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Unmasking Viktor Orbán: Advocating for Accountability as Europe Confronts Prolonged Undermining

Friday, 08 December 2023 08:17 Culture

"Europe at the Crossroads: Navigating Shocks from Ukraine to Climate Crisis

In the face of relentless challenges, the European Union finds itself caught in a whirlwind of crises, stretching from the conflict in Ukraine to the complexities of the climate crisis. Gone are the days when stability and prosperity seemed to define the EU, particularly after shedding the constraints of the British departure. The continent now grapples with external shocks, including the repercussions of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the economic strains resulting from disruptions in energy supplies.

Even as the United States, under the weight of the Trump presidency, appeared on the brink of internal division and China faced an impending debt crisis, Europe's allure as a bastion of stability has waned. The EU struggles to find respite amidst never-ending challenges, complicating the choice once posed to my friend — would he prefer to be in charge of the US, China, or the EU?

External pressures intensify as the EU copes with the fallout of the climate crisis, exacerbated by the United States' belated but indirect contributions, siphoning from Europe's economy instead of fully shouldering its own polluting costs. The discrepancy in energy costs, coupled with Europeans emitting less per capita yet paying more for petrol, adds to the growing list of grievances.

Internally, the EU contends with its own fissures. The tag-team of illiberal governments in Poland and Hungary has shielded each other from EU-level repercussions while eroding democracy and civil rights within their borders. Poland's outgoing Law and Justice (PiS) party has undermined the rule of law, women's rights, and media freedom, while Hungary's Viktor Orbán, with his Putin-friendly stance, poses a threat to Ukraine's accession to the EU.

As Europe grapples with these multifaceted challenges, a critical juncture emerges. The EU can no longer afford to let Hungary, under Orbán's leadership, give it the runaround. The time has come to confront and address these crises head-on, reasserting the EU's commitment to stability, democracy, and the well-being of its citizens."

"Navigating the Orbán Dilemma: A Critical Juncture for the EU

Amidst reports that the European Commission is contemplating unblocking €10 billion earmarked for Hungary, previously withheld due to rule of law violations, the EU stands at a crossroads with significant implications. The proposed exchange, seeking Orbán's cooperation on Ukraine, is fraught with risks – a short-term solution with potential long-term damage. Such a move could set a perilous precedent, suggesting that Orbán-style behavior carries no serious consequences for future autocrats.

Emmanuel Macron's attempt to engage Orbán in dialogue at the Élysée palace reflects a historical pattern of trying to placate autocrats, but this tactic seems both futile and unnecessary. The recent victory of Donald Tusk in Poland has altered the landscape, and while Geert Wilders' success in the Netherlands raises concerns, his party's limited parliamentary seats make the formation of a government unlikely.

The EU now finds itself presented with an opportune moment to address the concrete threat Orbán poses to the rule of law, democracy, and the union's functionality. Article 7 of the treaty on the European Union allows for the suspension of a member state's membership rights if it persistently breaches the EU's foundational principles. Despite its applicability to Hungary for years, the political feasibility of initiating and following through on such a suspension has been elusive. It is now imperative for the EU to embrace change.

European voters witness a pervasive 'muddling through' approach, where impunity prevails for the powerful while authoritarian leaders flout fundamental principles without facing consequences. The EU, as more than a mere collection of states, must recognize that enforcing its laws is essential for preserving their meaning. Politics and diplomacy are complex, but the EU's commitment to upholding its principles must take precedence over short-sighted compromises, safeguarding the union's integrity and its promise to its citizens."

"Charting a Path to a Stronger EU: Prioritizing Democratic Reforms for a Unified Future

The European Union stands at a critical juncture, faced with urgent imperatives that demand a recalibration of its structures and priorities. To bolster its democratic essence, enhance agility, and amplify effectiveness, the EU must consider transformative actions. A few key measures include establishing a common floor for corporate tax rates, accompanied by the collection of EU "own resources" to supplant national contributions. This would not only streamline financial processes but also foster a more unified economic front.

Elevating environmental commitments is another imperative, with a call for more ambitious green infrastructure and climate spending guided by a pan-European vision rather than fragmented national initiatives. In a bold move, the prospect of a single, directly elected European "president" could replace the current dual presidencies of the commission and the council, signaling a shift towards consolidated leadership.

However, before embarking on these transformative endeavors, the EU must fortify itself against corruption, uphold democratic principles, and safeguard the rule of law – the bedrock values upon which it was built. A pivotal first step in this journey involves suspending Hungary's voting rights until it aligns once more with these critical criteria.

Now is the time for decisive action, a departure from hesitation and a commitment to fortify the EU's foundations. By ushering in a new era of transparency, accountability, and adherence to its core values, the EU can not only address its internal challenges but also emerge as a beacon of democratic resilience on the global stage. It's time to cease muddling and dawdling, and instead, to boldly pave the way for a stronger, more united Europe."

"In conclusion, the European Union stands on the precipice of transformation, armed with the potential for pivotal changes that could redefine its democratic fabric and fortify its global standing. Proposing visionary actions, from a common corporate tax floor to a more robust commitment to green initiatives and even the consideration of a single, directly elected European president, the EU charts a course towards unity and effectiveness.

However, these aspirational strides require a resilient foundation built on principles of transparency, democracy, and the rule of law. The immediate suspension of Hungary's voting rights becomes a critical first step, underlining the EU's commitment to upholding its core values.

Now is the time for the EU to shed hesitation and embrace a decisive path forward. By shoring up its internal integrity, the EU not only safeguards its democratic ideals but also positions itself as a global exemplar of resilience. It's a call to action, urging the EU to transcend the status quo, cease thumb-twiddling, and stride confidently into a future marked by strengthened unity and unwavering commitment to its foundational principles."

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