02 May 2017 | 05:52 PM UTC
Hungary: Pro-European protests in Budapest May 1 /update 1
Thousands of pro-European protesters march in Budapest on May 1 against Prime Minister Orban’s policies and warming relations toward Russia
Event
Thousands of pro-European protesters peacefully marched in the capital city of Budapest on Monday, May 1, in rejection of the government’s recent policies and seemingly strengthening political ties with Russia. Supporters of the recently formed youth-oriented pro-EU Momentum Party protested in support of the Central European University (CEU). Demonstrators are against amendments to the higher education law, which could result in the closure of the independent university. They also denounced a separate piece of draft legislation that would impose new requirements for NGOs that receive foreign funding. Additional protests are likely in the coming days and weeks.
Context
Significant protests have been taking place since April 2 against the potential closure of the CEU. Although no notable incidents of violence have been reported to date, the risk of clashes remains relatively high. Opposition to the education law prompted people to turn out in the largest demonstrations seen in the country since 2014; the demonstrations in Budapest on April 9 reportedly drew 50,000 to 80,000 people.
The new higher education law, passed by the government on April 4, stipulates that without a relevant inter-state agreement, no foreign higher education institution is allowed to operate in Hungary. It is seen by protesters (both Hungarians and foreigners) as an attack on independent educational institutions. The Constitutional Court is expected to decide on the constitutional validity of the law. Meanwhile, the EU has urged the Hungarian government to halt debates on the draft NGO law, which has yet to be submitted to a vote.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has called for improving relations between both the European Union (EU) and Russia, but has also been critical of EU sanctions on Russia over its involvement in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Advice
Individuals in Budapest are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution and to keep abreast of the situation.
