EU executive vice-president Frans Timmermans presented the discussion on Hungary that took place earlier on Wednesday at the college go the Commissioners’ weekly meet-up.
“At Jean-Claude Juncker’s initiative – and I very much welcome that – the College also discussed today a wide range of legal issues relating to Hungary,” said Timmermans.
Openly questioning Hungary’s commitment just a couple of weeks ago when Victor Orban signed the conclusions of the EU Summit for a united EU. “Where do you want to be in this European Union?” asked Timmermans.
“Orban’s signature at the EU summit two weeks ago to work for a united EU while following it up with a new National Consultation that has the motto “Let’s Stop Brussels,” added the vice-president.
Timmermans also talked abut the increasing frustration in Brussels after Orban’s escalation in pushing policies that go against EU cooperation. “What the heck is going on?” Timmermans asked himself and journalists on Wednesday.
“Central European University (CEU) has been a pearl in the crown of Central Europe in forming a new generation of European leaders that see East and West as geographical denominations, not moral or political denominations,” said Timmermans.
“The recently adopted Higher Education Law is troubling many people in Europe’s academic community, as well as politicians across Europe and beyond,” added Timmermans, repeating European Commission president’s public disapproval of the decision,”that is perceived by many as an attempt to close down the CEU”.
“The College today agreed that where the new Law may touch on EU competencies, and may also apply to EEA universities, we need to quickly complete a thorough legal assessment of its compatibility with free movement of services and the freedom of establishment, as well as EU rules on admission of third country researchers.”
“We will complete this legal assessment as soon as possible and the College will consider next steps on any legal concerns by the end of the month,” concluded Timmermans.