Benefits and Challenges of Keeping Poland and Hungary in the EU

Introduction

The question of whether Poland and Hungary bring more harm than benefit to the European Union (EU) is a topic of ongoing debate. While some argue that these countries should be expelled to maintain the integrity of EU rules, others believe the benefits outweigh the challenges. This article explores the various factors such as economic, political, and humanitarian concerns that support the idea of keeping Poland and Hungary within the bloc.

Humanitarian and Political Considerations

One compelling reason to keep Poland and Hungary within the EU is the humanitarian aspect. Both countries have substantial populations, and any destabilization could lead to a humanitarian crisis, similar to what we see in Belarus. Additionally, there's a political imperative to show that the Western world stands for fundamental values and principles, which provides a moral and symbolic foundation for the Union. History has taught us that isolation and sanctions often strengthen dictatorships, making a more integrated approach more effective.

Economic Merits and Market Access

The economic benefits of keeping Poland and Hungary in the EU are undeniable. They are key markets for EU goods and services, and their economic growth and job creation are significant contributions to the Union. While there is a myth perpetuated by some politicians and EU officers about these countries ignoring EU rules, the data shows a different picture. Poland, for example, has experienced substantial economic growth and is one of the top performers in terms of job creation. The amounts of EU funds allocated to these countries also reflect their importance to the Union. For instance, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Poland received €11.2 billion in financial support, which is more than Hungary received, despite a similar population size.

Political Reality and Historical Context

Politically, the idea of treating EU membership as an on-off switch is illusory. EU membership is a historically entrenched reality, and any changes in government will not alter this fundamental fact. Defining the government as the nation (a view commonly held in Hungary) is a false premise and a dangerous one. Governments come and go, but the principles and values of the EU are enduring. The threat of sanctions or expulsion, therefore, does not create a more democratic environment. Instead, it can foster a dangerous cycle of nationalistic fervor and authoritarianism.

Fact-Checking EU Rule Compliance

It's essential to engage in fact-checking when discussing EU rule compliance. According to data from 2019, the countries with the most infringement cases were Cyprus, Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. When ranked based on the number of new cases, Poland was in sixth place with 37 cases, while Hungary was in eighth place with 33 cases. These figures indicate that the compliance is not as dire as some media outlets would have us believe. Furthermore, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hungary received €504 million, while Belgium received €27.4 billion, despite similar population sizes. This demonstrates that Hungary's economic situation is not as precarious as the headlines suggest.

Conclusion

While challenges exist, the benefits of keeping Poland and Hungary in the EU are significant. These countries contribute economically, support humanitarian causes, and align with the core values of the Union. The political imperative to demonstrate unity and moral strengthcannot be overlooked.