In Hungary, the parliament has approved a law to protect national sovereignty from foreign political interference. This law was passed by Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s ruling Fidesz party, which has been at odds with the European Union over democratic rights in Hungary. The party is increasing its campaign ahead of the European Parliament elections next June and has threatened to veto EU aid to Ukraine.
The new law, which received 141 votes in favor and 50 against, establishes a separate authority to investigate and monitor political interference. It also imposes up to three years in prison for parties or groups receiving banned foreign financing while running for elections.
The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights had urged Fidesz party lawmakers to abandon the proposal, expressing concerns about the excessive power granted to the new authority, which would be able to request sensitive data and private information without adequate oversight.
American envoy to Hungary also criticized the legislation, drawing parallels between the new law and Russia’s “foreign-agent bill”. However, Prime Minister Orban, in power since 2010, has refuted accusations of undermining democracy in Hungary.
The bill states that Hungary’s sovereignty is threatened if political power falls into the hands of individuals or organizations with ties to foreign powers. Orban, who holds a two-thirds majority in parliament allowing Fidesz to change any legislation, achieved his fourth landslide victory in 2022.
(Reporting by Boldizsar Gyori; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
![[Ready Stock] Cream Glue Soft Pottery 5g 奶油胶 软陶 切片 糖粒 水果 爱心 diy 发夹 发饰咕卡 配件 可爱 手机壳 材料 手工 Slice 5g Sugar Grain Fruit Love diy Hairpin Hair Accessories Goo Card Accessories Cute Phone Case Material Handmade](https://www.suara.my/wp-content/uploads/readystockcreamgluesoftpottery5gdiy-12.jpg)
