Financial Crime World

Corruption and Crime Plague Hungary Despite Efforts to Combat Them

High Levels of Corruption and Financial Crimes Persist

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY - Hungary continues to struggle with high levels of corruption and financial crimes despite its efforts to combat them. According to a recent report by Transparency International, the country’s corruption perception index has decreased by 13 points over the past 12 years, ranking it 76th out of 180 countries.

Key Findings:

  • Corruption perception index has decreased by 13 points over the past 12 years
  • Ranked 76th out of 180 countries in terms of perceived corruption
  • Risks of clientelism, favoritism, and nepotism remain unaddressed

European Commission Expresses Frustration with Hungary’s Slow Pace in Addressing Corruption

The European Commission has expressed frustration at Hungary’s slow pace in addressing these issues, citing the need for greater transparency and accountability in its public administration.

European Commission’s Concerns:

  • Lack of progress in fighting corruption
  • Need for greater transparency and accountability in public administration
  • Risks of clientelism, favoritism, and nepotism remaining unaddressed

Hungary Downgraded to “Partly Free” by Freedom House

In 2019, Freedom House downgraded Hungary’s status from “Free” to “Partly Free,” citing sustained attacks on the country’s democratic institutions by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party. This marked the first time a member of the European Union was designated as “Partly Free.”

Key Factors Contributing to Downgrade:

  • Sustained attacks on democratic institutions
  • Erosion of checks and balances in government
  • Restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly

Financial Crimes and Human Trafficking Plague Hungary

Financial crimes, including money laundering and tax evasion, are a major concern in Hungary. The country is also a transit point for many migrants attempting to reach Western Europe, making human trafficking another issue that has plagued the country.

Key Statistics:

  • 60 intentional homicides reported in 2019
  • Rate of 0.61 per 100,000 people
  • Up to 50% of crimes committed in Hungary go unpunished

Government Announces Plans to Combat Corruption and Crime

In an effort to combat these issues, the Hungarian government has announced plans to increase its police force and improve cooperation between law enforcement agencies.

Government’s Plans:

  • Increase police force numbers
  • Improve cooperation between law enforcement agencies
  • Address root causes of corruption and crime in Hungary

Experts Believe More Needs to be Done

Many experts believe that more needs to be done to address the root causes of corruption and crime in Hungary.

Quotes from Experts:

  • “Corruption is a deeply ingrained problem in Hungary, and it will take sustained effort and commitment from the government to tackle it.”
    • Spokesperson for Transparency International
  • “We need to see greater transparency and accountability in public administration, as well as stronger laws and institutions to prevent corruption.”
    • Spokesperson for Transparency International