The German government welcomed the European Commission’s proposal to cut billions in EU funds for Hungary. It is good that the authority is using this instrument to protect the rule of law, European State Minister Anna Lührmann said Tuesday on the sidelines of an EU meeting in Brussels. The Green politician did not comment on the question of whether the Hungarian pledges were enough to prevent the misuse of EU money. “We are now examining these measures very carefully.”
The EU Commission on Sunday proposed to cut payments of around 7.5 billion euros from the EU budget to Hungary because of corruption and other violations of the rule of law. The authority does not currently see EU funds adequately protected against misuse in Hungary. However, the country made 17 pledges to eliminate deficits. Among other things, an anti-corruption authority must be created. The decision to freeze the money destined for Hungary is now up to the EU countries.
Austrian Minister Karoline Edtstadler stressed on Tuesday that there should be no compromises with the rule of law. At the same time, everyone must have the chance to find their way back to the rule of law.
Hungarian Justice Minister Judit Varga highlighted that the 17 measures could alleviate concerns related to the so-called rule of law mechanism. Hungary has undertaken to implement the measures. This should improve the fight against corruption and the protection of the EU budget.