Hungary has officially entered a new political era as Peter Magyar was sworn in as the country’s new prime minister, ending Viktor Orban’s 16 years in power.
Magyar, 45, leads the centre-right Tisza party, which secured a commanding parliamentary majority in last month’s election by winning 141 out of 199 seats. His rise to power followed growing public frustration over economic stagnation and Hungary’s increasingly tense relationship with the European Union during Orban’s leadership.
Speaking after taking office on Saturday, Magyar called on Hungarians to embrace change and move forward into a new political chapter.
New leadership begins in Budapest
The swearing-in ceremony took place inside Hungary’s parliament building in Budapest. One of the most symbolic moments came when the European Union flag was displayed inside the parliamentary chamber for the first time in 12 years.
New parliamentary speaker Agnes Forsthoffer ordered the flag’s return, describing it as the beginning of Hungary’s renewed path toward Europe.
Magyar has promised to rebuild Hungary’s relationship with the European Union and restore international confidence in the country’s institutions.
Economic and diplomatic challenges ahead
The new government now faces major economic pressures, including a growing budget deficit and slowing economic performance.
Magyar is also expected to push for the release of nearly $20bn in frozen European Union funds that were blocked over concerns related to human rights and rule of law issues under the previous administration.
During Orban’s time in office, Hungary’s relations with Brussels became increasingly strained, while ties with Russia deepened. Orban frequently opposed European sanctions on Moscow and resisted support measures for Ukraine.
Experts say Magyar’s biggest challenge will be reforming institutions shaped during Orban’s long rule while also proving his government represents a genuine political shift.
Peter Magyar’s rapid political rise
Peter Magyar’s rise has been viewed as one of the biggest political surprises in recent Hungarian history.
Until early 2024, he was relatively unknown to the wider public despite previously being associated with Orban’s ruling Fidesz party. His public break with the government later turned him into a leading opposition figure.
His election victory is now being seen as a major turning point in Hungarian politics and a signal that many voters were seeking political and economic change after more than a decade of Orban’s leadership.
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