Hungary Set to Criminalize Homelessness

To the impoverished inhabiting Hungary’s cities, the struggle for sustenance and shelter may soon place them at odds with not only circumstance, but the nation’s constitution. Hungary’s Parliament is set to decide whether local governments can fine and imprison homeless citizens just for living on the streets. With an estimated 30,000 to 35,000 homeless people throughout Hungary, the bill would infringe on the fundamental rights of a substantial portion of the population.

For the conservative Hungarian government, the move isn’t without precedent. In 2011, a local law of the same nature, originating in Budapest, was expanded to the entire country. Offenders faced fines of up to $600, or jail time, for visibly residing in a public space. The high court of Hungary responded by striking down the law, citing a violation of the constitutionally-protected right to human dignity.

So, the Hungarian government changed the constitution. Hungarian Parliament decided a ban on homelessness would “protect public order, public security, public health, and cultural values” and could no longer be considered unconstitutional. Despite widespread criticism from the European Union, the UN and various human rights organizations, Hungary maintains its stance on the matter.

Under the bill, local municipalities wouldn’t be forced to impose the bans within city limits. However, due to previous efforts in major cities to curtail the homeless population, Hungarian civil rights activists are certain there would be little hesitation to do so. If the bill passes in Parliament, the Hungarian Civil Liberties Union is proposing taking the government to the European Court of Human Rights, as the bill would conflict with previous international conventions.