Viktor Orban has systematically weakened Hungary’s democracy.Image: keystone
Around a week and a half before the parliamentary elections in Hungary, an observer delegation from the Council of Europe expressed serious concerns about a democratic electoral process.
Apr 2, 2026, 7:24 amApr 2, 2026, 7:24 am
After a two-day visit to the Hungarian capital Budapest, the question arises as to whether the country is “still a functioning democracy or a state taken over by a party,” said the Spanish delegation leader Pablo Hispán, according to the statement. Many people I spoke to pointed out a toxic climate.
The election on April 12th is considered the most important since the democratic change in 1989/90. In the 16 years of his rule, Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is close to Moscow, has undermined democracy in Hungary, brought the media and the judiciary largely under his control and, according to critics, established a corrupt system of patronage. According to polls, opposition leader Peter Magyar could win.
Peter Magyar challenges Viktor Orban.Image: keystone
The Council of Europe, based in Strasbourg, monitors the rule of law and the protection of human rights in its member countries. It is not an organ of the European Union.
The delegation also said that it had gained the impression “that it is not just about who gets the most votes, but also about whether the democratic competition itself remains truly open, pluralistic and fair.” What was particularly criticized in discussions was the blurring of the boundaries between state and party and the massive use of all state resources for the benefit of one party and seditious propaganda.
Chunky “war or peace” rhetoric
There is particular concern about deceptive election advertising, including anti-Ukraine and anti-EU propaganda. “Clumsy “war or peace” rhetoric” aims to stigmatize opponents instead of enabling an informed democratic decision. There are also serious allegations of voter buying and voter intimidation.
“The voters must decide the future of Hungary – not fear campaigns, not smear campaigns, not unequal rules and not foreign manipulation,” said Hispán. (sda/dpa)