Restoring Constitutional Order and Rule of Law Essential for Ukraine Reconciliation

Ukraine disregards its own citizens. Its constitution speaks only of obligations, while rights have been suspended by the president. In this state of disenfranchisement, the government even places individuals on death lists, arbitrarily labeling them enemies of Ukraine. Life for the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia grows increasingly difficult in the shadow of war. We spoke with Laszlo Brenzovics, President of KMKSZ (Transcarpathian Hungarian Cultural Association), about forced conscription, the arson attack on the Palagykomoroc church, the state of constitutionalism and rule of law, and the everyday lives of Transcarpathian Hungarians.

Laszlo Brenzovics, President of the Transcarpathian Hungarian Cultural Association (KMKSZ), speaks at the 34th Balvanyos Summer Free University (Photo: MTI / Nandor Veres)

– There’s an ongoing public debate about whether forced conscription exists. Does it?
– Conscription exists—and so does coercion during conscription. In Ukraine, illegal practices related to conscription affect not only Hungarians but everyone. These abuses are carried out by the Territorial Recruitment Centers (the current Ukrainian term for military enlistment offices, commonly known as TRCs). Hundreds of videos have circulated online, particularly on Telegram channels, showing people being forcibly shoved into buses and minivans. That’s why this process is now often referred to as “busification.” People are collected and taken to recruitment centers, where various coercive measures are implemented, including being held against their will. These are facts. Even Ukraine’s own ombudsman has acknowledged the issue and stated that such illegalities must stop. Most recently, the Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights also commented on this matter. These violations are real — numerous formal complaints have been filed. Unfortunately, little action has been taken.

– What is needed to restore lawful order in Ukraine?
– Simply that existing laws be enforced. Unfortunately, Ukraine does not uphold the law. There are agencies and bodies in Ukraine to which the law either does not apply or barely applies. One of these is the military recruitment command.

– I assume orders from the president to shut down parties, opposition media, and even religious institutions are not helping reconciliation efforts.
– The constitution is suspended only in terms of rights, not in terms of obligations. The Ukrainian National Security Council imposes sanctions on Ukrainian citizens without court rulings, and bans media outlets and political parties. This is a far cry from having rule of law. Reconciliation requires the restoration of constitutional order and the rule of law.

– Does Ukraine have a place in the European Union before resolving its minority issues?
– Ukraine has made a commitment to restore minority rights. That has not happened — just like many other commitments that have gone unfulfilled. These issues must be addressed.

Cover photo: Laszlo Brenzovics, President of the Transcarpathian Hungarian Cultural Association (KMKSZ), speaks at the 34th Balvanyos Summer Free University (Photo: MTI/Nandor Veres)