The European Commission has recommended the release of €4.2 billion in previously frozen cohesion funds to Hungary. This proposal also includes reinstating full access for Hungarian students and researchers to the Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe programs. These moves come after Hungary implemented reforms aimed at addressing rule-of-law issues that have implications for the EU budget. The reforms cover areas such as public procurement, anti-corruption measures, conflicts of interest, and the effectiveness of prosecutorial actions.
The decision to release the funds is not yet final. The proposal requires approval from the Council of the European Union, which has a month to make its decision. Until the Council gives its approval, the current funding restrictions will remain in place. This €4.2 billion is only a portion of the EU funds that have been restricted for Hungary. Other cohesion funds remain frozen under different conditions, and the release of Hungary’s recovery funds is being evaluated separately.
The European Commission’s proposal follows Hungary’s efforts to comply with EU requirements, which initially led to the freezing of funds in 2022. The Commission’s move suggests a positive assessment of Hungary’s recent reforms, but the final decision lies with the Council of the European Union.
While the potential unlocking of these funds marks a significant development, Hungary still faces hurdles in accessing other EU funds. The outcome of the Council’s decision will be crucial for Hungary’s financial and academic engagement with the EU.