Slovak Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok has criticized the European Union, accusing it of double standards in its evaluation of the rule of law in Hungary. In a television interview in Slovakia, Eštok alleged that the EU has largely ignored recent political changes under Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar. He pointed out that the EU has been more stringent in its criticism of similar situations in the past.
Eštok highlighted concerns over several political changes in Hungary, including the removal of the country’s president, constitutional amendments, and restrictions imposed on members of parliament. Additionally, he mentioned reforms to the public broadcaster as areas of concern. He argued that if these measures had been implemented by former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, the EU would likely have reacted with more severe criticism and potential sanctions.
Furthermore, Eštok questioned the European Commission’s response to these developments, suggesting that they have not been met with the same level of scrutiny by EU institutions as might have been expected. His comments come amid broader discussions about the EU’s consistency in handling issues of democracy and the rule of law across its member states.
Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár also weighed in on the matter, expressing concerns about the constitutional changes in Hungary, particularly those affecting the presidency. He argued that such changes are inconsistent with principles of the rule of law. Blanár’s remarks echo the ongoing debate over whether the EU’s approach to Hungary’s political landscape is equitable and justified.