In a significant political shift, Hungary’s newly elected leader, Péter Magyar, is seeking to forge a strategic partnership with Poland’s Prime Minister, Donald Tusk. This alliance aims to leverage Poland’s recent success in mending ties with the European Union after an era of illiberal governance. Both Hungary and Poland, which have followed similar political paths since 1989, are now led by center-right, pro-European figures tasked with the challenge of restoring democratic norms and strengthening state institutions after years of strained EU relations.
On the night of the Hungarian election, Tusk, speaking from Korea, expressed his delight in Magyar’s victory, emphasizing the broader regional trend away from authoritarianism. He noted that Budapest’s political change mirrors recent developments in Warsaw, Bucharest, and Chișinău, underscoring a shift in Eastern Europe. Magyar reciprocated Tusk’s enthusiasm, announcing plans for a “special relationship” with Poland and choosing Warsaw as his first official visit abroad.
Amidst these diplomatic efforts, Magyar is preparing for rapid domestic changes, including addressing the presence of two ex-Polish ministers in Budapest, sought for alleged power abuses. As Hungary gears up for Magyar’s official swearing-in on May 9, coinciding with the EU’s “Europe Day,” the incoming administration is engaging in informal talks with EU officials. Key issues include lifting Hungary’s block on a substantial loan to Ukraine and agreeing on new sanctions against Russia, signaling Hungary’s potential political realignment.
Behind closed doors, Polish and Hungarian representatives are already discussing how Poland’s strategies to reverse authoritarian policies could be applied in Hungary. With a constitutional two-thirds majority, Magyar’s government has a clearer path to implement changes compared to Poland’s experience, where opposition vetoes posed challenges. However, the Hungarian government still faces the pressing task of meeting EU conditions by August to unlock critical funds.
Magyar’s agenda includes joining the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and investigating corruption during Viktor Orbán’s long tenure. Efforts to reform institutions may face challenges from entrenched elements of the previous regime, echoing Poland’s experiences. As Hungary undertakes this transformation, the influence of Orbán’s era on state officials remains a concern, highlighting the complexities of political change.