Budapest, Hungary – Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, reiterated his country’s firm stance on Ukraine’s EU accession negotiations, citing ongoing violations of minority rights in the Transcarpathian region. In a social media post today, Szijjártó disclosed details of a phone discussion with Austria’s newly appointed foreign minister, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, regarding these issues.
“I appreciate Beate Meinl-Reisinger’s intention to help, but the situation remains that the Ukrainian government – despite constant promises and nice words – has not returned the minority rights taken away from the Hungarian community since 2015,” Szijjártó stated. “This is unacceptable and totally contrary to common European rules and values.”
Hungary has consistently voiced concerns over Ukraine’s treatment of its ethnic Hungarian minority, particularly regarding language and education rights. Budapest has made clear that Ukraine’s EU integration talks cannot move forward until these rights are restored.
During the phone call, Szijjártó and Meinl-Reisinger also exchanged views on LGBTQ+ rights and Pride parades, revealing a stark contrast in perspectives. “We have established that we have completely opposite views on this matter,” he said. “I told my colleague that in our country, the protection of children is an absolute priority and that we want to meet the expectations of the Hungarian people, not the governments of other countries.”
Hungary has maintained a controversial stance on LGBTQ+ issues, with the government implementing laws restricting LGBTQ+ content for minors, a move that has drawn criticism from the EU and human rights organizations.
The diplomatic exchange highlights ongoing tensions between Hungary and its European partners over human rights, EU enlargement, and cultural policies. With Ukraine seeking closer ties with the European Union, Hungary’s opposition over minority rights issues could remain a significant obstacle in the accession process.
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