On April 12, Hungary held its most recent presidential election.

This election had the eyes of not just the European stage, but the world overall.

The nation of Hungary has had an immense influence on the international rise of the erosion of democratic values and beliefs throughout its governments. 

The “nationalistic” fear that stems from the rise of populism around the world was supported by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán himself.

He has held his position in the executive office for almost two decades, and has rendered the country of Hungary a beacon for many traditionalistic and nationalistic-driven beliefs. He is notorious for his immigration laws.

The country became a model for right-leaning executives all around the world. Even President Donald Trump has praised Premier Orbán’s immigration laws and continued leadership as “a truly strong and powerful Leader, with a proven track record of delivering phenomenal results.”

President Trump also promised the continued and reinforced economic alliance of the United States in support of Hungary “as long as [Orbán is] prime minister.” 

The election, however, brought forth a long-standing adversary for the role of prime minister. 

Péter Magyar has been a rising hope for the future of Hungary, even if he comes from a previously loyal position under Orbán. He then protected his government from recent scandals that tore through the presidency office and the surrounding political parties.

Magyar rose to a surprising success when he won by a two-thirds majority after the votes on April 12 came through, making him Hungary’s new prime minister.

“Today we won because the Hungarian people didn’t ask what their country could do for them, but what they could do for their country,” newly appointed Premier Magyar said in his victory speech.

This turn of events was celebrated by the people of Hungary, as the streets of Budapest were flooded by crowds until the early hours of the next morning. Citizens expressed their joy for a new change and the end of a long-lasting nationalistic and restrictive regime. 

The electoral win was also well-received by the entirety of the European Union, as many had been trying to vote for the passing of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the new fiscal plan. Earlier on, Orbán had been a steadfast opposing force against this plan, and its goals of enhancing defense capabilities, moving forward with digital and green advancements and simplifying funding through national and regional partnerships.

It has been called a “victory for fundamental freedoms” by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The new win by Premier Magyar should promise to fight internal corruption, revive the nation’s economy and restore democratic norms, according to his political party’s Tisza campaign. Premier Magyar, however, has also been careful of avoiding sensitive subjects and his personal position on them.

He has proudly stated that if Russian President Vladimir Putin were to call him, “it would probably be a short phone conversation, and I don’t think he would end the war on my advice,” Premier Magyar said.

It will be interesting to see a new player at the helm of Hungary’s executive office, and everyone is curious to see how the country’s international position will change.