Hungary to Hold National Consultation on Economic Policy Amid EU Tensions
Budapest: Hungary is set to conduct a national consultation on economic policy, emphasizing its commitment to economic neutrality and independence from European Union directives, particularly those perceived as detrimental to national interests. The government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, seeks public opinion on several key issues, including trade relations, support for local businesses, and social policies.
According to About Hungary, this initiative highlights the government’s stance on avoiding the “commercial cold war” initiated by Brussels against Eastern economies such as China and Russia. PM Orbán stresses the importance of Hungary retaining control over its economic decisions, steering clear of restrictive EU sanctions that could harm the Hungarian economy. Since 2010, the government has engaged in public consultations on significant matters 13 times, solidifying this practice as a cornerstone of Hungary’s democratic dialogue. The feedback from these consultations helps shape government polic
y in alignment with the national will, countering opposition from EU and left-wing leaders.
The consultation will address multiple questions, starting with the issue of economic neutrality. Participants are asked whether Hungary should remain neutral and not join Brussels’ trade sanctions against Eastern countries, which the government argues could foster economic growth surpassing the EU average. Another question focuses on whether Hungary should follow its own economic path, integrating beneficial elements from both Western and Eastern models, or adhere strictly to EU guidelines.
Support for small and medium-sized enterprises is also on the agenda. The government proposes capital grants to support these businesses against multinational competition, contrasting Brussels’ preference for available business loans. The regulation of multinational companies is another key topic, with the government asserting its right to act against multinationals that abuse their power, despite opposition from Brussels.
The c
onsultation will also explore social policies, including a proposed wage increase program, a new workers’ loan for young people, and housing support measures. The government advocates for a multi-year, growth-based wage increase agreement, a zero-interest workers’ loan for young people, and tax incentives for companies contributing to employees’ housing costs. These measures contrast with opinions that existing programs suffice or that companies should independently manage wages and housing support.
Additional topics include housing support for young people, the 13th-month pension, family tax benefits, and migration penalties. The government supports building new dormitories and offering preferential housing loans for first-time homebuyers, making the 13th-month pension permanent, and doubling child tax credits. It also rejects the European Court of Justice’s ruling for daily fines due to non-compliance with the EU’s migration policy, asserting Hungary’s right to opt out of mandatory migrant acceptance and d
istribution.