Reuters learned about EU plans to start a disciplinary procedure against Hungary

The EU may use the mechanism to freeze funding for Hungary. Brussels and Budapest have been in conflict for a long time, in particular, about the observance of democratic freedoms in the country

The European Commission will begin a disciplinary procedure against Hungary, reports Reuters with reference to sources. This could lead to a freeze in funding for the government, recently re-elected Viktor Orban.

To do this, the agency clarifies, the EU for the first time will use a new tool that is designed to prevent misappropriation. It was adopted at the end of 2020, despite the resistance of Hungary and Poland. As the agency explains, richer European countries refused to continue contributing to the joint fund without strict guarantees that their money would not go to those “who undermine democracy.” The publication notes that Budapest and Warsaw “are net beneficiaries.”

In recent years, a number of conflicts have occurred between Budapest and Brussels, including regarding the observance of democratic freedoms in Hungary. In 2018, MEP Judith Sargentini submitted a report to the European Parliament on the risks of the Hungarian government violating the fundamental values ​​of the European Union. Sargentini mentioned the pressure on NGOs, scientists and the media, as well as the infringement of the rights of minorities and migrants. The conclusions of the report were supported by 448 out of 751 members of the European Parliament.

Budapest denied the allegations, calling them revenge “by pro-immigrant politicians.”