MEPs are prepared to end the measure known as the "nuclear option", set out in Article 7, which was imposed on Hungary due to alleged violations of European Union values. This measure allows for the suspension of a Member State's voting rights and represents the most severe sanction provided for in European treaties.
The decision comes in a context of political change in Hungary, with Viktor Orbán having governed the country for years under constant criticism from European institutions. Orbán's executive was subject to multiple infringement procedures and recurring concerns about the rule of law, press freedom, and minority rights.
A European mission will travel to Hungary in October to assess the progress made by the new government of Péter Magyar. This visit will be decisive in underpinning the recommendation that will be presented to the European Parliament.
The final decision on the future of Article 7 against Hungary is expected in early 2027, when MEPs will vote on the continuation or lifting of this measure that has been pending over the country for several years.
