Hungary once again goes its own way: The only EU country that refused to sign Serbia condolence statement

As tens of thousands gathered in Serbia to commemorate the first anniversary of the Novi Sad railway station tragedy, the European Union’s member states issued a joint statement expressing condolences, with one notable exception. Hungary was the only EU country that chose not to sign the document, once again isolating itself from the European community.

One year since the tragedy that claimed 16 lives in Serbia

On 1 November 2024, the newly renovated roof of Novi Sad railway station collapsed, killing 16 people. The disaster left a deep scar in Serbia, where regular protests have continued ever since against the government of President Aleksandar Vučić. The tragedy drew attention not only to shortcomings in safety regulations but also to issues of governmental corruption and irresponsibility.

The railway station was modernised as part of the Belgrade–Budapest railway line with Chinese involvement, and opposition groups claimed the project was marred by serious abuses and political interference, HVG reports. In the aftermath of the tragedy, student movements emerged, demanding accountability and democratic reforms – movements that continue to shape public life in Serbia today.

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Europe expresses sympathy, Hungary remains silent

On the anniversary, the EU Delegation to Serbia released a joint statement signed by the embassies of 26 member states – all except Hungary. The document conveyed the Union’s “deepest condolences and sincere sympathy” to the families of the victims and reminded that fundamental rights – including freedom of assembly and freedom of the press – are at the heart of European values.

The statement also called on everyone to exercise restraint, avoid violence, and honour the victims with dignity. In doing so, the EU member states not only expressed their sympathy but also reaffirmed their solidarity with Serbian civil society.

Hungary, however, did not join the statement and gave no explanation for its decision. As a result, the country once again stood alone within the EU, symbolically aligning itself with the Serbian government rather than with the citizens protesting for change.

Strategic calm or deliberate distancing?

While Serbian authorities labelled several Hungarian students as national security risks and denied them entry to the country during the commemorations, Hungary’s foreign ministry merely responded with “strategic calm.” The government offered no official explanation as to why it refused to join the EU’s joint message.

The gesture nonetheless fits neatly into the Orbán government’s foreign policy pattern: in recent years, Budapest has repeatedly gone against the EU consensus on issues involving Russia, China, and political developments in the Western Balkans.

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Another sign of isolation

Hungary’s decision to remain apart on the anniversary of the Novi Sad tragedy is more than just a diplomatic move – it is a strong political message. The country appears determined to follow its own path, even when doing so comes at the expense of human gestures and expressions of solidarity.