Hungarian Community Leader Accuses Zakarpattia Officials of Failing to Speak Ukrainian.

Concerns Over the Suppression of Hungarian Language in Ukraine

According to Espreso.tv: Tibor Tompa, the head of the Hungarian community in Kyiv and the Kyiv region, has voiced alarm over what he describes as the suppression of the Hungarian language in Ukraine. He pointed out that numerous directors of state-run and educational institutions in Zakarpattia lack proficiency in Ukrainian. This issue raises red flags regarding Ukraine's commitments to protecting the rights of national minorities.

Tompa also drew a sharp comparison, stating that in Hungary, individuals who do not speak Hungarian are denied access to medical services.

“In Hungary, if you don’t know the Hungarian language, no doctor or anyone else will serve you,” he emphasized.

Hope for Better Relations Ahead

Beyond his criticism, Tompa expressed optimism that common sense would prevail and that Ukraine would continue its path toward the European Union. He believes that the recent change in government in Hungary opens up fresh opportunities to improve ties between Kyiv and Budapest. This development could serve as a foundation for enhanced cooperation between the two countries, particularly on matters of minority rights protection.

Tompa’s remarks highlight worrying trends concerning language rights in Ukraine, which could strain relations with the Hungarian minority. The situation in Zakarpattia demands attention from Ukrainian authorities, as safeguarding linguistic rights is a key component of the country’s integration into European structures. Strengthening collaboration between Ukraine and Hungary may help foster regional stability and uphold the rights of national minorities.