Péter Magyar’s recent victory in Hungary’s election has set the stage for a potential transformative alliance with Poland’s Prime Minister, Donald Tusk. Magyar is keen to leverage Poland’s experience in mending relations with the European Union, following years of strained ties under previous leadership. Both Hungary and Poland have seen similar political journeys since 1989, and now, under Magyar and Tusk, they face the shared challenge of restoring democratic norms and state institutions that have suffered from past governance. Tusk, speaking from Korea, expressed his enthusiasm upon Magyar’s win, signaling a shift in Eastern European politics away from authoritarianism.
In a gesture highlighting the newfound camaraderie, Magyar announced plans to visit Warsaw for his first official trip abroad, underscoring the importance of this bilateral relationship. During a press conference, he also addressed the issue of two former Polish ministers currently in Hungary, indicating his intention to cooperate with Poland in addressing allegations of power abuse against them. This move is seen as part of a broader effort to distance Hungary from the policies and practices of Viktor Orbán’s era, as Magyar prepares to step into his new role at the European Council, where Tusk’s seasoned presence could prove invaluable.
The European Union has already begun informal discussions with Magyar’s incoming government, with hopes of seeing Hungary lift its block on a substantial €90bn loan to Ukraine and implement new sanctions against Russia. These actions would signal Hungary’s political realignment within the EU. Additionally, Hungary is expected to meet several conditions related to judicial reforms, anti-corruption measures, and academic freedoms to unlock much-needed EU funds. Lessons from Poland’s recent political shift could serve as a blueprint for Hungary’s efforts to reverse years of illiberal governance and regain access to billions in frozen EU funds.
Magyar’s decisive victory, which granted him a two-thirds parliamentary majority, positions him to implement reforms more efficiently than Poland, where political opposition has sometimes hindered progress. However, challenges remain, as remnants of Orbán’s influence linger within Hungary’s institutions. Magyar has already urged Tamás Sulyok, a key ally of Orbán, to step down, signaling a desire for a clean break from past regimes. His commitment to joining the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and investigating corruption during Orbán’s 16-year tenure is seen as a pivotal step toward transparency and accountability.
As both nations strive for reform, Poland’s past difficulties in overhauling entrenched systems of illiberalism could offer insights for Hungary. While Magyar’s administration may have the advantage of a strong legislative mandate, the deep-seated challenges of changing institutional mindsets remain. Experts warn that despite structural reforms, the legacy of the Orbán era might continue to influence state officials, prosecutors, and judges, highlighting the complex road ahead for Hungary’s democratic revitalization.