Hungary's turning point: EU ready to help restore democracy
Renew Europe welcomes results in Hungary indicating that the Tisza party is projected to defeat Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, following an unprecedented mobilisation of Hungarian voters.
The exceptionally high turnout sends a clear message: Hungarians are reclaiming their democratic voice and choosing a European future.
Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe, said:
“Hungarian voters have chosen hope and a new political beginning. They have demonstrated that even a deeply entrenched system can be challenged. The responsibility now is to turn this result into real change — for a pro-European Hungary that is a constructive and reliable member of both the EU and NATO. We have clear expectations: a new leadership must rebuild democratic institutions, deliver genuine rule-of-law reforms and establish robust anti-corruption mechanisms and support Ukraine. Tonight, we have one winner over all; the Hungarian citizens. With their outstanding record -high participation they showed how vibrant and defensive a democracy can be.”
Valérie HayerRenew Europe MEP, France, Renaissance
Valérie Hayer added:
“The lessons from 16 years of the Orbán regime are clear. The European Union must rethink unanimity rules, limit veto powers in sensitive areas and equip itself with stronger tools to defend its integrity. If Europe is to move forward, we must move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. In key areas, like-minded Member States should be able to advance together. A multi-speed Europe can no longer be a taboo.”
Sophie Wilmès, Vice-President of the European Parliament and Chair of the working group on Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights (DRFMG), added:
“This result shows that Orbán’s illiberal, authoritarian model is neither inevitable nor irreversible. The Hungarian people have had enough of fear, corruption, isolation, and the steady erosion of their freedoms. The political change they chose carries the promise of a project grounded in respect for Europe, the rule of law and our democratic values. Restoring democracy will require significant effort and sustained political will. The damage done is substantial. The EU, its institutions and Renew Europe in particular are strong allies in this ambitious endeavour. We stand with the Hungarian people—full-fledged European citizens—as we always have.”
Sophie WilmèsRenew Europe MEP, Belgium, Mouvement Réformateur
Renew Europe stresses that this result shows the model of so-called “illiberal democracy” can be rolled back — despite entrenched power structures and external backing.
After 16 years of systemic erosion of checks and balances, the Hungarian people have demonstrated that democratic change remains possible.
At the same time, the challenges ahead will be significant. Over more than a decade, Fidesz has embedded its influence across Hungary’s political and institutional system through cardinal laws requiring supermajorities to amend.
Key institutions, including the constitutional court, the prosecutor general’s office and the media authority remain shaped by loyalists.
Despite likely interference from Russia and a corrupt electoral system, the Hungarian people have turned out in huge numbers for a different future. It is incumbent on all of us who believe in a free Europe to stand with them.
Renew Europe calls on European partners to step up support for Hungary in restoring the rule of law, rebuilding independent institutions and fully rejoining the community of democratic European states.