The European Union is set to address ongoing concerns regarding Hungary’s adherence to human rights and the rule of law during a hearing scheduled for May 27, under Article 7.1 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU). Since the last hearing in June 2024, Hungarian authorities have intensified actions perceived as undermining EU values.
A significant point of contention is the “Transparency of Public Life” bill, which civil society organizations have labeled “Operation Starve and Strangle.” This proposed legislation could enable Hungarian authorities to target and dissolve organizations deemed threats to national sovereignty. Critics argue that this bill threatens independent media and civil society by potentially forcing them into exile or closure.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government has also faced criticism for its treatment of the LGBTI community. On March 18, amendments were passed banning LGBTI-related assemblies, including Pride marches. These measures build on previous laws already challenged at the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU).
Additionally, Hungary’s recent decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC) has raised concerns. Prime Minister Orbán welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu despite an ICC arrest warrant against him, signaling a potential breach of international obligations.
Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and other organizations have called for concrete actions from EU ministers. They urge setting clear recommendations for Hungary with a six-month deadline for compliance. Failure to meet these recommendations could lead to further proceedings under Article 7.2 TEU.
These developments underscore ongoing tensions between Hungary and EU institutions over issues related to human rights and democratic principles.
