European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reported on Wednesday that she had a productive meeting in Brussels with Hungary’s future Prime Minister, Péter Magyar. The discussion centred on the prerequisites for unblocking EU funds for Hungary, which have been suspended due to ongoing concerns regarding corruption and violations of the rule of law.
“A very good exchange with @magyarpeterMP in Brussels today. We discussed the steps necessary to unlock EU funds earmarked for Hungary, that are frozen due to corruption and rule of law concerns. @EU_Commission will support your work to address these issues and realign with shared European values. Our teams will continue to work closely together. For a prosperous Hungary at the heart of our shared European home,” announced Commission President today.
Prime Minister Magyar said the meeting with President von der Leyen was constructive. He stated, “We have agreed that, as Prime Minister of Hungary, I will return to Brussels in the week of 25 May to finalise the necessary political agreement that will enable Hungary and its citizens to access the EU funds to which they are entitled, amounting to several trillion forints. I wish to provide reassurance that the European Union is not imposing any conditions that are adverse to Hungary’s national interests.”
He further added, “In summary, EU funds will soon begin to arrive in Hungary, facilitating the revitalisation of the Hungarian economy and ensuring the resources needed for a functional and humane society.”
Under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán‘s administration, Hungary has lost access to approximately €17 billion, representing nearly 10% of the country’s annual GDP. This figure includes €10 billion from the recovery fund, initiated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with an imminent deadline for allocating these funds in August. The remaining €7 billion is derived from the seven-year EU budget, designated for regional development, with the current multiannual financial framework set to conclude in 2027.
The European Commission has stipulated that Hungary’s access to these funds will be unblocked only upon implementing reforms, including safeguarding the independence of the judiciary and strengthening measures to combat corruption.
Magyar also announced today the immediate abolition of the Sovereignty Protection Office, among the first reforms his government will implement.
“It functions as a mechanism for political intimidation. This will save six billion forints in taxpayer money,” incoming Hungary’s prime minister posted on X on the way to Brussels.
