Hungarian 'Regime Change' Is Both Dangerous and Necessary.

The article focuses on the political transition in Hungary following the electoral defeat of Prime Minister Viktor Orban by Peter Magyar, who pledged "regime change" rather than the usual promises of reform. Magyar faces the challenge of restoring democratic institutions captured by Orban’s populist government, which used a super-majority to rewrite laws and consolidate power, raising concerns about repeating similar abuses. The piece highlights the difficulty of depoliticizing courts and institutions without undermining their independence, referencing the Venice Commission’s guidance on democratic restoration. Magyar’s efforts are also tied to regaining significant European Union funds withheld due to Hungary’s democratic backsliding and corruption linked to Orban’s oligarchic network. The article underscores the tension between necessary reforms and the risk that Magyar might replicate Orban’s authoritarian tactics. [Extracted from the article]