In a recent post on social media, Hungarian Secretary of State for International Communication Zoltán Kovács hit back at the European Parliament (EP), highlighting a deepening hypocrisy within the EU’s democratic institutions. At the center of the controversy is Italian MEP Ilaria Salis, the left-wing extremist accused of violent offenses in Hungary, who recently entered the European Parliament under legal immunity after being elected. Her presence in the chamber and her vocal criticism of Hungary has sparked outrage in Budapest.
“So let me get this straight,” Kovács posted. “Ilaria Salis, who beat people nearly to death in the street, escapes justice by sneaking into the European Parliament—and now lectures Hungary on the rule of law?”
The issue goes far beyond a single MEP. The real target of Kovács’ criticism is the EP’s LIBE Committee (Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs), which recently conducted a visit to Hungary. According to Kovács, the committee arrived with a “pre-written verdict,” dismissing dialogue with Hungarian authorities and pushing what he characterizes as a hostile political agenda rather than legitimate democratic oversight.
“This is not oversight. This is a political smear campaign,” he wrote. “The LIBE committee has zero mandate to police member states’ internal affairs.”
Kovács’ post highlights Hungary’s long-standing frustration with Brussels’ overreach. He accused the European Parliament of defending liberal activists under the guise of supporting civil society, while ignoring the legal and constitutional sovereignty of EU member states.
“No wonder Prime Minister Viktor Orbán didn’t meet them,” Kovács added. “Would you take lessons on justice from someone who got elected just to avoid prison?”
Hungary’s stance is clear: while committed to its EU membership, it refuses to accept what it sees as politically motivated attacks dressed up as human rights advocacy. In Kovács’ words, “Hungary won’t take orders from criminals in suits.”
