Meanwhile, there are real progressives around here, who if not in politics get active in an infant civilian society. I think it's still a long way before they blow over into the world of politics like the Greens did across Western Europe two decades ago, but it'll happen.

I'm not sure it "will" happen. At least not without a real grassroots organization. And I don't see many younger people who are interested in social issues. And of course, the parties, as your post shows, will turn it to individual advantage.

On another note, I studied for a month in Budapest in 1990. The program was largely organized by then Fidesz members/sympathizers. I'll never be able to figure out what happened to that party. Reading this and your other post at least leaves me less dejected. Misery loves company, as they say.