BUDAPEST, Hungry: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s nationalist party, Fidesz, appeared to secure the most votes in the recent European Parliament elections.
With 55% of votes counted, Fidesz had 43% of the vote, likely earning 11 out of Hungary’s 21 seats in the European Parliament. This represents a decline from the 52% support Fidesz enjoyed in the 2019 elections, and they are expected to lose two seats, reflecting a dip in Orban’s popularity.
Voter turnout exceeded 56%, setting a record for EU elections in Hungary. This high participation rate underscored the public’s engagement amid dissatisfaction with Fidesz’s governance, particularly due to an economic crisis and scandals involving party members.
These issues have catalyzed support for Peter Magyar, who recently formed the opposition party Respect and Freedom (TISZA). TISZA garnered 31% of the vote, translating to seven seats in the European Parliament.
Magyar, a former Fidesz member, has quickly risen as a formidable opponent to Orban. His campaign, highlighting allegations of corruption and media manipulation by Fidesz, resonated with many Hungarians seeking change. Addressing supporters in Budapest, Magyar declared the election a significant turning point and emphasized his commitment to challenging Orban in the 2026 national elections.
The election results also saw Hungary’s far-right Our Homeland party gaining 6% of the vote, securing a delegate to Brussels for the first time. This reflects a broader trend of right-wing populist gains across Europe, which could complicate the EU’s decision-making processes, especially amid ongoing issues such as the war in Ukraine and rising anti-migrant sentiments.
Orban, known for his close ties with the Kremlin, positioned the elections as a critical juncture for Europe’s response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. He campaigned on a platform of maintaining peace, contrasting his stance against what he described as “pro-war” politicians in Washington and Brussels.
Hungary is poised to take over the EU’s rotating six-month presidency in July. This development, along with the recent election outcomes, will significantly influence the country’s political landscape and its role within the EU.
