What's happened
Péter Magyar, leader of Hungary’s opposition Tisza party, is gaining ground in polls against Viktor Orbán ahead of April elections. The European Parliament recently upheld Magyar’s immunity, blocking efforts by Orbán’s government to disqualify him. The political landscape in Hungary is shifting, with implications for EU democracy and Orbán’s rule.
What's behind the headline?
The European Parliament’s decision to uphold Magyar’s immunity signals a critical resistance to Orbán’s attempts to disqualify his political opponents. This move underscores the EU’s ongoing struggle to address Hungary’s erosion of democratic norms. The immunity protection also highlights the broader geopolitical contest between EU institutions and Hungary’s government, which views such interventions as infringements on sovereignty.
Magyar’s rising popularity indicates a significant shift in Hungarian politics, fueled by economic dissatisfaction and fatigue with Orbán’s populist tactics. If Magyar’s momentum continues, it could lead to a fundamental change in Hungary’s political direction, potentially restoring democratic norms and EU alignment.
The case of Ilaria Salis and other lawmakers shows the EU’s effort to protect opposition figures from politically motivated prosecutions. This stance may deepen tensions between Hungary and Brussels, risking further polarization. The outcome of the April elections will be pivotal in determining whether Hungary remains under Orbán’s influence or moves toward a more democratic future.
What the papers say
The Guardian highlights the potential political shift in Hungary, emphasizing the rise of opposition leader Péter Magyar and the implications for EU democracy. Politico reports on the European Parliament’s immunity decisions, framing them as a stand against Orbán’s government and its attempts to disqualify opposition figures. AP News provides context on Magyar’s challenge to Orbán, noting his recent polling surge and the government’s efforts to disqualify him ahead of elections. The contrasting tone between The Guardian’s focus on democratic renewal and Politico’s emphasis on institutional resistance illustrates the broader geopolitical tension at play.
How we got here
Orbán has maintained power in Hungary since 2010 through populist and autocratic tactics, including curtailing media independence and constitutional checks. Magyar, once an insider, now leads a rising opposition movement, challenging Orbán amid economic struggles and voter fatigue. The European Parliament’s recent immunity decisions reflect ongoing tensions over Hungary’s democratic backsliding.
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Common question
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Who is Péter Magyar and why is he gaining ground in Hungary?
Recent political developments in Hungary have put opposition leader Péter Magyar in the spotlight. As he gains ground against Viktor Orbán, questions arise about who Magyar is and what his rise means for Hungary and the EU. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this political shift and its broader implications.
More on these topics
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Péter Magyar is a Hungarian politician and lawyer.
Magyar garnered media attention when, on March 15, 2024, he announced his intention to found a party, offering an alternative to what he believed to be an "artificial divide" between the parliamentary op
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Viktor Mihály Orbán is a Hungarian politician who has been Prime Minister of Hungary since 2010; he was also Prime Minister from 1998 to 2002.