Members of the European Parliament from Hungary’s Fidesz-KDNP party are urging the immediate and unconditional release of European Union funds currently withheld from Hungary. These MEPs highlighted that approximately €6.3 billion, tied to three operational programmes, was frozen in 2022, which accounts for about 55% of the allocated funding under these initiatives. In addition, they are pushing for the release of funds from the EU’s post-pandemic Recovery and Resilience Facility, as well as broader cohesion funds designated for Hungary.
The Hungarian representatives pointed out that in 2020, Hungary had secured around €22 billion in additional cohesion funds. They accused European institutions of withholding a portion of this money due to political motivations. Furthermore, these MEPs have put forward a proposal to increase the EU budget for 2027 by €11 billion, with a specific suggestion to add €2.5 billion to the Common Agricultural Policy. They emphasize the need for more robust support for sectors such as young farmers, the wine industry, and beekeeping.
In response to recent agricultural challenges, Hungarian members associated with the Patriots for Europe group have suggested doubling the EU agricultural crisis fund from €450 million to €900 million. This recommendation comes in light of recent drought-related crop losses and the rising costs that livestock farmers are currently facing.
The group is also calling for enhanced funding aimed at border protection, reimbursement of Hungary’s border-control expenses, and a reevaluation of the EU migration pact. Additionally, they are advocating for the restoration of Erasmus funding for Hungarian university students who have been affected by restrictions on their participation in the programme.
Lastly, the Fidesz-KDNP delegation has proposed a cut of €250 million in EU funding for civil society organizations. They argue this reduction is necessary to counter what they perceive as politically motivated pressure exerted on member states through these organizations.
