Hungary: 'After 16 years under an illiberal regime, can the rule of law be restored if it's set aside, even briefly?'
In an op-ed, political scientist Ambre Bruneteau questions how Hungary's next prime minister, Péter Magyar, might bring closure to the Orban years. She argues that the issue at stake is not simply a change of government, but an exit from an entire regime.
What Happened
Ambre Bruneteau, a political scientist, discusses the challenges Hungary faces in transitioning away from the illiberal regime under Viktor Orban, which has lasted 16 years.
She emphasizes that the task ahead for Péter Magyar, the possible next prime minister, is not merely to change the government but to dismantle the underlying methods and structures of the Orban regime. Bruneteau questions how Hungary can restore rule of law after it has been sidelined for so long, even if temporarily.
Her op-ed highlights the complexities of moving beyond entrenched authoritarian practices toward democratic governance.
Why It Matters
This matters because the restoration of the rule of law is critical for Hungary’s democratic future and its standing within European and global communities. The difficulty lies not only in changing leaders but in rebuilding institutions weakened by years of illiberal governance.
Without addressing systemic issues, there is a risk that the rule of law could be compromised again, undermining democratic norms and potentially destabilizing the region’s political landscape.
Implications
Observers should watch how the incoming administration approaches institutional reforms and the judiciary's independence. The process of regime exit will likely involve legal and constitutional challenges, public trust recovery, and international cooperation.
Success or failure in these areas will set precedents for other nations facing similar illiberal trends and will impact Hungary’s future role in European affairs.
Key Signals
- Hungary under Orban regime for 16 years
- Debate over restoring rule of law
- Péter Magyar as potential next prime minister
- Focus on exiting entire regime, not just changing government
- Political scientist Ambre Bruneteau's analysis