The four-leaf anti-corruption leaf

“You can’t imagine how toxic it all is. It’s unbearable. And the ‘big macho’ is losing his grip on reality.”

“It’s not easy. It’s not pretty. And it’s going to get harder. Uglier. But… if the will of the people is strong enough, it cannot be stopped. And that will—finally—is growing stronger. Hope still lives.”

These are just some of the voices we heard during our fact-finding mission to Hungary. We saw, with our own eyes, what is happening on the ground with projects funded by EU money. Public good? Not quite. More like: “All of this belongs to me.” Or at best, “to my family and friends.”

And that’s still acceptable—apparently. But for the public? So that citizens might benefit from these projects? From anything at all we’re doing?

Forget it.

That’s the mindset—and more importantly, the modus operandi—of those in power in Hungary. But you know what? Hope truly does die last. And democracy in Hungary is not dead yet.

That’s why this mission was so important. Because it confirmed, unfortunately, just how crucial it is not to give in to the Hungarian government.

And yet we’re seeing a weakening of the EU’s political resolve, including in the suspension of EU funds directed at Hungary—a necessary but uncomfortable step. Why is this resolve fading? Let’s be honest: political calculation. The usual games, which I’m used to by now, but that doesn’t mean I’ll ever accept them.

Just like I won’t accept being told to “stay quiet” when fundamental rights are being violated. Even such a basic one as the freedom of assembly.

That’s why I’m speaking up—clearly and loudly—to express my full and unconditional support for tomorrow’s Pride Parade in Budapest. With all my heart and soul.

Oh, and one last thing—you figured out who the “big macho” is, didn’t you?
Yes, the one who underestimates the power of the people’s will.
So to the people, I say: You’ve got this.
Show it tomorrow.

You’ve got this.