Hungary Faces Deepening Crisis

In a recent development, the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee (LIBE) has issued a dire warning about the escalating rule of law crisis in Hungary. The committee’s second interim report outlines Hungary’s continued violation of EU values, a situation that has been under scrutiny since the EU Parliament activated the Article 7 procedure in 2018.

The report was adopted with significant support, receiving 51 votes in favor, 21 against, and two abstentions. It emphasizes the persistent issues such as judicial interference, rampant corruption, and the misuse of EU funds. Moreover, the MEPs have called on the Council to move beyond preventive measures and initiate sanctions against Hungary.

Tineke Strik, the rapporteur for the report, criticized the European Commission and the Council for their lack of decisive action against Hungary, which she claims has led to a continuous erosion of democracy and the rule of law within the country. Strik stressed that further delays in addressing these issues could undermine the very values that the EU stands for.

The LIBE report also highlights the opinion of EU Court of Justice Advocate General Tamara Ćapeta, who suggests that infringement proceedings can be initiated in cases where the negation of a value leads to other breaches of EU law. This report is scheduled for debate and voting during the plenary session in Strasbourg from November 24-27, 2025, potentially leading to significant political and legal repercussions for Hungary.