Hungarian Greens on the EU

Preface - Budapest, 1st March 2003

Full document (English/Hungarian): eu.zpok.hu

Hungary is joining the European Union, despite the fact that the Hungarian population hardly knows anything about the EU. We do not possess detailed introductory information, let alone a critical opinion, or possibly even an opinion from an environmental perspective. The purpose of this publication is to fill the gap within our limited potential.

This booklet is the joint product of numerous well-known domestic organisations. The authors are seeking the answer to the question: what does joining the EU mean from the point of view of sustainability, does it help or hinder the increase of social welfare while maintaining our natural resources and preserving them for future generations? In other words: what could its effects be on democratic rights, prosperity and the environment. In separate chapters the specialists examine; the environmental protection policies of the EU; the relationship between globalisation and the EU, the welfare system of the Union; transport; waste management; agriculture; water management; the characteristics of nature protection; and the activities of business circles lobbying for their interests.

The authors are not giving an unambiguous answer to the questions raised by accession, as the problem is much more complicated and complex. Joining the European Union provides some excellent opportunities, but it also conceals some great dangers. However, one thing is certain: the current form of the EU is better serving economical-commercial interests than sustainability. Hoping for miracles is foolish. Whether inside or outside the Union, we face a myriad of tasks if we want to ensure that our grandchildren should live in peace and harmony.

Veronika Móra, ETKGábor Scheiring, Protect the Future