Fundamental rights related to social partners

The social partners indicated that while some social dialogue existed they would welcome improvements. The first Hungarian Conciliation Council was established in 1990 and a national economic and social council was created in 2011. The government does not have members on this Council, although members are appointed by the government. The Council comments on new pieces of legislation and can make proposals, but it does not take any decisions.

According to the social partners, both the legislation relating to the minimum wage and to overtime were not submitted to the Council for consultation. Despite an agreement reached between workers and employers, the government decided to push forward legislation allowing 300 hours of overtime, which prompted a wave of demonstrations. While the legislation has not been withdrawn, it has not yet been applied. According to the government, the legislation would not give rise to serious problems, but would instead provide employers with more flexibility while respecting the EU working time directive.

According to the social partners, freedom of assembly was respected. Trade unions gave examples of successful strikes that led to improved working conditions. Social partners in general did not feel that their actions were being restricted, nor did they feel affected by any problems relating to fundamental rights and the rule of law. Some however mentioned that their access to the media in order to raise issues relevant to them was limited.