AARHUS, Denmark — In an unprecedented move, Denmark is pushing the European Union to wield its legal power against Hungary, calling for serious consequences for the ongoing violations of fundamental rights under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government. Danish European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre emphasized the urgency of this action, stating, "We are still seeing a violation of fundamental values," during a press briefing in Aarhus, where the European Commission is visiting as Denmark takes over the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU.
Denmark Advocates for Article 7 Action
The Article 7 procedure, often referred to as the EU's nuclear option, could enable member states to strip Hungary of its voting rights and impose sanctions for its repeated breaches of EU laws and values. As reported by Politico, Bjerre's call to action signals a growing frustration within the EU towards Hungary's defiance of established norms.
Blocking Funding for Violators
In addition to pursuing Article 7, Bjerre suggested that the EU should consider restricting access to funds for countries that continue to undermine the bloc's legal framework. This money, which is essential for the development and sustainability of various EU initiatives, should not flow to entities that disregard fundamental human rights.
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The Berlaymont building | Visit Brussels
Hungary's Veto on Ukraine Membership
Denmark also highlighted a significant geopolitical concern: Hungary's ongoing blockade of Ukraine's EU membership. This act not only hampers Ukraine's aspirations for integration into Europe, but it also undermines the EU's collective security goals. Denmark is prepared to explore all political avenues to resolve the impasse, as Bjerre stated, “We are willing to look at all political and practical solutions for us to move forward.”
Political Support Needed for Action
However, diplomatic sources caution that implementing Article 7 requires robust backing from major EU players, particularly France and Germany. Without their full-throated support, Denmark's ambitions to hold Hungary accountable could falter. The hesitance from Paris and Berlin has created a stalemate, as Hungary remains steadfast in its opposition to Ukraine's accession. This political impasse raises questions about the EU's ability to maintain a unified front in the face of member states that resist fundamental democratic principles.
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Hungary PM Orban convenes defence council meeting | Reuters
Moldova's Path to Membership
In the meantime, speculation suggests that the European Commission might move forward with Moldova's EU membership bid, potentially uncoupling it from Ukraine's application. This scenario, as reported by Politico, could lead to significant controversy among member states. Yet, Bjerre asserted Denmark's commitment to a joint approach: “It is still our goal to open cluster one together with Moldova and Ukraine.”
This statement highlights the urgency of addressing the situation in Eastern Europe, where the EU must balance its enlargement aspirations with the reality of existing member states that obstruct progress. The calls from Denmark reflect a broader progressive vision, advocating for a Europe that prioritizes human rights and democratic integrity over political expediency.
The implications of Denmark's stance are profound. Should the EU move decisively against Hungary, it could set a precedent for addressing similar violations across the continent. Conversely, inaction could embolden authoritarian regimes within the EU, undermining the very principles upon which the Union was founded.
