44. HUNGARY ’26: The election isn’t fair, but the opposition might still win. Here’s how. GUEST: Zsófia Banuta

With Hungary’s historic 2026 election just days away, this episode takes one last look at the battle for the country’s future before polling stations open. Zsófia Banuta, a democracy defender and co-founder of Unhack Democracy, joins Omri, Benni and Daniela to share firsthand accounts of the tactics shaping the vote, and… well, trust us: from systemic vote-buying and coercion in marginalised communities to Viktor Orbán’s relentless propaganda machine, some of the details might shock even the most weather-beaten election observer.

Recent polls suggest that Peter Magyar’s opposition party, Tisza, commands a clear lead, and yet… despite the apparent impopularity of the ruling party, no one can quite take this win for granted. Our conversation explores how Orbán’s 16-year grip on power has reshaped Hungary’s institutions, media, and also, crucially, the electoral system itself.

What would a victory for the opposition mean for Hungary’s democratic recovery, and what legal and political hurdles would remain after the votes have been counted?

Is there a risk of post-election manipulation? How can a society heal after prolonged autocratic rule? Can Hungary break free from its cycle of corruption and polarisation, or is the damage too deep?

Listen now for a ground-level perspective on an election that could well redefine Hungary… and offer a few lessons for democracies under strain worldwide.

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