Hungary Opposition Holds Critical Concert Before Elections

The concert highlighted widespread criticisms of Orban's government, which has been accused of widespread corruption and misuse of public funds. Orban has also hindered EU decision-making, such as on supporting Ukraine and imposing stricter sanctions on Russia, while his party strongly controls the media. In contrast, the opposition Tisza party, which is more EU- and Ukraine-friendly, gains support especially from cities and young people, while Fidesz is more popular among older people. Many want Hungary not to slide towards Russia and to return to being part of the community of Western values, with the audience shouting 'Russians, go home' together at regular intervals during the event.

Public sentiment reflects deep concerns about the election's outcome and integrity. According to Ilta-Sanomat, Josef, a 19-year-old attendee, described that many young people think they will not be in this country in four years if the opposition does not win the elections now. He also claimed that both Russia and the United States have interfered in Hungary's elections and support Orban's government, adding that this system must be overthrown. Another attendee, Peter, in his twenties, told Ilta-Sanomat that he is of two minds: one part of him believes Tisza will win, and the other part says Fidesz will win—by cheating.

The elections on Sunday, April 12, feature the two largest parties: incumbent Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party and opposition leader Peter Magyar's Tisza party. Official results have not yet been released, and it is unclear what specific measures Orban has taken to hinder EU decision-making on Ukraine and Russia sanctions.