EU Media: Hungary's Victor Magyar Determined, But Dismantling Orbán's Corrupt System Will Be Difficult

The recent electoral victory in Hungary, led by Peter Magyar, presents a pivotal moment for the nation, but the path forward is fraught with immense challenges. EU media and analysts are keenly observing Magyar's resolve, acknowledging that dismantling Viktor Orbán's deeply entrenched system—one characterized by corruption and cronyism—will be a monumental task. The comparison to Rubik's Cube, while simplistic, aptly captures the complexity of the reforms ahead; unlike a puzzle that can be solved in moments, Magyar faces a deeply ingrained structure that will require sustained and arduous effort.

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His compatriot Rubik only needs about ten seconds to solve his cube, while Magyar will have to struggle much, much more.

A primary objective for the incoming government will be to restore Hungary's relationship with the European Union, particularly by unfreezing substantial EU funds. These funds, amounting to tens of billions of euros, have been blocked due to Orban's administration's consistent disregard for fundamental democratic principles, including the rule of law, judicial independence, and media freedom. Re-establishing these core tenets of democracy is not only a prerequisite for accessing EU aid but also crucial for combating corruption and organized crime effectively.

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Magyar has immediately made it clear that he wants Hungary to join the key institution of the European Public Prosecutor's Office. This would help uncover malversations with money from EU funds during Orban's rule.

Magyar has signaled a strong commitment to tackling corruption head-on, announcing the establishment of a dedicated ministry for this purpose. Furthermore, he has prioritized the restoration of media freedom, a sector heavily controlled and manipulated under the previous government. Plans include reforming the state television and public broadcasting services, which have long served as instruments of government propaganda, and overhauling the state advertising system that disproportionately benefited pro-government media outlets. These reforms are essential for fostering a truly democratic environment where independent media can thrive.

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Magyar has already started a "fundamental reform of media freedom," without which there is no democracy, and the first measure is the abolition of state television and public services that have been completely biased and under Orbán's command until now.

However, the transition will not be smooth. Reports indicate that Orban's ministers are already attempting to destroy sensitive documents, signaling fierce resistance from the old guard. The deep-rooted nature of Orban's influence is evident in the judiciary and public prosecutor's offices, where key positions are held by individuals loyal to Fidesz. With lengthy terms for top officials, including the Chief Prosecutor and the President of the Constitutional Court, undoing this influence will be a protracted process. Despite these obstacles, the changes initiated by Magyar are expected to invigorate the entire European Union, demonstrating a potential shift towards stronger democratic governance within the bloc.

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Analyst Zuzana Vej, of the German Marshall Fund, warns that judicial reform will be a long process. Because in courts and prosecutor's offices, key positions have been filled by individuals loyal to Orbán and Fidesz, and their terms of office cannot be changed by political decisions.