The European Commission has taken a significant step by proposing the release of €4.2 billion in frozen cohesion funds to Hungary. This proposal also includes restoring full access for Hungarian students and researchers to the Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe programs. These funds and programs were previously restricted due to concerns over Hungary’s adherence to EU rule-of-law standards.
According to the Commission, Hungary has made progress in addressing these concerns, which include reforms in public procurement processes, anti-corruption measures, managing conflicts of interest, and enhancing the effectiveness of prosecutorial actions. These steps appear to have prompted the Commission to reconsider the financial restrictions imposed in 2022.
However, the release of these funds is contingent upon approval from the Council of the European Union. The Council has a month to decide on lifting the measures. Until a decision is made, the restrictions will remain in place, maintaining a level of uncertainty regarding Hungary’s access to these EU funds.
It is important to note that the proposed €4.2 billion is only a portion of the total EU funds still frozen for Hungary. Other cohesion funds remain blocked under different conditions, and the country’s access to recovery funds is being evaluated through a separate process. This indicates that while progress has been acknowledged, Hungary still faces hurdles in regaining full access to EU financial support.
