Cover Osteuropa 12/2011

In Osteuropa 12/2011

Autocracy in Action
Hungary under Orbán

Bálint Magyar


Deutsche Fassung

Abstract

Ever since Viktor Orbán came to power, Hungarian politics has been like a football game in which the captain of one team changes the rules at will, appoints the referee, and can even eject opposing players from the field. Separation of powers has been abolished, equality before the law nullified. Orbán writes laws that are crafted with precision for individual persons or groups – be it for friend or foe. Using intimidation and blackmail, Fidesz is pushing forward a change of elites and a redistribution of property. Castigation of scapegoats and systematic character assassination have become constitutive elements of economic policy.

(Osteuropa 12/2011, pp. 89–104)