Hungary's New Government Under Peter Magyar Initiates Systemic Reforms
Prime Minister Peter Magyar's administration embarks on comprehensive reforms, including cabinet appointments and policy shifts, signaling a departure from Viktor Orban's 16-year rule.
Hungary's incoming Prime Minister, Peter Magyar, has announced a series of reforms and cabinet appointments ahead of his administration's official inauguration. Magyar's Tisza party secured a decisive victory on April 12, ending Viktor Orban's 16-year tenure.
The new government will consist of 16 ministries, an increase from the previous 12. Key appointments include Anita Orban as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Istvan Kapitany as Minister of Economy and Energy, and Andras Karman as Minister of Finance. Notably, Vilmos Katai-Nemeth, who is blind, will serve as Minister of Social and Family Affairs, marking a first in Hungarian history.
Magyar has pledged to restore democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law. His administration plans to establish an anti-corruption authority and recover state assets improperly allocated under the previous government. Additionally, there are plans to overhaul state media to ensure independence and neutrality.
On foreign policy, Magyar aims to realign Hungary with the European Union and NATO, seeking to unfreeze €33 billion in EU funds withheld due to concerns over corruption and rule-of-law violations. He has also expressed support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, stating, "Based on the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, Ukraine has every right, and in my opinion, a government also has the duty, to preserve its territorial integrity and sovereignty."
The new parliament is scheduled to convene on May 9, where Magyar is expected to be formally elected as Prime Minister, and his cabinet appointments confirmed.