MSZP

MSZP, the Magyar Szocialista Párt (Hungarian Socialist Party), is a center-left political party in Hungary advocating social democracy. It traces its origins to 1989, when reformist elements of the Hungarian Socialist Workers’ Party transformed into a democratic, parliamentary party prepared to participate in competitive elections and build a welfare-oriented market economy.

Historically, MSZP has been a significant force in Hungarian politics. It won the 1994 parliamentary elections and formed a government in coalition with the liberal SZDSZ, before being defeated by Fidesz in 1998. The party returned to power after the 2002 elections, governing from 2002 to 2009 under prime ministers Péter Medgyessy and Ferenc Gyurcsány. The Gyurcsány government confronted economic and political crises, culminating in unrest and leadership changes; after 2010, MSZP’s vote share declined markedly and it largely operated in opposition.

Ideology and policy focus center on social democracy, with emphasis on a strong welfare state, public healthcare and education, progressive taxation, workers’ rights, anti-corruption measures, and alignment with European integration and liberal-democratic principles. The party has been affiliated with the Party of European Socialists in the European arena and has participated in broader center-left coalitions to oppose the ruling government.

Organization and status: MSZP maintains a national leadership and a network of regional and local party organizations, with representation in parliament varying according to electoral results. In recent years, it has often sought cooperation with other left-leaning and liberal parties, including participation in broader opposition coalitions against the governing Fidesz, such as the United for Hungary alliance.