The 48-page resolution deeply regrets that the lack of decisive action by the European Union (EU) has allowed this to happen in Hungary, which has been ruled by ultra-conservative nationalist Viktor Orbán since 2010.
The document calls on European institutions to “focus more on systematically undermining the rule of law” in the country.
“Hungary can no longer be considered a fully democratic country,” the European Parliament’s news service insisted.
The (non-binding) resolution asks the European Council to “as soon as possible (…) make recommendations to Hungary, asking it to comply with all judgments and recommendations adopted”.
MEPs called on the European Commission to “make full use of available tools to deal with Hungary’s apparent risk of a serious breach of the values on which the Union is based”.
According to the resolution, Hungary should not receive post-pandemic recovery funds if it fails to comply with EU recommendations on the rule of law and court rulings.
The EU has adopted a so-called conditionality mechanism, whereby each country can obtain resources for its recovery only if respect for the rule of law is verified domestically.
Already in 2018, the European Parliament opened a case against Hungary “for the risk of a major violation of European values”.
Jean Rhys is a contributor to OE Mag, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on clear, accurate reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current affairs and developments that matter to them. Her work highlights relevant stories, emerging trends, and key issues, presenting them in a balanced, accessible, and reader-friendly way.