Topic: Rule of law

Non-execution of domestic court judgments by state authorities in freedom of information cases is a serious rule of law problem in Hungary, which also violates the European Convention on Human Rights. In a joint submission to the Council of Europe, Hungarian civil society organisations highlight the systemic causes of non-compliance with such judgments and propose recommendations to ensure effective access to public interest data.

Hungary has voted for change. Now comes the hard work of restoring the rule of law. We, the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, look forward to playing our part.

Nearly ten years after the European Court of Human Rights’ landmark judgment in the Baka v. Hungary case, Hungary still has not implemented key safeguards for judicial independence and judges’ freedom of expression. In a new submission to the Council of Europe, we highlight ongoing deficiencies, retaliation against outspoken judges, and concerns about the latest reform plans.

Ahead of the April 12 elections, our latest briefing note is for everyone monitoring or closely following the Hungarian elections. We focus on selected aspects of the electoral environment that could be particularly relevant on … Read more

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a unique process which involves the review of the human rights record of all 192 UN Member States once every four-and-half year. It was created by the UN General … Read more

Background materials for election observation missions and delegations

The 2026 Hungarian parliamentary elections are taking place in a highly polarised political environment, marked by entrenched systemic distortions in electoral competition. Recent developments confirm that the primary risks to electoral integrity stem not from … Read more

Beginning on 5 March 2026, investigative reporting produced by journalists with a proven track record of uncovering confidential information and subsequent institutional discussions raised questions about possible Russian interference in Hungary’s parliamentary elections scheduled for … Read more

Recent developments in Hungary once again highlight how the “state of danger” is a tool to concentrate powers in the hands of the executive. Our one-pager explains the deficient framework and how it is abused in practice.

This morning, the Pécs District Prosecutor’s Office informed Géza Buzás-Hábel, the organizer of last Fall’s Pécs Pride, that charges had been brought against him for organizing Pécs Pride. The prosecutor’s office has turned to the Pécs District Court for violation of the freedom of association and assembly, which could impose up to one year of imprisonment. 

For the seventh year in a row, the Hungarian Helsinki Committee is contributing to the European Commission’s annual Rule of Law Report in coordination with other Hungarian human rights and anti-corruption CSOs in the framework of the stakeholder consultation launched by the European Commission.

In a joint submission to the Council of Europe, HCLU and HHC highlight the Hungarian government’s continued failure to reform the national minority voting system in spite of a European Court of Human Rights judgment, leaving most minorities without a real chance of parliamentary representation before the 2026 elections.

The HHC’s shadow reports and its suggestions for questions to be included in the List of Issues for the UN Human Rights Committee

In April 2026, the Hungarian parliamentary elections will be a pivotal moment for democracy, fundamental rights and the rule of law in Hungary and for the entire European Union. There is a serious likelihood that they will be marred, yet again, by grave violations of both domestic and international standards for democratic elections.

As an electoral body, the Hungarian National Election Commission is unable to level the playing field, which favours the governing parties.

Study on Innovative Practices of Civil Society Regarding the EU Rule of Law Toolbox

Since the last general election on 3 April 2022, the Hungarian Parliament has passed several amendments to the legal framework relating to elections.

In December 2022, European Union institutions suspended and tied to conditions Hungary’s access to EU funds under various procedures due to severe breaches of the rule of law and human rights. Ahead of the upcoming … Read more

Persistent systemic challenges continue to affect Hungary’s compliance with OSCE commitments related to democratic elections. Numerous long-standing OSCE/ODIHR recommendations remain unaddressed. The most pressing issues cumulatively contribute to an electoral environment that questions the overall fairness of the process.

Háttér Society, the Hungarian Civil Liberties Union (HCLU), and the Hungarian Helsinki Committee (HHC) have jointly submitted input to the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and Association for her 2026 thematic report … Read more