By Gabriel Ani, Reporting from European parliament in Brussels.
The European Parliament passed a new resolution expressing deep-seated concerns over Hungary’s adherence to EU values, particularly in light of the upcoming elections and the country’s upcoming Presidency of the Council. The resolution, adopted with 399 votes in favor, 117 against, and 28 abstentions, addresses a range of issues including democracy, justice system deficiencies, anti-corruption measures, media freedom, and more.
According to the resolution, Hungary’s adoption of the Protection of National Sovereignty Act and the establishment of the Sovereignty Protection Office have raised alarms among MEPs. The Office’s extensive powers and surveillance measures are deemed to violate democratic standards and breach multiple EU laws, prompting MEPs to call for immediate suspension of the law to uphold the principle of free and fair elections.
Moreover, MEPs criticized the European Commission’s decision to release up to €10.2 billion in frozen EU funds to Hungary, despite concerns raised about the country’s adherence to EU values. Recent revelations by Hungary’s former minister of justice further fueled calls for the Commission to revoke the disbursement of funds.
The resolution also highlights MEPs’ ongoing efforts to address Hungary’s alleged breaches of EU values through Article 7 procedures. They emphasize the need for a more direct approach under Article 7(2) instead of the stalled Article 7(1) process initiated in 2018.
With Hungary set to assume the Presidency of the Council in the second half of 2024, MEPs express doubts about the country’s ability to credibly fulfill its duties. They urge for the establishment of a comprehensive mechanism to safeguard EU values across all member states.
In summary, the resolution underscores the European Parliament’s continued vigilance in monitoring and addressing issues pertaining to democracy, rule of law, and fundamental rights within the EU, particularly in countries facing scrutiny like Hungary.
