Czechia files request to intervene in EC proceedings against Hungary over “Sovereignty Act”

Czechia has sent a request to the Court of Justice of the European Union to intervene in the European Commission's proceedings against Hungary over a new law protecting national sovereignty. The “Sovereignty Protection Act” took effect last December and allows authorities to investigate and prosecute people accused of undermining the country’s sovereignty.

The Commission voiced concerns that the law threatens EU democratic values, undermines the principle of democracy and the electoral rights of European citizens, and also infringes on other fundamental rights, including the right to privacy, personal data protection and freedom of expression and association. According to critics, the new legislation is part of a long-term plan to suppress Hungary’s opposition parties. A Czech foreign ministry spokesperson said the ministry had signals that a dozen other EU member states were also planning to join the proceedings.