Ellenzáró

Ellenzáró is a Hungarian term that translates to "opposition lock" or "locking out the opposition." It refers to a political maneuver or a strategic situation in which a dominant political force or coalition effectively prevents opposing parties or individuals from gaining access to power, influence, or decision-making processes. This can manifest in various ways, such as through electoral system designs that favor incumbents, the control of media narratives, or the formation of strategic alliances that marginalize dissent. The term is often used to describe situations where a ruling party or coalition maintains power through structural advantages rather than solely through the merits of their policies or popular support.

The concept of ellenzáró can be observed in different political contexts. In some parliamentary systems, electoral thresholds or specific district boundaries might be perceived as creating an ellenzáró effect, making it difficult for smaller parties to gain representation. Similarly, governments might engage in practices that limit the ability of opposition parties to scrutinize their actions, such as controlling committee appointments or access to information. The term implies a deliberate effort to shut out alternative viewpoints and maintain the status quo, often leading to criticisms of democratic deficit or unfair political competition. The effectiveness and legitimacy of ellenzáró tactics are frequently subjects of public debate and political analysis.