Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has been recognized with Hungary’s Hunyadi János Award for his unwavering stance on border security during the migration crisis. The award, presented by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on March 19th in Brussels, was witnessed by nationalist leaders including Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella of France’s National Rally (RN).
Orbán commended Salvini’s determination, recalling the legal battle he endured after refusing to allow illegal migrants to disembark from a NGO vessel in 2019—a move that led prosecutors to pursue a six-year prison sentence. Calling the case outrageous, Orbán declared, “Justice has prevailed twice—first with his acquittal, and now with this honor for protecting European civilization.”
Salvini, in his speech, stressed that the biggest threat to Europe isn’t Russia but unchecked migration, radicalism, and terrorism. “We’re fighting for a strong, free, and secure Europe,” he asserted.
Established in 2023 by Hungary’s ruling Fidesz party, the Hunyadi János Award pays tribute to figures defending national sovereignty, its namesake being a legendary Hungarian commander who repelled Ottoman invasions. Last year’s recipient, Polish MEP Ryszard Legutko, was honored for challenging EU overreach. The prize includes a statuette, a certificate, and €20,000.
Orbán ended with a firm call to action, urging patriots to take back Brussels from what he called corrupt, globalist forces threatening national independence. The fight for Europe’s future, he warned, is far from over.
