Please note that this event is in-person only, with the exception of CEPS members who may request a link to follow virtually by emailing [email protected]
On 12 April, Hungarians will head to the polls. The ripple effect of the result – no matter the outcome – will be felt far beyond domestic politics and is sure to draw the full attention of EU institutions and Member States alike.
Over the past decade and a half, the relationship between the Union and Hungary has deteriorated in no small part due to repeated vetoes in the Council and concerns about corruption, democratic backsliding and dismantling of the rule of law. If Orbán stays, will this trajectory continue – and what can the EU do about it?
That said, it seems that for the first time in 16 years, Viktor Orbán is not a shoo-in for another term. In fact, there is a real chance for a change of government. Could the leader of the opposition, the moderate Péter Magyar be an easier partner? Would this be the turning point in the EU-Hungary feud and could Hungary take on a new role as sincere cooperator on common foreign policy?
Should Magyar emerge victorious, he will have his work cut out for him: his promises of a comprehensive system change would be a colossal undertaking, even if he secures the constitutional supermajority.
Whatever the outcome, the potential impacts for the entire EU cannot be understated. On 13 April, the day following the election, CEPS will ask the question ‘what now?’ With a panel of experts, we will analyse the results and what they mean for all the important players going forward.
