Mainstreaming, Gender and Communication in Hungary

This report focuses on radicalisation instigated by toxic masculinity, gender discrimination and sexism in Hungary with a special focus on the context that a politically induced polarisation stimulates, while emphasising the unfolding measures of de-radicalisation within the society. To show how the Hungarian political elite promotes toxic masculinity by politics as well as legislation and execution of policy, we have analysed digital media content and media articles from the most recent years. The first part of the report investigates the historical background of sexism, toxic masculinity and anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment within the political arena by reflecting on neo-Turanism in Hungary – a political ideology that rests on mythical interpretations of Hungarian prowess and valour as fighters and state builders, which inevitably indicate masculine superiority. In the second part, through analysing digital media content of de-radicalisation agents, we promote rather unconventional ways of de-radicalisation measures. A content analysis regarding social media platforms presented us with data and user comments about polarisation regarding sexism and toxic masculinity in Hungary. While they showcase the current status of polarisation in Hungary, they have also presented us with inferences as to how social media can mediate the impacts of radicalisation and equally instigate de-radicalisation. By investigating anti- and pro-gender actors, this report serves as a map of politically induced radicalisation and how stakeholders and ordinary citizens in society reacts against stark polarisation over gender issues.