In a controversial move, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has selected Olivér Várhelyi as Hungary’s nominee for European Commissioner, despite Várhelyi’s contentious track record during his five years in Brussels. Von der Leyen, the recently re-elected president of the European Commission, has until August 30th to finalize her new College of Commissioners, made up of nominees from each member state. Várhelyi currently serves as Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement and has received public support from Orbán for his work within the EU. However, Várhelyi’s appointment hinges on a confirmation hearing at the European Parliament, where he is expected to face tough scrutiny for his alignment with Orbán’s government.
Várhelyi’s time in Brussels has been marked with several controversies that are likely to resurface during his confirmation hearings. Accusations include downplaying Serbia’s rule-of-law issues, making inappropriate comments during a parliamentary debate, unilaterally suspending payments to the Palestinian authorities, and facing backlash over a conversation with the Georgian Prime Minister regarding a contentious law. Additionally, Várhelyi’s official visit to Israel sparked controversy as it took place following announced arrest warrants for Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip.
Orbán’s initial nomination for European Commissioner, László Trócsányi, was rejected in 2019, leading to the emergence of Várhelyi as his replacement. While belonging to the centre-right European People’s Party at the time, Fidesz, Orbán’s party, has since shifted to the far-right Patriots for Europe, raising concerns among centrist parties. Várhelyi’s nomination is seen as a strategic move by Orbán, potentially setting the stage for an alternate pick if Várhelyi’s bid fails to secure parliamentary approval. The contentious mandate of the Hungarian nominee underscores the growing divide between EU member states and raises questions about Hungary’s political direction under Orbán’s leadership.
As Várhelyi faces a confirmation hearing at the European Parliament, his track record and alignment with Orbán’s government will likely be key points of scrutiny among MEPs. With previous controversies surrounding his actions and comments, Várhelyi’s ability to serve as a Commissioner remains uncertain. Despite Orbán’s public support and nomination of Várhelyi, questions remain about his suitability for the role and whether his actions reflect the values and priorities of the European Union. The upcoming confirmation process will shed light on the dynamics between member states, the European Commission, and the role of Commissioners in shaping EU policies and initiatives.
The nomination of Olivér Várhelyi as Hungary’s nominee for European Commissioner has sparked renewed debate about Hungary’s political direction under Orbán’s leadership and the wider implications for the European Union. As Várhelyi faces scrutiny over his controversial track record and alignment with Orbán’s government, questions arise about his ability to uphold EU values and policies. The confirmation process at the European Parliament will be a crucial moment for Várhelyi and could potentially impact Hungary’s relationship with the EU. With the Commission’s code of conduct and ethical standards under review, Várhelyi’s nomination raises broader concerns about transparency, accountability, and the future of European governance.
