Népszabadság (People’s Freedom), a prominent left-wing Hungarian newspaper shut down a decade ago under former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has relaunched as an online news site and weekly magazine. Founded during Hungary’s 1956 uprising against Soviet control, the paper was abruptly closed in 2016 by former owner Mediaworks, which cited financial losses, while staff believed the closure stemmed from its critical coverage of Orbán.
The renewed Népszabadság is now an online public affairs newspaper at nszo. hu covering important Hungarian and international news, analyses, reports, and interviews, in addition to a weekly print edition focusing on major topics.
New Editor-in-Chief Ákos Tóth emphasised the need for “classic, news-based journalism” in Hungary. Previously a deputy editor at Népszabadság, he noted the restructuring now benefits from committed owners and a supportive association that protects the trademark.
Four Hungarian real estate investors are funding the relaunch. With Orbán ousted, these investors see an opportunity to revitalise the brand.
Fidesz, now backed by only one-fifth of voters, eroded media pluralism over 16 years in power, shutting down many outlets, including Népszabadság. The government silenced dissent, while Orbán’s administration denied any such pressure.
The new outlet aims to employ 90 staff members, mostly former Népszabadság employees and staff from the left-wing daily Népszava, which ceased print publication in May. The investors plan to finance the operation for two years and target profitability through advertising and subscriptions, though challenges remain due to state advertising bias.
