A magyar építőipar észak-afrikai kalandjai

Absztrakt

The study discusses Hungary’s shift in foreign policy toward the Third World from the 1960s onward, emphasizing the broadening of political contacts to encompass cultural and economic cooperation with the Global South. While these relations have traditionally been viewed as secondary to those with the Global North, recent scholarship suggests that they were part of a deliberate effort by socialist countries to develop an alternative form of globalization, distinct from Western practices. The Libyan Housing Project, initiated by Hungary’s socialist construction industry, serves as a case study to examine Hungary’s relationship with the Arabworld. This project, which ultimately failed and resulted in severe financial losses for Hungary, offers insights into the practicalities and perceptions of cooperation between Hungary and Arab nations. The study incorporates internal expert reports, records of government meetings, and other sources to examine the motivations, operations, and eventual complications of engagement with Third World countries. The analysis highlights the stark contrast between the rigid, centrally planned economic practices of Hungarian firms set against a capitalist environment, as well as the Hungarian government’s changing stance toward Libya and the broader implications of viewing socialist countries as proactive participants in globalization rather than mere recipients.