has also allowed the Chinese to have police on the streets of Budapest, causing a lot of worry in the European community. Many fear that with the introduction of the new digital citizenship, the Hungarian government would become the first Chinese-style surveillance state in the European Union. 

In addition to police and financial interests, the Hungarian government also has a classified agreement with China to enable the authorities to use China's best practices for security purposes, whatever they may mean. Many civic groups fear this cooperation will lead to a China-like Orwellian state. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the push toward digital citizenship in Hungary is a complex and multifaceted issue that touches on privacy, security, and the balance of power between the state and its citizens. While the government promotes these initiatives as a path to modernization and efficiency, the concerns they raise cannot be dismissed lightly. The centralization of personal data and the introduction of digital identities could have far-reaching implications for civil liberties in Hungary, particularly given the current political environment. As the country moves forward with these initiatives, it will be crucial to closely monitor how they are implemented and their impact on the rights and freedoms of Hungarian citizens.