Hungary Braces for Dual Political Demonstrations on 1956 Uprising Anniversary

On October 23, 2025, Hungary is set to witness two major political demonstrations in Budapest, coinciding with the anniversary of the 1956 uprising. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party has organized a "Peace March" to rally support amid escalating political tensions, while opposition leader Péter Magyar and his Tisza Party plan a counter-demonstration, highlighting the nation's deepening political divide.

These concurrent events underscore the intensifying polarization in Hungary as the country approaches the April 2026 parliamentary elections. The demonstrations are expected to draw large crowds, reflecting heightened political engagement and the significant stakes involved in the upcoming electoral contest.

Background and Context

October 23 holds profound significance in Hungary, marking the anniversary of the 1956 uprising against Soviet control—a symbol of resistance and the quest for freedom. Since 2012, Fidesz has organized annual Peace Marches on this date, traditionally drawing hundreds of thousands of participants as a show of support for the government.

Key Figures and Organizations

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has led Hungary since 2010, steering the nationalist Fidesz party through a tenure marked by centralization of power and contentious relations with the European Union.

Péter Magyar, a 43-year-old lawyer and former Fidesz member, founded the Tisza Party in 2024. He has rapidly gained prominence by accusing Orbán's government of corruption and advocating for democratic reforms and stronger EU ties. The Tisza Party has become Hungary's largest opposition group, appealing to voters disillusioned with both Orbán's governance and traditional opposition parties.

Recent Developments

On September 23, 2025, the European Parliament rejected Hungary's request to lift Péter Magyar's immunity, preventing potential legal actions against him that critics viewed as politically motivated.

Recent polls indicate a surge in support for the Tisza Party, with some surveys suggesting it could secure up to 30% of votes in upcoming elections, challenging Fidesz's dominance.

Implications

The concurrent demonstrations highlight the deepening political divide in Hungary, reflecting contrasting visions for the nation's future.

Large-scale participation underscores heightened political engagement among Hungarians, signaling a robust democratic process.

Magyar's pro-EU stance contrasts with Orbán's often contentious relationship with the bloc, potentially influencing Hungary's future diplomatic direction.

As Hungary commemorates the 1956 uprising, the nation stands at a political crossroads. The upcoming demonstrations not only honor the past but also shape the future, reflecting the evolving political landscape and the choices facing Hungarian citizens ahead of the 2026 elections.