Orbán's State Machine Persists After His Departure (socialeurope.eu)

• Orbán's system of money, ideology, and votes persists.
• €16 billion in EU funds frozen until 31 August 2026 deadline.
• Magyar plans anti-corruption, media reform, and constitutional changes.
• Loyalists like President Sulyok hinder reforms.
• Post-illiberal trilemma: balancing speed, democracy, and rule of law.

"After 16 years of illiberal rule, Hungary's Prime Minister Péter Magyar faces the challenge of restoring democracy without breaking the constitution. Orbán's system of money, ideology, and votes remains deeply embedded. €16 billion in EU funds are frozen over rule-of-law violations, with a deadline of 31 August 2026 for release. The new government plans to fight corruption, dismantle propaganda machinery, and push constitutional amendments. Loyalists, including President Tamás Sulyok, remain in office."