Hungary’s mute approval for EU club

VOTERS in Hungary have agreed to be part of the historic eastward expansion of the European Union, strongly endorsing economic unification with their more developed neighbours to the west.

The National Election Office said 83.8% of ballots cast in Saturday’s vote were for membership.

Turnout was 45.6%, but the vote was valid because more than 2 million Hungarians voted Yes.

Some voters said they voted for the EU despite fears that the lowering of trade barriers could cost jobs.

“I hope it’ll be for the best but I am afraid that we will be disappointed said Maria Pinker, 50.

Fireworks and small street parties greeted the result in low-key celebrations around the country.

“No one can doubt that the real winners today are Hungary’s children,” Prime Minister Peter Medgyessy said after results were announced. “This is a cause for celebration.”

The EU head office in Brussels yesterday welcomed the vote.

“Hungarian voters have signalled their clear choice to build their future within a strong, united Europe,” the European Commission said in a statement.

“This decision marks the end of Hungary’s tragic separation from the European family of democratic nations.”

Medgyessy will sign the accession agreement with the EU on Wednesday in Athens.

Membership is set to begin on May 1, 2004, after all 15 current EU members ratify the agreement that would add Hungary and nine other countries.

New members include other former Soviet satellites, including Poland, Estonia, and the Czech Republic.

The lower-than-predicted turnout in Hungary was a disappointment for the socialist-led government, which had presented the vote as a historic opportunity to join the richer half of Europe after four decades of communist rule.

“I am sorry that the turnout did not reach 50%,” said Endre Juhasz, the minister for EU affairs. The government had predicted a turnout of at least 60% after earmarking 23m for a campaign in support of membership.

As the result was announced, reactions were mixed in Budapest.

“It’s great that we’ll soon be a real part of Western Europe. It’s something we’ve wanted for years,” said Ildiko Suto, 40, a cell phone shop manager. “I’m looking forward to getting my EU passport.”

Jozsef Peterfalvi, 31, a subway security guard, said he was afraid that EU membership could push up prices while wages remain low.

“If the government does something to help ordinary people then membership might be for the best,” said Peterfalvi, who earns the minimum wage of €230.