Örs Orosz’s case has taken another turn: the Slovak police have now officially launched criminal proceedings against the politician of the Hungarian Alliance after he wore a high-visibility vest bearing the slogan “I Question the Beneš Decrees!” at a protest in Bratislava in January. The case has drawn significant public attention, especially because authorities had previously stated that no crime had been committed. Orosz could face imprisonment if convicted. … Tovább olvasom

In recent weeks, three significant developments have once again drawn attention to the situation of the Hungarian minority in Slovakia and the continuing legacy of the Beneš Decrees. A Constitutional Court ruling, a European Parliament resolution, and a high-profile criminal case all demonstrate that the legal and historical consequences of the post-Second World War period remain far from settled.… Tovább olvasom

In recent weeks, Slovakia has adopted a criminal law amendment that seriously undermines the principles of rule of law, minority protection, and freedom of expression. The amended Criminal Code — specifically Section 417 — makes it punishable by up to six months’ imprisonment to publicly question the post–World War II legal settlement, including the Beneš Decrees. The amendment entered into force on December 27, 2025.… Tovább olvasom

Thanks to the support of friends like you, our team of experts was able to meet 2025’s challenges and make your voice heard on behalf of the 2 million ethnic Hungarian who live as minorities in the countries of East Central Europe. For the past 49 years, we have stood for their human rights when and where it mattered most. As we look to our 50th anniversary in 2026, we want to thank you for being a vital part of this mission.… Tovább olvasom

In an alarming move, on December 11, the Slovak Parliament adopted an amendment to the Criminal Code section on incitement to war, crimes against humanity, acts of terror and extremism. Introduced by the governing coalition, the new provision criminalizes “any person who “publicly denies” or “calls into question” the “settlement of conditions” established after the Second World War, making such speech punishable by up to six months imprisonment.… Tovább olvasom

Please Make HHRF Your Charity of choice on Giving Tuesday… Tovább olvasom

On September 3, 2025, the European Commission issued Communication C(2025) 6015, in which it rejected the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) launched by the Szekler National Council (SZNT) of Romania. The initiative sought recognition within the EU cohesion policy for the specific characteristics of “national regions”.… Tovább olvasom

EU Commissioner for Equality Hadja Lahbib has pledged that by September 4, 2025, the Commission will publish its formal position on the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) launched by the Szekler National Council (SZNT) of Romania entitled “Cohesion policy for the equality of the regions and sustainability of regionalcultures.” Lahbib promised the Commission would either propose legislation or respond in another form by that date.… Tovább olvasom

On June 5, 2025, the European Court of Justice conclusively rejected an appeal by the Minority SafePack European Citizens’ Initiative (MSPI). This decision effectively voids 15 years of civic mobilization on behalf of the initiative.… Tovább olvasom