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Journalist Fights Authoritarianism, Builds Independent Media in Hungary

4/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In Hungary, journalist András Petho took a bold stand against political pressure by co-founding Direkt36, an independent investigative site. Over a decade, it has unveiled corruption and attracted 4,000 paid members, fueled by a revealing documentary on Prime Minister Orbán's wealth. Petho urges U.S. journalists to remain vigilant against rising authoritarianism and highlights the crucial role of audience support for independent media.

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Story summary

In Hungary, journalist András Petho took a bold stand against political pressure by co-founding Direkt36, an independent investigative site. Over a decade, it has unveiled corruption and attracted 4,000 paid members, fueled by a revealing documentary on Prime Minister Orbán's wealth. Petho urges U.S. journalists to remain vigilant against rising authoritarianism and highlights the crucial role of audience support for independent media.