Orbán

Orbán commonly refers to Viktor Mihály Orbán, a Hungarian politician who has led the Fidesz party and served as Hungary's prime minister for two periods: 1998–2002 and since 2010. He has been a central figure in Hungarian politics for over two decades and has shaped the direction of the conservative-government agenda in the country.

Born in Székesfehérvár in 1963, Orbán studied law at Eötvös Loránd University and became active in Hungary’s democratic transition around 1989. He helped found Fidesz in 1990, a party that evolved from a liberal youth organization into a major conservative political force on the right.

Orbán first held the office of prime minister from 1998 to 2002. After years in opposition, his party won a decisive victory in 2010 and he has remained premier since then, with subsequent elections reinforcing Fidesz’s governing position and, in many elections, a large parliamentary majority.

His government has implemented substantial constitutional and legal reforms, including a 2011 new constitution and broad changes to media, judiciary, and civil society. The regime has pursued centralized power, a emphasis on national sovereignty, and stringent anti-immigration policies, such as border controls and measures framed as defending Hungary against external influences.

In the European Union, Orbán’s governance has drawn criticism from European institutions and rights groups over rule-of-law concerns and perceived democratic backsliding, even as Hungary remains an EU member. Supporters emphasize national autonomy, economic stabilization, and social policy changes aimed at families and growth.

He is married to Anikó Lévai.