Key Priorities and Challenges of Hungary’s Upcoming EU Presidency

**Key Priorities and Challenges of Hungary’s Upcoming EU Presidency**

Hungary is set to assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) in the second half of 2024. This marks a significant moment for the country, as it will play a central role in shaping the EU’s agenda, facilitating negotiations, and managing the legislative process. The presidency comes at a time of considerable geopolitical, economic, and social challenges for the EU, and Hungary will need to navigate these complexities while balancing its own national interests with the broader goals of the Union. This article explores the key priorities and challenges Hungary is likely to face during its presidency.

### Key Priorities

1. **Economic Recovery and Resilience**
One of the most pressing issues for Hungary’s presidency will be steering the EU’s continued recovery from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing the ongoing energy crisis exacerbated by the war in Ukraine. Hungary will be tasked with overseeing the implementation of the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), which aims to support member states in their economic recovery through investments in green and digital transitions. Ensuring that these funds are effectively allocated and used to boost economic growth, create jobs, and enhance competitiveness will be a top priority.

2. **Energy Security and Green Transition**
The EU’s energy security has been severely tested by the war in Ukraine and the subsequent disruptions in energy supplies, particularly from Russia. Hungary, which has historically relied heavily on Russian energy imports, will need to navigate the delicate balance between national energy interests and the EU’s broader goals of reducing dependence on Russian energy and accelerating the green transition. The presidency will likely focus on advancing the EU’s climate goals, including the implementation of the European Green Deal and the Fit for 55 package, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030.

3. **Migration and Border Security**
Migration remains a contentious issue within the EU, and Hungary has been at the forefront of the debate, often advocating for stricter border controls and opposing mandatory relocation quotas for asylum seekers. As president of the Council, Hungary will play a key role in shaping the EU’s migration policy, particularly in the context of the New Pact on Migration and Asylum. Hungary will need to balance its own hardline stance on migration with the need to find a compromise that satisfies both the countries most affected by migration flows and those advocating for solidarity and burden-sharing.

4. **EU Enlargement and Relations with the Western Balkans**
Hungary has been a vocal supporter of EU enlargement, particularly with regard to the Western Balkans. As president, Hungary will likely prioritize advancing the accession negotiations of countries like Serbia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. The presidency will also coincide with a critical period for EU-Ukraine relations, as Ukraine continues to seek closer ties with the EU in the context of its ongoing conflict with Russia. Hungary will need to manage these complex relationships while ensuring that the enlargement process remains credible and based on the fulfillment of necessary criteria.

5. **Digital Transformation**
The digital transformation of the EU economy is another key priority that Hungary will need to address during its presidency. The EU has set ambitious goals for digital innovation, cybersecurity, and the development of digital infrastructure. Hungary will be responsible for advancing key legislative initiatives related to the Digital Services Act, the Digital Markets Act, and the European Data Strategy. Ensuring that the EU remains competitive in the global digital economy while safeguarding citizens’ rights and data privacy will be a central focus.

### Challenges

1. **Tensions with the European Union**
Hungary’s relationship with the EU has been strained in recent years, particularly over issues related to the rule of law, media freedom, and judicial independence. The European Commission has launched several infringement procedures against Hungary, and the country has faced criticism for its democratic backsliding. These tensions could complicate Hungary’s ability to lead effectively during its presidency, as other member states may be reluctant to cooperate fully with a government that is perceived as undermining EU values. Hungary will need to demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law and addressing concerns about democratic governance in order to build trust and credibility during its presidency.

2. **Managing Internal Divisions within the EU**
The EU is facing increasing internal divisions on a range of issues, from migration and climate policy to fiscal rules and foreign policy. Hungary, as Council president, will need to act as an honest broker and mediator, facilitating consensus among member states with often divergent views. This will be particularly challenging given Hungary’s own positions on certain issues, such as migration and energy policy, which may not align with those of other member states. Hungary will need to strike a careful balance between advancing its own national interests and ensuring that the EU remains united and effective in addressing common challenges.

3. **Geopolitical Uncertainty**
Hungary’s presidency will take place against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, particularly in relation to the war in Ukraine