MEPs stand up for academics in Hungary

The European Parliament has voted to initiate censure proceedings against the Hungarian government, citing infringements of academic freedom.

MEPs voted on 12 September, by 448 votes in favour to 197 against, for EU governments to take action against Hungary. They are concerned over actions taken by prime minister Viktor Orbán’s government that threaten academic freedom, the independence of the judiciary and the fundamental rights of migrants, asylum seekers and refugees.

“This is the first time that Parliament has called on the Council of the EU to act against a member state to prevent a systemic threat to the Union’s founding values,” the Parliament said in a press release. “These values, which are enshrined in EU Treaty Article 2 and reflected in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, include respect for democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights.”