Overview

• The Hungarian parliament, dominated by Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party, is expected to approve a law targeting NGOs and media receiving foreign funding.
• The proposed law establishes the 'Sovereignty Protection Office' to monitor, restrict, and potentially ban organizations and media critical of the government.
• The EU Commission has condemned the legislation, threatening 'all necessary measures' and withholding €18 billion in funds from Hungary.
• Mass protests in Budapest reflect growing domestic opposition, with further demonstrations planned as elections approach next year.
• Critics liken Orbán's measures to Russian-style authoritarianism, warning of severe consequences for civil society and democratic freedoms.