Statement of AEGEE-Europe concerning the recent elections in Hungary on 12 April 2026

On 12 April 2026, the Hungarian people spoke wishing to bring an end to the heavily eurosceptic period, choosing to move closer to Europe once again. Voter turnout reached record highs (around 80%), with people standing in line for hours to cast their ballots. The change in leadership was followed by widespread celebrations in the capital and across the country.

We celebrate the elections! As Ursula von der Leyen stated on Monday, 13 April: “Today, Europe is Hungarian, without any question. The people of Hungary have spoken, and they have reclaimed their European path. It is a victory for fundamental freedoms.”

For the past 16 years, Hungary has gone through changes where the rule of law has been weakened, mis-management of public funds has become a serious issue – leading to the freezing of EU funds – and instead of a full democracy, it was formed into a hybrid regime.

As AEGEE-Europe, we are hopeful about the changes to come in Hungary and excited to see the country transform in the coming years in line with the values we share, fostering a democratic and pro-European country.