Hungarian outlets Origo, Magyar Nemzet and others shuttered amid journalist layoffs

The Hungarian government’s allies have dismissed large portions of staff at several prominent newspapers and online portals, including Origo, Magyar Nemzet, Metropol, Bors and Ripost. The closures have been described by critics as turning the titles into political products rather than independent media.

Observers say the actions are part of a broader effort to silence outlets that do not follow the ruling party line and to replace them with publications that serve government interests. Some journalists expressed solidarity with the dismissed colleagues, while others argued the changes were inevitable under the current political climate.

The episode has sparked renewed debate over press freedom in Hungary, with calls for solidarity among journalists and concerns about the future of independent reporting.