Hungary’s Rebirth

Hungary’s April election ended Viktor Orbán’s long hold on power: Péter Magyar and his Tisza party won a parliamentary majority. Sasha Abramsky visited Budapest this summer to see what the change might mean for a country whose institutions Orbán reshaped.

Magyar was once part of Orbán’s Fidesz circle, then built a challenge through public appearances, independent media and an anti-corruption message. The new government has promised to restore checks on power and unlock European Union funds held back over rule-of-law concerns.

Abramsky describes early steps that include joining the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, recovering public assets and changing rules around media and the courts. The government has also highlighted measures such as expanded child benefits.

The author’s optimism comes with a warning: removing Orbán-era officials or reversing their policies could create another concentration of power if it bypasses fair rules. Hungary’s test is whether the new majority can rebuild democratic safeguards while delivering the change voters chose.