The Commission states that the independence of judges in Hungary is structurally under pressure. Political influence on appointments, sanctions, and the powers of courts has still not been abolished. This raises concerns about fair justice and blocks further European payments to Budapest.
In total, more than 18 billion euros of EU funds remain frozen. Last year, the Commission already released 8 billion euros after Hungary implemented some legal reforms. However, according to Brussels, hardly any progress has been made since then despite previous commitments by the Hungarian government.
Discontent about Hungary is growing not only within the Commission but also among EU member states and in the European Parliament. In several capitals, calls are heard for tougher measures. Denmark even wants to suspend Hungary’s voting rights in the Council.
Dutch Member of the European Parliament Raquel García Hermida-van der Walle (D66), who contributed to the annual report on behalf of the European Parliament, is deeply concerned: “When you see how countries like Hungary trample on the rule of law, I can well understand that the European Commission feels it is not being taken seriously. The recommendations to strengthen the judiciary and independent media are simply shredded there.”
During a plenary debate in the European Parliament, several political groups called for real sanctions against the obstructive Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. At the debate in Strasbourg, Budapest’s mayor, Gergely Karácsony, was prominently present. As a pro-European candidate, he will run against the ruling Fidesz party in next year’s elections. He received a standing ovation from the European Parliament.
The report also contains critical remarks about other EU countries. In Romania, concerns persist about political pressure on judges and the media. In Malta, insufficient progress has been made in strengthening the rule of law despite earlier promises. Slovakia faces strong criticism for recent legislative changes that may undermine judicial independence. The Czech Republic lags behind in transparency regarding appointments in the judiciary.
The European Commission notes that some countries not only violate EU rules but also trample on their own laws. This undermines mutual trust within the Union. Although some countries show slight progress, according to Brussels, it is often insufficient to speak of structural improvement.
Within the European Union, divisions are growing on how to deal with countries that challenge the rule-of-law standards. While some governments advocate diplomacy and dialogue, others want tougher sanctions. The Commission tries to balance these approaches, but the political-administrative deadlock around Hungary remains a key issue.
In response, the European Commission is now considering broadening its approach. Work is underway to expand the existing 'cash-for-reform' system, where other EU countries will only receive EU subsidies in the future if they demonstrate reforms in the areas of rule of law and democracy.