Hungary's Decision on International Criminal Court Membership
The Hungarian Parliament has voted to remain a member of the International Criminal Court (ICC), overturning a previous decision to withdraw from the global tribunal.
Background
- Last year, Viktor Orbán's government announced Hungary's intention to leave the ICC following a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is subject to an ICC arrest warrant over alleged war crimes related to Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip.
- The ICC and other international bodies criticized Hungary for not arresting Mr. Netanyahu, while Mr. Orbán labeled the ICC as a "political court".
Reversal of Decision
- The bill to remain in the ICC was proposed by Prime Minister Péter Magyar on May 25, 2026.
- The bill emphasized the importance of maintaining Hungary's participation to uphold international peace and human rights by holding perpetrators of serious crimes accountable.
Parliament Vote
- The decision was passed with significant support from the ruling Tisza party, with 133 votes in favor, 37 against, and five abstentions.
International Response
The ICC's oversight body, the Assembly of States Parties, praised Hungary's decision, viewing it as a positive commitment to international justice.
Potential Impact
- If Hungary had withdrawn, it would have joined the Philippines and Burundi in leaving the ICC and been the only non-signatory in the 27-member European Union.
Legal Obligations
- The ICC had previously found Hungary non-compliant with its obligation to arrest Mr. Netanyahu, stressing that failure to arrest suspects undermines the court's mandate.
