Hungary’s Viktor Orban to address European parliament ahead of Article 7 vote
Today, Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban will address EU lawmakers about a draft resolution that alleges his right-wing government has continually breached the rule of law and is contributing to a ‘democratic slide’ in Hungary.
The resolution raises concern about the integrity of the judiciary within the constitutional framework. In addition, Hungary stands accused of discrimination and acquiescence by security forces to the abuse of Jewish and Romani minorities along with refugees.
The EU parliament will vote to adopt the resolution tomorrow. If it receives support from all 27 EU member states, Budapest could face sanctions under Article 7 of the Charter of the European Union, including the suspension of certain membership rights such as voting. However, a unanimous vote is unlikely given that Poland, governed by a eurosceptic right-wing party, will most likely veto the vote.
Hungary and Poland have repeatedly allied against the EU on matters such as refugee redistribution and the rule of law. Although no unequivocal statement has been made by Poland regarding a veto, expect sanctions to be blocked in line with the friendly relationship between the two states.
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