Péter Magyar, having emerged victorious in Hungary’s elections, is keen on establishing a strategic alliance with Poland’s prime minister Donald Tusk. He aims to leverage Poland’s experience in mending ties with the European Union after a period of illiberal governance. Since the fall of communism in 1989, Hungary and Poland have often experienced parallel political landscapes. Now, Magyar and Tusk, both center-right and pro-European leaders, face the complex challenge of reinstating the rule of law and strengthening state institutions after years of democratic erosion and conflicts with the EU.
On the night of Magyar’s electoral triumph, an elated Tusk reached out to him, exclaiming from Korea, “I’m so happy. I think I am even happier than you, you know?” The following day, Tusk remarked to reporters, “First Warsaw, then Bucharest, Chișinău, and now Budapest. This part of Europe is showing that we are not condemned to corrupt and authoritarian rule.” Magyar reciprocated by expressing his desire for a “special relationship” with Poland and announced that his first foreign visit would be to Warsaw. Additionally, he pledged action against two former Polish ministers residing in Budapest to avoid prosecution for alleged power abuses, advising them not to get comfortable as they wouldn’t be staying long.
The formation of the new Hungarian parliament, with Magyar anticipated to be inaugurated on May 9, coinciding with “Europe Day,” signifies a crucial step in aligning Budapest back with mainstream European politics. Magyar’s succession of Viktor Orbán at the European Council will position Tusk as the most seasoned leader in the group, potentially offering valuable support in negotiations with the EU. Informal discussions have already begun between EU officials and Magyar’s incoming administration, focusing on Hungary lifting its block on a €90 billion loan to Ukraine and agreeing to new sanctions against Russia as indicators of a shift in political stance.
Parallel discussions among Polish and Hungarian officials are underway to explore how Poland’s strategies to reverse years of illiberal governance could be applied in Hungary. This follows Poland’s Civic Coalition’s success in displacing the right-wing populist PiS in 2023 and unlocking significant EU funds. The urgency is palpable as Hungary must meet its “super milestones” by the end of August to access the first €10.4 billion tranche, with €2.12 billion already irretrievably lost. Polish officials, speaking anonymously, emphasize that tangible changes, not mere promises, are necessary for progress.
Magyar’s significant parliamentary majority is expected to facilitate a smoother transition compared to Poland, where opposition vetoes posed challenges. Nevertheless, Magyar has already urged Tamás Sulyok, an Orbán ally, to step down as president to symbolize a clean break from the past regime. His commitment to joining the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and investigating corruption during Orbán’s 16-year tenure is seen as pivotal. Adam Bodnar, Poland’s former justice minister, underscores the importance of early dialogue with the EU commission, noting that Magyar’s administration is likely already strategizing how to implement these changes effectively. Despite the challenges, Magyar’s government is poised to deliver on its action plan, leveraging its two-thirds majority to enact necessary reforms.