Text tabled : B7-0379/2011

  Jean-Luc Bennahmias (ALDE), in writing. – (FR) Hungary’s history and the key role that it played in the difficult years after the Second World War have made the country one of Europe’s great nations. Indeed, it has made valuable contributions to the European project which build on that long history. Consequently, we were flabbergasted when we heard about the changes to the Hungarian Constitution. The changes invalidate the fundamental body of law that is essential to the institutional balance in the country. Freedom of the press, good understanding between different population groups, minority rights – these are the cornerstones of European unity. Political decision makers in Budapest need to understand how important it is for us all to converge towards these acquis, which allow open democratic expression and guarantee liberty. We need to look to the future. We need to move forwards. Through this vote, the European Parliament is sending a clear message of support to Hungarian citizens and calling on European politicians to come together to discuss these matters.