As Hungary prepares for a general election on 12 April, a new generation of voters is emerging as a powerful force for change, with polls suggesting that Viktor Orbán's 16-year grip on power may be under threat. A recent survey indicated that 65% of voters under 30 plan to vote against the prime minister, whose Fidesz party has transformed Hungary into what critics call an 'illiberal democracy'.
Young Hungarians, many of whom are voting for the first time, express deep frustration with the lack of opportunities, stalled social mobility, and rising cost of living. 'If things remain the same, or get even worse, I can’t see a future here,' said Ákos, a 20-year-old aspiring teacher. Another student, Boldi, 22, added: 'I think anything is better than a party that had 16 years to change things and just made it worse.'
The election pits Orbán against Péter Magyar, a former Fidesz insider who leads the Tisza party. Magyar has focused on economic stagnation, fraying social services, and corruption, while Orbán warns voters that Ukraine is the country's top enemy. Political analyst Nóra Schultz noted that Fidesz now has below 10% support among under-30s, driven by concerns over housing, the cost of living, and a pro-EU stance that clashes with Orbán's drift towards Russia.
Social media has played a key role, with independent journalists and opposition politicians circumventing Fidesz's control of 80% of traditional media. Magyar has actively courted young voters, treating them as 'political actors', while Orbán has highlighted initiatives such as aid for first-time homebuyers and tax benefits for young mothers. 'It feels like history is being made,' said Betti, a 24-year-old cashier, referring to the marches and gatherings in Budapest.
