NATIONAL MENTALITY AS A CHALLENGE TO EUROPEAN VALUES

Abstract

European values are the fundamental principles of the creation, existence and expansion of the European Union. They are enshrined in official EU docu- ments. Compliance with them is an absolute requirement for all member states, and a procedure to eliminate problems and, if necessary, to punish has been developed for potential violators. European values are based on the European mentality which has deep roots in the history, religion, politics, art, science, etc. of Europe and lays the foundation for a common understanding of democracy, human rights, equality, the rule of law, and human dignity. However, European values are not identical to the values of Europeans which originate from the national mentality, so they can have their own specifics. The article examines the case of Hungary. Hungarians have a subjective vision of the “European way of life” and view EU measures through the prism of national sovereignty, i.e. as imposed, which should be resisted. It is analyzed how the peculiarities of the national mentality are “exploited” by the Prime Minister of Hungary V. Orbán who from time to time is in a state of conflict with pan-European structures. Since 2018, Hungary has undergone a disciplinary procedure several times in accordance with Article 7 of the EU Treaty. MEPs accuse Hungary of mov- ing away from democratic governance principles, turning into an authoritarian state and they impose financial restrictions. The Prime Minister does not agree with the punishment, but his general policy and conflict in relations with the EU are generally approved by the citizens of the country.