Hungary’s New Government Takes Shape
On May 12, Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar introduced his new cabinet, comprising 16 ministers. The approval ceremony took place in parliament, which had already convened with an absolute majority for the 'Tisza' party on May 9, the day Magyar officially assumed office. Women hold prominent roles in the new administration: Anita Orbán has been appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, while Márta Gerege takes the position of Minister of Justice. Gerege is a professor and dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Szeged.
Cabinet Composition
Among the other ministers, Vilmos Katay-Németh stands out as Hungary’s first blind minister in history. A former lawyer and aikido master, he has been appointed Minister of Social Policy and Child Protection. Zsolt Hegedűs leads the Ministry of Health, András Kármán becomes Minister of Finance, and Romulus Ruszin-Szendi takes charge of the Ministry of Defense. In a symbolic move, the European Union flag has been reinstated on the parliament building, after being absent for 12 years.
Péter Magyar outlined the new government’s priorities, which include:
- returning to Europe
- fighting corruption
- economic recovery
- media reforms
Notably, 64% of Hungarians expect the new prime minister to foster positive changes in relations with Kyiv. However, Magyar opposes Ukraine’s accelerated accession to the European Union and will insist on the protection of the rights of the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia. In his address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted that
'it is symbolic that the new Hungarian prime minister took office on May 9, Europe Day.'
The first government session is scheduled for May 13. Among the new administration’s initiatives is the creation of a special agency to recover stolen assets. These steps signal the new cabinet’s intent to pursue meaningful reforms and improve both domestic and foreign policy.
Formed amid significant political and social shifts, this new government reflects Hungary’s ambition to strengthen its standing in Europe. Addressing the rights of the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia and tackling corruption could prove pivotal for domestic stability. Implementing the proposed reforms and initiatives, particularly in media and the economy, will require a clear strategy and broad public support.
As Hungary's new leadership takes shape, President Zelensky's timely message on Europe Day highlights the significance of this transition, particularly in the context of Hungary's evolving relationship with Ukraine. The new government's stance on regional matters could influence diplomatic ties and cooperation in the future.