How Democratic Are the Czech Republic and Hungary Today?

Abstract

This chapter examines the current governments in the Czech Republic and Hungary and assesses how democratic they are. Changes in parties and leaders since 1989 are discussed, as well as how citizens feel about certain democratic values. Particular attention is paid to freedoms such as speech, the press, and elections. Additionally, corruption and scandal in each country are explored along with some more recent government policies. Ultimately, it is determined that while both countries are democracies, there are indications that some democratic backsliding is taking place. This is especially true in Hungary, where the ruling party Fidesz has been able to consolidate tremendous power.