The Norwegian has expressed concern over the level of freedom of speech in Hungary in a document published on its embassy’s website for the country. The publishing of the document was followed up by discussions with the Hungarian ambassador to Norway being summoned to the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he was told of the government’s concerns.
Norway is a long-time financial supporter of various activities throughout CEE, but it sometimes uses this engaged approach in the region to push its own political aims. “I am deeply concerned about the actions of the Hungarian authorities in relation to civil society and their attempts to limit freedom of expression,” said Minister of EEA and EU Affairs Vidar Helgesen. “The EEA and Norway Grants are designed to strengthen fundamental European values. The Hungarian authorities’ violation of the agreement on the EEA and Norway Grants is in breach of these values.”
Meanwhile, Hungary’s new foreign affairs minister Tibor Navracsics said he intends to “preserve the high position the country now has in the international community.”
