Why Hungary and Slovakia Will Not Be Expelled from the EU
The notion that Hungary and Slovakia could be expelled from the European Union (EU) is not only baseless but also fundamentally misunderstands the core principles and mechanisms of the EU. This misconception often stems from a poignant but misguided critique of the EU's founding fathers and their political successors. It is true that the initial architects of the EU were perhaps overly optimistic and naive in their vision, with limited foresight for the challenges that would arise. Yet, the EU has evolved to become a sophisticated organization capable of handling and mitigating these issues through a variety of mechanisms and EU directives.
The Naivety of the Founding Fathers and Their Legacy
One key critique is that the Founding Fathers and their less meritorious successors were indeed too idealistic, lacking the foresight to prepare for the infiltration of unscrupulous populism from Central and Eastern Europe. However, it is important to recognize that the infiltration of such populism has not necessarily been a direct threat to the EU's integrity. Instead, it has presented a complex challenge that requires nuanced rather than drastic solutions.
The EU's structure inherently includes provisions for member states to exercise their rights responsibly. Veto powers, for example, are designed as a last resort to protect vital national interests. Regular use of the veto in situations where such interests are not directly threatened can indeed hinder the EU's effectiveness but is not an act of expulsion or exclusion from the union.
Protecting European Security and the Free Movement of People
The broader purpose of the EU is to prevent war among its member states through the free movement of people, goods, and capital. To suggest that a country like France might be expelled is a severe misinterpretation. The infringement procedure is in place to address breaches of EU directive rules, and such a serious step would be taken only after thorough and transparent processes.
Equally unfounded is the idea that countries like Hungary and Slovakia should be expelled. These countries, often referred to as the Visegrad Four (V4), play a crucial role in protecting the EU from illegal migration. By maintaining a secure border, they act as a critical buffer against the influx of migrants from Eastern Europe, thereby contributing to the overall security and stability of the EU.
Why Expulsion Would be Counterproductive
Hungary and Slovakia are not blindly protecting their national interests at the expense of the EU. They understand the importance of the EU project and the free movement of people, which is designed to prevent conflict within the union. Their actions, while divergent in specific areas, are part of a broader strategy to manage migration and ensure the survival of the union in a challenging geopolitical landscape.
The EU is inherently adaptable and resilient, with mechanisms in place to address inconsistencies among member states. Instead of expulsion, solutions should focus on mutual understanding, cooperation, and the strengthening of mechanisms designed to address these challenges without undermining the union's core principles.
In conclusion, the separation of Hungary and Slovakia from the EU is not a viable or desirable option. The V4 countries, including Hungary and Slovakia, serve a vital role in maintaining the EU's integrity and security. Expulsion would not only be detrimental to their own interests but also to the broader goals of the EU as a whole. The focus should remain on fostering cooperation and addressing the root causes of issues through constructive dialogue and collaboration.