The European Green Party has welcomed the ‘historic’ outcome of Hungary‘s general election, which marks the end of Viktor Orbán’s 16 years in power.
In a statement, the Greens said that the vote represents a rejection of far-right governance and a shift toward democratic and pro-European priorities, and signals a desire among Hungarian voters to re-align the country with European democratic standards.
The party pointed to concerns over rule of law, media freedom and institutional independence during Orbán’s time in office, and expressed hope that the new political direction will address these issues.
‘Embedded in democracy’
“Despite heavy meddling from Trump and Putin, smear campaigns and propaganda, the Hungarians have had their say – they have made it clear they want the future of their country to be firmly embedded in democracy and in Europe,” commented Vula Tsetsi, co-chair of the European Green Party.
“We hope that we will now see Hungary back on the path of respecting the rule of law, media freedom and fundamental rights. The end of Viktor Orbán’s rule, within weeks of the rejection of Meloni’s (Brothers of Italy, ECR) referendum, and the success of a pro-European candidate over right-wing populist Janša in Slovenia confirms a shift: people across Europe are rejecting authoritarianism and re-stating their pro-European attachment.”
Fellow co-chair Ciarán Cuffe described the result as significant for both Hungary and the wider European context, including implications for support to Ukraine.
“Under Orbán, Hungary has suffered years of democratic backsliding, and as a result its civil society and media are fragile,” he commented. “Restoring media freedom, the independent judiciary and civil service, must now be the priority. Europe must support Hungary on this trajectory, while closely monitoring the new government.”
‘Great importance’
Elsewhere, the chairman of Europabevægelsen, part of European Movement International, said that a change in government in Hungary would have notable consequences for European Union decision-making.
“The prospect of political change in Hungary is of great importance to the rest of the EU,” commented Jens-Kristian Lütken. “Under Orbán, Hungary has functioned as Russia’s extended arm and has repeatedly put a stop to further support for Ukraine. This now seems to be coming to an end and thus the EU will be able to make decisions more easily in the future without constant Hungarian attempts to undermine common positions and initiatives.” Read more here and here.
