The European Union’s top court, the European Court of Justice (ECJ), has imposed substantial penalties on Hungary for its failure to comply with EU asylum laws and its illegal deportation practices. The ECJ fined Hungary 200 million euros ($216 million) as a lump sum for its persistent non-compliance with EU regulations regarding asylum seekers. In addition to the lump sum, Hungary faces a daily penalty of one million euros until it rectifies its actions.
The ruling stems from Hungary’s ongoing refusal, under the leadership of Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s Fidesz party, to adhere to EU laws that require member states to uphold international standards for asylum seekers. Despite previous court orders dating back to 2020, Hungary has continued to restrict asylum seekers’ access to formal asylum procedures and has not respected their right to remain in Hungary while their applications are processed.
The ECJ characterized Hungary’s actions as an unprecedented and exceptionally serious breach of EU law, highlighting that it undermines the principle of solidarity and fair distribution of responsibilities among EU member states. The European Commission had requested the fine, arguing that Hungary’s policies severely compromise the EU’s asylum system.
Hungary’s resistance to the new EU asylum rules, scheduled to be implemented in 2026, is also noted. These rules aim to strengthen border controls and streamline asylum procedures across the EU, while also mandating that member states share responsibilities for asylum seekers more equitably.
In summary, the ECJ’s decision to impose significant financial penalties on Hungary underscores the EU’s commitment to enforcing its asylum laws and ensuring member states’ compliance with its legal framework, despite resistance from some national governments.