Understanding the EU's Stance: Why Poland and Hungary Need to Uphold the Agreement

The European Union (EU) is rooted in a common set of values and rules designed to maintain a democratic order. Poland and Hungary, despite joining the EU freely, have breached these agreed-upon values with their current actions, leading to significant tensions. It is not the EU that is failing to de-escalate, but rather the states that are breaking the rules they agreed to uphold.

Key Issues in the Treaty of Lisbon

Signatories to the EU include Poland and Hungary, who agreed to the Treaty of Lisbon. This treaty ensures local policy flexibility within the context of EU guidelines. However, the introduction of Article 7, which serves as a mechanism to control and penalize the new governments with anti-EU stances, has been a contentious issue. The misuse of this article to exert further control over Poland’s domestic affairs is a prime example of how this tool is being misapplied.

The Smear Campaign and Media Agitation

The opposition in Poland initiated a smear campaign against the current government in Brussels, alleging that the rule of law was being undermined. This campaign led to the triggering of Article 7, ostensibly to regain control and influence in Poland. The issue is exacerbated by a lack of understanding among some international observers who are unfamiliar with the political divisions.

The Impact of Russian Interference

The core of this controversy extends beyond mere political disagreements; it is deeply rooted in Russian interference. Particularly, Putin employs a strategic propaganda tactic known as Maskirovka, a form of geopolitical and diplomatic deception. Examples include fabrications about the attempted assassination of the Skripals, interference in UK, US, French, and Austrian elections, and threats against the Baltic states and the Ukraine.

The EU's Role and Responsibilities

The EU cannot be seen as failing to de-escalate; instead, it is the responsibility of Poland and Hungary to adhere to the rules they agreed to. The EU is no different from a court in terms of its impartiality—it cannot selectively enforce rules. The inconsistency in rule enforcement could erode the credibility of the EU as an institution. This is crucial for upholding democratic standards and maintaining the integrity of the union.

Conclusion

The EU is not a passive entity unable to de-escalate tensions. Rather, it is a vigilant guardian of democratic values and rules. The current issues facing Poland and Hungary stem from a misalignment with these values and rules. By understanding the root causes of this discontent, we can foster a more informed and collaborative approach to addressing challenges within the EU. The geopolitical manipulations of Russia are a significant external factor, but the internal responsibility of nations within the union remains paramount.