ALDE has voted against commissioner-designate Tibor Navracsics

The Group of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) is disappointed about the vote that took place today in the European Parliament’s Culture Committee. During that vote a majority of political groups confirmed the nomination of Hungarian Commissioner Tibor Navracsics.

ALDE’s first Vice-President Sophie in ‘t Veld comments:
“Mr Navrascics has clearly failed to show European commitment. As a member of the Orban government, he was co-responsible for the systematic undermining of democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights. His statement distancing himself from this goverment is not credible. He should have done so while still in government. It is disappointing that political groups that were always very vocal in their concerns over the state of democracy in Hungary, have not upheld their critical attitude.”

Yana Toom, ALDE coordinator for the responsible committee Culture, says:
“During the hearing it became clear that Mr Navracsics’ track record will pose a problem for many MEPs and people from other European institutions. This means that it will take years to earn the trust necessary to enable fruitful work and cooperation. We have no time to waste when dealing with such important European issues such as culture and education.”

Cecilia Wikström, chair of the EP Committee on Petitions:
“During the last years, Mr. Navracsics has taken up various political functions and in every single one of them, he trampled European values. He was critized by the OSCE, the Council of Europe and the European Commission for limiting media pluralism. He simply did not convince us that he is willing to change his political course and will be committed to serving the EU’s citizens and their rights.“