Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 September 2020
367. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps Ireland is taking to promote democracy and the rule of law in Hungary following revelations from an organisation (details supplied) that Hungary is no longer a democratic state; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23303/20]
View answerI am aware of assessments of democracy in Hungary by the organisation mentioned by the Deputy.
Ireland firmly supports the rule of law as a core value of the European Union. The rule of law is and should remain a fundamental principle that all EU Member States respect, protect and promote.
Our concerns about issues relating to the rule of law in Hungary are well known, specifically developments in the areas of judicial independence, the civil society space, media freedom, academic freedom and fundamental rights.
At an EU level, as part of the Article 7 procedure, there have been a number of hearings at General Affairs Councils over the past two years involving the Commission, Hungary and other Member States. We have actively participated, highlighting the importance we attach to respect for the rule of law. On 22 September, the General Affairs Council will again consider the situation in Hungary. We encourage Hungary to continue to work with the Commission and fellow Member States to address these concerns.
We also use all opportunities at both political and official level to raise our concerns bilaterally with the Government of Hungary.
We will continue to work with fellow Member States and the EU institutions, as well as at the bilateral level, to ensure that the rule of law is upheld across the Union.
