It introduces far-reaching restrictions on freedom of association, which cannot be regarded as necessary in a democratic society and are therefore at variance with international human rights standards, he added.

Muižnieks also said the draft law introduces an additional administrative burden on NGOs falling within its scope without an apparent legitimate purpose. “In addition, according to criteria which are not immediately clear, the draft law excludes from its scope other types of NGOs, such as those pursuing sports or religious activities,” he said.

The commissioner called on Hungary to respect international and European standards on freedom of association and to refrain from penalising, stigmatising or putting at any disadvantage whatsoever foreignfunded NGOs.

“Of particular concern is the fact that non-compliance with the new requirements would lead to the imposition of fines and, ultimately, to the Prosecutor’s action for dissolution by a court through simplified proceedings.

The sanction of dissolution and striking non-compliant organisations off the court register risks destroying the very essence of the right to association protected by Article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights,” he said.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.