The overwhelming victory of the Magyars over Orbán “showed the limits of right-wing populism in Europe”

Following Peter Magyar’s landslide victory over Hungary’s long-time autocratic leader Viktor Orbán, Genie Godula is pleased to welcome Ian Bond, former British diplomat and deputy director of the Center for European Reform. Bond sees this election as part of broader European political dynamics, particularly the limits of right-wing populism, the legacy of harsh governance, and the implications for EU cohesion and Ukrainian politics. Hungary’s political change invites cautious optimism, says Bond. Change will be partial and contested rather than immediate or transformative.