Hungary’s Frozen Billions: When Will the EU Funds Flow?

After 16 years, Hungarian voters have ousted Viktor Orbán and his “mafia state,” sending a clear message against corruption and in favor of the rule of law and Europe. But what does this mean for the roughly €36 billion* in EU funds that remain frozen—blocked due to rampant corruption and the absence of an independent judiciary in Hungary?

Hungary’s next prime minister, Péter Magyar, has repeatedly pledged in his speeches to “bring the EU funds home” soon. I share that hope. I firmly expect the new government to swiftly launch the necessary reforms. However, Orbán spent 16 years dismantling Hungary’s rule of law. He also packed key institutions with loyalists, many of whom—under current laws—are protected from dismissal for up to 10 years. Some officials cannot be removed at all. This damage cannot be undone overnight.

The new Hungarian government will push for the early release of these funds, backed by the EPP. Manfred Weber, leader of the conservatives, called for the funds to be unlocked even before all votes in Hungary were counted. Yet, the lesson from Poland is clear: We must see real reforms, not just promises, before any money is released. In Poland, a pro-European government’s reform efforts were quickly stymied by a right-wing conservative president—after the EU funds had already been disbursed.

It’s understandable that Hungarians cannot—and should not—wait years for these funds. The Greens will support the reform process in Hungary constructively, offering expertise and assistance to the new government at every step. A phased plan with the European Commission could be an option, gradually releasing funds as initial conditions are met. Some steps are easier to implement than others.

Hungarian voters have done their part. They have ended an era and paved the way for democratic renewal. Now, the hard work begins for the new government—but with a two-thirds majority, they have the mandate to dismantle corruption networks, restore independent institutions, and rebuild trust, both at home and in Europe.

€10 billion in RRF funds + €8 billion in other EU funding + €16 billion in SAFE funding for defense.

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