Hungary expected to reject migrant quotas as voters go to the polls for referendum

Hungarians go to the polls today in a referendum on migrant quotas that puts further pressure on the European Union after the Brexit vote. They are widely expected to vote not to accept the quotas but it is not certain the turn-out will be above the 50% required to make it valid. Although it is not a referendum on membership itself, it could further expose fault lines across the continent. Hungary’s right-wing and nationalist prime minister, Viktor Orban, who is regarded as a renegade by some fellow EU leaders, has called on his citizens to vote “no” in the ballot.

For us migration is not a solution but a problem … Not a medicine but a poison. We don’t need it and we won’t swallow it

Prime minister Viktor Orban, speaking earlier this year

Polls show that the relentless campaign urging citizens to “send a message to Brussels” while associating migrants with terrorism has increased xenophobia in Hungary. It is fanned by Mr Orban who wants the quotas rejected because he does not it believe it spreads the burden of accepting migrants evenly. His government’s campaign to ensure a “no” vote has cost close to £30 million. Its posters and billboards displayed access the country say: “Don’t risk it - vote no”. One says “Did you know? The Paris attacks were carried out by immigrants” - despite the fact that they were EU citizens.

When someone comes here and asks for help, it’s a duty to help them

Voter Palma Pasztor, who says she will spoil the ballot paper

Europe