European Commission takes steps against Hungary over anti-gay law | Abroad

International outrage and pressure on the commission have increased in recent days. The Netherlands and thirteen other EU countries month the executive board of the European Union on Tuesday to take action against Hungary. The committee previously expressed its concerns about the law, but wanted to assess it further first.

“I have instructed my responsible European Commissioners to write a letter to the Hungarian authorities to express our legal concerns,” said von der Leyen. “Before the law comes into force.”

Because the law has yet to come into effect, the commission cannot yet proceed to criminal proceedings for countries that violate EU law. But the letter makes it clear that Hungary is hanging over its head, says a spokesperson for the committee.

The new law, which prohibits, for example, schools, libraries and the media from confronting young people with, among other things, homosexuality and transgender people, “clearly discriminates”, says the committee chair. The law “goes against the fundamental values ​​of the EU, human dignity, equality and fundamental human rights.”

“We will not compromise on these principles,” von der Leyen assures. “So I will use all the powers of the committee to ensure that the rights of all EU citizens are guaranteed. Whoever you are and wherever you live.”