Hungarian Integrity Authority chief Biró Ferenc Pál faces embezzlement charges

Biró Ferenc Pál, president of Hungary's Integrity Authority (IH), has been indicted by the Central Prosecutor's Office (KNYF) for alleged misappropriation of more than 140 million forints. The charges include using an official car for private purposes, renting another at public expense, and signing three contracts worth over 100 million forints with Brussels consulting firms for services deemed unnecessary. Prosecutors also allege that Biró appointed an unqualified family friend to the agency's Integrity Academy despite national‑security concerns.

The indictment, filed on June 5, calls for the seizure of 23 million forints in assets and suggests disciplinary action against Biró’s wife, who is accused of facilitating the car‑use violations. The controversy has prompted the State Audit Office’s chairman to initiate proceedings for Biró’s removal, and the government is considering appointing a new IH head, a decision that could be made by the parliamentary speaker or the incoming president. The case raises questions about Hungary’s compliance with EU funding rules tied to the Recovery and Resilience Facility, as the IH’s operation is critical for unlocking those funds.