Hungary Set to Amend Constitution, Impacting Dual Citizens
Key Points:
- Hungarian lawmakers are proposing revisions to the Basic Law concerning individuals with dual nationality.
- Those holding citizenship in more than one country may face expulsion if deemed a threat to national security.
- The forthcoming changes are generating dissatisfaction among sections of the population.
Hungary Plans Constitutional Changes on Dual Citizenship
Hungary’s governing party, Fidesz, has unveiled plans to amend the nation’s constitution, introducing the possibility of deportation for individuals with dual nationality. The proposed amendments to the Fundamental Law would permit authorities to remove such individuals if their actions are judged to undermine Hungary’s sovereignty, Schengen.Newsreports (Source).
Máté Kocsis, head of the Fidesz parliamentary faction, shared on social media that several reforms, inspired by aspects of U.S. law, are expected to be introduced soon.
“A Hungarian citizen who also possesses citizenship of another nation may be required to leave Hungary under conditions outlined by law if their activities pose a threat to national sovereignty, public order, territorial integrity, or security.”
— Máté Kocsis, Leader of the Fidesz Parliamentary Group
Legislation Expected to Take Effect in the Coming Months
Previously, Kocsis had hinted that stricter laws aimed at safeguarding national interests were on the horizon, warning that these measures would be severe.
“Extremely tough, unexpected, and shocking regulations are coming. Everyone should prepare themselves mentally.”
— Máté Kocsis
His statement has sparked considerable discussion, drawing over 4,500 interactions and more than 1,500 comments. Among the critics is Péter Márki-Zay, the mayor of Hódmezővásárhely and a former prime ministerial candidate, who openly questioned the motives behind the proposal.
“Who exactly are they afraid of when they claim to be protecting Hungary from its own citizens with dual nationality? None of the agents, opportunists, or corrupt figures I know fit that description.”
— Péter Márki-Zay, Mayor of Hódmezővásárhely
Additional Proposals Targeting Public Events
Reports from Hungarian media suggest that Kocsis is also pushing for an additional constitutional amendment aimed at banning Pride marches, a restriction not enforced in many other nations. If implemented, this move is expected to spark further debates over civil liberties in the country.
New Employment Restrictions for Foreign Workers
The proposed changes to dual citizenship laws follow recent tightened regulations on foreign labor. In September 2024, the government introduced new policies, including:
- Employers must demonstrate that no local workers are available before hiring foreign applicants.
- Foreign employees with a history of labor violations will be automatically disqualified from obtaining work permits.
- Guest workers will have only six days to exit Hungary if they lose their jobs.
These regulatory shifts underscore the administration’s commitment to limiting foreign influence and reinforcing national priorities.
Conclusion
Hungary’s government continues to pursue policies that emphasize national security and sovereignty. While officials argue that these measures are essential for maintaining control over domestic affairs, critics warn they could have far-reaching consequences for civil rights and economic stability.
Sources:
- Schengen.News
- Hungarian Media Reports
