Interior Minister Prioritizes the Fight against Organized Crime

MTI-Hungary Today 2024.10.10.

Minister Sándor Pintér speaking before the Interior Ministers’ meeting.

The fight against organized crime within the European Union’s borders is one of the priorities of the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Interior Minister Sándor Pintér stated in Luxembourg.

Speaking to journalists ahead of a meeting of EU interior ministers, he noted that the agenda would also address organized crime, including online crimes, child protection, and issues related to the Schengen area. In this context, Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson will provide barometer records and information.

After reviewing the registers and other presentations, we will need to discuss returns, which is the biggest challenge in the Schengen area,” Sándor Pintér remarked.

He also emphasized the need to consider the full accession of Romania and Bulgaria to the Schengen zone. “There is war and armed conflict at the EU’s borders, which makes meeting Schengen requirements particularly crucial,” the Minister warned.

Fact

Between 2010 and 2023, organized crime in Hungary has been a growing concern, reflecting broader EU trends, according to Eurojust data. Criminal networks exploit legal business structures to launder illicit profits, which are estimated to reach EUR 139B annually across the EU. The Hungarian authorities have faced challenges in tackling these transnational networks, with a notable increase in cooperation through initiatives like Eurojust and the EU Strategy to Combat Organized Crime (2021-2025). Reports indicate a rise in violent incidents linked to organized crime, particularly involving firearms.

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Via MTI; Featured Image:MTI / Bodnár Boglárka