6 months Ago
The declaration voiced "deep concern" over two changes to the Hungarian constitution on March 18 and April 14, 2025. These new changes, which come in a line of prior such laws, are recently regarded as a violation of the basic human rights of the LGBTQIA+ community. Ban of annual Pride event in Budapest fueled the criticism even more.
Violation of EU Core Values
The EU member states opposing the legislation argue that the new rules violate the values enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union: respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality and human rights. As an EU member state, Hungary has a duty to safeguard the rights of all its citizens, including those of LGBTQIA+ people. But the signatories say Hungary is not living up to this obligation.
The signatories of the statement also include Germany, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Austria, Portugal, and Ireland. And if Hungary does not alter its course, they call on the European Commission to act. Further pledges of support are likely to come from other EU member states in the days ahead.
Implications for Hungary
The European Commission could impose financial penalties, such as freezing subsidies. Talks have also included a possible suspension of Hungary's voting rights in E.U. decision-making, a move that has been debated since 2018 but not yet enacted. On Tuesday, the broader state of the rule of law in Hungary, and how the union should respond, are set to be discussed among foreign affairs ministers of the European Union.
