Katalin Novák, born on 6 September 1977 in Szeged, Hungary, made history as the first female president of Hungary, serving from May 2022 to February 2024. Known for her strong conservative stance, Novák’s political career has been a mix of achievement, controversy, and public service. Here’s an overview of her life, career, and notable achievements.

Early Life and Education

Katalin Novák graduated from Ságvári Endre Secondary School in Szeged in 1996. She went on to study economics at Corvinus University of Budapest and law at the University of Szeged. Novák also studied abroad at Paris Nanterre University, enriching her international perspective. Fluent in Hungarian, French, English, German, and Spanish, she developed a strong academic foundation that would influence her political career.

Political Career and Rise to Power

Novák began her career in public service at the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2001, specializing in European Union affairs. She later became a ministerial advisor and Head of Cabinet at the Ministry of Human Resources. In 2014, she was appointed State Secretary for Family and Youth Affairs.

In 2020, she was appointed Hungary’s Minister for Family Affairs, a position she held until December 2021. Throughout her career, Novák was deeply involved in policies promoting family values and youth affairs.

In 2021, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán nominated her as Fidesz’s candidate for president. On 10 March 2022, Novák won the presidential election with 137 out of 188 votes in the National Assembly, making history as Hungary’s first female president and youngest person to hold the office.

Presidency (2022–2024)

As Hungary’s first female president, Novák’s presidency focused on defending traditional values and fostering Hungary’s international relations. She condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, showing support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. In the context of the 2023 Israel-Gaza conflict, she also expressed strong support for Israel’s right to self-defense, demonstrating her commitment to global peace and stability.

Novák vetoed a controversial bill in 2023, which sought to encourage citizens to report same-sex couples raising children. This bold move was a reflection of her progressive stance on LGBTQ+ issues despite her conservative roots.

Controversy and Resignation (2024)

In early 2024, Novák faced national outrage due to a controversial presidential pardon she issued in April 2023. The pardon granted clemency to Endre Kónya, a former deputy director of an orphanage involved in a child abuse scandal. The pardon was met with protests, which led to Novák’s resignation on 10 February 2024. This marked the second time in Hungary’s post-communist history that a head of state resigned due to a scandal.

Personal Life

Novák is married to economist István Veres, and they have three children together. She is a practicing Reformed Christian and is known for her strong conservative views, particularly her opposition to “gender ideology.” Novák supported constitutional reforms to restrict adoption by same-sex couples, reflecting her commitment to family values.

Honors and Recognition

Novák has received numerous awards during her political career. She was awarded the Hungarian Order of Saint Stephen and the Grand Cross with Chain of the Hungarian Order of Merit. Internationally, she received the Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour from France and the Grand Collar of the Order of Prince Henry from Portugal.

Legacy

Despite her resignation, Katalin Novák’s presidency remains a significant chapter in Hungarian political history. Her tenure highlighted Hungary’s conservative approach to family values and international relations, but her controversial actions in 2024 also cast a shadow on her legacy. Novák’s career offers a complex narrative of achievement, resilience, and the challenges of navigating political life at the highest levels.