Hungary’s upcoming election is pivotal, as a victory for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán would solidify his role as a pro-Russian, eurosceptic influence within the EU. Over his 16-year rule, Orbán has systematically dismantled Hungary’s democratic institutions, transforming the country into an “illiberal state” with weakened checks and balances, controlled media, and electoral laws favoring his party. Despite EU efforts to curb his authoritarian drift—including blocking funds and legal actions against discriminatory laws—Orbán has continued to undermine EU values, openly collaborating with Russia and obstructing Ukraine’s EU accession.

Recent revelations of wiretapped conversations between Orbán and Putin expose Hungary’s role as a Russian agent within the EU, with Orbán pledging to block sanctions and assist Moscow’s interests. While opposition leader Péter Magyar, a conservative promising to tackle corruption and restore accountability, currently leads in polls, Orbán’s entrenched power and external backing make the election outcome uncertain. The result will have significant consequences for the future of democracy and EU cohesion.