The Hungarian government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, is advancing legislation aimed at restricting the operations of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The proposed law reflects the government’s belief that foreign-funded NGOs pose a threat to national sovereignty.
Under this legislation, organizations receiving foreign funds would require permits and face regular audits. Critics, including opposition leaders, argue that these measures infringe on civil rights and mirror tactics used in Russia.
They warn that the law could quickly pass due to the ruling coalition's strong majority in Parliament. The government insists that the law promotes transparency in public life.
However, the vague definitions of what constitutes a threat to sovereignty raise concerns that legitimate dissent could be silenced. Opposition figures have condemned the initiative as a 'Putinization' of Hungary, suggesting that it serves to consolidate power and restrict independent voices.
The introduction of a blacklist for NGOs receiving foreign support exemplifies a broader trend of tightening control over civil society in Hungary. As these developments unfold, the potential impact on independent organizations engaged in public affairs remains a critical point of contention.
