February 7, 2026 l Dalena Reporters
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Örban has announced he will travel to Washington, D.C. in mid-February to participate in the inaugural meeting of the “Board of Peace”, a U.S.-led diplomatic initiative that aims to mobilise global support for peace and reconstruction, according to international news agency reports.
The announcement was made on Saturday as the Hungarian leader addressed supporters at a campaign event in Szombathely, his home region. Örban stated that he is scheduled to meet with U.S. officials in two weeks’ time as the Board prepares to hold its first official session.
Initially unveiled during a diplomatic gathering in Davos, Switzerland, late last year, the “Board of Peace” has been positioned by the White House as a forum to enhance global cooperation on reconstruction efforts particularly in the wake of protracted conflicts like the war in Gaza. However, the initiative’s broad scope and funding model have sparked debate among international observers.
Under the current outline, countries and organisations that seek permanent membership on the Board must contribute at least $1 billion in funding, a requirement that has led critics to characterise the body as a potential “pay-to-play” alternative to existing multilateral institutions such as the United Nations Security Council.
Örban widely regarded as one of the European Union’s most influential nationalist leaders has supported closer ties with the U.S. on global security matters, even as he navigates a sensitive political landscape at home. Hungary is holding national elections on April 12, 2026, and while Örban’s Fidesz party remains a dominant force, opposition polls indicate a closer race than seen in previous cycles.
Analysts suggest Magyar politics may be influenced by Örban’s engagement in high-profile diplomatic forums such as the Board of Peace. Success on the international stage could be leveraged domestically, but critics argue that his association with an initiative perceived as favouring wealthier nations risks alienating European partners.
As the international community anticipates the televised Washington meeting later this month, diplomats and policymakers will be watching closely to see whether the Board of Peace can deliver substantive cooperation or if it will become another arena for geopolitical competition rather than genuine multilateral consensus.