On the initiative of the Netherlands, Hungary gets a severe reprimand

BRUSSELS (ANP) – The direct reason for the statement is the legislative and constitutional changes recently adopted by the Hungarian parliament and the ban on the annual Pride in Budapest, as stated in the statement. The laws are in conflict with “the fundamental values of human dignity, freedom, equality, and respect for human rights, as enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union.”

Because Hungary is a member of the EU, it must respect and protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all people, including LGBTIQ+ individuals. Hungary is currently not doing this, according to the signatories.

The signatories, including Germany, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Austria, Portugal, and Ireland, are calling on the European Commission to intervene if Hungary does not change its course. EU sources expect that more member states will join.

The Commission can withhold further subsidies for Hungary. There has also been discussion since 2018 about revoking Hungary’s voting rights at meetings with EU leaders, but the procedure for this has not yet been initiated.

On Tuesday, the EU foreign ministers will discuss the state of the rule of law in Hungary.

(May 26, 2025)