The United States on Tuesday designated senior Hungarian government official Antal Rogan under the Global Magnitsky sanctions programme for his involvement in corruption.
During his tenure as a government official, including as minister in charge of Orban’s Cabinet Office, Rogan “reportedly orchestrated schemes designed to control strategic sectors” of the Hungarian economy.
According to the United States, Rogan has played a central role in enabling a system in Hungary that has benefitted himself and his party at the expense of the Hungarian people.
Rogan’s activity is emblematic of the broader climate of impunity in Hungary, where oligarchs and undemocratic actors have captured key elements of the state, the U.S. alleged.
“Today’s action implements the U.S. Strategy on Countering Corruption, which identifies state capture as a specific typology of concern,” said Matthew Miller, spokesman for the Department of State.
He added, “The United States has a national security interest in the vitality and continuity of the democratic institutions of our Allies as well as in protecting democracy globally.
“This designation is intended to ensure the U.S. financial system plays no role in facilitating the corrupt activities of Antal Rogan.”
“We continue to urge Hungary’s leaders to address corruption proactively, unequivocally, and decisively,” Miller stressed in a statement by the State Department on Tuesday. “A more transparent Hungary will contribute to a stronger Transatlantic Alliance and a more prosperous Europe.”
