The Hungarian Puzzle

On April 12, 2026, one of the most vivid and controversial chapters in modern European history came to an end. After 16 years of uninterrupted rule, Viktor Orbán — a long-standing political figure, authoritarian leader, ally of Donald Trumpand Vladimir Putin, and the main antagonist of Brussels within the European Union — is leaving the office of Prime Minister after the historic 2026 elections, following a crushing defeat.

At Saturday’s meeting, we will discuss:

• Rise to power (2010). Against the backdrop of economic crisis and public fatigue with liberal forces, how Fideszsecured a constitutional majority.

• Promises and reforms. “Unorthodox economics,” pro-family policies, anti-migration measures, and the defense of “Christian identity.”

• Holding on to power. How an “electoral autocracy” was built, media control was established, and the electoral system was reshaped.

• The fall. Why April 12, 2026 became a “painful but clear” ending. The role of Péter Magyar, public fatigue with corruption, and economic stagnation.

This seminar will be especially interesting for those following political processes in the European Union, as well as for those studying how authoritarian regimes eventually collapse.

Join us to better understand how political systems that appear stable on the surface can suddenly disappear from the historical stage — sometimes unexpectedly even for themselves.

The meeting will be led by historian and political scientist Egor Yakovlev.

🗓 May 2, 5:00 PM
📍 23 Betlemi

Admission — any banknote.

Registration — via the link in @frame_tbilisi profile