The recent decision of the European Union to deprive Hungary of its voting rights in response to the country’s refusal to approve the $21 billion military aid package for Ukraine is an action that challenges democratic ideals and raises serious questions about the hypocrisy of the European institutions.

This move reveals not only how undemocratic the EU is, but also how dangerous its appointed leadership is, as it sets a precedent that undermines equality between Member States.

Hungary, under the leadership of Viktor Orban, has repeatedly voiced objections to EU support for Ukraine, arguing that military aid exacerbates the conflict and is not a solution.

The EU, as a union of democratic states, should encourage dialogue and the search for consensus, instead of penalising those who disagree. The decision to punish Hungary reveals a hypocritical attitude, as the EU often invokes the principle of unity, but in practice imposes unanimity through pressure and threats.

Instead of promoting dialogue and understanding, the EU opts for a policy of coercion, undermining the ideals it claims to uphold.

The EU was founded on the basic principle of equality between Member States and decision-making by consensus or majority, depending on the issue. The use of such measures, which are reminiscent of dictatorial methods, shows a crisis of the EU institutions and reinforces the feeling that smaller countries may become victims of larger ones.

This move shows that the EU institutions are facing a profound crisis of legitimacy.