Europe is ecstatic over Viktor Orban’s defeat at the polls in what sees to be a clear moment of political unity. The far-right in Europe seems to be as smaller as ever as Europe celebrates what seems to be a return to normality in Hungary.
But is it?
Peter Magyar, the new Hungarian Premier-elect, is not a completely different political figure from Viktor Orban. Peter Magyar was previously a member of Fidesz until 2024, when he broke ranks with Orban amid a corruption scandal involving government insiders. His break with the government was driven more by governance and corruption issues than by a fundamental rejection of all of Orban’s policies, some of which may be preserved under a Magyar-led government.
Magyar has called for improved relations with Brussels, but he has also signaled opposition to certain EU policies, including aspects of migration burden-sharing. He has indicated that Hungary would continue to resist mandatory migrant quotas, maintaining a position broadly aligned with the country’s existing stance.
Magyar is expected to take a more cooperative approach within the European Union, including potentially removing Hungary’s veto over Ukraine’s EU loan. His approach will be closely watched as a test of whether Hungary shifts towards greater alignment with EU policy or maintains a more confrontational stance.
On Ukraine and Russia, Magyar has not made definitive commitments regarding Ukraine’s EU membership and has adopted a more cautious position compared to some European leaders. While he has been critical of aspects of Orban’s servile behaviour towards Russia he has not fully outlined a clear alternative, particularly regarding Hungary’s Russian energy imports.
Tisza positions itself as a centre-right, reform-oriented party, and Hungary remains a predominantly socially conservative society. Tisza won the elections with up to 53% of the vote with Fidesz gaining roughly 37%. The overwhelming political environment in Hungary is still very conservative with.
The exit of Viktor Orban is undoubtedly welcome in Europe: Viktor Orban was a Russian Trojan Horse who undermined Europe and openly nd covertly served Russia’s interests. His replacement will be more trustworthy and less disruptive. The exit of Viktor Orban is undoubtedly welcome in Europe: Viktor Orban was a Russian Trojan Horse who undermined Europe and openly and covertly served Russia’s interests. His replacement will be more trustworthy and less disruptive, but there’s also likely that he may not be very enthusiastic to contribute to the European project As Hungary’s insular mindset is still predominant.
Below. Youth in Budapest Metro chanting “Russians go home”. Feature video below by Reuters.
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