Hungary is set to hold its parliamentary elections on April 12, marking a significant moment as Prime Minister Viktor Orban faces the prospect of losing power for the first time in 16 years. The nation, which has a population of approximately 9.6 million, will choose representatives for its 199-seat National Assembly.
Recent opinion polls suggest that Peter Magyar, a prominent contender, could potentially unseat Orban in the upcoming 2026 elections.
Viktor Orban has been in office as Hungary’s Prime Minister since 2010 and is the leader of the far-right Fidesz party. He has characterized his administration as an “illiberal democracy” and positions himself as a champion of traditional Christian family values in Europe.
Orban has garnered support from various international figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and German conservative politician Alice Elisabeth Weidel. His administration has also maintained close relations with Moscow and continues to be a major purchaser of Russian oil.
Throughout his time in power, Orban, with the backing of his party’s parliamentary majority, has made significant changes to Hungary’s constitution, enacted laws that enhance executive authority, and imposed restrictions on non-governmental organizations and press freedoms.
The Guardian has characterized his election campaign this year as a “classic populist campaign,” framing the electoral choice as one of “war or peace.”
In contrast, opinion polls indicate that Peter Magyar, a former ally of Orban who now leads the center-right Tisza party, is currently in a favorable position.
Magyar, who previously belonged to the Fidesz party, has positioned himself as Orban’s main challenger. He has accused the Prime Minister of engaging in corrupt practices and spreading propaganda. His campaign emphasizes a return to a pro-European Union stance, a commitment to restoring media freedoms, and a reduction in reliance on Russian energy supplies. Central to his platform is a robust anti-corruption message, along with plans to unfreeze EU funds, tax the wealthy, and reform Hungary’s healthcare system.
Concerns regarding healthcare and economic stagnation have been prevalent among voters over the last three years. Additionally, there is growing dissatisfaction with rising living costs and wages, which are among the lowest in the European Union.
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