Von der Leyen calls on Hungary to reform in order to…

Von der Leyen calls on Hungary to reform in order to unblock EU funds

14.04.2026 17:00 HotInfo 11

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed on Sunday the defeat of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in the parliamentary elections. On the social network X, she stated that the heart of Europe beats stronger in Hungary and that the country has chosen its European future. The victory of the opposition Tisza party was also welcomed by other prominent European politicians, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Novy Cas ↗

Orbán's sixteen-year government, which has just ended, was long criticized by Brussels officials for violations of the rule of law and judicial independence. Orbán himself responded to his defeat by declaring that the result is painful, while indicating that the opposition will serve the nation from its parliamentary caucus. Refresher.sk ↗

On Monday, von der Leyen announced that she is ready to cooperate with election winner Péter Magyar on fundamental reforms with the aim of unblocking EU fund financing for Hungary. According to von der Leyen, Hungary must work quickly on reforms after the elections in order for the frozen EU funds to be released. This step signals the European Commission's willingness to repair relations with the country and restore financial support provided the necessary reforms are implemented. aktuality.sk ↗

Analysts also see this election result as a consequence of the gradual erosion of prosperity in the country. Hungary entered the elections after three years of practical stagnation and economic recession, accompanied by a decline in the population's standard of living and long-term problems with public finances. The results of the elections in Hungary are seen as a symbolic end to one of the most controversial governments in the European Union and a potential shift in the country's course toward greater adherence to EU values. hnonline.sk ↗