Hungary has today launched a parliamentary election that holds significant international attention, as it could potentially see Prime Minister Viktor Orbán unseated after 16 years in power. Polling stations opened on Sunday morning and are scheduled to close at 7 PM, with initial preliminary results expected around 8 PM. Recent polls indicated that Orbán’s right-wing nationalist party, Fidesz, was significantly trailing the party of conservative opposition politician Peter Magyar, Tisza.
A total of 8.1 million eligible citizens are called upon to cast their ballots. This election is viewed as crucial for the European Union, primarily because Orbán frequently clashes with the European Commission and other EU member states on various issues. Critics accuse the head of government of transforming Hungary into an “illiberal democracy” through an authoritarian approach. His main challenger, Magyar-a former Fidesz member-has pledged to implement political reforms and promote a pro-West stance.
The Hungarian electoral system blends elements of both majority and proportional representation, making a change in government uncertain even if Tisza gains an edge in public opinion polls. Nevertheless, a two-thirds majority for Tisza could pave the way for fundamental changes, such as the release of blocked EU funds. Given the focus on the contest between Orbán and Magyar, the election presents limited opportunities for smaller political parties.