In a significant move, the Hungarian government announced on September 19, 2024, its intention to apply for an exemption from EU asylum regulations, following a similar announcement by the Netherlands. Hungarian European Minister Janos Boka stated that stricter national controls on migration are essential to protect public services and sovereignty.
The ideological alignment between the far-right Dutch coalition government, led by Geert Wilders' PVV, and Hungary's ruling Fidesz party is evident as both aim to exert pressure on the EU Commission and other member states for a tougher stance on asylum policies. Dutch Asylum Minister Marjolein Faber has expressed the goal of establishing the 'strictest migration policy ever' in the Netherlands, potentially declaring a state of emergency to bypass parliamentary approval.
Hungary currently holds the EU Council presidency and is expected to advocate for a unified EU asylum policy, which was recently reformed by the European Parliament and member states. However, Boka is prioritizing Hungarian interests, feeling encouraged by the Dutch stance and the ongoing European debate.
The Hungarian government has consistently rejected the EU asylum pact and has no intention of implementing it. Prime Minister Viktor Orban has shown approval for Germany's recent border controls aimed at curbing illegal immigration. Additionally, Italy's far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has declared a state of emergency due to alleged migration crises, aligning ideologically with Wilders and Orban.
Critics, including EU parliament member Birgit Sippel, have labeled the Dutch government's demand for an opt-out as ineffective, emphasizing that such a clause requires unanimous consent from member states, which is unlikely. Current EU treaties do allow for amendments, but the process is lengthy and requires ratification from all member states and the European Parliament.
Elise Muir, head of the Institute for European Law in the Netherlands, stressed that EU membership entails a commitment to adhere to EU laws. The Hungarian government has previously ignored EU asylum regulations, facing fines from the European Court of Justice for its practices at the Serbian border.
In 2023, Hungary received only 30 asylum applications, the lowest in the EU relative to its population, while the Netherlands recorded 38,000, just below the EU average. Should the Netherlands successfully opt-out, it may lead to increased migration pressures on neighboring countries like Belgium and Germany, potentially straining regional relations. Sippel remarked that the Dutch government's proposal remains largely symbolic at this stage.