New Prime Minister of Hungary Peter Szijjarto: How Politics Towards the EU and Ukraine Will Change

Restoring Hungary's Relations with the EU

According to ХВИЛЯ: Peter Szijjarto, the new Prime Minister of Hungary, aims to restore relations with the European Union to unlock frozen funds. His priorities include gaining access to 18 billion euros from EU funds that were frozen due to violations of democratic norms, as well as 16 billion euros in defense loans. Hungary is currently subject to a fine of 1 million euros per day for non-compliance with migration legislation.

Szijjarto emphasized the importance of returning these funds, stating: 'I can say that it is extremely important to bring (the money) home, and as soon as possible.'

Moreover, the EU has set several requirements for Hungary, including:

• lifting the veto on a 90 billion euro loan for Ukraine;
• supporting a new sanctions package against Russia;
• ending the blockage of official negotiations regarding Ukraine's EU membership.

Szijjarto, who cannot take office before May 5, holds a supermajority in parliament, allowing him to implement necessary reforms. He noted: 'We have a super-qualified majority in parliament, and this gives us the power to transform state systems, and we will do this.'

Plans and Reforms

Szijjarto's first foreign visit is planned to Poland. A significant event for the EU was Donald Tusk's victory in Poland in 2023, after which over 100 billion euros were unlocked in February 2024.

Hungary also remains subject to scrutiny under Article 7 of the EU Treaty, with the next hearing regarding this article scheduled for the end of May. As Ursula von der Leyen noted, 'Clearly, we will start working with the government as soon as possible... to quickly and without delay achieve progress for the benefit of the Hungarian people.'

Szijjarto plans to implement a series of reforms, including:

• anti-corruption measures;
• joining the European Public Prosecutor's Office;
• ensuring the independence of the judiciary;
• protecting media freedom and academic freedom.

As Jessica Rosenkranz noted, 'The mere fact that Peter Szijjarto clearly communicates his desire to restore ties and trust with the EU is important in itself.'

Restoring relations between Hungary and the European Union is critically important for economic stability and political trust in the region. Given the frozen funds and fines that Hungary is paying, Szijjarto's new course may significantly change the situation if he can realize his reform plans. This may also affect broader European relations, particularly regarding support for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia.

In light of Szijjarto's ambitious plans for reform, it is noteworthy that Hungary's new leader has also proposed measures to limit the prime minister's tenure. This move aims to enhance democratic governance and could significantly impact the political landscape in Hungary. For more details on these proposed constitutional changes, see Hungary's New Leader Proposes Constitutional Reform.