hu.euronews.com
Hungary: Sweeping Legislative Changes Raise Concerns About Democratic Backsliding
The Hungarian Parliament amended 27 laws on December 17th, including constitutional changes to allow for the appointment of a Prosecutor General from outside the prosecutorial service, electoral boundary redrawing that disproportionately affects opposition strongholds, and changes to the governance of the HUN-REN research network, raising concerns about democratic backsliding and EU funding.
- How did the amendments to the electoral map affect the distribution of power between the ruling party and the opposition?
- These legislative actions demonstrate a pattern of consolidating power within the ruling party. By modifying the rules for appointing the Prosecutor General and judges, the government minimizes the influence of potential future opposition governments. The alteration of electoral boundaries also appears designed to benefit the ruling party.
- What are the immediate consequences of the Hungarian Parliament's recent legislative changes on the independence of the judiciary and the upcoming elections?
- The Hungarian Parliament passed 27 legislative amendments on December 17th, including changes to the Constitution to allow for the appointment of a Prosecutor General from outside the prosecutorial system. This potentially secures a Fidesz-KDNP aligned Prosecutor General for nine years, even after a potential change in government. The changes also raised the minimum age for judges and streamlined the process for non-judicial candidates to become judges.
- What are the long-term implications of the changes regarding the Hungarian Academy of Sciences' assets and the HUN-REN research network for scientific autonomy and EU funding?
- These changes will likely reduce the independence of the judiciary and electoral processes in Hungary. The move to a privately held foundation for the HUN-REN research network creates a body insulated from potential future governments. The combination of these changes may further hinder Hungary's access to EU funds, due to concerns about democratic backsliding.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing consistently portrays the government's actions as problematic and potentially undermining democratic processes. Headlines could have emphasized the government's justifications for the changes, providing a more balanced narrative. The sequencing of events emphasizes the negative consequences of these actions, potentially shaping reader perception.
Language Bias
The language used is often charged, such as describing the constitutional amendments as done to ensure the "Fidesz-KDNP interests are served". Terms like "ultimatum," "manipulation," and "aggresssive commenting" carry strong negative connotations. More neutral language could include phrasing such as 'changes were made to the process of selecting a chief prosecutor', 'the government presented a proposal', and 'changes to electoral boundaries'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the government's actions and largely omits counterarguments or perspectives from the opposition. While mentioning opposition's presence in parliament, it doesn't detail their specific responses or proposed alternatives to the legislation. The lack of diverse voices limits a comprehensive understanding of the political climate and motivations behind the changes. Omission of specific financial details regarding the MTA transaction also limits understanding.
False Dichotomy
The narrative frames many situations as an eitheor choice, such as the framing of the Chief Prosecutor selection as either a Fidesz-aligned appointee or a lack of control by the government. This simplifies the reality of potential candidates and their diverse viewpoints. The description of the OBT's agreement with the government presents it as a choice between a small pay raise and accepting organizational changes, ignoring the potential for other solutions or negotiations.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights several instances of undermining democratic institutions and the rule of law in Hungary. Amendments to the constitution to allow for the appointment of a prosecutor-general outside the prosecutorial system, circumventing the National Judicial Council (OBT), and redrawing electoral boundaries to favor the ruling party all severely impact the independence of the judiciary and fairness of elections. These actions directly contradict SDG 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.