Von der Leyen Criticizes Orbán's Call for Harder EU Measures Against Illegal Migration
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World
October 9, 2024 10:50
strasbourg - Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán made a plea for tougher EU measures against illegal migration, prompting a strong response from EU official Ursula von der Leyen.
Orbán believes that the external borders need better protection and that Brussels should support countries in this effort. However, the European Commission has so far refused to finance border fences.
Orbán also advocates for a new migration policy where all asylum applications are processed in centers outside the EU. He argues that without such hotspots, the EU cannot be protected against illegal migration. Orbán claims that only individuals with prior approval should be allowed to enter, dismissing all other solutions as illusions.
The far-right leader also alleges that migration has led to increased violence against women, antisemitism, and homophobia.
Orbán's remarks were met with jeers from the left-wing of the European Parliament, where he has long been criticized for issues such as an anti-LGBTQ law and attacks on philanthropist George Soros.
In addition, Orbán mentioned the reinstatement of internal border checks and proposed the creation of a Schengen summit for heads of state and government during an EU summit in Budapest in November, an idea supported by the Netherlands.
EU official Ursula von der Leyen delivered a scathing response to Orbán, criticizing the release of criminal human smugglers and questioning the admittance of Russian citizens without additional security checks. She also raised concerns about the presence of Chinese police on Hungarian territory.
Orbán is considered the most controversial leader in the Brussels bubble, with Hungary facing criticism for corruption, erosion of the rule of law, and smear campaigns against critical organizations and media outlets. Left-wing politicians protested by singing the anthem 'Bella Ciao' in the parliamentary hall, while Orbán's European group 'Patriots for Europe,' which includes the Dutch PVV, applauded and gave him a standing ovation.