In a debate held in the European Parliament today in Strasbourg, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán called the report drafted on the state of fundamental rights in Hungary by rapporteur Rui Tavares unjust.

The Prime Minister emphasised that Hungarians would be delighted to see a Europe of free nations rather than that of subordination. Drawing conclusions from the past, Hungarians do not want a Europe where successful countries are punished and placed under guardianship, large countries abuse their power, double standards are applied and only small countries have to respect the larger ones and not the other way round, he said, adding that the Tavares report that will be put to the vote on Wednesday applies double standards, poses a serious danger to Europe, violates the Treaty on the European Union and arbitrarily defines criteria.

The Prime Minister also put forward that he had no false illusions about the outcome of Wednesday's vote on the report and he expects the Socialist, Liberal and Green MEPs to vote against Hungary considering the fact that economically motivated political pressure is being applied through European institutions.

At a press conference following the debate, the Prime Minister outlined some legislative changes introduced by the Government, emphasising their democratic nature and their deep embedment in European civilization and heritage. When it comes to marriage and the family for example, the Prime Minister said, Hungary is defending a 4000 year long tradition: a 2000 year long Jewish and a 2000 year long Christian tradition. He also stressed that Hungary does not want to be defended against herself as the current government has been voted at free and democratic elections, as also been acknowledged by the Venice Commission.

The Prime Minister finally asked for more respect and more recognition on the part of the European Union, hoping to get encouragement for what Hungary has accomplished in recent years.

(Prime Minister’s Office)