Hungary proposes new legislation to increase control on courts and independent schools

The Hungarian government has proposed legislation that would increase its control over the country’s courts and independent schools, raising concerns from rights groups.

One measure submitted to parliament this week would strengthen the Constitutional Court, most of whose judges are already elected by the ruling party.

Euronews and Reuters report that since taking power nearly a decade ago, Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s Fidesz party has tightened its grip on the media and courts, often sparking conflict with the European Union.

Earlier this month, the government abandoned plans to set up separate administrative courts. But it vowed to pass legislation to speed up administrative court cases that involve government bodies, and Justice Minister Judit Varga submitted a 200-pages bill this week, the report adds.

It would allow state bodies to appeal to the Constitutional Court against decisions by lower courts if they think the rulings infringe their constitutional rights or restrict their authority.

Via Euronews / Reuters