Position Paper on the Partial Ban on Allowing Romanian Workforce into Hungary

Created: 28th September, 2007 14:21 | Last updated: 8th November, 2007 22:09	print	send

After the joint Hungarian-Romanian cabinet meeting on 16, November 2006, PM Ferenc Gyurcsány announced that Hungary's labour market shall remain partially open to Romanian workforce in spite of the country's accession to the European Union on 1, January 2007. This "opening" is in reality a partial closing as an unconditional opening of Hungary's labour market would be possible following Bulgaria's and Romania's EU-membership.

Although a research analysis was said to have been prepared prior to the decision, Fidesz did not have the opportunity to study it, while the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kinga Göncz had previously told the Parliament that Hungary's position regarding the issue would only be made final in mid-December.

Fidesz believes that the government has not chosen a solution that fits best Hungary's national interests, and it has contradicted its previous principles as well. It would have been in our interest to open the labour market; furthermore, the Hungarian minority in Romania has supported it strongly. Following 1, May 2004, the United Kingdom liberated its labour market for Central-Eastern Europeans on condition of registration. A similar solution could have helped Hungary follow the changes in labour markets and intervene administratively in case needed. This method would have allowed for a consistent policy towards the European Union while serving the interests of the Hungarian economy as well.

Fidesz maintains that it is ready for any discussion regarding the final position of the Hungarian government on this matter.

fidesz.hu