Hungarian gov't extends state of emergency for yet another six months
The Hungarian Parliament approved the extension of the state of emergency for another 180 days, until 13 May 2026, with 127 votes in favour and 56 against.
It is worth noting that this means that the entire remaining campaign period and the parliamentary elections scheduled for April 6, 2026, will also fall under the period of decree government.
The justification is still the humanitarian and economic crisis resulting from the Russian-Ukrainian war, which the government argues can only be effectively managed under extraordinary legal order.
According to the government's proposal, maintaining the state of emergency allows for quick and flexible decision-making, particularly in managing the indirect effects of the war, such as energy prices and refugee flows.
The cabinet maintains that these special measures contribute to protecting national interests and maintaining economic stability.
Róbert Répássy, State Secretary for Justice, stated during the general debate that the war has been ongoing for more than three and a half years, and its effects have 'become part of our daily lives'. He emphasised that the government has so far implemented extraordinary measures within the framework of the constitution, and the current extension aims to continue these measures in the interest of national security.
Cover photo (for illustration purposes only): Portfolio
