Péter Magyar, the recent victor in Hungary’s elections, is aiming to forge a “special relationship” with Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk. His goal is to leverage Poland’s experience in mending ties with the European Union after a period of illiberal governance. Both Hungary and Poland have followed similar paths since 1989, and now the two pro-European, center-right leaders face the task of restoring the rule of law and enhancing state institutions following years of democratic regression and EU disputes.
On election night, Tusk, speaking from Korea, expressed his joy over Magyar’s win with a congratulatory call: “I’m so happy. I think I am even happier than you, you know?” The following morning, Tusk highlighted the significance of the change sweeping through this part of Europe, citing recent political shifts in Warsaw, Bucharest, Chișinău, and now Budapest as evidence that the region is moving away from corrupt, authoritarian rule. Magyar reciprocated Tusk’s sentiments during a press conference adorned with Hungarian and EU flags, emphasizing a priority to visit Warsaw first in his new role.
In addition to diplomatic gestures, Magyar addressed plans to extradite two former Polish ministers residing in Budapest who are wanted for alleged power abuses in Poland. They were part of the previous rightwing Law and Justice (PiS) government, which was succeeded by Tusk’s Civic Coalition in 2023. Meanwhile, Hungary’s new parliament may inaugurate Magyar on May 9, the EU’s “Europe Day.” This transition marks a crucial opportunity for Hungary to reintegrate into the central fold of European politics, with Tusk’s support potentially aiding Magyar’s diplomatic efforts in the European Council.
Initial discussions between EU officials and Magyar’s incoming administration have already begun. The EU is keen on Hungary lifting its veto on a €90 billion loan to Ukraine and agreeing to further sanctions against Russia. Hungary is also expected to meet certain conditions concerning institutional reforms, judicial checks, corruption, and academic freedoms. Behind the scenes, officials from Poland and Hungary are collaborating on strategies to apply Poland’s recent recovery from illiberalism to Hungary’s current situation.
Despite Magyar’s landslide victory and constitutional majority, ensuring the timely execution of reforms is pressing. Hungary must meet its “super milestones” by August’s end to unlock a €10.4 billion fund, with €2.12 billion already irretrievably lost. Polish officials emphasize that promises must translate into tangible reforms, and that Hungary’s paperwork needs to be thorough. While Magyar’s solid parliamentary support facilitates the process, officials caution that transforming entrenched systems and replacing longstanding personnel will be challenging. Magyar’s commitment to joining the European public prosecutor’s office and probing the corruption of the Orbán era is seen as a pivotal step forward.