On March 15th 2013, I granted the Táncsics Mihály award to Ferenc Szaniszló on the recommendation of a journalist association. When I made this decision I was not aware of the fact that this person, who used to perform a high quality job as a foreign affairs editor and journalist, had made comments recently that violated human dignity.

These comments are irreconcilable both with my personal creed and the values of the Hungarian Government. Had I known about these views, I would not have accepted his nomination. Since withdrawing awards is legally impossible in Hungary, I can only express my regret over what happened. This incident emphatically points out for me the responsibility I have when I have to choose candidates for awards from among several hundred people without being able to get to know their entire professional career.

(Ministry of Human Resources)