Coronavirus: Hungarian parliament approves end of controversial state of emergency

Text by: Florence La Bruyère Follow

The Hungarian Parliament approved on Tuesday June 16 the end of the controversial state of emergency established to fight against the epidemic of coronavirus and which allowed Prime Minister Viktor Orban to govern by decrees for more than two months. However, certain measures taken during the state of emergency will continue to be applied.

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From our correspondent in Budapest,

It is a victory for Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Three months ago, he assured that his government would return to full power when the danger was over. He kept his word. Viktor Orban believes he has been unjustly accused of switching to authoritarianism, he presents himself today as a true democrat.

The Hungarian Parliament therefore approved the end of the state of emergency. But at the same time, he passed another law that will allow the government to resume full powers without the authorization of Parliament in the event of a new health crisis.

But of the hundred decrees published since the end of March, several are still in force. Military commanders appointed to the logistics directorate of the hospitals will remain in place. And the measures that have reduced the powers and finances of municipalities, especially those held by the opposition, have the force of law.

As for the law which punishes 5 years in prison for spreading false news according to the government, it is still current. Viktor Orban took advantage of the pandemic to increase his influence and weaken the checks and balances.

► Read also: Coronavirus: in Poland and Hungary, the authoritarian temptation

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• Coronavirus
• Hungary
• Viktor Orban

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