Studios of Hungary’s Media Services and Support Trust Fund: Photo: MTVA
Hungary’s new government on Friday submitted a 54-page legislative proposal to overhaul the public service media, which over the last decade had become little more than a propaganda tool for Viktor Orban’s Fidesz party.
The draft law, which requires a two-thirds majority in parliament to pass, accentuates the importance of journalistic independence, editorial freedom, unhindered access to reliable information and having an open space for democratic public discourse.
“The law aims to give the public media back to the public, to the Hungarian people,” Minister of Culture Zoltan Tarr explained in a video posted on Facebook.
The leader of the Tisza party and now prime minister, Peter Magyar, had previously vowed to “suspend” news broadcasts by the public media after the April 12 election, but has yet to follow through on that threat. Notably, following Tisza’s landslide election victory, the public service broadcasters were quick to bend to the new reality and the main TV channel invited Magyar on for an interview three days after the election.
Hungary’s independent media welcomed Magyar’s campaign pledge to reorganise the public media, yet some experts remain cautious. Political expert Andras Pulai of the Publicus Institute, a think-tank, said “the proof of the pudding is in the eating” and advised people to wait and see how the new law is implemented.
“It is not usually the legal framework that determines whether public media is good or bad, but rather the editorial decisions,” he said, adding it would be clear in a few months’ time whether the reformed public service broadcasters will be prepared to criticise the new government and expose wrongdoing.
One thing that’s clear is the new legal framework will be much less centralised than the previous setup under Orban’s government. The public media will be reorganised into two entities: the Hungarian Television and Radio Nonprofit Ltd. and the Hungarian News Agency. The latter would regain its independence as a news provider.
Funding for the sector will continue to come via parliament, meaning potential political leverage would not be fully eliminated. However, the law foresees an Independent Public Media Body being established that would oversee the public media’s operations.
The body will be led by a nine-member board, with three members delegated by the governing party, three by the opposition and another three by professional media organisations. This would give opposition parties – regardless of Tisza’s two-thirds majority in parliament – an equal say, as well as bring in neutral professional candidates. Public consultations will be held to find the most suitable candidates, Culture Minister Tarr promised.
A Public Media Charter will also be adopted to provide clear professional standards for public service broadcasters. “It is not enough to simply say that public media should be independent, there should be genuine safeguards to ensure that independence,” Tarr added.
There was also positive news for the country’s independent media. A National Media Fund will be created to support independent media content providers, community media services, public-service programming, and press products operating in accordance with the standards of ethical journalism
The new media law will also need to align Hungary with international and EU standards. The country’s public media has been repeatedly criticised by monitoring missions from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) for overt bias in favour of the governing parties and for failing to provide a level playing field for smaller parties.
The European Commission also objected to Hungary’s media landscape in its annual rule of law reports and launched an infringement procedure against the country in 2025 for non-compliance with the EU’s Audiovisual Media Services Directive.
Partly due to the highly partisan nature of its programming, viewing figures for the public media have fallen to an all-time low, although this trend is also likely influenced by changing media-consumption patterns, with younger generations increasingly turning to social media for information. At the same time, the amount of taxpayer money going towards the public service broadcasters has skyrocketed in recent years, reaching 157 billion forints (445 million euros) in 2025.
The public media has, for many Hungarians, become synonymous with government propaganda, where even experts were handpicked to parrot government views and critical interviews with government officials were virtually absent. Short news segments were even inserted during football broadcasts to praise the Orban government and label the EU and Ukraine as adversaries for Hungary.
Yet it is not only new media laws that are reshaping Hungary’s media landscape. Since the Orban government was voted out of office, the pro-Fidesz media has begun disintegrating.
Metropol, a free p…
Read the full article at Balkan Insight (BIRN) →📄Source document: Draft conclusions of the EU summit→16 reports
RepublikaParty-alignedRight2 days agoThe article discusses Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's influence on the EU's stance regarding Ukraine's accession process. Initially, the draft conclusions of the EU summit included language suggesting that remaining clusters for Ukraine's accession should be opened 'as soon as possible.' However, this phrase was removed at the last minute due to Orbán's insistence. The article notes that Orbán publicly claimed responsibility for this change, emphasizing his role in slowing down the process. Two European diplomats confirmed that Orbán pushed for the removal of the clause, which could be
Bias read (Right): The article highlights Orbán's direct involvement in altering the EU's position on Ukraine's accession timeline, using language that emphasizes his initiative and influence. While it presents facts, the framing suggests approval of Orbán's actions by implying they were significant and strategically
Večernje novostiParty-alignedRight2 days agoThe conclusions from the June 18 EU leaders' summit were softened at the insistence of Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Orban, reducing the urgency of Ukraine's accession process to the European Union. The original draft included language suggesting the EU hopes to open remaining expansion clusters 'as soon as possible,' but this phrase was removed in the final version. Orban stated he initiated the removal of the clause accelerating Ukraine's membership, emphasizing that Kyiv must adopt all rules without skipping steps. Two EU diplomats confirmed Orban pushed for the change, which, though minor
Bias read (Right): The article frames Hungary's actions as a principled stand against rushing Ukraine’s EU accession, using terms like 'insisted' and highlighting Orban's emphasis on strict rule adherence. It presents Orban's position as reasonable and highlights his influence, while downplaying potential negative con
Večernje novostiParty-alignedRight2 days ago MAJAR LJUT IN EUROPE: Ukraine's membership in the EU is being treated unfairlyHungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated that accelerating Ukraine's membership in the European Union would be unfair to Western Balkan countries, which have been in accession talks for years. He emphasized that the EU expansion process should be based on results and clear criteria rather than rushed political decisions. Orbán warned against prioritizing Ukraine at the expense of other candidate countries.
Bias read (Right): The article presents Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's perspective, emphasizing his opposition to accelerated EU enlargement for Ukraine, arguing it would be unfair to Western Balkan nations. The framing highlights his stance without balancing it with opposing viewpoints or alternative justifi
N1 SrbijaIndependentCenter2 days agoLeaders of the European Union held their first summit without Viktor Orbán, Hungary's former prime minister, since 2008. Orbán, a leader of far-right nationalism in Europe, has been absent from the EU power structure after losing key elections in April. He now observes from the sidelines as his successor Péter Márger joins other leaders like Pedro Sánchez of Spain, Emmanuel Macron of France, and Friedrich Merz of Germany. The summit discussed increased support for Ukraine, while Orbán remains surrounded by far-right allies at his party's event in Brussels.
Bias read (Center): The article presents facts about Orbán's absence from the EU summit and provides context about his political influence and current position. It includes balanced descriptions of his role in European politics and mentions both his absence from the EU leadership and his presence with far-right allies.
N1 SrbijaIndependentCenter5 days ago Hungarian parliament adopts constitutional amendment: If it comes into force, Orbán would be unable to return to powerThe Hungarian parliament has adopted a constitutional amendment that would prevent former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán from returning to power if it comes into effect. The amendment limits the prime minister's term to eight years and applies retroactively, which would affect Orbán, who was prime minister for 20 years. The amendment aims to serve as a symbolic and constitutional foundation for restoring the rule of law. With a two-thirds majority in parliament, Prime Minister Péter Máder has the ability to push through constitutional amendments, potentially leading to significant changes inHungy
Bias read (Center): The article presents the adoption of the constitutional amendment in a neutral manner, without overtly favoring either side. It includes quotes from both supporters of the amendment and critics, providing balanced perspectives on the potential retroactive application of the amendment and its impact.
KurirParty-alignedLeft6 days agoThe Hungarian parliament has adopted a constitutional amendment allowing prime ministers to serve a maximum of eight years, effectively preventing former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán from returning to power. Current Prime Minister Péter Máder won elections in April after 16 years of Orbán's rule, securing a two-thirds majority in parliament that enables his party to override laws passed by Orbán's Fidesz party, including constitutional changes. The amendment also provides for the dissolution of the Office for the Protection of Sovereignty established by Orbán's government and restores state权力s过
Bias read (Left): The article frames the constitutional change as a move to limit Orbán's influence and enable Máder's government to overturn previous policies, which aligns with a left-leaning perspective emphasizing democratic checks and transitions of power.
BlicIndependentLeft6 days agoThe National Assembly of Hungary has adopted an amendment to the constitution which limits the number of terms a prime minister can serve to two, effectively preventing Viktor Orbán from ever becoming prime minister again. The amendment also sets a maximum term limit of eight years for any prime minister. This change applies to mandates after May 2, 1990. The amendment was passed with 135 votes in favor, 50 against, and six abstentions. The ruling Fidesz party did not support the proposal.
Bias read (Left): The article frames the constitutional amendment as a move to 'limit the concentration of power,' which aligns with left-leaning narratives emphasizing checks on executive authority. The tone suggests approval of the measure without presenting counterarguments or conservative perspectives on the rule
Telegraf.rsIndependentLeft6 days agoThe Hungarian parliament has approved a constitutional amendment limiting the prime minister's tenure to a maximum of eight years, effectively preventing former PM Viktor Orbán from returning to power. Current PM Péter Mády won elections in April after 16 years of Orbán's rule, securing a two-thirds majority that allows his party to overturn or amend laws enacted by Orbán's Fidesz party, including the constitution. The amendment applies retroactively from May 2, 1990, and also provides for the dissolution of the Office for the Protection of Sovereignty, established by Orbán's government, which
Bias read (Left): The article frames the constitutional amendment as a move against Orbán, highlighting restrictions on his return to power and the dissolution of an institution associated with his government. It emphasizes the current government’s actions as progressive reforms, using terms like 'effectively prevent
Balkan Insight (BIRN)IndependentLeft6 days agoHungary's new government has proposed a 54-page legislative plan to reform public service media, which critics argue has been used as a propaganda tool by former Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party. The proposed law emphasizes journalistic independence, editorial freedom, and access to reliable information. Current Prime Minister Peter Magyar, leader of the Tisza party, had pledged to suspend public media broadcasts after recent elections but has not followed through. Some independent media outlets have welcomed the reform, while experts caution that the effectiveness of the changes is仍
Bias read (Left): The article frames the reform as an effort to return public media to the public, implying criticism of previous government control. It highlights concerns about past propaganda use by Fidesz and cites independent media welcoming the change, suggesting a critical stance toward the current regime's媒体.
Večernje novostiParty-alignedLeft6 days ago HUNGARIAN STRIKES AT ORBÁN: Their migrant policy is one of the biggest political scamsHungarian Prime Minister Peter Máder accused the previous government led by Viktor Orbán of secretly considering plans to establish a migrant reception center, despite publicly opposing migration. Máder claims to have documents from 2024 showing the government discussed reopening transit zones and using facilities in Vízvár for housing migrants, even though they denied such plans publicly. He also mentioned legal penalties imposed by the European Court of Justice against Hungary, amounting to around €1 billion in fines.
Bias read (Left): The article presents accusations from the current government against the previous administration, emphasizing the alleged dishonesty of the Fidesz party in its communication regarding migration policies. The framing highlights the opposition’s actions as deceptive and criticizes the former regime’s'
Official sources cited
- government Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Máder
- press release MTI (Hungarian News Agency)
KurirParty-alignedCenter8 days ago Victor Orban Remains FIDE President: Party congress held in Budapest, former prime minister in charge for another yearViktor Orban, former Hungarian prime minister and leader of the Fidesz party, has been re-elected as the party's president for another year at a congress held in Budapest. He received support from 729 delegates with eight abstentions. Orban acknowledged responsibility for the party's recent electoral defeat, admitting strategic errors and expressing regret over the loss of public trust. He criticized internal issues within the party and external factors such as foreign interference.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about Orban's re-election and his acknowledgment of the party's electoral failure without overtly favoring any political side. It includes direct quotes from Orban and does not exhibit clear bias through language or omission of perspectives.
Večernje novostiParty-alignedCenter8 days ago ORBAN BEDELIVO VOLUTION FOR PRESIDENT OF FIDE: Viktor has announced his retirement from politics, and here's whenAfter being re-elected as the leader of the Hungarian party Fidesz, former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán hinted that next year's presidency will be his last.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual statement without overtly biased language or framing. It reports on Orbán's re-election and his indication that he will step down after next year, without taking a stance or emphasizing any particular perspective.
Telegraf.rsIndependentRight8 days ago Viktor Orban re-elected as Fides Party leaderViktor Orban has been re-elected as leader of Hungary's Fidesz party at the 32nd congress held in Budapest. Orban, the sole candidate, received the trust of delegates through a secret ballot with 729 votes out of 737 valid ones. The delegates adopted a report from the national club and nearly unanimously accepted a document analyzing the reasons behind the party's electoral defeat. A political resolution was also passed rejecting the EU migration pact and protesting against what is described as 'the violent removal of democratically elected officials.' Amendments to the party statute have re-
Bias read (Right): The article frames the re-election of Viktor Orban, a far-right leader known for anti-immigration policies, in a positive light by emphasizing his victory and the party's rejection of the EU migration pact. The tone supports the narrative of Fidesz's internal cohesion and resistance to perceived EU
Telegraf.rsIndependentRight11 days ago Hungarian "cools down" Ukraine: "We will not tolerate double standards in the EU enlargement process"Hungarian PM Peter Magyar states Hungary will not accept accelerated EU accession for Ukraine, citing that Ukraine remains at war and must follow the standard 33-chapter accession process, though Hungary doesn't oppose negotiations starting. Hungary will monitor Ukrainian implementation of minority rights protections for Hungarians in Transcarpathia.
Bias read (Right): The article presents Hungary's cautious position with neutral reporting language and direct quotes, though the headline characterization using 'ohladio' (cooled/tempered) slightly frames this as a temperature-lowering move rather than standard procedure.
Official sources cited
- government Interview with Viktor Orbán
N1 SrbijaIndependentCenter11 days ago Five EU members propose temporary restrictions on voting rights of future membersFive European Union member states propose that the EU should consider temporarily restricting voting rights of future member states in certain policy areas and introducing stronger governance mechanisms for new entrants.
Bias read (Center): The reporting uses neutral, factual language (temporary restrictions, policy areas, governance mechanisms) to describe the proposal without loaded terminology or apparent slant toward either proponents or skeptics.
Official sources cited
- government Joint Document by Germany, France, Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg
- press release Reuters Report
Večernje novostiParty-alignedCenter12 days ago HUNGARY AND ORBAN SUBMIT INCOME DECLARATIONS: New Prime Minister Significantly Richer!The article reports that Hungary's new prime minister, Peter Magyar, is considerably wealthier than his predecessor Viktor Orban, based on income declarations published on the national parliament's website following the April 12 election and a June 9 filing deadline. Orban reported roughly 9.1 million forints in savings, property in Budapest and Felcsut, no securities and no debts, while Magyar reported about 197,000 euros in investment securities, additional cash, multiple properties, a car, a Yamaha piano and 60,000 euros in loans. It notes that anti-corruption was the central theme of Magyar's Tisza party campaign and that he has pledged related legislation and tax-declaration reforms.
Bias read (Center): The piece is a factual comparison of two politicians' asset declarations, attributing figures to official parliamentary filings without loaded language favoring either side, though it neutrally relays Orban's severance donation and Magyar's anti-corruption pledges.
Serbia