Hungary faces a clear choice: democracy or Orbán’s authoritarian path, says Stefan Löfven at DK Congress

With Hungary entering a decisive phase ahead of the parliamentary elections on 12 April, the Democratic Coalition (DK) held its Congress in Budapest this Sunday, 15 February, bringing together party members to mobilise for democratic change.

Speaking at the Congress, Stefan Löfven, President of the Party of European Socialists (PES), delivered a strong message: Hungarian citizens face a clear and urgent choice between continued democratic erosion under Viktor Orbán or embracing a future of democracy, the rule of law and a pro-European future.

Addressing party members and international guests, the PES President underlined:

"Hungary stands at a turning point, not only for its own citizens, but for Europe as a whole. Authoritarian and far-right forces are deliberately undermining democratic institutions, weakening the rule of law and isolating countries from the European project.

Citizens have a clear choice. On one side, there is a pro-European and progressive path that puts people's wellbeing, democracy and the rule of law at its core. On the other, a path of corruption, democratic backsliding and isolation that has already cost Hungary billions in frozen EU funds.

Democracy cannot be treated as a given, nor reduced to a formal exercise. It must deliver concrete improvements in people's lives, from fair wages and affordable housing to quality healthcare, education and social security.

Democracy must not become a museum piece. It must evolve, empower citizens and give them real influence over their future. Without equality, there is no real freedom, and without solidarity, democracy cannot endure.

Real change is needed. Not Fidesz again, or just a slightly softer version of it. Hungarian democracy needs social democracy."

Stefan Löfven praised Klára Dobrev and the Democratic Coalition for their role in defending democratic values in Hungary and for standing firmly for a pro-European, progressive alternative. He stressed that strong social-democratic representation in the Hungarian Parliament is essential to restore trust, fight corruption and rebuild democratic institutions.

The PES President also warned against the Hungarian government increasing alignment with authoritarian leaders and far-right movements abroad, stressing that lasting peace and security can only be achieved through respect for international law, multilateral cooperation, and democratic norms.