Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s nationalist party, Fidesz, won the most votes in the recent European Parliament elections but fell short of its previous dominance in a race against a new challenger, Péter Magyar. While Fidesz secured 44% of the vote, down from 52% in 2019, Magyar’s Respect and Freedom (TISZA) party gained significant support, receiving 30% of the vote. This election was seen as a referendum on Orbán’s popularity, with many expressing dissatisfaction with his governance due to economic crises and scandals. Despite the decrease in support, Orbán claimed victory over his opponents, vowing to defeat them in future elections.
The participation rate in the EU election in Hungary reached a record high of over 57%, indicating strong engagement from the public. Orbán’s grip on Hungarian politics has faced a formidable challenge from Magyar, who broke away from Fidesz to establish TISZA as a strong opposition party. Magyar’s campaign against corruption within Orbán’s government and his promise for change resonated with many Hungarian voters. The election results signaled a shift in Hungary’s domestic politics, highlighting a desire for change and an end to social divisions perpetuated by Fidesz’s propaganda machine.
Orbán’s campaign heavily focused on divisive issues like migration and LGBTQ+ rights, framing the election as a battle against potential war escalation in Europe. He emphasized his refusal to provide military support to Ukraine as a “pro-peace” position, aligning himself closely with Russia and opposing intervention in the conflict. Right-wing populists like Orbán made significant gains in the European elections, raising concerns about the bloc’s decision-making ability amidst global tensions. Hungary’s far-right Our Homeland party gained representation in Brussels, further diversifying the political landscape.
While Orbán’s supporters see him as an advocate for peace and stability, critics argue that his governance has led to division and isolation in Hungary. TISZA supporters, like Gyula Német, believe that a positive change is necessary to integrate Hungary with Europe and unite its people. Magyar’s success in the elections has set the stage for a possible challenge to Orbán in the upcoming national ballot in 2026. As Hungary prepares to take over the EU’s rotating presidency in July, the political landscape in the country is shifting, signaling a potential turning point in its future direction.
The Hungarian elections reflect broader trends in Europe, where right-wing populism has gained ground, creating concerns about the bloc’s unity and decision-making process. As Orbán continues to align with Russia and oppose intervention in the Ukraine conflict, his stance on key issues like migration and LGBTQ+ rights remains divisive. The results of the European Parliament elections in Hungary have set the stage for a new era in the country’s politics, with the emergence of a strong opposition challenging Orbán’s long-standing dominance. The next few years will be crucial in determining Hungary’s direction and its relationship with the EU and the global community.
