European Parliament seeks to limit Hungary's voting rights

In a decisive move aimed at safeguarding the core values of the European Union, more than 100 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have embarked on a journey to curb Hungary's voting rights within the bloc. Spearheading this endeavor is a collective effort to exert pressure on Hungarian leader Viktor Orbán, who has increasingly come under scrutiny for his policies.

The initiative gained momentum as at least 120 out of the European Parliament's 705 members signed a compelling letter addressed to Parliament President Roberta Metsola. Their demand for more stringent measures against Budapest has been fueled by Hungary's perceived erosion of the rule of law, particularly after its disruptive actions during the December European Council (EUCO) session.

December setback
The European Council, responsible for shaping the EU's political course, experienced a setback in December when Orbán obstructed a review of the bloc's budget, which included significant financial aid to Ukraine. This incident marked a tipping point for MEPs who called for immediate action.
The letter sent to President Metsola called for the initiation of a process that could potentially lead to the suspension of Hungary's specific membership rights, including voting rights in the Council. It emphasized the necessity of these actions to safeguard the European Union's fundamental values.
Ongoing disputes between the EU and Hungary have revolved around concerns related to the independence of Hungarian courts, allegations of corruption, and issues concerning minority rights, non-governmental organizations, and education. These persistent conflicts underscore the urgency of addressing Viktor Orbán's actions.
The author of the letter, MEP Petri Sarvamaa of Finland, stated that the letter demonstrates a clear willingness within the Parliament to activate Article 7.2 TEU—a disciplinary measure for countries not adhering to the rule of law. Sarvamaa's remarks reflect the Parliament's determination to address the situation.
On the other hand, Hungarian MEP Balázs Hídvéghi dismissed the letter as yet another "attack" by Hungary's critics, characterizing them as adversaries who have been spreading falsehoods about Hungary for years. This statement reflects the ongoing divide within the EU regarding Hungary's policies.
Tamás Deutsch, an MEP representing Orbán’s Fidesz party, stressed that Parliament was attacking Hungary because the country rejected migration and the “gender madness” while calling for an immediate ceasefire and peace talks regarding the war in Ukraine.

Resolution on Hungary
The European Parliament is poised to adopt a resolution on Hungary in the coming week, as political factions express dissatisfaction with the European Commission's decision in December to release previously frozen EU financial support to Budapest. Commission President von der Leyen said in the plenary session of the European Parliament that the decision to release a part of withheld EU funds came following the undertaking by Hungary of judicial reforms in response to several EU recommendations, adding that around €20 billion remain frozen.
These funds had been suspended for an extended period due to concerns that Orbán's administration was undermining democratic checks and balances. Many MEPs have urged EU leaders to remain steadfast in the face of Hungary's pressures, to provide transparency regarding the Commission's decision, and to respond to Parliament's Article 7 requests. At the same time, they stress the importance of maintaining open communication with Hungary and addressing its concerns.