Hungary’s parliament has voted to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), a bold decision prioritizing national sovereignty that has sparked praise from Italy’s Matteo Salvini and criticism from the EU.
The move, approved on April 29, 2025, marks a significant divergence from the European Union’s commitment to international justice, setting Hungary on a collision course with Brussels. This article explores the motivations, implications, and global reactions to this historic decision.
A Defiant Break from the ICC
Hungary’s parliament voted to initiate withdrawal from the International Criminal Court, with Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announcing the decision on social media: “With this decision, we refuse to be part of a politicized institution that has lost its impartiality and credibility.” The withdrawal process involves formal notification to the U.N. Secretary-General, with the exit taking effect one year later.
The timing of the announcement coincided with a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces an ICC arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in Gaza (BBC). Szijjártó criticized the ICC’s politicization, stating, “When there is a conflict between nations, everyone tries to politicize international organizations for their own political purposes. We have always rejected this.”
International Reactions and EU Tensions
Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini praised Hungary’s decision, calling it “a choice of justice and freedom, of sovereignty and courage.” Salvini’s support reflects his own skepticism of supranational institutions, aligning with Hungary’s nationalist stance.
In contrast, the European Commission reaffirmed its support for the ICC. Spokesperson Anouar El Anouni emphasized the EU’s commitment to the Rome Statute and international justice, reminding Hungary of its obligations under Article 24(3) of the Treaty on European Union to support EU external security policy (EUR-Lex). This rebuke highlights ongoing tensions between Budapest and Brussels, particularly under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s leadership.
Scelta di giustizia e libertà, di sovranità e coraggio. pic.twitter.com/Kx45AV2bYQ
— Matteo Salvini (@matteosalvinimi) April 29, 2025
The move also echoes past criticisms by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who sanctioned the ICC for investigating American and Israeli actions (Reuters). Both Trump and Hungary’s government view the Court as ideologically driven and a threat to national sovereignty.
Hungary’s History with the ICC
Hungary signed the Rome Statute in 1999 and ratified it in 2001, but the agreement was never incorporated into domestic law. Szijjártó highlighted Hungary’s early support for the ICC’s foundation but argued that its recent actions have undermined its credibility. The decision to withdraw reflects a broader trend of Hungary asserting its autonomy, as seen in its resistance to EU migration policies and sanctions on Russia (Politico).
The Hungarian Parliament just voted to withdraw from the @IntlCrimCourt. With this decision, we refuse to be part of a politicized institution that has lost its impartiality and credibility. pic.twitter.com/C9dit8xaB8
— Péter Szijjártó (@FM_Szijjarto) April 29, 2025
Implications for International Justice
Hungary’s exit raises questions about the ICC’s global legitimacy, especially as other nations, like the Philippines and South Africa, have also withdrawn or threatened to do so. Critics argue that such moves weaken the fight against impunity, while supporters of Hungary’s decision see it as a stand against overreach by international bodies. The debate underscores the tension between national sovereignty and global accountability.
An Interesting Fact About Hungary
Hungary boasts the world’s largest thermal lake for bathing, Lake Hévíz, near the town of Hévíz. Spanning 4.4 hectares, its warm, mineral-rich waters draw visitors for their therapeutic properties, a tradition rooted in Roman times.
Goulash: Hungary’s National Dish
Goulash, a paprika-infused beef stew, is Hungary’s culinary hallmark, originating with 9th-century Magyar herdsmen. Paprika, introduced in the 18th century, transformed it into a national symbol by the 19th century.
Recipe for Goulash (Serves 4):
- Ingredients: 1 kg beef chuck, 2 onions, 2 tbsp sweet paprika, 1 tsp hot paprika, 2 garlic cloves, 1 red bell pepper, 2 tomatoes, 2 carrots, 2 potatoes, 2 tbsp oil, 1 tsp caraway seeds, 1 bay leaf, salt, pepper, 1.5 liters stock.
- Instructions: Sauté onions in oil until golden. Add garlic, caraway, and paprika; stir. Brown beef, then add vegetables. Pour in stock, add bay leaf, and simmer for 1 hour. Add potatoes; cook 30 minutes. Serve with bread.