Hungary’s newly elected leader, Péter Magyar, is focusing on building a strategic partnership with Poland’s Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, to benefit from Poland’s recent experience in mending relations with the European Union after years of contentious governance. Both nations, having shared similar trajectories since 1989, are now led by center-right, pro-European figures tasked with restoring democratic norms and strengthening institutional frameworks after periods of illiberal governance and EU disputes.
On election night, Tusk, calling Magyar from Korea, expressed his elation, saying, “I think I am even happier than you, you know?” Tusk later told reporters that Eastern Europe is proving it does not have to be synonymous with corrupt and authoritarian rule. Magyar reciprocated Tusk’s sentiment by planning his first official foreign visit to Warsaw, reinforcing the significance of their budding alliance.
The upcoming transition of power in Hungary, with Magyar set to succeed Viktor Orbán, is seen as crucial for the country’s reintegration into European politics. EU officials have already begun informal discussions with Magyar’s team, emphasizing the need for Hungary to lift its block on a €90 billion loan to Ukraine and to agree to new sanctions on Russia. These moves would signal Hungary’s political realignment with EU standards, including reforms in its judiciary, anti-corruption measures, and academic freedoms.
Behind the scenes, Polish and Hungarian officials are discussing how Poland’s successful reversal of illiberal policies could be applied in Hungary. Following the Civic Coalition’s victory over Poland’s populist PiS in 2023, Poland unlocked billions in frozen EU funds. Hungary, facing an August deadline to meet key reform milestones to access EU funds, must move quickly. Magyar’s substantial parliamentary majority may facilitate these changes, but officials caution that detailed, rapid action is necessary.
Magyar is also committed to tackling corruption linked to Orbán’s administration, with plans to join the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and prosecute past abuses. While efforts to overhaul systems tainted by years of illiberalism are underway, challenges remain, as entrenched elements from Orbán’s era persist. Poland’s former Justice Minister, Adam Bodnar, noted the preemptive nature of talks with the EU, highlighting the urgency and complexity of the reforms needed to transform Hungary’s political landscape.