Hungary and Montenegro Push EU‑Related Reforms Amid Political Shifts

In Hungary, the new administration that succeeded Viktor Orbán is seeking to reverse the long‑standing confrontational stance toward the European Union. Early actions focus on anti‑corruption measures, revising large infrastructure projects, tightening public procurement and restoring independence to the prosecutor’s office and courts. The government faces a budget deficit above 8 % of GDP and looks to EU recovery funds of roughly €16 billion, which will be disbursed only if rule‑of‑law conditions are met.

In Montenegro, parliament is preparing to vote on constitutional amendments that would strengthen the independence of the judiciary and the central bank, steps deemed essential for the country's accession talks with the EU. Analysts warn that passing the changes without a broad political consensus could undermine the credibility of the reform agenda, while a wide‑cross‑party vote would signal political maturity to Brussels.

Both countries view the reforms as critical to gaining EU trust and unlocking financial and accession benefits, highlighting a broader trend of Balkan states adjusting domestic institutions to meet European standards.