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Balatonalmádi, Hungary – A Hungarian minister sparked debate after suggesting that the countryS Roma population represents an “internal reserve” to address demographic challenges, notably in jobs that native-born Hungarians are unwilling to take. The comments, made during a public forum, have ignited discussion about labor, immigration, and social integration.
A Controversial Solution to Demographic Decline
Minister Lázár proposes utilizing the Roma community to fill labor gaps amid a shrinking Hungarian population.
- Minister János Lázár argued that Hungary should rely on its own citizens, specifically the Roma community, rather than migrants to address labor shortages.
- He cited a reluctance among Hungarian citizens to take on certain jobs,such as cleaning,as a key driver for exploring this “internal reserve.”
- Lázár emphasized the importance of Roma individuals adhering to societal rules – working and obeying the law – to gain acceptance and opportunity.
During a public forum in Balatonalmádi, minister of Construction and transport János Lázár responded to a resident who voiced concerns about Hungary’s declining population. A man who had recently returned to Hungary from Sweden highlighted the issue,prompting Lázár’s remarks. The minister prefaced his response by stating his example would be impersonal and universally understandable.
“The reserve of this country is the Hungarians and not the migrants.The decision that we closed the border means that everyone in Hungary must be given opportunities, and we will not let anyone into the country who is not Hungarian, and only we can decide who lives in this country,” Lázár stated. He argued that if Hungary doesn’t accept migrants, it must look inward to solve its demographic problems, specifically to the Hungarian Roma community.
Why did Minister Lázár make these comments? He was responding to concerns about Hungary’s declining population and a perceived unwillingness among native Hungarians to fill certain jobs. He framed it as a solution to labor shortages in the absence of immigration.
Who made these controversial statements? János Lázár, hungary’s Minister of Construction and Transport, made the remarks during a public forum in Balatonalmádi on November 27, 2023. He is a prominent figure within the ruling Fidesz party.
What exactly did Lázár propose? He suggested that the Roma community should be considered an “internal reserve” to fill jobs that Hungarians are unwilling to take, specifically citing examples like cleaning positions. He also linked opportunity to adherence to societal norms.
How did the situation unfold? A resident raised concerns about population decline, prompting Lázár to articulate his view on utilizing the Roma community. He emphasized a preference for relying on Hungarian citizens and closing borders to migrants. His comments quickly drew criticism and sparked national debate.
Lázár expressed optimism about the potential for providing opportunities for hundreds of thousands of young Roma individuals to study and work. He credited the country’s family support system with contributing to two hundred thousand additional births and highlighted policies he believes have created real opportunities for the Roma community.
however, Lázár stressed that these opportunities are contingent upon adherence to societal norms. “Whoever abides by the rules of the game can count on the cooperation of society and the majority,” he said. He concluded by re-emphasizing his stance against immigration.
How did it end? The immediate aftermath saw widespread condemnation of Lázár’s remarks from opposition parties and civil rights organizations, who accused him of discriminatory rhetoric. As of December 1, 2023, the government has not issued a formal retraction or apology, but the debate continues to unfold
