HUNGARY ELECTIONS: WHAT’S AT STAKE?

Hungarians head to the polls April 12 in one of Europe’s most consequential elections this year.

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Prime Minister Viktor Orban, in power for 16 years and a leading figure of the global far right, faces a serious challenge from Péter Magyar, a former ally turned critic.

Orban, the EU’s longest-serving leader, has since 2010 reshaped Hungary into what he calls an “illiberal democracy”, positioning himself as a defender of traditional Christian values against western liberalism. His governments have weakened democratic institutions, consolidating control over courts and turning much of the media landscape into a pro-government platform.

On the European stage, Orban has frequently clashed with Brussels. The EU has suspended billions in funding over concerns about rule of law, while Budapest has blocked key decisions on migration, LGBTQ+ rights, sanctions on Russia, and aid for Ukraine. Orban has maintained close ties with Moscow, continuing energy imports and meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin even after the invasion of Ukraine.