As could be expected, in a resolution adopted by the vast majority of the EP, members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have expressed deep concerns about Hungary’s impending Presidency of the Council, urging safeguarding of the EU’s institutions, values, and funds, according to the Thursday press release issued by the EP. However, despite recent threats, the resolution does not include a specific reference to a lawsuit against the European Commission.

Emphasizing the need to resist blackmail and uphold strategic interests without compromising core values, the resolution, approved by the vast majority of the MEPs, condemns the Hungarian government’s alleged ‘systematic efforts to undermine EU founding values’. The resolution highlights Hungary’s perceived violations of EU treaties, calling on the European Council to assess

whether the country has committed ‘serious and persistent breaches of EU values.’

Criticism is also directed at Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who, according to the left-liberal EP majority, has obstructed crucial decisions related to the EU’s long-term budget, which the resolution says is ‘a violation of strategic interests and sincere cooperation principles’.

The resolution also expresses regret over the Commission’s decision to release €10.2 billion to Hungary despite Hungary’s alleged failure to implement judicial independence reforms, and cites apparent discriminatory practices in fund allocation, including manipulated procurement procedures and favouritism towards entities linked to the Prime Minister. The EP resolution stresses that no further funds should be disbursed if the ‘deficiencies’ persist.

The resolution only hints at possible legal action against the European Commission, referring to the

potential use of ‘an array of legal and political measures’

if the Commission neglects its duties as the guardian of the Treaties and protector of the EU’s financial interests.

With regard to Hungary’s Council Presidency in 2024, the Parliament questions the country’s ability ‘to fulfil’ it duties and expresses concern over the fact that the post of the President of the European Council could be filled by Viktor Orbán if the position remains vacant at the time of the Hungarian presidency. The MEPs who adopted the resolution consider this a ‘risk’, noting that it could lead to the abuse of the right of veto, and ominously call for the ‘reform of the Council’s decision making process’.

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Sources: Hungarian Conservative/EP