In a recent joint session of the European Parliament’s Committees on Budgets and Budgetary Control, representatives from Hungary’s ruling FIDESZ–KDNP coalition voiced concerns over what they perceive as the European Commission’s silence on Hungary’s latest constitutional and political shifts. The delegation, consisting of MEPs Tamás Deutsch, Csaba Dömötör, and András László, urged the Commission to take a definitive stance on matters such as constitutional amendments, limitations on political competition, alterations to parliamentary mandates, and the autonomy of state institutions.
The Hungarian lawmakers highlighted that the European Commission has previously expressed rule-of-law concerns regarding Hungary, leading to the withholding of EU funds. However, they noted a lack of response from the Commission concerning these new developments. The delegation questioned whether the recent constitutional changes align with the democratic standards expected across the European Union.
FIDESZ–KDNP members emphasized that democratic principles should not be selectively applied and called for uniform application across all EU member states. The lack of detailed responses from Commission representatives during the hearing left these questions largely unanswered, according to the Hungarian delegation.
This call for clarity from the European Commission comes amid ongoing tensions between Hungary and EU institutions over the rule of law and democratic norms. Critics of Hungary’s government argue that recent changes may further erode democratic checks and balances, a claim the current administration often disputes.
As the debate continues, the demand for a clear position from the European Commission underscores the complex dynamics within the EU regarding the balance between national sovereignty and adherence to collective democratic values.