ORBÁN’S ENDGAME: HOW HUNGARY IS FIGHTING FOR DEMOCRACY

In April 2026, Hungary will elect a new parliament and prime minister. However, Viktor Orbán has reshaped the political system in such a way that voting him out of office seems almost impossible – even though his most important challenger, Péter Magyar, is leading in the polls.

The election carries symbolic and signaling significance for Europe. Illiberal democracy has become a model for authoritarian-leaning politicians. What Orbán’s victory or defeat could mean for the EU will be discussed by long-time ORF correspondent Ernst Gelegs, independent member of parliament Ákos Hadházy, and director Ildikó Gáspár, in conversation with Cathrin Kahlweit.

Moderated by Cathrin Kahlweit

The talk will be in German.

Tickets and more information: Eine Bühne für Osteuropa | Burgtheater

Eine Bühne für Osteuropa – A stage for Eastern Europe
Eastern Europe has been in a permanent state of upheaval – since the fall of communism in 1989, since the eastward expansion, which is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this year, and not least since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Cathrin Kahlweit, expert on Eastern Europe, publicist and long-time SZ correspondent, sheds light on the current situation in Eastern Europe in discussions with prominent guests as part of the series »Eine Bühne für Osteuropa«. This series of talks is a collaborative production of  Burgtheater and ERSTE Foundation. Media partner is DIE PRESSE.

Header picture: Eine Bühne für Osteuropa, Akademietheater © eSeL.at—Robert Puteanu