Slovak Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok has leveled accusations of double standards against the European Union regarding its evaluation of Hungary’s rule of law. During an appearance on Slovak television, Eštok criticized the EU for its apparent silence on recent political developments in Hungary under Prime Minister Péter Magyar. He pointed out that the EU had previously taken a firmer stance on comparable issues, suggesting a discrepancy in its approach.
Eštok’s primary concerns revolved around significant political changes in Hungary, including the dismissal of the country’s president, amendments to the constitution, and restrictions imposed on parliament members, along with reforms to the public broadcaster. He argued that had these measures been implemented by former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, the EU’s response would likely have been more critical, potentially even leading to sanctions.
In his critique, Eštok questioned the level of scrutiny applied by the European Commission to Hungary’s recent developments, suggesting that they have not been examined with the same rigor as similar situations in the past. His statements reflect a broader concern over the EU’s response to Hungary’s political landscape, particularly regarding adherence to rule-of-law principles.
Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár has echoed these concerns, specifically highlighting constitutional changes impacting the presidency as being inconsistent with established rule-of-law standards. Both Slovak ministers’ remarks contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding the EU’s handling of democratic and legal issues within its member states, focusing on Hungary’s current trajectory under Prime Minister Magyar’s leadership.