Thousands Demand Judicial Independence in Hungary
On Saturday, thousands of Hungarian judges, court staff, and their supporters marched to the Ministry of Justice in Budapest. They demanded judicial independence, freedom of expression for judges, and improved compensation.
Contentious Issue
Hungary's judicial independence has been a contentious issue, leading to a rift between Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government and the European Union.
Origins of the Protest
Judicial discontent emerged in November when a controversial agreement was signed between the government and judicial representative bodies, linking salary increases to unspecified reforms.
Critics alleged that the National Judicial Council, an independent body, was coerced into signing the agreement hastily and without proper consultation.
"We realized that as judges, we must stand up," said Judge Zoltan Endredy, one of the organizers. "We are not mere pawns but an independent branch of government."
Additional Demands
Demonstrators called for greater freedom of expression and increased salaries due to high staff turnover.
Government's Response
Rita Kiszely, a judge attending the protest, stated, "Protecting judicial independence is paramount. While it may not have been entirely eliminated, it is certainly under threat."
Kiszely also criticized the lack of consultation on key legislation regarding the judiciary.
Earlier this month, Gergely Gulyas, the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff, emphasized the constitutionally guaranteed independence of the judiciary.
He announced significant salary increases, with judges' average salaries projected to reach nearly 2.3 million forints ($5,974) by 2027 and court employees receiving raises of 80-100%.
