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Moulton, Wilson, Hartzler, and Meeks Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Human Rights Violations in Hungary
Moulton: “Urges Hungary’s Leadership to Reverse Laws and Policies that Curtail Individual Rights and Basic Freedoms”
Washington, D.C.— Congressman Seth Moulton (D-MA) has been joined by Rep. Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC), and Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-MO) to introduce a bill to support a democratic Hungary and reaffirm the long-standing and mutually-beneficial relationship between the United States and Hungary. This resolution condemns Prime Minister Orban’s attempts to stifle any opposition to his rule and consolidate his power in Hungary – an important ally and NATO member.
Prime Minister Orban’s attempts to stifle opposition have included suppressing free speech and assembly, as well as independent thought from universities, civil society groups, and independent think tanks. Law changes and Prime Minister Orban’s remarks have been condemned by the European Union and a number of international organizations including the International Federation for Human Rights, the European Association for the Defense of Human Rights, Amnesty International, Reporters without Borders, and Human Rights Watch.
“I am proud to have bipartisan support for this resolution,” said Congressman Moulton. “As a member of NATO and important ally, I am concerned about the continued trend towards undemocratic practices in Hungary. I am proud to count 1,500,000 Hungarian-Americans as strong contributors to the economic vibrancy of the US, as well as the social, cultural, and political fabric of our country. This resolution condemns Hungary’s current movement to a less free and democratic society, and urges Hungary’s leadership to reverse laws and policies that curtail individual rights and basic freedoms.”
“As Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats and Co-Chair of the EU Caucus, I am dedicated to the U.S.-Hungary relationship and working to address mutual challenges faced by our democracies,” said Congressman Meeks. “This resolution reflects our commitment to encouraging Hungary to remain committed to the democratic standards of the transatlantic project. I look forward to further engagement on these issues.”
“Hungary has had a strong history of living their democratic values. Recognition of America’s affection for Hungary is the bust of Hungarian patriot Lajos Kossuth, erected in the U.S. Capitol Building, along with Americans always remembering the bravery of Hungarians in the 1956 Revolution beginning the ultimate collapse of the Soviet Empire,” added Congressman Wilson. “It is increasingly disheartening and concerning that Hungary is progressing to a rigid, authoritarian society—one that restricts individual rights and freedoms cherished by all democratic nations. I am grateful to join my colleagues Congressman Seth Moulton, Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, and Congressman Gregory Meeks in condemning the government of Hungary’s progression to a less free society and standing up for democracy in Eastern Europe and around the world.”
