Norway resumes financial aid to Hungary to support democratic reforms

Norway has announced the resumption of its financial cooperation with Hungary, aiming to support democratic reforms led by the government of Péter Magyar. This decision follows a long-term suspension of funding that began in 2014 during the administration of Viktor Orbán, due to violations regarding fund management agreements.

In Budapest, Norwegian diplomat Espen Barth Eide signed a new agreement with Hungarian Finance Minister András Karmán, outlining a funding package of 254.1 million euros. The cooperation focuses on strengthening democratic institutions, the rule of law, good governance, media freedom, and information integrity.

As a member of the European Economic Area (EEA), Norway contributes alongside Iceland and Liechtenstein to mechanisms designed to reduce economic and social inequalities in Europe. Norway is responsible for approximately 97% of the resources to be allocated to Budapest through the EEA until April 2031.