Office of the commissioner for fundamental rights of hungary

The pandemic situation has improved as a result of the rising number of vaccinated citizens and it has also become possible to lift part of the related restrictive measures. Immunity certificates were introduced by the Government as one of the elements of this process. This card entitles those who have been vaccinated and those who have recovered from the Covid-19 infection to use certain services.

In his report, Commissioner for Fundamental Rights Dr. Ákos Kozma concluded that some progress had been made at the Kalocsa Children's Home with regard to the staff headcount, the number of qualified employees and the reduction in staff turnover compared to the Ombudsman’s previous inquiry. However, serious, concrete and systemic problems were identified in respect of the physical conditions of the institution, the operation of its branch school and some other issues, therefore the Ombudsman formulated recommendations.

In connection with the petitions submitted to his Office, Ombudsman Dr. Ákos Kozma summed up the constitutional requirements pertaining to the application of immunity certificates, and formulated proposals aimed at finding a solution to the practical issues having emerged.

On the occasion of the Day of Birds and Trees, Commissioner for Fundamental Rights Dr Ákos Kozma and Deputy Commissioner for Fundamental Rights, Ombudsman for Future Generations Dr Gyula Bándi call attention to that the well-being of birds and trees is not only one of the key elements contributing to the operation of natural systems but it is also an indispensable factor ensuring the existence and harmony of humans. Pursuant to the Fundamental Law of Hungary, it is the responsibility of all of us to preserve them.

The Commissioner for Fundamental Rights proposes that a law should be adopted for ensuring that the eviction moratorium suspending the foreclosure of real estate properties remain in effect during the period of the pandemic.

In their joint statement published on the occasion of Earth Day, Dr. Ákos Kozma, Commissioner for Fundamental Rights and Dr. Gyula Bándi, Deputy Commissioner, Ombudsman for Future Generations call attention to the protection of wildlife and our natural treasures, as well as to our collective duty to preserve them for future generations.

Although in consideration of the pandemic, the necessity of imposing the wearing of masks as broadly as possible cannot be disputed on the level of constitutional law, the proportionality thereof can be established precisely by those guarantees that also champion the enforcement of the right to human dignity of certain groups of patients and persons living with disabilities. When taking each and every one of the protective measures, the circumstances of those affected should be assessed with the same respect and consideration – Ombudsman Dr. Ákos Kozma established in his report.

On 8 April, the values of Roma culture are celebrated all over the world. This year, however, just like last year when the pandemic broke out, we should exceptionally use this opportunity, in addition to highlighting the special significance of Roma culture, for drawing attention to the necessity of social solidarity. We should primarily emphasise that taking care of each other, as well as providing efficient practical support to the vulnerable social groups, including the Roma communities, are especially important in these difficult times.

The past year has been a major challenge for each and every one of us: what we used to consider extraordinary has virtually become the norm. Nevertheless, in these times, we must not forget about those people who live with autism and those families who raise children with autism. What we do not know enough about usually makes us terrified, but learning about new perspectives, including that of people living with autism, can enrich us all. This small change in our attitude can make a big difference for those affected.

The conditions of care provided to children living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at the Care Home for Persons with Disabilities of the Heves County “Harmónia” United Social Care Institution are worrisome, the Commissioner for Fundamental Rights concluded in his report. Dr. Ákos Kozma asked the competent Ministry to intervene in order to remedy the specific problems as well as the systemic deficiencies revealed.

The protection of water resources as a natural treasure is our collective duty, pointed out Dr. Ákos Kozma, Commissioner for Fundamental Rights and Dr. Gyula Bándi, Deputy Commissioner, Ombudsman for Future Generations in their joint statement issued on World Water Day. Acting as proprietor and trustee, the State conveys values via the legal regulation, which shapes the possibilities for water use and protection, thereby exerting a significant influence on the living conditions of present and future generations.

The equality of women, the respect of their human dignity, and the attention to their special status is not a gift but rather an everyday task. The rights of women surpass the closed system of a codex: the strength of a society, the scale of solidarity depends on how our communities regard those human rights that specifically women are entitled to. Among the current challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic, all the above are particularly important. Good answers can be given to women’s rights-related questions predominantly based on universal human values, reminds dr. Ákos Kozma, the Commissioner for Fundamental Rights of Hungary on the occasion of the International Women’s Day.