CIVIL RIGHTS DEFENDERS

Hungary’s government controlled the media, the courts, and academia. Yet people still managed to vote for change. After 16 years, Viktor Orbán’s rule has come to an end.

Here are five steps and why they matter:

1. Make the courts independent again
Judges and prosecutors must follow the law not political orders. 👉 Under Orbán, judicial independence was eroded through political appointments and pressure.

2. End political control of the media
Without free media, there can be no free elections. 👉 Orbán’s government brought large parts of the media under political control and silenced critical voices.

3. Lift the Pride ban — stand up for equal rights
Peaceful assembly and equal treatment are fundamental human rights. 👉 Under Orbán, Pride marches were banned and information about LGBTI+ people was restricted by law.

4. Let civil society and academia work freely
Organisations, researchers and students must not be silenced by laws or intimidation. 👉 Civil society groups, researchers and universities have faced repressive legislation, threats and political interference.

5. Ensure free and fair elections
Power should be earned through trust, not through rigged rules. 👉 Elections were held, but the rules were heavily skewed in favour of the governing party.

📌 Democracies are dismantled step by step.
📌 They are rebuilt step by step too.

We will follow every step closely. Hungary’s election shows that change is possible — even in dark times. Support civil society’s fight for democracy and human rights.

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