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My Liberties colleagues on the ground in Budapest reported scenes of jubilation on Sunday night as ousted Prime Minister Viktor Orbán conceded to political newcomer Péter Magyar in a crushing defeat. Across the city the streets were filled with people singing and chanting, while cars driving by honked their car horns and fireworks lit up the sky. The parliamentary victory marks the end of Orbán's 16-year reign, which saw the rule of law torn to shreds, souring relations with the EU, and a revival of conservative values. 

It's clear that ordinary Hungarians have had enough. Magyar, a former Fidesz insider, led his Tisza party to a landslide victory, telling his supporters, "I will be the fiercest protector of human rights..." Tisza looks to secure a staggering 136 seats to Fidesz's 57. This puts a Tisza government in the driver's seat to deliver on its campaign promise of 'system change' by rooting out corruption and repairing relations with the EU and Ukraine. The election also marked a record 79.5% turnout, with the Hungarian diaspora returning their droves to cast their vote at the ballot box. 

The election results are a much-needed source of hope across Europe and the U.S., where Orbán's brand of 'illiberal democracy' has inspired copycats. The four countries alongside Hungary labelled 'Dismantlers' in the Liberties Rule of Law Report 2026 - Bulgaria, Croatia, Italy, and Slovakia - have all taken leaves from Orbán's authoritarian playbook.

But those expecting miracles overnight will be disappointed. Fidesz has its claws deep Hungary's key institutions and, as reported by our Polish member, restoring the rule of law afters years of rot is met with challenges at every turn. Magyar, a moderate conservative, is also unlikely to steer Hungary in liberal direction. 

Still, here at the Liberties offices, we are celebrating a much-needed win for democracy. In other good news, as of 1 March 2026, Ilina Neshikj has officially begun her tenure as Executive Director of Liberties, following an open selection process conducted by the Board. 

Best,

Eleanor & the Liberties Team

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