Hungarian elections on April 12, 2026 will test Orbán’s 14-year rule as opposition TISZA leads in polls, sparking warnings of foreign influence.
Upcoming Parliamentary Elections
All 199 seats in the National Assembly will be contested in the election, one of the most significant political tests for Orbán, who has ruled the country continuously since 2010. The April 12 vote will be the tenth parliamentary election since the fall of communism in 1990.
Policy Disagreements with EU and Ukraine
Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó argued that Hungary’s current leadership opposes strategic plans being pushed by Western partners and Ukraine. He mentioned increased European involvement in the armed conflict, redirecting EU funds to Ukraine, and accelerating Kyiv’s accession process to the EU.
TISZA Opposition Gains in Polls
Most independent public opinion polls indicate that the TISZA party, led by Péter Magyar, is ahead of the ruling Fidesz. According to an Idea Institute survey from February 2026, Magyar’s party could count on 48% support among decided voters, while Fidesz received 38%. Other surveys show an even greater opposition advantage.
International Dimensions
The stakes of the elections include Hungary’s position in the European Union. Orbán’s government has repeatedly blocked common EU decisions on sanctions against Russia and aid to Ukraine, leading to tensions with Brussels and freezing of some European funds for Budapest. A victory for Péter Magyar could mean a change in political course and greater cooperation with EU institutions.
Campaign Atmosphere
The campaign is taking place in an atmosphere of deep polarization, with key topics being the war in Ukraine, relations with the EU, the state of the economy, and national sovereignty. The conflict between the ruling camp and the opposition has also moved to the international level, with both sides accusing each other of connections with foreign centers of influence.
