Hungary assumes rotating presidency of the EU
For months, there has been speculation about Hungary’s plans for its next EU presidency. Starting July 1, Hungary will take over the six-month rotating presidency of the EU Council of Ministers. This assumption of the presidency has generated tension in the EU due to the positions and actions of the Hungarian government.
Viktor Orbán’s government, which has been in power since 2010, has come under criticism from independent bodies and EU experts. Respect for democratic values, the rule of law and freedom of the press in Hungary have been questioned.
Hungary and its relationship with the EU
The Hungarian government has obstructed EU decisions on numerous occasions. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Hungary has blocked or delayed decisions that could help Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. This has generated tensions with other EU countries.
Furthermore, Hungary has been the subject of concern by the European Commission due to alleged violations of EU law in areas such as equal rights, the right to asylum, academic freedom and corruption. This has led to the freezing of EU funds destined for Hungary.
Viktor Orbán and his leadership
Viktor Orbán, Prime Minister of Hungary, has been in power since 2010 and is considered one of the most isolated leaders in the EU. His close stances on the Kremlin and his refusal to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia have generated criticism and tensions with other EU countries.
Orbán has governed with a parliamentary majority that has allowed him to adopt laws and reforms without seeking support from the opposition. His administration has been characterized by a conservative approach and has been criticized for his anti-immigration stance and his opposition to gay marriage.
The impact of the Hungarian presidency on Europe
The Hungarian presidency of the EU will have a significant impact on Europe. The positions and actions of the Hungarian government have generated tensions and divisions within the EU. Furthermore, concerns about respect for democratic values and the rule of law in Hungary have led to the freezing of EU funds destined for the country.
The Hungarian presidency also raises questions about the future of European integration and the EU’s role in defending human rights and democratic values. Orbán’s leadership and his conservative stances have generated criticism and concerns in other EU countries.
In short, the Hungarian presidency of the EU has generated tensions and divisions within the EU due to the positions and actions of the Hungarian government. Concerns about respect for democratic values and the rule of law in Hungary have led to the freezing of EU funds destined for the country. Orbán’s leadership and his conservative stances have generated criticism and concerns in other EU countries.
