Members of the European Parliament from Hungary’s Fidesz-KDNP alliance are urging the immediate and unconditional release of European Union funds that have been withheld from the country. The Hungarian MEPs highlighted that approximately €6.3 billion, associated with three operational programs, was frozen in 2022. This amount represents about 55% of the total funds allocated under these programs. Additionally, they are pushing for the release of funds from the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility, established in the wake of the pandemic, as well as Hungary’s broader cohesion funds.
The Hungarian delegation has expressed concerns over what they perceive as political motivations behind the withholding of funds. They pointed out that in 2020, Hungary negotiated around €22 billion in additional cohesion funding, yet part of this money has been delayed. The MEPs also proposed an increase to the EU budget for 2027 by €11 billion, with €2.5 billion specifically earmarked for the Common Agricultural Policy. This proposal aims to bolster support for young farmers, the wine industry, and beekeeping.
In response to recent agricultural challenges, such as drought-related crop losses and increasing costs for livestock farmers, Hungarian members of the Patriots for Europe group have suggested doubling the EU agricultural crisis fund from €450 million to €900 million. Furthermore, they are advocating for increased funding for border protection, the reimbursement of Hungary’s border-control expenses, and a reassessment of the EU migration pact. There is also a call for the restoration of Erasmus funding, which enables Hungarian university students to participate in the program without restrictions.
Another significant proposal from the Fidesz-KDNP delegation includes reducing EU funding for civil society organizations by €250 million. They argue that these funds have been used to exert politically motivated pressure on member states. This proposal adds another layer to the ongoing discussions about the allocation and purpose of EU funds, especially concerning Hungary’s relationship with the European Union.