The History of Hungary: The Post Communist Era

In the last installment of this series, we explored Hungary's history during World War II and its aftermath, including its alliance with Nazi Germany, the establishment of a communist system of government, and the 1956 revolution. In this installment, we will examine Hungary's history in the post-communist era.

History of Hungary

The Post-Communist Era

Following the fall of communism in Hungary, the country experienced significant political and economic changes. The new government under Jozsef Antall introduced a series of reforms aimed at establishing a market economy and transitioning Hungary into a democratic state.

During the 1990s, Hungary's economy grew rapidly, with foreign investment flooding into the country. The government also implemented a number of social welfare policies, including the introduction of a healthcare system and the expansion of education.

Joining the EU and NATO

In 1999, Hungary became a member of NATO, marking a significant milestone in the country's history. By joining NATO, Hungary was able to strengthen its ties with the West and ensure its security in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

In 2004, Hungary joined the European Union, further cementing its status as a democratic and economically prosperous country. Hungary has since become an important player in European politics, advocating for issues such as human rights and environmental protection.

Political Changes

Since the early 2000s, Hungary has experienced significant political changes. In 2010, Viktor Orban's Fidesz party won a landslide victory in parliamentary elections, leading to a shift towards a more authoritarian style of government.

Orban's government has been criticized for its attacks on the media, the judiciary, and civil society. The government has also adopted increasingly nationalist and anti-immigrant policies, leading to tensions with the European Union.

A lot of changes in the post communist era

Hungary's history in the post-communist era has been marked by significant changes and challenges. The country has transitioned to a market economy and established itself as a democratic state, joining NATO and the European Union.

However, recent political changes under Viktor Orban have led to concerns for some people about the erosion of democratic values and the rise of authoritarianism. In the next installment of this series, we will examine Hungary's cultural heritage, including its literature, music, and art.