Ai Mainstream

AI videos fuel rhetoric as Orbán bids for four more years in Hungary

AI-generated videos are being used in the political landscape of Hungary as Prime Minister Viktor Orbán seeks reelection for another term. A video circulated online depicting the apparent execution of a Hungarian soldier shocked viewers due to its disturbing content. Released on social media by Orbán’s Fidesz party ahead of the crucial elections, the fake video was aimed at discrediting his opponent, Péter Magyar. The video falsely portrayed Magyar as supporting war and Ukraine, leveraging fear tactics to sway public opinion. Despite denials from Magyar and his party Tisza, Fidesz continues to push these misleading narratives using AI-generated content. The use of generative AI in political campaigns has become widespread, with Orbán’s allies perpetuating anti-Ukrainian sentiments through various mediums. While these tactics may not be influencing voter sentiment significantly, they raise concerns about the spread of disinformation and manipulation in the political sphere. If Fidesz retains power, the continuation of such deceptive strategies is likely, posing challenges for media integrity and democratic norms in Hungary.