One of the basic needs of every society is to live in security. Stemming from the country’s Basic Law, it is the obligation of the Government of Hungary to guarantee Hungary’s security and that of its citizens, as well a secure environment for their freedom and welfare.

In a historical context, today’s Hungary enjoys an unprecedented level of security. This has come about as a result of the successful process of Euro-Atlantic integration, solidarity and cooperation between Hungary and its Allies and their joint action against foreign and global threats. Security challenges, however, are changing continuously and at a fast pace; the security of the Hungarian nation is linked to the intricate and often unpredictable processes unfolding in a globalised world by a multitude of threads. For Hungary, globalisation is the source of new opportunities, but also new threats.

In the fast-changing and dangerous world, our conscious choice of values and the status as member of an alliance based upon the latter, supplemented by our regional and bilateral relationships, provide us with a firm point of departure. Allied solidarity, which also includes the collective defence of NATO member states, as well as the transatlantic bond, are the cornerstone of Hungary’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and security. Hungary’s security is strengthened furthermore by the cooperation and political solidarity within the European Union. Hungary’s membership in these two organisations provides the country with a unique opportunity to manage the security threats and challenges of our age, together with our Allies and EU-partners, in a more effective manner.

In the globalised world of today, the security of Hungary begins way beyond its borders: distant security threats and challenges may reach us with dramatic speed; preventing and managing them often requires action to be taken far away from our borders. The security and well-being of Hungary’s citizens may also be subject to threats from within the country. Guaranteeing internal security – in addition to its direct benefits – is also a precondition for Hungary to be a confident and strong player on the international stage. Hungary’s external as well as internal security need to be perceived as inseparable and unified.

The comprehensive interpretation of the concept of security makes it indispensable for its political, military, economic, financial, environmental and human dimensions to be managed in a comprehensive manner, by applying a whole of government approach. The implementation of the National Security Strategy is therefore guided by the intention and responsibility to guarantee freedom and security for today’s as well as future generations.

The Government will work for a Hungary that is free, independent, modern, successful, faithful to its values and strong in the area of security, a Hungary that will contribute to maintaining a strong NATO and European Union and is able to make use of the benefits arising from its membership.