Hungary swears in pro-EU PM Magyar, ending Orban's 16-year rule

Peter Magyar was formally elected and sworn in as Hungary's prime minister on Saturday, ending Viktor Orban's 16-year tenure at the helm of the Central European nation.

Magyar, described as a pro-EU conservative, represents a sharp departure from Orban's nationalist policies that have frequently drawn criticism from Brussels and other EU capitals. The transition comes after mounting pressure on Hungary over judicial independence, rule-of-law concerns, and alignment with Russia.

Orban's government had clashed repeatedly with European Union institutions over democratic standards and media freedom. Magyar's elevation signals Hungary's potential realignment toward closer EU integration and Western partnerships.

The change in Budapest's political leadership may ease tensions between Hungary and other EU member states that have sought to hold the country accountable on governance standards. Magyar's swearing-in represents one of Central Europe's most significant political shifts in recent years.