Péter Magyar, the victor in Hungary’s latest election, is keen to cultivate a strong alliance with Poland’s Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, drawing on Poland’s recent experiences in mending ties with the European Union after a period marked by authoritarian governance. Both Hungary and Poland have followed similar trajectories since 1989, and now these pro-European, center-right leaders face the complex challenge of reinforcing the rule of law and revamping state institutions after years characterized by democratic regression and conflicts with the EU.
Following their conversation on election night, Tusk expressed his elation over Magyar’s victory, even joking that he might be happier than Magyar himself. The next day, Tusk highlighted a regional shift away from authoritarianism, noting the democratic changes in Warsaw, Bucharest, Chișinău, and now Budapest. Magyar reciprocated Tusk’s sentiments by emphasizing a “special relationship” with Poland and announcing that his first official visit would be to Warsaw. He also declared his intention to swiftly address the matter of two former Polish ministers residing in Budapest, seeking to extradite them to face charges in Poland.
As Magyar prepares to be sworn in on May 9, coinciding with the EU’s “Europe Day,” his partnership with Tusk could significantly influence Hungary’s reintegration into mainstream European politics. With Tusk poised to become the most seasoned leader at the European Council once Magyar succeeds Viktor Orbán, his guidance could be instrumental in navigating EU negotiations. The EU has already initiated informal discussions with Magyar’s incoming administration, urging Hungary to revoke its blockade of a €90 billion loan to Ukraine and to agree to new sanctions against Russia as part of its political realignment.
Behind closed doors, officials from both nations are strategizing on how Poland’s recent reforms can be applied to Hungary. After the Civic Coalition ousted the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party in 2023, Poland unlocked billions in frozen EU funds, setting a precedent Hungary hopes to follow. However, Hungary faces a tight timeline, needing to meet specific “super milestones” by the end of August to access the initial tranche of €10.4 billion, with €2.12 billion already forfeited. Hungarian officials are under pressure to deliver concrete changes quickly, a task made somewhat easier by Magyar’s parliamentary majority but still requiring intensive effort.
While Magyar’s sweeping victory provides the legislative leverage needed for swift reforms, challenges remain. He has already called for the resignation of Tamás Sulyok, an ally of Orbán, to mark a clear departure from past governance. Magyar’s pledge to join the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and investigate corruption during Orbán’s tenure is also pivotal. Yet, as former Polish Justice Minister Adam Bodnar notes, institutional reforms may struggle to fully replace entrenched personnel and practices from Orbán’s 16-year rule. Despite these hurdles, the groundwork laid by Magyar and his team is expected to pave the way for substantial change.