This is how PM Orbán’s last 16 years look with the eyes of the EU

After 16 years in power, Viktor Orbán and his Fidesz party face one of their most competitive elections yet. Since returning to office in 2010, the government has used repeated two-thirds parliamentary majorities to fundamentally reshape Hungary’s political system.

PM Orbán took charge almost 16 years ago

A new constitution adopted in 2011, alongside hundreds of legal changes, altered institutional checks and balances. Critics argue that reforms affecting the judiciary, electoral rules and key state appointments have strengthened the ruling party’s long-term position. Redrawn constituencies and voting rights for ethnic Hungarians abroad are also seen as politically advantageous to Fidesz.

As Reuters reported, since 2022, the government has frequently ruled by decree under a state of emergency linked to the war in neighbouring Ukraine, further fuelling debate over democratic standards.

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Conservative values and social policy

Orbán has positioned himself as a defender of national sovereignty and traditional Christian values. His government has taken a firm stance against immigration, particularly since the 2015 migration crisis, when Hungary built a border fence and introduced some of Europe’s strictest asylum rules.

Social policy has also shifted in a conservative direction. The constitution now defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman, while restrictions have been placed on same-sex adoption and transgender rights.

A controversial 2025 law created a legal basis for banning Pride marches, citing child protection concerns. At the same time, the government has prioritised boosting birth rates through tax incentives and family support schemes rather than immigration.

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Orbán heavily modified the media and academic landscape over the years

Hungary’s media environment has undergone significant transformation. Critics, including institutions within the European Union, argue that state media has become increasingly pro-government, while advertising revenues have bolstered loyal private outlets.

Several independent media organisations have either closed or changed ownership, often to figures close to the government. Meanwhile, tighter regulations on NGOs and academic institutions led to the relocation of organisations linked to George Soros, including the Central European University, which moved to Vienna.

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The balance is fragile between East and West

Despite Hungary’s membership in NATO and the EU, Orbán has pursued an “Eastern opening”, strengthening economic ties with Russia and China. While he condemned Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine and supported EU sanctions, he has consistently opposed restrictions on Russian energy imports.

Relations with Ukraine have also been strained, with Hungary blocking major EU financial aid packages and clashing over energy and minority rights issues. This balancing act has often placed Budapest at odds with several of its Western allies.

Economic achievements and challenges

Economically, Hungary repaid its IMF debt in 2013 and stabilised public finances for much of the following decade. Special taxes on banks and multinational sectors, alongside increased domestic ownership in key industries, helped boost revenues.

However, the post-pandemic period has brought new challenges. Budget deficits are rising ahead of the elections, and the economy has stagnated for the past three years, raising questions about sustainability. Inflationary pressures and slower growth have also affected household incomes in recent years.

Featured image: Facebook/Orbán Viktor