In this latest episode of The Ring, recorded at the European Parliament in Brussels, MEPs Daniel Freund (Greens) and Sander Smit (ECR) discuss the results of the Hungarian election and its implications for Europe.

Péter Magyar’s decisive triumph in Hungary’s parliamentary vote on Sunday has reignited hope in Brussels. Following years under Viktor Orbán’s contentious leadership, marked by numerous vetoes, the new government has prompted expectations that the previously blocked EU aid to Ukraine might finally proceed.

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As the European Union faces rising international challenges — from the conflict in Ukraine to tensions in the Middle East — its external policy often appears slow and incoherent, casting doubt on whether its current framework is still adequate.

Within this setting, Members of the European Parliament Daniel Freund (Greens, Germany) and Sander Smit (European Conservatives & Reformists, Netherlands) engaged in The Ring to present their perspectives on necessary EU reforms.

A key focus of their discussion was the EU’s decision-making mechanism, particularly the unanimity requirement. Opposition from certain member states to modify these rules illustrates the bloc’s internal divisions.

What implications does Orbán’s defeat hold for the EU’s future? Beyond potential enhancements in Hungary-EU relations, the Union confronts a larger issue: whether fundamental reforms are needed to prevent marginalization in global affairs.

Freund emphasized that Europe will lack influence on the world stage unless it adopts a unified voice.

The lack of consensus in international disputes tends to result in narrow viewpoints shaped by the separate interests of member countries, he reiterated.

Conversely, Smit rejected this notion. He considers foreign policy a sovereign matter for member states and doubts the effectiveness of enforced cohesion internationally.

This installment of The Ring is hosted by Stefan Grobe, with production by Luis Albertos and Amaia Echevarria, and editing by Vassilis Glynos.

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