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Orbán's Decree Sparks Outcry Over Rule of Law

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Viktor Orbán, Hungary's prime minister, issued a decree under emergency powers ordering the collection of the disputed solidarity tax and terminating the related lawsuit.
The Budapest Municipal Court did not comment on specifics but said judges decide cases based on their oath.
Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony and legal experts say the move undermines separation of powers and the rule of law.
The dispute prompted a downgrade of Budapest's credit rating.

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Story summary

Viktor Orbán, Hungary's prime minister, issued a decree under emergency powers ordering the collection of the disputed solidarity tax and terminating the related lawsuit.
The Budapest Municipal Court did not comment on specifics but said judges decide cases based on their oath.
Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony and legal experts say the move undermines separation of powers and the rule of law.
The dispute prompted a downgrade of Budapest's credit rating.