The HRW identified a series of reforms “to bring Hungary’s laws and practices in line with its international and regional obligations” including to drop its “campaign” against civil groups, restore the former powers of the Constitutional Court, ensure the independence of judges, repeal legislation allowing the criminalisation of homelessness, enforce equality between religious organisations, and take action to protect the country’s Roma.

HRW’s Balkans and Central Europe specialist Lydia Gall said that “Hungary is exhibit A for the need for stronger European Union action to protect rights inside its own borders.

The EU needs to stand up for its own values and protect the rights of Hungary’s citizens, including by activating the commission’s rule of law mechanism and putting the country’s record on the agenda of the European Council.”

Source www.hungarymatters.hu

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