Germany’s likely next leader, Friedrich Merz, and his coalition partners want the European Union to take stronger action against countries that break its main rules. A draft agreement shows that the CDU, CSU, and SPD parties support using penalties like cutting EU funding, starting legal action, or removing voting rights from countries that don’t follow EU principles.
The agreement doesn’t mention Hungary by name, but it’s seen as the main target. Hungary’s government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, has been accused of limiting press freedom, weakening democracy, and controlling the courts. Orban has also opposed EU efforts to support Ukraine and has blocked several decisions meant to punish Russia for its war in Ukraine.
Recently, Orban vetoed a joint EU statement about Ukraine, forcing the other 26 countries to issue a separate one. He supports Donald Trump’s approach to dealing with Russia, which could weaken support for Ukraine and reduce the EU’s influence.
The incoming German government wants to stop Hungary from being able to block important decisions in the EU. They support changing the rules so that some decisions, especially around foreign policy and sanctions, can be made by majority vote instead of needing agreement from every country.
Hungary’s government has been contacted for a response. Meanwhile, the German parties are still working out the details of their coalition deal, which also includes plans on welfare, migration, and moving away from coal. They also want to rebuild strong relationships with France and Poland and take a more active role in European politics through the Weimar Triangle group.
