Hungary’s New Law Sparks Alarm Across Europe
More than 80 leading European editors have signed a petition opposing Hungary’s controversial draft legislation that aims to limit the activities of foreign-funded media and civil society groups. Critics say the proposed law represents a direct attack on press freedom and is eerily reminiscent of Russia’s “foreign agent” law under Vladimir Putin.
The bill, introduced by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s nationalist party Fidesz, would allow the government to create a list of organizations that receive international funding. Those deemed a “threat” to Hungarian sovereignty or culture could face severe restrictions or forced closure.
Hungary Echoes Putin’s Authoritarian Tactics
Signatories of the petition warn that Orbán is adopting authoritarian methods similar to those used in Russia to stifle dissent and silence independent voices. In 2012, the Kremlin implemented legislation branding internationally funded NGOs as “foreign agents,” effectively marginalizing them from public life.
“The survival of a free press is not just a domestic Hungarian matter—it is a European one,” the editors emphasized. Their statement notes the growing trend of populist leaders in Central and Eastern Europe who are emulating Orbán’s playbook.
Growing Resistance Within and Beyond Hungary
The proposed law has triggered street protests in Budapest and drawn strong opposition from Hungarian journalists, think tanks, and human rights groups, who view it as an attempt to muzzle political dissent ahead of the 2026 parliamentary elections.
Despite the backlash, the bill is expected to pass. Fidesz holds a parliamentary supermajority, giving it broad legislative control. A parliamentary debate is underway, with a final vote scheduled for mid-June.
Media Outlets Join Forces Across Borders
The petition was signed by 84 senior editors from some of Europe’s most respected news outlets, including The Guardian (UK), Libération (France), Gazeta Wyborcza (Poland), ORF (Austria), SME (Slovakia), and Hospodárske noviny (Czech Republic). Their unified message: European institutions must act.
They urge both EU governments and the European Commission to step in, warning that the bill violates EU treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights. Without a firm response, they argue, Orbán will have a green light to further undermine Hungary’s democratic institutions.
Orbán’s Power Play Ahead of 2026 Elections
In March, Orbán publicly declared war on foreign influence in Hungary’s media and political sphere, a move seen by many as a calculated strategy to tighten his grip on power before a likely close election in 2026.
With press freedom under increasing threat and opposition voices targeted, the upcoming months could prove critical for Hungary’s democratic future—and for the EU’s credibility in defending its core values.
If Europe fails to respond decisively, the damage may not stop at Hungary’s borders.
