Orban vows crackdown on ‘pseudo-civil organizations’ ahead of Hungary elections

Saturday 14 February 2026 - 16:00

By: Sahili Aya

Orban vows crackdown on ‘pseudo-civil organizations’ ahead of Hungary elections

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has pledged to intensify his campaign against what he described as “pseudo-civil organizations” and foreign influence, as the country heads toward parliamentary elections scheduled for April 12.

Speaking during his annual state of the nation address in Budapest, Orban signaled that he would continue targeting civil society groups, journalists, judges and political opponents whom he accuses of undermining national sovereignty. The nationalist leader faces one of his toughest electoral contests since returning to power in 2010.

Recent opinion polls show his ruling party, Fidesz, trailing slightly behind the opposition movement TISZA, led by Peter Magyar. The emerging political challenge has reshaped Hungary’s electoral landscape ahead of the spring vote.

In his speech, Orban criticized what he called the “oppressive machinery” of Brussels, arguing that Hungary must defend its sovereignty from external pressure. He also praised former U.S. President Donald Trump, saying that Trump’s stance against global liberal networks had strengthened like-minded governments.

Orban reiterated his vision of building what he has previously described as an “illiberal state,” a model he argues prioritizes national interests, traditional values and strong executive leadership. Critics, however, accuse his government of weakening institutional checks and balances, curbing media pluralism and restricting minority rights.

Peter Magyar has campaigned on promises to tackle corruption and restore what he calls democratic accountability. He has accused Orban’s inner circle of benefiting disproportionately from public resources, pledging to govern “for all Hungarians” if elected.

The election is being closely watched across Europe, where Hungary’s relations with the European Union have often been strained over rule-of-law concerns.

With just weeks remaining before voters head to the polls, the campaign rhetoric has intensified, underscoring the high stakes of a contest that could redefine Hungary’s political direction.