Hungary enlists the services of the German ambassador for its diplomatic tasks.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto called in German Ambassador Julia Gross to talk due to her critical remarks about the Hungarian government. Szijjarto accused Gross of violating Hungary's sovereignty by interfering in its internal affairs during a public speech. He considered her speech entirely unacceptable. Hungary expects diplomatic respect from foreign representatives operating within its borders.
Gross allegedly criticized Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government at an event celebrating German Unity Day in Budapest, stating it was moving Hungary and Germany apart, according to local media.
Germany functions as Hungary's primary trading and investment partner. Recently, German businesses operating in Hungary have complained of experiencing pressure from the Orbán government to give their markets to government-friendly oligarchs. In addition, Orbán is known for his right-wing populist stance, favoring pro-Russian policies in some areas, and being accused of eroding democracy and the rule of law in Hungary.
More Legal Conflicts at the EU Level
Moreover, tensions are simmering at an EU level: The European Commission is planning to sue Hungary again due to alleged violations of EU law at the European Court of Justice. The issue this time revolves around Hungary's national law on "Defence of Sovereignty."
The European Commission spots violations of democratic principles, freedom of expression, and freedom of association in this law. Specifically, they are concerned about the protection of private and family life, as well as confidential communication with lawyers. The law, passed in December, creates a new "Office for the Protection of Sovereignty" to guard against foreign threats. Existing bans on foreign funding for political parties have been extended to associations and other organizations. Those who conceal foreign funding sources face up to three years in prison.
Concerns Over "Office for the Protection of Sovereignty"
The European Commission expressed concerns about the broad discretionary power this office has, especially regarding access to information, and its potential to interfere in other authorities' activities. Green MEP Daniel Freund argued that the law closely resembles a tactic directly from Russian President Vladimir Putin's playbook and specifically targets civil society in Hungary.
In February, the Brussels authority initiated a "so-called infringement procedure" against Hungary over the new law. Hungary has continued implementing the law. If the Commission's lawsuit succeeds, the European Court of Justice may rule against Hungary, leading to a fine if Hungary persists in adhering to the law.
Hungary has already faced penalties due to EU violations. For instance, the ECJ fined Hungary in June for disregarding EU asylum law. Hungary has yet to pay the 200-million-euro fine, leading the European Commission to consider withholding future EU funds intended for Hungary.
Gross's criticism of Hungary's government during her speech in Budapest, specifically its relationship with Germany, is further evidence of the strained relations between Hungary and some of its international partners. Despite being Germany's primary trading and investment partner, Hungary has faced criticism from the European Commission for alleged violations of EU law, including violations of democratic principles, freedom of expression, and freedom of association in its national law on "Defense of Sovereignty". This law and its associated penalties for concealing foreign funding sources have raised concerns in the European Union, with some viewing it as a potential threat to civil society in Hungary.
