The Right's Role: Sparing Europe's Car Industry from Collapse

In Brussels, the draft regulation that is to be referred to as Euro 7 aims to establish new rules and standards for vehicle emissions. While the intention appears commendable, the scale of emission reductions envisioned threatened to devastate the European car industry. This potential outcome was averted by a right-wing coalition in the European Parliament, which successfully tempered the ambitions of the Left. We delve into this and other issues in our interview with Fidesz MEP Edina Toth.

Fotó: vadocz david

– In the upcoming elections, our main focus in the field of environment and climate policies should be to find a balance between sustainability, industry and the protection of farmers. In collaboration with groups of representatives from right-wing political parties in Europe, we are committed to ensuring that not left-wing or green ideologies can prevent our effective work for climate protection. 

In addition to the Euro 7 regulation, the ill-considered proposals by the EP on the nature restoration regulation - which the Fidesz delegation in the European Parliament was able to fight effectively against in the July plenary vote -also serve as a good example. Under my leadership, we've forged a united European center-right—an unprecedented alliance in the history of the European Parliament.

 Rather than relying on futile proposals from the European Parliament, the crux lies in ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the EU and its member states. Tailored guidance for member states is also crucial in ensuring the long-term resilience of the European economy and agriculture, allowing everyone to preserve their competitiveness during the green transition.

– For several years now, the Hungarian right has consistently triumphed in both national and EP elections. Is it common for like-minded individuals to seek insights into the keys to this success in Brussels?

– In recent years, left-wing media and Europe's leftist-liberal parties have consistently claimed that the policies of PM Viktor Orban's government have "completely isolated Hungary." However, their effort to construe such a narrative has failed: 

not only is there no trace of isolation, but  Hungary has, in fact, become a role model in various areas, including migration, family support and climate change policies. Moreover, it's increasingly common for leading conservative thinkers in the Western world to praise our country. For instance, Hungary's scheme of household utility price cuts has inspired many Western European countries, leading them to introduce regulated electricity and gas prices to alleviate the burden on their citizens. This makes the Hungarian model an enviable political achievement.

 For those who deny that a Hungary led by the right wing holds far greater appeal than its size, this denial is becoming increasingly challenging. Since Hungary can leverage its distinctive traits beyond its own interests, its performance is evolving into an international example to follow. Brussels sees this too, so there's a growing acknowledgment that the previous 'one direction' system is being disrupted and a new, successful path is emerging. The Euro 7 plenary vote serves as a clear example that if the right comes together, success is indeed possible. If we work together and act responsibly, we can forge a future where the health of our planet is preserved with sustainable industries. We need real action, not ideological battles!

Cover photo: Hungarian MEP Edina Toth at the European Parliament's headquarters in Strasbourg (Source: European Parliament)