My plenary speech on the Freedom of Assembly in Hungary and the need for the Commission to act.
Freedom of assembly is the heartbeat of democracy —and in Hungary,that heartbeat is faltering under the weight of repression.
When people cannot gather peacefully to voice their concerns, when their right to protest is crushed by heavy-handed tactics, it is a clear signal of a collapse of the very freedoms we claim to protect.
It is extremely sad that we, progressives must keep repeating the obvious:
What is currently happening in Hungary is not only a national or LGBTIQ+ matter — it is about the fundamental right of every European citizen.
If we allow the Hungarian government’s crackdown to go unanswered, we are sending a messagethat democracy is negotiable.
Therefore, we are risking nothing less than the very the foundation of the EU itself.
We keep repeating these messages to highlight the urgency of the situation. Article 7 procedures, infringement actions —are not optional tools, but essential duties.
Our Union’s credibility depends on the Commission’s action and willingness to uphold Democracy, Fundamental Rights and Rule of Law.
Dear Commissioner, I am convinced that the European citizens including the Hungarian people can count on you!
