An IMGW News Report
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán issued a stark warning to the European Union on Monday, stating, “We will be sending migrants to the Grand-Place in Brussels.” This declaration was made in response to the EU’s earlier decision to impose a €200 million fine on Hungary for violating asylum regulations. Orbán emphasised that if Brussels continues to penalise Hungary, the government will transport migrants seeking entry into the country to the heart of the EU capital.
The proposal, reminiscent of tactics employed by the U.S. Republican Party, was unveiled by the Hungarian government in late August. Following a ruling from the Court of Justice of the European Union that mandated Hungary to implement a “no detention” policy for refugees, the country could no longer confine asylum seekers in restrictive “transit zones.” This ruling contrasts with the EU’s recent plans to establish similar “reception centres” at Schengen borders.
Brussels’ mayor, alongside other Belgian officials, has condemned Orbán’s plan, labelling it a “provocation that undermines European responsibilities.” Despite this backlash, Orbán maintains that the CJEU ruling is unjust, particularly as Western European nations tighten their own border measures. He remarked, “The era of free travel is coming to an end,” highlighting Germany’s recent decision to impose temporary border controls and the new French Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s approach towards enhancing France’s frontier security.
Orbán further asserted that had Western nations adhered to Hungary’s approach of refusing to admit migrants, the current crisis could have been averted. Nevertheless, he contended that Hungary continues to be penalised for its efforts in “defending Europe’s borders.”
If you find the above article of interest, we recommend you also read the following IMGW News reports:
- Why the EU Matters: Far-Right Influence and the Future of Decision-Making
- Brussels Strikes Back: Hungary Faces EU Fund Cuts Over Asylum Fine
- Pivotal Parliamentary Elections: Far-Right FPÖ at the Forefront in Austria
