EU Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath said Hungary is on a "very clear and steadfast" path to restore the rule of law [1].
This assessment comes as the European Union considers releasing significant financial resources that were previously withheld due to concerns over corruption and legal shortcomings. The resolution of these disputes is critical for Hungary's economic stability and its relationship with the bloc.
McGrath said this on May 28, 2026 [2]. His comments precede scheduled talks between Peter Magyar and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The primary objective of these discussions is to secure the release of €17 billion [1] in EU funds that have been frozen.
For years, the European Commission has monitored Hungary's adherence to democratic standards. The freezing of funds served as a mechanism to pressure the government into implementing judicial and administrative reforms. The current optimism from the justice commissioner suggests that the EU may now see sufficient evidence of these changes.
"Hungary is on a very clear and steadfast path to restore the rule of law," McGrath said [1].
The release of the €17 billion [1] would mark a significant pivot in the ongoing tension between Budapest and Brussels. While the funds are intended for various development and recovery projects, their release is strictly contingent on the restoration of legal safeguards, and the fight against corruption.
“"Hungary is on a very clear and steadfast path to restore the rule of law."”
The shift in rhetoric from the EU Justice Commissioner indicates a potential diplomatic breakthrough. By acknowledging Hungary's progress, the EU is signaling a willingness to move from a punitive phase to a cooperative one, provided the legal reforms are sustained. The release of billions in frozen funds would reduce economic pressure on the Hungarian government and potentially stabilize the political relationship between the member state and the European Commission.
