ÁVH (State Protection Authority)

The ÁVH, or State Protection Authority, was Hungary’s secret police organization operating from 1945 to 1956. It was responsible for political surveillance, repression, and maintaining Communist Party control. The ÁVH monitored citizens, suppressed dissent, arrested opponents, and enforced government policies through intimidation and violence. Its role was similar to other Eastern Bloc secret police agencies during the Cold War, aiming to suppress opposition and ensure the Communist regime's stability. The organization played a significant part in Hungary’s early communist history, often acting with little transparency or regard for individual rights.