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About
The Magyar Külügyi Intézet (MKI), also known as the Hungarian Institute of Foreign Affairs, is a Hungarian think tank focused on foreign policy and international relations. Established in 2013 amid a reorganization of Hungary's foreign policy institutions, it operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade as a government-affiliated research institute specializing in foreign policy analysis, international relations, and security studies. The institute conducts research, publishes reports, organizes events, and provides policy recommendations on topics including European integration, transatlantic relations, regional dynamics in Central and Eastern Europe, economic diplomacy, migration, defense, and Visegrád Group cooperation. It plays a key role in shaping Hungary's foreign policy discourse, aligning closely with the positions of the ruling Fidesz party and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, emphasizing national sovereignty, energy security, and relations with non-Western powers like Russia and China through initiatives such as the Eastern Opening policy. The MKI engages in public diplomacy through media appearances and educational programs, maintains collaborations with global think tanks, and participates in EU-funded projects. However, it has faced criticism from opposition groups and international observers for perceived lack of independence, allegations of serving as a propaganda arm for the government's foreign policy agenda, and scrutiny over transparency in funding and editorial independence, particularly regarding coverage of sensitive topics like Ukraine or EU-Russia tensions.