Hungarians have the right to transparency on how NGOs have used EU funds
Hungary Calls for Transparency in EU Funding for NGOs
Hungary’s EU affairs ministry’s ministerial commissioner, Boglárka Bólya, has stressed the importance of transparency in the funding of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) by the European Union. In a meeting with EU officials in Brussels, Bólya highlighted the need for accountability and the right of Hungarians to know how the substantial amounts of money received by NGOs have been spent.
Recent revelations have brought to light concerns about the use of EU funds by some NGOs. The European Commission acknowledged instances of “unjustified lobbying” by certain organizations receiving funding through the LIFE programme, which supports the EU’s environmental and climate policies. Additionally, a report by the European Court of Auditors pointed out deficiencies in the transparency of databases related to NGO financing, echoing long-standing concerns raised by the Hungarian government.
Bólya cited a new study revealing that politically active NGOs have received a minimum of 62 million euros over the past decade. She emphasized that the Hungarian government is committed to combating political corruption and ensuring that improper practices, such as those uncovered by the Trump administration, do not persist in Europe.
In response to these challenges, the Patriots EP group has established the Democracy and Freedom Committee to investigate violations of democratic rights and the rule of law within the EU. Bólya highlighted the committee’s importance in addressing issues faced by right-wing, sovereignist, and conservative governments that have been marginalized within the EU. She pointed out the need to address double standards and the erosion of the rule of law in certain EU member states, such as Poland.
The Democracy and Freedom Committee aims to uncover and expose abuses, ultimately promoting greater transparency and accountability in EU governance. Bólya’s statements underscore Hungary’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring the responsible use of EU funds by NGOs.
