Relations between Hungary and Slovakia have become strained again following Peter Magyar's election victory. At the heart of the dispute is the sensitive issue of the rights of the Hungarian minority living in Slovakia.
From his very first exchange with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Peter Magyar criticized recent legislation strengthening provisions related to the "Beneš Decrees," inherited from the post-World War II era. These historical texts had established a collective responsibility targeting the German and Hungarian populations in Czechoslovakia.
The new Hungarian leader is calling for the repeal of the Slovak law that now criminalizes challenging these decrees. This measure, adopted last year by Robert Fico's government, has reignited a long-standing dispute between the two neighboring countries, both members of the European Union.
The Hungarian minority represents approximately 9% of the Slovak population, a significant proportion in a country of 5,5 million inhabitants. The question of their rights remains a recurring source of diplomatic tension between Budapest and Bratislava.
For his part, Robert Fico attempted to downplay the significance of the dispute, emphasizing the importance of bilateral cooperation, particularly in the energy sector. The two leaders are scheduled to meet soon at a European Union summit.
This latest episode illustrates the fragility of relations between the two states, where historical issues continue to influence contemporary debates. The evolution of this situation will be crucial for the diplomatic balance in the region.
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