Orbán Is Already Preparing Steps for After ECJ Ruling

On February 16, the European Court of Justice will hand down the final verdict in a case brought by the Hungarian and Polish governments over the so-called rule of law mechanism. 

Not long after, on 24-25 March, at the EU summit, the agenda will include the years-long examination into the erosion of the rule of law in Hungary. This is likely to be the hardest EU hearing of Viktor Orbán yet — held within a week before the parliamentary elections in Hungary. Even if their attempt to stop the mechanism does not succeed, the Hungarian government might challenge the European Commission’s procedure by other judicial means — thus securing EU payments. 

Editor’s Pick: Acting Intelligently: The Hungarian Legal Way

‘It is our firm opinion that the EU institutions and member states approach to the Conditionality Regulation should be based on conclusions born out of a consensus established between heads of state — so on the highest possible political level. The present request for information cannot, therefore, in my view, be interpreted in the context of the Regulation. It is answered in compliance with the principle of loyal cooperation and with the intent to inform.’