Hungarians Rally for Press Freedom

In Budapest, thousands have gathered to protest the government's tight grip on media, particularly targeting the public broadcaster MTVA, which is labeled a 'propaganda factory.' The demonstration highlighted the overwhelming control of Prime Minister Orbán's Fidesz party over approximately 80% of the country's media landscape.

Opposition leader Péter Magyar, representing the TISZA party, has emerged as a significant challenger to Fidesz, advocating for greater press independence. Many independent media outlets have ceased operations under the current regime, prompting criticisms from the EU Commission regarding infringements on press freedom and fundamental rights.

The growing unrest signifies a pivotal moment for democracy in Hungary as citizens demand transparency and accountability.