Key Priorities and Anticipated Actions During Hungary’s EU Presidency

# Key Priorities and Anticipated Actions During Hungary’s EU Presidency

## Introduction

Hungary is set to assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2024, a role that will place the country at the helm of shaping the EU’s legislative agenda and steering discussions on key issues affecting the bloc. This presidency comes at a critical time for the EU, as it faces a range of challenges including geopolitical tensions, economic recovery post-COVID-19, climate change, and migration. Hungary’s leadership will be closely watched, given its unique political stance within the EU and its often-controversial relationship with Brussels. This article explores the key priorities and anticipated actions during Hungary’s EU presidency.

## 1. **Strengthening EU Cohesion and Unity**

One of the main priorities of Hungary’s presidency will likely be fostering greater cohesion and unity within the EU. Hungary has often been at odds with the EU on issues such as rule of law, migration, and democratic governance. However, as the presiding country, Hungary will be expected to act as a neutral broker, facilitating dialogue and compromise among member states.

### Anticipated Actions:
– **Bridging Divides:** Hungary may focus on bridging divides between Western and Eastern European member states, particularly on contentious issues like migration and rule of law. This could involve organizing high-level summits or informal meetings to foster dialogue and find common ground.
– **Promoting Regional Cooperation:** Hungary may also push for greater cooperation within the Visegrád Group (V4) — comprising Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, and Slovakia — to ensure that the interests of Central and Eastern European countries are well-represented in EU decision-making.

## 2. **Migration and Border Security**

Migration remains one of the most divisive issues within the EU, and Hungary has been a vocal opponent of mandatory migrant quotas and open-border policies. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government has consistently advocated for stronger border controls and a more restrictive approach to migration. As the EU presidency holder, Hungary will likely prioritize discussions on migration policy, particularly in light of ongoing migration pressures from Africa and the Middle East.

### Anticipated Actions:
– **Reform of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS):** Hungary may push for reforms to the EU’s asylum system, advocating for a more stringent approach to asylum applications and greater emphasis on external border protection.
– **Strengthening Frontex:** Hungary is expected to support efforts to strengthen the EU’s border agency, Frontex, to ensure better protection of the EU’s external borders, particularly in the Mediterranean and along the Balkan route.
– **Focus on External Cooperation:** Hungary may also emphasize the need for stronger cooperation with third countries, particularly in North Africa and the Middle East, to address the root causes of migration and improve border management.

## 3. **Energy Security and Climate Policy**

Energy security has become a top priority for the EU, especially in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine war, which has disrupted energy supplies and exposed the EU’s dependence on Russian gas. Hungary, which has maintained close energy ties with Russia, will have to navigate this complex issue while balancing the EU’s broader goals of energy diversification and decarbonization.

### Anticipated Actions:
– **Diversification of Energy Sources:** Hungary may advocate for greater investment in energy infrastructure, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on Russian energy. This could involve promoting projects such as the Southern Gas Corridor or expanding LNG terminals in the region.
– **Nuclear Energy:** Hungary is likely to continue advocating for the inclusion of nuclear energy as a key component of the EU’s green transition. Hungary has invested heavily in nuclear power and may push for greater EU support for nuclear energy as part of the bloc’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
– **Balancing Climate Goals with Economic Growth:** Hungary may seek to ensure that the EU’s climate policies, particularly the European Green Deal, do not disproportionately impact the economies of Central and Eastern European countries. This could involve advocating for more flexible timelines for emissions reductions and greater financial support for countries transitioning away from coal and other fossil fuels.

## 4. **Economic Recovery and Competitiveness**

As Europe continues to recover from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hungary’s presidency will likely focus on ensuring that the EU’s economic recovery is sustainable and inclusive. This will involve discussions on the implementation of the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), as well as broader efforts to enhance the bloc’s competitiveness in the global economy.

### Anticipated Actions:
– **Supporting SMEs and Innovation:** Hungary may prioritize initiatives aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and fostering innovation, particularly in the digital and green sectors. This could involve promoting greater access to EU funding for SMEs and encouraging investment in research and development.
– **Strengthening the Single Market