Hungarian MEPs Down the Drain
Hungary had a scandal-ridden month in the EU. As the new EU budget is connected to rule of law, Hungary fought it tooth and nail, claiming it’s not about corruption but Soros and immigrants.
European Union
Importance of Smart Power for Process of Democratic International Cooperation in Central Europe
Whilst waiting on the political and governmental reforms of the EU, we should be aware of our contemporary situation and stay modest in small steps: only such small steps could keep us on track with optimism of our founding fathers, both of the EU and liberal democracy.
Liberal Democracy in Peril
The COVID-19 pandemic has served as an opportunity for many to intensify attacks on national and international norms and standards, including further weakening of checks and balances, broadening of corruption, and undercutting media freedom.
4liberty.eu Members in ELF Webinar on Rule of Law [VIDEO]
On December 10, 2020, two representatives of the member organizations cooperating within the 4liberty.eu network took part in a webinar organized by the European Liberal Forum (ELF) devoted to the topic “Rule of Law: At What Cost?”.
Lights Out! Polish People’s Opposition to Government’s Veto of EU Budget and COVID-19 Recovery Fund
Poland decided in favor of the veto partially in light of the EU’s activation of Article 7 on December 20, 2017. The Polish government is attempting to justify the veto by stating that it is defending itself and thereby affirming its power.
Single Market, Rule of Law More Important for Poland’s Development Than EU Funds
Poland’s benefits from access to the Single Market are five times higher than from subsidies from the EU budget. In 2019 we received net transfers of EUR 11 billion from the EU budget. But, thanks to access to the European Single Market, Poland’s GDP was 56 billion euros higher.
Anti-PiS Cries at Protests Against the Ruling of Polish Constitutional Court
Polish laws on abortion are the strictest in Europe. The government refuses the right to safe abortion to people with wombs, allowing for abortion tourism and self-induced miscarriage. This wasn’t enough for religious fundamentalists in the Polish parliament.
Poland Needs More Rule of Law and Fewer Conflicts with Brussels
The Polish government’s war with both Brussels and a significant part of the Polish population over the rule of law is against Poland’s national interests. On October 26, the European Parliament adopted a resolution criticizing the Polish Constitutional Tribunal’s decision to ban over 95% of legal abortions in Poland.
Veto on EU Financial Package: EU Core Values Deserve Clear Message
It could be argued that the EU is now paying the price for the incomplete settlement of the rule of law dispute during the July summit, when the multi-billion euro Corona recovery package and the seven-year EU financial framework were agreed.
Position on EC’s Initiative on Identifying and Addressing Barriers to Single Market
Addressing and diminishing barriers to the single market in the EU is a much welcome initiative. The initiatives to decrease bureaucracy, to step up efforts to comply with EU law, to evaluate the effects of new regulations on SMEs in impact assessments, and mutual recognition are important steps in promoting growth, free trade, and consumer rights.
