Hungary Moves to Overhaul State Media After Orbán Era

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Budapest: After years of concerns that state broadcasters favoured previous Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his ruling party, Hungary's new government has initiated reforms aimed at restoring the independence of the nation's public media.

A review of the public media system, including its financial structure and editorial procedures, has been mandated by Prime Minister Páv Magyar's government. The action follows extensive accusations that while Orbán's 16 years in office, state broadcasters acted as government propaganda outlets.

Journalists working for the state media network say political involvement has reduced since the change in government, allowing for more coverage of opposition voices and previously unreported subjects. Media watchdogs have long claimed that Hungary's public media system lacked editorial independence and gave excessive attention to government narratives.

The reforms are expected to face major challenges, with experts warning that regaining public trust and preserving long-term media independence will require structural changes, greater legal protections, and safeguards against future political influence. The revision is being keenly monitored as an indicator for Hungary's commitment to democratic reforms and press freedom.