Hungary’s reforms prompt call to end Article 7 proceedings

Following the parliamentary elections in April and the reforms introduced by Hungary’s new government, the EPP Group is calling for the EU’s Article 7 proceedings against Hungary to be brought to an end.

The call follows an EPP Group delegation visit to Hungary to assess the progress made in implementing democratic reforms and restoring the rule of law. 

"By electing a new government in April, Hungarian voters expressed their desire for a new beginning. Since then, Hungary has taken important steps towards restoring democracy, strengthening the rule of law and rebuilding trust in public institutions. These developments must be recognised and reflected in the EU’s approach towards Hungary," stated Tomas Tobé MEP, EPP Group Vice-Chair responsible for Justice and Home Affairs.

Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union provides a procedure for addressing serious threats to the EU’s fundamental values, including democracy and the rule of law. Proceedings against Hungary were initiated in 2018 amid concerns about democratic backsliding and the state of the rule of law.

"Bringing the Article 7 proceedings to an end does not mean giving Hungary a free pass. Years of dismantling democratic institutions cannot be undone in just a few months, and the EU must continue to monitor the reform process. However, the Article 7 proceedings should be brought to an end and replaced with continued monitoring of the reforms. Hungary’s democratic recovery is in the interests of all of Europe," added Tomas Tobé.