A group of MEPs called on the European Commission to freeze all funds intended for Hungary, accusing the government of Viktor Orban of systematic violations of European law, reported Agence France-Presse, quoted by BTA.
“We call on the Commission to increase its pressure on the government of Viktor Orban“, states an open letter signed by about twenty MEPs from different political families - left, right, green and centrist.
Among the main reasons for dissatisfaction is a law adopted by the Hungarian parliament in March, aimed at banning the gay pride parade in Budapest. MEPs also strongly criticized a new bill submitted by the government earlier this month, which they say targets NGOs and independent media.
“It would be unacceptable to continue funding a corrupt regime that openly undermines European values“, said the signatories, who include French MEP Chloe Riedel and German MEP Daniel Freund.
According to AFP, the European Union has already blocked 18 billion euros in funds for Hungary due to concerns related to LGBT rights, migration policy, public procurement and conflicts of interest.
“We therefore urgently call on you to suspend all funding for Hungary through all available legal instruments“, the MEPs' letter to the European Commission also said.