Hungary’s new prime minister, Péter Magyar, has made headlines by promising to halt state media coverage, calling it a “propaganda machine.” His victory marks a significant shift, ending Viktor Orbán’s long tenure of 16 years. Magyar’s first interviews with public radio and television revealed his plans to confront the misleading media landscape that he claims has caused fear and misinformation among Hungarians.
During these interviews, Magyar compared the state media’s approach to North Korean propaganda and the tactics used in Nazi Germany. “Every Hungarian deserves a public service media that conveys the truth,” he stated. His plan includes drafting a new press law and establishing a media authority to guide state media back to its intended purpose.
Interestingly, the state media pushed back, saying that they had invited Magyar multiple times during the campaign. Yet, organizations like Reporters Without Borders have consistently raised alarms about media freedom in Hungary, noting that about 80% of the media is controlled by pro-Orbán allies, limiting independent reporting.
In a social media post after the interviews, Magyar emphasized the need for change: “We have just witnessed the last days of a propaganda machine. We will suspend the news services of the ‘public’ media until its public service character is restored.”
Additionally, he has urged Hungarian President Tamás Sulyok—an Orbán supporter—to resign. Magyar views Sulyok as unfit to unify the nation, stating he is unable to uphold the law. This discussion reflects the considerable challenges ahead for the new prime minister as he attempts to dismantle Orbán’s legacy, known for its “illiberal democracy.”
The news comes amid statements from Donald Trump, a longtime ally of Orbán, who expressed confidence in Magyar. Trump remarked, “I think the new man’s going to do a good job.” He acknowledged Magyar’s previous affiliation with Orbán’s Fidesz party, hinting at continuity in some policies, especially concerning migration.
JD Vance, a U.S. politician, recently visited Hungary to support Orbán. He acknowledged the possibility of Orbán’s loss but described the Hungarian leader’s legacy as “transformational.” Vance praised Orbán for representing U.S. interests in Europe, despite controversies over media freedom and other democratic norms in Hungary.
As Hungary navigates this political shift, the journey ahead for Magyar and his government will undoubtedly influence not just the nation’s media landscape but also its relationship with the global community.
To read more about the state of media freedom in Hungary, you can visit Reporters Without Borders.
