Péter Magyar, the newly elected leader of Hungary, is keen to develop a close alliance with Poland’s Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, leveraging Poland’s recent success in mending ties with the European Union after a period of illiberal governance. Since the political shifts of 1989, Hungary and Poland have shared parallel paths, and now both nations are under the leadership of center-right, pro-European figures tasked with restoring democratic norms and strengthening state institutions following years of political regression and EU conflicts. On election night, Tusk expressed his elation to Magyar from Korea, stating, “I’m so happy. I think I am even happier than you, you know?” The following morning, Tusk told reporters, “This part of Europe is showing that we are not condemned to corrupt and authoritarian rule,” highlighting the significance of recent political changes across Eastern Europe.
The cooperation between Magyar and Tusk could significantly influence Hungary’s reintegration into mainstream European politics. Magyar has chosen Warsaw as the destination for his first official visit, signaling a strategic partnership. He also announced intentions to extradite two former Polish ministers residing in Budapest to face charges of power abuse in Poland, emphasizing a break from the previous administration’s practices. Magyar’s government is set to be inaugurated on May 9, which coincides with Europe Day, marking a symbolic new beginning as he prepares to replace Viktor Orbán at the European Council, with Tusk poised to offer experienced guidance during EU negotiations.
Informal discussions between EU officials and Magyar’s incoming administration have already commenced, centering on Hungary’s potential political realignment. Key expectations include lifting Hungary’s block on a €90 billion loan to Ukraine and agreeing to new sanctions against Russia. Hungary must also address several institutional reforms to access €10.4 billion in EU funds, with an August deadline looming to meet necessary milestones. Meanwhile, Polish officials are sharing insights from their efforts to reverse illiberal policies, having successfully unlocked EU funds after ousting the rightwing populist PiS in 2023.
Magyar’s overwhelming electoral victory and parliamentary majority should facilitate these reforms, though substantial work remains to meet EU criteria. He has urged Tamás Sulyok, an Orbán ally, to step down from his position, aiming for a clean break from the previous regime. Magyar has also committed to joining the European Public Prosecutor’s Office to investigate past corruption under Orbán’s government. Adam Bodnar, Poland’s former justice minister, noted that pre-government discussions with the European Commission are not unusual, emphasizing that Hungary’s decisive majority could enable them to implement comprehensive reforms swiftly, unlike Poland’s more complex political landscape.