Hungary Faces Protests Over Bill Threatening Independent Media, NGOs

Hungary’s ruling Fidesz party, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has proposed a controversial bill that would allow the blacklisting, financial restriction, and possible closure of media outlets and civil society organizations receiving foreign funding, raising serious concerns about media freedom and democracy in the European Union. Critics argue the legislation, which grants powers to the Sovereignty Protection Office (SPO)—seen as a government tool to silence dissent—represents the most severe attack on independent journalism in Hungary in years and risks legitimizing Russian-style media suppression within the EU. Opposition to the bill has sparked large peaceful protests in Budapest, where demonstrators warn the law aims to intimidate and silence civil society and independent media voices ahead of elections. Legal and business feedback may delay the bill's adoption, but the Hungarian government appears determined to advance the measure despite warnings from the European Commission and media freedom advocates. Independent media outlets, already marginalized by state-aligned media dominance and drying foreign funds, fear they will be among the first targeted under the new law, threatening their survival. EU leaders are urged to recognize the bill's threat to democratic values and consider measures to counteract Hungary’s continued democratic backsliding.