Hungary: the controversial first EU presidency in the 10th term

On 1 July, Hungary took over the presidency of the Council of the European Union from Belgium. This presidency is particularly controversial. In 2018, the European Parliament initiated an Article 7 procedure against Hungary due to violations of the rule of law, including restrictions on minority rights, media censorship, corruption, and misuse of EU subsidies. What does it mean that this country will now become the EU-president and what are their plans for the next six months?

Why is the Hungarian presidency controversial?

The Article 7 procedure against Hungary is ongoing due to serious concerns about the rule of law. As a result, funds for the country were partially frozen. Although the European Commission released €10 billion in December 2023, around €21 billion remains frozen. Hungary frequently opposes European decisions, especially on sanctions, taxes, and new legislation, and often stands against the majority of EU member states. Consequently, Belgium expedited several dossiers, such as accession talks with Moldova and Ukraine and new sanctions against Russia, anticipating that Hungary would not prioritize these topics.

Hungary’s plans: ‘Make Europe Great Again’

Hungary recently presented its list of priorities, titled: ‘Make Europe Great Again’. They aim to strengthen Europe’s competitive position relative to the US and China, propose a “farmer-centered” agricultural deal, and adopt a stringent approach to illegal migration. The slogan, inspired by Trump, elicited nervous reactions from other EU member states. Hungary’s representative in Brussels, Bálint Ódor, denied any connection to Trump – despite the obvious political ties between Orbán and Trump.

Hungarian priorities

The presidency focuses on seven priorities, including the “New European Competitiveness Deal,” defense policy, illegal migration, and demographic challenges. They aim to stimulate economic growth, improve productivity, and support small and medium-sized enterprises. They also seek to enhance European net-zero production capabilities by investing in new technologies and training the workforce. For agriculture, they advocate for policies where farmers play a larger role in sustainable innovations. They are working on a European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) with a budget of €1.5 billion for joint procurements and weapon stocks. Despite Hungary’s blockades on several defense dossiers, EU diplomats expect them to conclude this dossier relatively easily.

New European Commission

The Hungarian presidency coincides with the preparation of the work program of the new European Commission (2024-2029). The Council, under the Belgian presidency, has already adopted the Strategic Work Agenda 2024-2029. Hungary will take over more than 120 ongoing legislative dossiers and has the opportunity to influence Council meetings and discussions with the Commission.

Looking ahead

The Hungarian presidency will be primarily political, with limited policy influence. In the coming months, the allocation of top positions within the Commission will be central. By the time the new Commission can submit legislative proposals, Hungary’s presidency will be over. Nonetheless, it is important to monitor ongoing proposals, as Hungary may still influence them.

Hungary’s presidency comes at a crucial moment for the EU. Although the country is politically controversial, it will play a significant role in European decision-making over the next six months.