Hungary’s presidency: Is PM Orbán carefully walking a tightrope?
Hungary’s presidency was not welcomed well by everyone. Many suggest that PM Orbán is walking a tightrope when it comes to EU affairs. He is undoubtedly annoying Brussels, while the EU usually slaps back empty threats.
Judgement from EU countries
Politico writes that at a meeting on Wednesday, Hungary’s envoy to the EU, Bálint Ódor, faced an “unprecedented” reprimand from his Brussels colleagues over Budapest’s commencement of its EU Council presidency. Except for Slovakia, every country spoke up, a scenario described by a senior EU diplomat as unheard of. “It’s unprecedented that the presidency would be reprimanded in such a way by all the others,” the diplomat said.
This criticism follows Hungarian leader Viktor Orbán on his “peace missions” to Kyiv, Moscow, Beijing, and Washington. At a press conference, Hungary’s EU Minister János Bóka downplayed the backlash, stating that these discussions were not conducted on behalf of the EU. However, EU ambassadors countered, noting that Orbán’s actions blurred lines and contradicted EU unity, thus undermining trust and serving Russian interests rather than those of the EU.
Only criticism, no consequences?
Despite the severe criticism, European capitals are struggling to move beyond public condemnations of Hungary’s presidency. Legal and procedural constraints hinder options like changing the order of presidencies or shortening Hungary’s term. While no ambassador suggested scrapping the presidency entirely, anger is palpable. Estonian MEP Riho Terras is seeking support to invoke Article 7, the EU’s most severe political sanction, against Hungary.
Meanwhile, several EU ambassadors hinted at practical measures, such as boycotting informal ministerial meetings organised by Budapest. Although Bóka dismissed the likelihood of a boycott, the rapid escalation of tensions suggests that more severe pushback could occur if Orbán crosses further lines, especially in his interactions with figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump. For now, the EU continues to monitor Hungary’s actions closely.
The government’s thoughts about Hungary’s presidency
Hungary’s presidency of the Council of the European Union has kicked off energetically, according to EU affairs minister János Bóka. He reported that numerous events have already been organised this month, garnering interest from across the bloc. In the initial week, EU ministers responsible for competitiveness convened to discuss a potential new competitiveness pact, focusing on artificial intelligence and electric vehicle support. Bóka highlighted that Hungary’s presidency will prioritise competitiveness, while also addressing security and defence, illegal migration, EU enlargement, agricultural, and cohesion policies.
A key event will be the informal European Council summit in Budapest on 8 November, where leaders will adopt a competitiveness pact to tackle internal barriers, enhance infrastructure and energy ties, complete the financial and capital market union, and address labour shortages. Reflecting on the past five years as “unsuccessful” for the EU, Bóka emphasised Hungary’s role in advocating for change and maintaining hope for a better future within EU institutions.
Read also:
- Hungarian government invites EU ministers to Budapest
- Hungarian EU presidency focusing on creation of new pact – UPDATED
Source: MTI