Viktor Orbán, initially a liberal activist, transformed his Fidesz party into a populist force, capitalizing on economic woes and societal disillusionment to win a supermajority in 2010. He subsequently weakened democratic institutions, rewriting laws to consolidate power and shield cronyism.
Orbán's regime wasn't a traditional dictatorship; it retained democratic trappings like elections, but manipulated them to remain in power. His strategies included hollowing out the judiciary, rewriting legal codes, and using self-censorship and patronage to control dissent. Nationalist rhetoric further bolstered his position, portraying opponents as enemies of the state.
Widespread corruption became integral to Orbán's regime, with complex networks controlled by his inner circle siphoning public resources. The tobacco industry's transformation into a state monopoly, benefiting Orbán's associates through shell companies, serves as a prime example. This system is protected by laws designed to legitimize the corruption.
The EU's cohesion funds, intended to support Hungary's economy, inadvertently strengthened Orbán's grip on power. While sanctions were eventually imposed, they failed to significantly curb the abuses. Hungary's EU presidency and Orbán's pro-Kremlin stance further weakened the bloc's effectiveness. Orbán's model is becoming influential amongst right-wing leaders in other European countries.