On the 31[st ]of March 2004 the Government of the Republic of Hungary adopted the new
National Security Strategy of the Republic of Hungary (Resolution No. 2073/2004
(III.31.)). It entered into force on the 15th of April and thus replaced the former National
Security Strategy (Resolution No. 2144/2002 (V.6.)).
# The National Security Strategy of the Republic of Hungary

In the course of the Euro-Atlantic integration process that has been taking place since the
regime change, Hungary has become a member of organisations of integration, in which
the stability of the member countries is based on common values, democracy and the rule
of law, as well as respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, with member
states willing and able to help each other in order to protect the latter. Hungary’s security
situation is stable; the basic guarantee of its security is the co-operation taking place in
the framework of NATO and EU. Hungary is not threatened by military aggression, and
the risk of any other traditional type of threat is also minimal. At the same time, new
challenges and threats have emerged that can only be effectively addressed through a
governmental stance that co-ordinates our national efforts, and a well-focused
development of our capabilities and their flexible application, as well as through wideranging international co-operation.

Resolution No. 94/1998. (XII. 29.) of the Hungarian National Assembly on “The Basic
Principles of the Security and Defence Policy of the Republic of Hungary” sets out the
fundaments of the country’s security defence policy for the long term. Article 17 of the
Resolution states that “the Government of the Republic of Hungary is responsible for the
elaboration of the National Security Strategy and the National Military Strategy, as well
as for their review, if required, and for the implementation of tasks deriving from them.”
With the approval of the National Security Strategy and by setting concrete tasks related
to the elaboration of the National Military Strategy, the Government is now fulfilling its
respective obligation. The National Security Strategy builds on Resolution No.
2144/2002 (V.6.) of the Government on the National Security Strategy of the Republic of
Hungary, while the evaluation of the security environment, the definition of interests and
the determination of goals, tasks and means reflect the changes that have taken place
since the approval of the latter, with special regard to the integration-related tasks
deriving from membership in NATO and the accession to the European Union.

The National Security Strategy builds on the Basic Principles of the Security and Defence
Policy of the Republic of Hungary and is in line with NATO’s 1999 Strategic Concept
and the European Security Strategy adopted by the European Union in 2003. Its purpose
is to identify - after having taken account of values and interests, and analysing the
security environment and identifying risk factors and challenges - those tasks and means,
through which Hungary may assert its national security interests in the international
political and security system of the early 21[st ]century.

It is on the basis of the National Security Strategy that sectoral strategies in the fields of
military, national security, law enforcement, economics and finance, human resource
development, information systems and protection, disaster-relief, environmental security
and the fight against terrorism are being developed in a co-ordinated manner, setting


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tasks in the field of security in its broader definition.

**I. VALUES AND INTERESTS**

The Republic of Hungary defines security in a comprehensive way: besides the
traditional political and defence components, it also contains, inter alia, economic and
social, including human rights and minority rights-related, as well as environmental
elements.

The Republic of Hungary is treating such traditional, closely interlinked and
interdependent values as fundamental values as peace, security, stability, sovereignty,
democracy, the rule of law, freedom of enterprise and respect for human rights and
fundamental freedoms. The Republic of Hungary provides for the security, prosperity and
advancement of its citizens, as well as for the preservation of the cultural heritage and
identity of the Hungarian people.

Globalisation and the increase of interdependence have resulted in changes to the
substance and forms of appearance of national interests. As a consequence of the
integration processes, the political and economic sovereignty of the state has been given a
new substance, with a significant part of the particular national interests of the individual
countries now embedded in the framework of common interests. Hungarian national
interests can and need to be asserted in the framework of the Euro-Atlantic integration,
which extends to policy and economy, as well as foreign and security policy and defence.

The Republic of Hungary considers as a national security interest

1. the preservation of its sovereignty, territorial integrity and constitutional order, as well
as the implementation of democracy, political pluralism, the rule of law, freedom of
enterprise, and of human rights and fundamental freedoms

2. the country’s stability and its economic, social and cultural development, the unfolding
of its opportunities, the all-encompassing and rapid development of its economic,
technological and human resources, its rapprochement to the level of the developed
industrial nations, sustainable economic growth, the promotion of the security and
prosperity of its citizens and the development of a security environment facilitating the
fulfilment of these goals in a multi-fold manner;

3. the maintenance of international peace and security, and the prevention and resolution
of regional, inter-state and intra-state conflicts in accordance with the Charter of the
United Nations and the norms and standards of international law;

4. the widening and deepening process of the European Union’s integration, the equality
of rights and solidarity between the Member States, the enhancement of community
methods, the increase of the effectiveness of the Common Foreign and Security Policy
(CFSP), the enhancement of the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP) as a
means of CFSP, and the integration of Hungary in the institutional structure of the


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European Union, as well as the enhancement of its capabilities to assert its interests;

5. the durable preservation of NATO’s central role in the Euro-Atlantic security system,
the adaptation of NATO’s activities to the changed security policy environment of the
21st century and the increase of its effectiveness, as well as transatlantic cohesion,
including the United States’ military presence and its active engagement in Europe,
NATO’s further enlargement on the basis of common values and interests serving the
enhancement of collective security, and the enhancement of Hungary’s role as an allied
nation;

6. the general prevalence of democratic values, including their spreading beyond the
Euro-Atlantic region;

7. durable stability and Euro-Atlantic integration of the countries of Central, Eastern and
South-eastern Europe on the basis of the set of democratic values, and of the countries
neighbouring Hungary in particular, and the broadest possible implementation of the
rights of the Hungarians living in neighbouring countries;

8. durable stability based on the set of democratic values of Ukraine and Russia and their
rapprochement to the organisations of Euro-Atlantic integration;

9. durable stability in the Euro-Atlantic region, a comprehensive settlement of conflicts in
the region and the suppression of threats to the security of the region, in particular
terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction;

10. constructive co-operation between all international actors - states, international
organisations, as well as national and international non-governmental organisations, and
the development of co-operation in bilateral, regional and multilateral frameworks, as
well as that of multilateral economic co-operation.

**II. SECURITY ENVIRONMENT - THREATS, RISKS, CHALLENGES**

The range of security risks has increased in parallel with the broader definition of
security. In addition to the traditional nation-state actors, the so-called non-state actors
(international organisations, transnational companies, non-governmental organisations, as
well as international criminal and terrorist groups) are playing an ever-increasing role in
security policy. A particular feature of the international system in the process of
restructuring is the simultaneous presence of traditional security risks and of new threats
that are often taking a global shape and scope. The new types of challenges and threats
are more multi-fold, less visible and less predictable. A typical tendency has been the
blurring of the borderline between external and internal risk factors. Risk factors are
manifesting themselves on global, as well as on regional and internal level, usually not
separately but simultaneously, mutually reinforcing each other. The new challenges can
be responded to most effectively through co-operation in the framework of international
organisations and institutions and other forms of co-operation. Hungary’s membership in
the European Union and NATO entails both obligations to adapt and adjust itself and the


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opportunity of participating in decision-making and common action.

II.1. Global challenges

The process of globalisation accelerated and brought radical changes in all areas of
international relations. Especially in the fields of technology, information technologies,
transport, trade and finances, as well as public health globalisation has reached a degree
where - along with its advantages - new types of security risks have appeared. Crossborder threats are having a great impact also on the international environment and the
security of the Republic of Hungary.

II.1.1. Terrorism

The attacks on the United States that took place on 11 September 2001 have been an
unambiguous indication that global terrorism has developed into a strategic threat to
security in the Euro-Atlantic region as a result of the significant increase of its logistic,
financial and operational capabilities. Terrorist activities are directed at disrupting
democratic social and political institutions, and at undermining the trust of societies in
their governments. Terrorism has a destabilising effect on international conditions, while
activities serving the purpose of organising and supporting acts of terrorism (illegal arms
trafficking, money laundering) are undermining the functioning of states and the
international system. Acts of terrorism may contribute also to the emergence of other
global - political, economic, commercial, migration- and health-related - crises.

II.1.2. Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction

The proliferation of (nuclear-radiological, chemical and biological) weapons of mass
destruction and their means of delivery, as well as the spreading of technological skills
required for their production and the possibility of their use, as well as the linkage
between this threat and terrorism constitute the other strategic threat to security in the
Euro-Atlantic region. Although the implementation of international agreements and
export control regimes hinders the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their
means of delivery, the risk of such weapons and material to be acquired by terrorist
groups and of reaching states providing support to terrorist groups and terrorism has been
increasing. Besides states possessing or striving to develop weapons of mass destructions,
states possessing the necessary technologies, raw material and experts also have a special
responsibility to bear.

The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction constitutes a challenge in itself, since
they may reach their targets also in non-conventional ways. Chemical and biological
weapons that are relatively easy to produce but difficult to control constitute a
particularly grave threat and are more likely to be used in the context of regional conflicts
and acts of international terrorism. In addition, a number of countries are striving to
acquire small- or medium-range means of delivery, either independently or in cooperation with other states, and thus to increase their regional role and influence. The
proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery primarily


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constitutes an increasing threat in crisis spots, although the spreading of missile
technology is indirectly jeopardising the security of Europe and the Euro-Atlantic region,
as well.

II.1.3. Unstable regions, failed states

Countries of the world are receiving an unequal share of the benefits and burdens of
globalisation. This results in an increase of their differences and makes the situation of
those lagging behind even more serious. The increase of the poverty of people living in
backward regions, the abridgement of their human rights and the appearance of extremist
ideologies may lead to the spreading of corruption and a sharpening of ethnic and
religious divergences as well as of internal conflicts, and eventually to the decline or
collapse of statehood, as well as to intra-state or regional armed conflicts and, ultimately,
to the destabilisation of entire regions. Such unstable regions and failed states may easily
turn into hotbeds of cross-border organised crime and offer safe havens for terrorist
organisations, and may increase the challenges of migration and the dangers of arms and
drug trafficking.

II.1.4. Illegal migration

Hungary’s borders are expected to remain the external borders of the EU and the
Schengen area also for a longer term, which brings along the responsibilities and burdens
of managing the Union’s boundaries. Hungary, so far mainly a transit country, is now
more and more becoming a target country. Hungary’s Eastern and South-eastern
neighbours addressed by the EU’s common or communitarian policies vary according to
their perspectives of European integration, their roles as points of departure or transit of
migration, and to the intensity of their efforts against organised crime. We consider
migration as a natural but complex phenomenon, presenting possible economic and
demographic advantages as well as carrying security risks. Both opportunities and
challenges can be exploited, i.e. managed most effectively in the framework of a medium
or long-term perspective of European integration. Tackling these security risks efficiently
is not only an obligation deriving from EU membership but is also required by our own
national security interests. We must not rule out the possibility that criminal organisations
or terrorist groups may try to use migration channels to establish or reinforce their
positions in Hungary. Illegal migration appears first and foremost as a matter of law
enforcement. Following the accession to the Schengen regime, an enhanced protection of
the external borders -land borders, in particular - will require more effective co-operation
between the Hungarian border-guard and immigration authorities. In preparation for our
full-fledged participation in the Schengen co-operation, an up-to-date and secure border
administration system needs to be parallelly developed, making effective use of the
assistance available from EU resources. . We are handling security issues related to
migration - including illegal migration - in the framework of international co-operation,
paying special attention to the suppression of international organised crime and the
prevention of acts of terrorism. In shaping our migration policy, we put particular
emphasis on the particular aspects related to the sizeable Hungarian minorities living in


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the neighbouring countries.

II.1.5. Economic instability

Globalisation is the determining process of our age, extending economic co-operation to
a worldwide dimension through the increase of mutual interdependence, and putting
economic growth on a dynamic path through the mutual exploitation of advantages. It
exerts significant influence on the nations’ own economic policies, sets the main
development tendencies and, based on the free flow of factors of production, accelerates
international co-operation among enterprises. A negative consequence of globalisation
has been that due to the increase of interdependence, problems and disturbances national
economies are suffering from may easily spill over, causing trouble even in areas where
national economic processes do not suggest it. From this point of view, the open
Hungarian economy is considered as particularly vulnerable. The country’s energy
security is a particularly important component of economic security.

II.1.6. Challenges of the information society

With a view to avoiding the disadvantageous consequences of long-term lags, it must be
an outstanding task for Hungary to catch up with the information and telecommunication
standards of the developed world. Broadest possible familiarisation with the
achievements of the IT revolution and the raise of the level of education are interests of
crucial importance that are having an indirect positive impact on the economy, as well as
on social life and the country’s ability to assert its interests. In addition to providing the
technical and intellectual conditions of an IT infrastructure, attention must be paid also to
the protection of such systems and the generation of appropriate reserves. Information
technologies have created numerous opportunities for the society but also increased the
dangers it is exposed to. The vulnerability and overloading of computer networks and
systems, theft of information, the spreading of viruses and disinformation all constitute
factors of risk for the country.

II.1.7. Global natural, man-made and medical sources of danger

Problems appearing in the context of environmental protection and threats to civilisation
spreading across borders constitute some of the largest-scale challenges to mankind. The
protection of our natural resources, our natural habitat and values, as well as the
preservation of the environmental balance is putting an ever-increasing burden on our
societies. Such global problems as the destruction of rain forests, damages to the ozone
layer, the greenhouse effect and the increase of air, water and soil pollution constitute a
threat to our entire Earth. Natural and man-made disasters are having a particularly
serious impact on countries with limited resources and backward economic systems. Due
to Hungary’s geographical characteristics, environmental and man-made hazards, floods,
water and air pollution, as well as eventual disasters originating from neighbouring
countries in the Carpathian Basin have particularly serious impact on Hungary.
Environmental sources of danger have an indirect impact on the population’s state of
health and contribute to the appearance and spreading of dangerous epidemics and


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infections. The possibility of larger-scale crisis situations in the field of public health is
likely to increase in the future.

II.2. Regional challenges

II.2.1. Central Europe

The development of the security situation in Central Europe has basically been
characterised by positive changes. The majority of states in our immediate geographical
vicinity have or will in the foreseeable future become NATO- and EU-members, while
states not part of the enlargement for the time being have similarly committed themselves
to the common Euro-Atlantic values, choosing integration as their means of
advancement. The integration process and the extension of the zone of stability have
brought favourable changes to both the internal situation of the countries of the region
and their mutual relationships. The perspective of EU and NATO membership has proved
to be an effective means of support to the democratisation and the market economy in the
transforming states of Europe and to the shaping of their neighbourhood and regional
policies.

II.2.2. South-eastern Europe

One favourable development in South-eastern Europe has been that the countries of the
region committed themselves to the Euro-Atlantic values and expressed their intention to
join the European Union and NATO. As a result of the crisis-management activities
taking place as a common effort of international organisations (U.N., OSCE, NATO,
EU), the threat of destabilisation in the region and of an outbreak of internal or interstate
conflicts has diminished, with states of the region mostly heading in the direction of selfsustaining stability. However, Euro-Atlantic values continue to be applied to different
extents, varying significantly from country to country. The slow pace of the political and
economic regime change, and the corruption rampant in the societies, political structures
and economies of certain regions, as well as social contradictions and unsolved national,
ethnic, minority and religious problems are causing a slowdown in the endeavours for
rapprochement and integration, and are creating favourable conditions for various forms
of terrorism and organised crime, including human, drug- and arms trafficking in
particular. Taking all these phenomena into account and the comprehensive role played
by the EU in particular, there will be a need for a continued international presence also in
the long run.

II.2.3. CIS-countries

The transformation processes of the successor states of the former Soviet Union have still
not been completed, the establishment of economic and political structures has not been
finalised, while elements of consolidation, predictability and the strive for partnership
have become stronger. Hungary’s security in its broad definition is in several aspects
affected by the new states’ search of orientation, the difficulties prevailing in the
development of the Community of Independent States (CIS), the development of Russia’s


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manoeuvring space and the changes of its possibilities in the fields of foreign policy and
external economy, as well as its political motivations, and by the situation of Ukraine.
Organised crime and illegal migration emanating from the region and considering
Hungary partly as transit, partly as a target country do constitute a threat to Hungary.
Such pressure is likely to increase with our EU-accession but, on the other hand, the latter
will enable us to take action by relying on community instruments, methods and support.

Russia continues to be an important factor in international politics because of its
geographical scope, its natural and human resources and its military potential, and its
nuclear power in particular. The dangers emanating from the country’s internal instability
have decreased but not yet completely disappeared. The comprehensive modernisation of
its economy has not yet taken place despite the more favourable economic and financial
outlook, and the functioning of democratic institutions does not correspond entirely with
European norms, either. Russia has established relations of partnership with NATO and in order to achieve its goals of socio-economic modernisation - the EU. It is a mutual
interest for Russia and the states and organisations of the Euro-Atlantic region to be each
other’s stable and predictable partners.

Ukraine committed itself to Euro-Atlantic integration. Hungary has an interest in the
successful socio-economic transformation of an independent and democratic Ukraine.
Ukraine’s stability, prosperity, the completion of its democratic reform processes, as well
as its balanced relations with its neighbours, constitute an important factor of peace and
security in our region. The deepening of that country’s co-operation with European and
Euro-Atlantic institutions constitutes a European and at the same time, a Hungarian
security interest.

The socio-economic situation of the Caucasian and Central Asian successor states and
their mutual relations have been burdened with social tensions, ethnic and religious
differences, border problems, territorial claims, environmental problems and frozen
conflicts, all of which are aggravated further by the manifestation of various forms of
organised crime and terrorism. The democratic transformation and the establishment of a
market economy has not yet been completed in the countries of this region, and
possibilities of a destabilisation, the establishment of authoritarian regimes, as well as of
the emergence of political, economic, social or environmental crises or even military
conflicts must not be ruled out, either.

II.2.4. Mediterranean, Near East and Middle East

Several states of the Mediterranean region bordering Europe from the South are
characterised by poverty, a rapid increase of the population and a lack of ability to join
the processes of globalisation, as a consequence of which risks emanating from the region
and connected with illegal migration and the spread of terrorism have lately been
increasing. In its longer-term strategy, the European Union is striving to reduce these
risks through the enhancement of partnership and political dialogue.

One particular feature of the Middle East conflict has been that political differences and


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territorial disputes also take a religious shape, and are aggravated further by the cultural
differences between the various ethnic groups, historic sensitivities and the diverging
endeavours of the international actors concerned. The permanent lack of resolution of this
conflict constitutes one of the greatest risks to security from the point of view of world
politics, including Europe, and thus requires outstanding attention. The conflicts of the
Near and Middle East are closely linked to the security of the strategic energy sources, as
well as to the endeavours striving for control of the latter. Besides terrorism, the
endeavours striving for the acquisition of weapons of mass destructions and their means
of delivery constitute the gravest security risk.

Due to the increasing globalisation, events in remote areas do have an impact on our
security, too. As a NATO- and EU-member, Hungary will have to pay even greater
attention than before to events taking place outside the Euro-Atlantic region, and will
need to have a constructive position on the settlement of problems of geographically
remote areas and to reckon with tasks to fulfil in relation to the latter.

II.3. Internal challenges

The development of the security situation of the Republic of Hungary is to a fundamental
extent being influenced by the negative phenomena accompanying the process of socioeconomic transformation such as poverty, and by the demand for co-ordination of
regulatory processes.

II.3.1. Organised crime

Organised crime, which has gained in strength after the regime change, taking advantage
of the uncertainties of socio-economic transformation, constitutes a threat to Hungary’s
internal security. Organised criminal gangs have established relations with foreign
criminal groups, with their activities covering the trafficking in drugs, arms, strategic
materials, vehicles and human beings. A characteristic feature of organised crime has
been that these groups are trying to assert their interests also beyond the economic sphere
and are therefore increasing their legal economic activities and influence. The system of
state control is not adapting to the changes effectively enough. It is therefore particularly
necessary to enhance co-operation between the organisations responsible for control.
Following the accession to the European Union, we will have to reckon with the increase
of activities of crime gangs within the European Union and with an increase of their
contacts with crime gangs operating in states outside the EU.

II.3.2. Illegal economy and corruption

The biggest challenge to the market economy and legality besides the illegal economy
and organised crime is corruption, which is present in virtually all societies in one way or
another, but constitutes a particular threat in economies in transformation. Illegal
economy, corruption and organised crime are phenomena mutually reinforcing each
other. Corruption is particularly dangerous if it appears in the framework of public life
and authorities. Corruption may be countered through ensuring transparency of public life


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and by providing a sound legal framework guaranteeing the latter, as well as by coordinated activities of law enforcement and other authorities.

II.3.3. The spreading of drugs

In the field of illicit drug trafficking, Hungary may traditionally be considered as transit
country between the producers and Western consumers. As a result of the increase of
domestic demand, Hungary has also joined the ranks of consumer countries, which has a
direct impact on the spread of crime, including organised crime. The ever-increasing
seriousness of this problem is highlighted by regular or occasional drug use among
school students and young people in general.

II.3.4. Political and religious extremism

Security challenges could also include extremist political and religious groups taking
advantage of social tensions and using freedom of association, assembly and opinion
ensured by the democratic rule of law to constrain the fundamental rights of others and
disturb the functioning of constitutional institutions, or to promote their political
endeavours.

II.3.5. Demographic challenges

Hungary is in unfavourable situation from the point of view of its demographic situation.
The increase of the average age as well as the gradual decrease of the population will in
time constitute challenges from two different points of view. On the one hand, the change
of the ratio of age groups - due to changes in the ratio between economically active and
passive inhabitants - will have a negative impact on the country’s income-generating
capacities, while on the other, increasing burdens on the side of expenditure (old-age
pensions and health care) will impose increasing burdens on the budget, as well.

**III. OBJECTIVES AND TASKS**

Hungary is primarily providing for its security in the framework of membership in
NATO and the European Union, in co-operation with its allies and partners. Membership
in the organisations of integration increases Hungary’s responsibilities, as well as its
range of instruments and security policy activities serving the purpose of coping with
threats and challenges. The goals and tasks to be fulfilled through the means available to
the country emanate from Hungary’s national interests and its global and regional
environment. Hungary will be able to actively shape its security situation and
environment only if it develops its capabilities in a deliberate manner and exploits the
advantages offered by integration, and makes flexible use of the means and resources
available, adapting to the changes. A requirement during the process of practical
implementation of foreign and security policy is for the European and transatlantic
elements of the country’s Euro-Atlantic integration to appear in a balanced manner.


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III.1. Goals and tasks related to international organisations

III.1.1. NATO

As a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, Hungary enjoys the Alliance’s
guarantees, the purpose of which is to protect the territorial integrity, political
independence and security of its member states. Along with the preservation of the
Alliance’s traditional defence tasks and capabilities, NATO’s activities ever-increasingly
include the management of crises emerging in the Euro-Atlantic region and beyond and
the relations of partnership established with countries of these regions. Hungary has a
fundamental interest in NATO remaining the primary forum of transatlantic security
policy dialogue and co-operation, preserving its effectiveness by adapting to the changing
security policy environment of the 21st century, and by contributing to the extension of
the zone of security and stability.

Like other member states, Hungary contributes to the Alliance’s adaptation and - both out
of self-interest and in the spirit of fair burden sharing - takes part in the implementation
of the tasks the Alliance needs to fulfil. It is making continuously renewed efforts to fulfil
the political and military requirements stemming from allied co-operation, particularly
those required by the implementation of military operations, and to adapt its own
decision-making and crisis-management system to NATO’s decision-making and crisismanagement system, as well as to ensure public support for NATO’s decisions and the
resources and legal conditions required for their implementation. On the military and
defence side, Hungary is striving for a substantial contribution to the entire spectre of
allied missions, including participation in expeditionary operations outside the EuroAtlantic region and ensures for the Hungarian defence forces to be able to contribute in a
timely manner, and with appropriately trained and prepared forces to NATO-led
operations, as well as to coalition-type operations carried out with allied participation.

III.1.2. The European Union

The European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy represents an everincreasingly important framework of Hungarian foreign policy. By laying the grounds of
the Common Foreign and Security Policy, as well as those of the European Security and
Defence Policy that serves as a means of the former, the Member States of the European
Union have taken a significant step towards playing a greater role in world politics and
the enhancement of the European Union’s crisis management capabilities. In proportion
to this, the European Union has been assuming a more and more important role in the
enhancement of security and stability both in neighbouring and more remote regions,
although for its member states NATO remains the basis of collective defence and the
framework of its implementation. Hungary has also been taking an active part in the
shaping of the European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy. Hungarian
foreign policy will have a stronger chance to represent its interests in the EU-framework
as compared to what would result merely from the size of the country and its own
capabilities. Besides, Hungary may also seize the opportunity of being an EU Member


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State and exert a greater influence on global processes.

The objective of the Republic of Hungary as a Member State is to have an effective and
strong EU, which is capable to act on the international scene as well, where the equality
of rights and the principle of solidarity between Member States are respected, and where
the community method strengthens with the institutional balance being preserved. It is a
task of outstanding importance for Hungary to deepen the country’s economic and
political integration, as well as actively participate in all policy-shaping and decisionmaking bodies of the European Union. Embedding Hungarian foreign policy in the
European Union needs to be based in the context of two dimensions. In strategic terms,
efforts must be made for the Hungarian interests to manifest themselves as fully as
possible in the external relations of the European Union, while on the other hand, there is
a need to develop our manoeuvring space in a way that our diplomacy will not be diluted
completely in the ever-deepening Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European
Union. However, as a consequence of the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy,
Hungarian foreign policy with third countries will be based on common values.

All this does not exclude but rather requires us to play a determined and active role in
favour of the assertion of our own particular national interests in those issues of vital
importance to us that also constitute the cornerstones of the role played by the European
Union on the international scene. This role covers issues such as close transatlantic cooperation, the enhancement of the partnership with the United States, the European
Union’s Neighbourhood Policy and the emphasis on its Eastern direction, the EU’s
engagement in the Balkans, and providing the perspective of European integration to the
countries of that region, the broadest possible implementation of minority rights, as well
as the shaping of EU policy towards the Mediterranean and the Middle East in its wider
sense. Hungary has a particular interest in the democratisation of the Balkan countries. It
is therefore an outstanding goal for Hungary to familiarise countries of the region with
the advantages of joining the Euro-Atlantic security structures and to share with them our
experiences gained from the accession process.

Hungary takes an active part in the realisation of the European Security and Defence
Policy and in the implementation of military and civilian crisis management operation,
mainly in its immediate vicinity but also beyond that. Furthermore, it seeks to be
involved in the European structures and programmes to enhance defence capabilities,
while preventing unnecessary duplications, and to develop those capabilities and forces,
that may enhance its contribution to the European Union’s activities in the field of crisis
management - whether in a national or multinational framework -.

III.1.3. Transatlantic co-operation

As a power disposing of global military capabilities and a similarly strong ability to assert
political and economic interests, and striving for the development of an international
network of relations favouring the exercise of freedom, democracy and free enterprise,
the United States plays an outstanding role in the network of international relations. The
United States is the leading nation of the global fight against terrorism and of the North


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Atlantic Alliance. Similarly to other member countries of NATO and the European
Union, Hungary traditionally shares the same values as the United States, as well as the
advantages and burdens deriving from NATO-membership, and takes part in the fight
against terrorism. The joint commitment to democracy, the rule of law and human rights
constitutes the basis of the transatlantic link, binding Europe and North America together.
Its most important components include political relations, economic as well as valuerelated, moral and cultural ties and NATO as the embodiment of collective security.
However, the increasingly globalised world, the new types of threats and challenges and
the sometimes significantly different approaches to handling the latter occasionally put
the transatlantic cohesion to the test.

Transatlantic co-operation can be successful if Europe and North America - primarily in
the NATO-framework - maintain a strategic dialogue on the threats and challenges
menacing the Euro-Atlantic region, co-ordinate their actions against the latter and
establish the capabilities required to this end, and create the political will necessary for
the application of these capabilities. The success of conflict-management in the EuroAtlantic region and its vicinity may be significantly increased if NATO and the European
Union deepen the strategic partnership between the two organisations in the fields of
crisis management and development of capabilities. There is a need for the co-ordinated
application of military and non-military means available to the two organisations in the
process of planning and implementing crisis-management and peacekeeping operations.
It is Hungary’s interest to see the enlarged, strong and united Europe result also in a
stronger transatlantic partnership, in which smaller countries like Hungary are not forced
to make a choice between Europe and the United States. It is Hungary’s goal to remain a
strategic partner of the United States also as a member of the European Union and to be a
NATO-ally contributing to a stronger European engagement.

III.1.4. United Nations

The UN Security Council will continue to bear primary, but not exclusive responsibility
for the maintenance of international peace and security. The UN is playing an important
role in co-ordinating the collective efforts pursued in such fields as the protection of
human rights, economic co-operation and development, non-proliferation and
environmental protection. However, as a result of the events that have taken place in
recent years, there has been an increasing demand among international actors for the
adaptation of the legal and institutional grounds of the international community to the
new challenges, and for the increase of the UN’s effectiveness. The United Nations needs
to play a stronger role in the co-ordination of international political, financial and
international legal action against global terrorism as well as against organised crime,
illicit drug trafficking and corruption, against the proliferation of weapons of mass
destruction and their means of delivery and in meeting threats posed by failed states, as
well as the decrease of economic and social backwardness and the improvement of global
environment protection. Hungary wishes to contribute constructively to enabling this
universal organization to adapt to the new challenges, and takes an active part in the
reform of the UN, as well as in UN-led peacekeeping missions.


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III.1.5. OSCE

The OSCE is the only comprehensive European institution covering the three closely
interlinked dimensions of security - military, economic and human - in their entirety and
continues to play an essential role in promoting peace and stability, in enhancing security
through co-operation and in implementing democracy and human rights. The OSCE is
particularly active in the field of preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention, crisis
management and post-conflict rehabilitation. An element of outstanding importance of
the organisation’s political-military dimension has been the existence of arms control
regimes and confidence- and security-building measures. Hungary participates within the
range of its possibilities in OSCE missions, in the protection of democracy, human rights
and fundamental freedoms, as well as in the dialogue between cultures.

III.1.6. Economic diplomacy

Hungary’s task is to further develop its participation in those regional economic
organisations that play a crucially important role in shaping its security environment, as
well as that of the neighbouring countries. The goal is to pursue mutually advantageous
economic and trade co-operation, the conditions of which are decisively shaped by the
World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development (OECD), as well as regional co-operation initiatives.

From the point of view of external economic policy, particular importance is attached to
the WTO-negotiations aimed at shaping the rules of international trade. The
implementation of agreements to be reached as a result of these talks will entail
obligations for Hungary as an EU-member. Membership in the EU also results in new
challenges to Hungary’s participation in the OECD. At this professional forum Hungary
will continue to have the possibility to express its opinion as an independent member
state during the discussions on common sectoral policies - including trade policy issues -,
and Hungarian participants will maintain close professional contacts with the
representatives of EU member states and other OECD-members.

Transatlantic trade relations are providing direct external economic advantages for
Hungary but are also important since the stability and predictability of the world trading
system may only be improved if relations between the EU and the United States are
exempt of major tensions. A stronger market presence requires export-promoting
activities. Due to our interests in developing trade relations with the countries of Southeastern Europe, we shall endeavour to promote the improvement of conditions for trade
between those countries and the European Union.

III.2. Relations with countries of the region

III.2.1. Relations with the countries of the region on bilateral and regional level

One of the most important tasks of Hungarian foreign and security policy is to actively
contribute to ensuring stability in the regions of Central Eastern and South-eastern


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Europe, and in particular to the democratic transformation of neighbouring countries, as
well as to the safeguarding of the general promotion of human rights with special regard
to rights of national and ethnic minorities corresponding to European norms and
standards. To this end, Hungary actively supports the endeavours of countries of the
region aiming at Euro-Atlantic integration and the admission of countries that are
prepared and fulfil the respective criteria. We are paying great attention to cross-border
co-operation, and forms of regional co-operation stretching beyond borders. Hungary
needs to play an active role in the activities of such fora and initiatives of regional cooperation as the Visegrád Co-operation, the Central European Initiative and the
Quadrilaterale. We deem it important to preserve the dialogue between countries
previously or recently admitted to NATO and EU and those expected to accede in the
future, as well as to prevent the emergence of new dividing lines. The issue of what kind
of role regional organisations and groupings such as the Visegrád co-operation may play
following integration requires further examination.

Hungary has an interest in ensuring stability and democratic transformation in the region
of South-eastern Europe. To this end it will need to exert a stabilising impact on the
region. One of the tasks of Hungarian foreign and security policy is to take an active part

-  in co-operation with its Euro-Atlantic allies and international organisations such as the
UN, OSCE, NATO and the EU - in crisis management operations taking place in the
region, and in efforts aiming at the development of structure of the rule of law, of
democratic conditions and of capabilities required for effective government. We need to
assist our Eastern and Southern neighbours in their institution-building as well as their
rapprochement to the zone of freedom, security and law, as well as their ultimate
accession through the inclusion of European sources, as well as on a bilateral basis,
providing Hungarian financial assistance, as well as by sharing our experience gathered
in the course of the regime change and our integration. We need to enable Hungarian
experts from the fields of public administration, law enforcement, as well as legal and
economic experts to contribute with their experience to post-conflict management, as
well.

III.2.2. Hungarians living in neighbouring countries

Hungary supports the concept, according to which Hungarians living in neighbouring
countries must enjoy forms of self-government and autonomy that best fit their particular
situation and the rights deriving from them, in accordance with European practice, as a
community and remaining in their native lands. The fulfilment of these goals is
inseparable from the social and economic development of the countries where Hungarian
minorities live. With their active involvement, the Republic of Hungary may contribute
significantly to stability in the region and strengthen its relations with neighbouring
countries. Hungary therefore has a particular interest in the enhancement of processes
leading to the consolidation of democracy, the rule of law and market economy in the
region, and in promoting the integration of its neighbours into the Euro-Atlantic and
European political and security structures. Hungary wishes to fulfil its tasks related to
support the Hungarian minorities living in neighbouring countries in the legal
frameworks provided by the institutions of integration, and in co-operation with the


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legitimate representative bodies of the communities in question, by means of diplomatic
and economic co-operation and with the governments of the countries concerned.

III.2.3. CIS-countries

Hungary is strongly interested in the continuation of democratic transformation in the
CIS- countries, in their rapprochement to the Euro-Atlantic structures and the political
settlement of conflicts with the inclusion of all the parties concerned. We consider the
situation of Russia and Ukraine as of crucial importance from the point of view of
security in the region and are therefore particularly interested in the stability of these two
states and in the advancement of their democratic reforms, as well as in the success of
their economic and social modernisation processes. Changes in a favourable direction
may be facilitated by close links between rapprochement to and integration into Europe
and the reform processes in Ukraine and Russia, if integration is aiming at enhancing
internal reforms and is depending on their speed. One of the tasks of Hungary as a
NATO- and EU-member is to alleviate the effects of European dividing lines emerging as
a result of the enlargement processes and to identify the possible areas of engagement.

Economic relations with Russia and Ukraine are of strategic importance to Hungary. We
are striving for the development of bilateral relations with Russia in all their aspects. We
support the co-operation between Russia and the West based on mutual interest to extend
to the widest possible range of fields and for such co-operation to be facilitated by an
ever more dynamic EU-Russia co-operation with stronger perspectives and by political
dialogue and practical co-operation between NATO and Russia. Hungary also supports
the maintenance of Ukraine’s stability and its democratic transformation as well as its
rapprochement to the structures of Euro-Atlantic integration by all the means available.
Achievement of these goals is being facilitated by our participation in the emerging new
neighbourhood policy of the European Union, notably the practical implementation of the
concept on a “European Neighbourhood Policy”.

III.3. Action against global threats and challenges

The mutually reinforcing impact of old and new types of challenges and the complexity
of the factors shaping the international security environment requires the continued
adaptation of states, international organisations and the international security system, as
well as wide-ranging co-operation among the members of the international community, in
which the strategic partnership between NATO and the EU may play a determining role.
For Hungary, active participation in international organisations as well as in international
coalitions set up for the management of certain particular problems offer the most
favourable conditions for Hungary to cope with global challenges

III.3.1. Terrorism

Protection against terrorism can only be successful by means of enhancing bilateral and
regional co-operation, joining forces on the broadest possible international level and coordinated action of international organisations. The fight against terrorism requires an


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integrated approach that should include, inter alia, means of prevention and intervention,
joint international efforts aiming at eliminating the material basis of terrorism, and the
protection of critical infrastructure. The UN provides an important forum for the
international community to agree on the ways and means to handle this problem. The
framework of the European Union provides an opportunity to develop common action
plans, as well as actions concerning the EU’s internal security and its external relations. If
there is a need for military action in order to avert the terrorist threat, NATO’s
capabilities will be put in the focus. Hungary’s goal is to support international efforts in
all these three organisations, which are in the also supposed to serve our country’s
security.

Hungary must take part in the Euro-Atlantic and other international activities serving the
purpose of joint assessment, evaluation and management of the risks of terrorism. The
co-ordination of respective activities and the establishment of the domestic conditions
required to this end are tasks manifesting themselves at governmental level. Hungarian
diplomacy needs to take part in the international co-ordination of the fight against
terrorism, while national security services and law enforcement authorities will - besides
other basic activities stipulated by law - have to participate in the international cooperation that aims at the effective detection and prevention of intentions aiming at
carrying out such activities. An effective stance requires organisations concerned to be
properly trained and equipped and to be able to adapt quickly and flexibly.

III.3.2. Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery

Another task of the Hungarian foreign and security policy, also related to the
international fight against terrorism, is to actively contribute to the prevention of the
proliferation of missile technologies and weapons of mass destruction in the framework
of international non-proliferation regimes, and to the reduction of risks deriving from the
latter. As a member of the international export control regimes, Hungary actively
contributes to the enhancement and further development of international legal
instruments and agreements in the field of non-proliferation. Due to the global character
of this challenge, only the further deepening of international co-operation may produce
durable results: as a participant in such co-operation, and besides its diplomatic and
administrative (controlling and licensing) activities, Hungary needs to develop also its
physical capabilities of detection and protection against such weapons. Hungary has
traditionally been playing a well-respected role in the field of disarmament and arms
control, and will continue to do so.

III.3.3. Regional conflict management, state-building, humanitarian assistance

Hungary is interested in the suppression of risk factors threatening stability in the EuroAtlantic region. As a NATO- and EU-member, Hungarian foreign policy faces increased
responsibilities, as well. The handling of regional instability and failed states is
depending to a great extent on whether the countries and regions concerned will succeed
in embarking on the road of self-sustaining social and economic development. Assistance
provided by the international community will first and foremost have to be aimed at


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enabling backward states and regions to ensure their own development through the
mobilisation of internal reserves, to operate democratic institutions, strengthening
statehood and to rehabilitate their respective economies. Active participation of
international organisations and institutions, including through the fulfilment of military
tasks, is required primarily for the development of the capabilities needed for selfsustaining development, and for the creation of an environment favouring internal
development. Hungary will continue to be ready to contribute to international political,
diplomatic, military, law enforcement and humanitarian efforts aiming at the elimination
of dangers threatening the security of the Euro-Atlantic region, whether from within or
outside.

III.3.4. Schengen co-operation, border management, migration

As a member of the European Union, Hungary will adopt the migration and immigration
practices of the EU member states, which requires the adjustment of institutional and
legal conditions to EU-standards. Hungary needs to prepare for the earliest possible and
full application of the Schengen regime. This will require not only an effective
functioning of Hungarian border authorities but also smooth co-operation among all
authorities involved in immigration-related procedures. We have to modernise the
management of our borders now becoming part of the external border of the European
Union in such a way that they may not be perceived by our neighbours who are to join
the EU at a later stage as a new iron curtain, but rather as a place and means of
transparency and co-operation. This also includes the updating of our visa practices
according to Schengen norms, considering that the first line of defence of the external
border is the visa-issuing consular authority. The adequate training of institutions and
persons authorised to issue visas and the reconciliation of security considerations with
economic interests are tasks of outstanding importance to this end. We need to actively
support the further development of common refugee and migration policies at EU-fora,
including the gradual budgetary implementation of burden sharing, which applies also to
the integrated management of the external borders. The development of border protection
may provide an outstanding field of the exchange of experience with the countries of the
region (in order to push the pervious border as far from our country as possible). We need
to apply the EU’s up-to-date approach, which strives to contribute to the elimination of
the factors generating migration through development co-operation based on clear
criteria. It is necessary to strive for that the capacities of the Hungarian society to
integrate immigrants to reach the average level of the European Union and to increase its
receptivity by providing balanced information. It is important for any legislation on
migration to take the sizeable Hungarian minorities living in the neighbouring countries
into account and to ensure the assertion of our economic interests.

III.3.5. Development co-operation

As a member of the international donor community, Hungary strives to support the
economic and social progress of underdeveloped countries and contribute to the reduction
of poverty as well as of the unfavourable effects of globalisation, in the framework of
partnership, by adapting itself to the EU’s development policies, the UN’s Millennium


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Goals and the OECD-guidelines. Development co-operation programmes also need to
involve non-governmental organisations and the Hungarian stakeholders. International
development co-operation programmes are parts of the programmes aiming at conflict
prevention and post-conflict rehabilitation, as well as of humanitarian assistance related
to peacekeeping, thus contributing to the achievement of the country’s security policy
goals.

III.3.6. Challenges to open societies

A significant part of the global challenges is directed against one of the three values:
freedom, security and justice, or even more against their synthesis, posing particular
threats to open societies. The achievements under this trinity of values need protection.
Remarkably, however, their external protection may be best ensured through their
promotion in more remote parts of the world. This complex challenge affects all countries
belonging to the Euro-Atlantic region. It can only be effectively tackled through common
action and closest possible co-operation with the European Union, and in co-operation
aiming at the deepening and extending of the area of freedom, security and justice.

Terrorism, cross-border organised crime, corruption potentially undermining democratic
institutions as well as illegal, massive and unmanageable migration have one
consequence in common: the countries concerned often find an answer to these
phenomena at the expense of the curtailment of fundamental freedoms and the rule of
law, mainly relying on law enforcement. Successful action, however, is not possible
through mere law enforcement measures, but only with the strengthening of the
institutions of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. It is Hungary’s interest that
the delicate balance between values and interests, the synthesis of freedom and security
are found in a way, which respects the standards of fundamental freedoms and the rule of
law.

III.3.7. Protection of information systems

The age of rapid technological development has brought along the new task of
developing a modern and secure infrastructure of information and of protecting
governmental information systems. Such systems must be prepared to prevent and avert
cyber attacks. Successful protection requires close co-ordination with allies, as well as
information and telecommunication providers and research centres.

III.3.8. Protection of the natural and human environment

In order to provide for its ecological security and in accordance with the principles of
sustainable development, Hungary deems it important to preserve its natural resources, as
well as its protected and non-protected natural habitat and its protected natural treasures.
Effective handling of global environmental and public health problems requires broadbased - regional and global - international solidarity, in which Hungary must also play an
active part. In order to ensure sustainable development, there is a need to change certain
production and consumption habits endangering the environment, as well as to spread


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environment-friendly or environment-close technologies and to take co-ordinated steps in
the domains of economic policy and international law. Hungary takes part in international
initiatives, as well as in the implementation of action programmes launched by the EU,
UN and OECD, and - to the extent of its possibilities - in remedying international
problems. It strives to ensure for its future industrial development to follow the principles
of sustainable development, and for its economic competitiveness not to endanger the
state of its natural habitat, as well as for the preservation of protected natural areas and
their value. In order to avert natural and man made disasters and eliminate its
consequences, Hungary closely co-operates with the countries of the region and applies
the rules of the European Union and NATO’s civil emergency planning system.

III.4. Action against internal challenges

III.4.1. Fight against organised crime

Eliminating the extensive economic background of criminal gangs and preventing the
legalisation of their financial means constitute tasks of fundamental importance in the
context of successful action against organised crime. It is on the basis of this point of
departure, that the Penal Code, as well as laws on penal procedures, needs to be further
developed and that the effectiveness of tax control as well as the fight against corruption
have to be increased. The work of judiciary, law enforcement and correctional services
needs to be made more successful, increasing co-ordination between the authorities
concerned and improving their technical equipment and organisational conditions. Due to
the nature of the problem, co-operation between Hungarian and foreign authorities needs
to be further deepened and extended.

III.4.2. Illegal economy and corruption

The national strategy of the fight against corruption includes elements aimed at the
suppression of the illegal economy: permanent and effective supervision of the flow of
public money, transparency of the legal system and the functioning of the state, as well as
the appropriate selection and appreciation of public servants. Primary means of the fight
against the illegal economy include the reduction of public burdens as well as the
development of tax, legal and customs rules and consequently ensuring the application of
the latter. Outstanding attention needs to be paid to preventing the endeavours of criminal
gangs from establishing contacts with representatives of politics, public administration,
the judiciary, armed forces and law enforcement, as well as of the media.

III.4.3. Fight against the spreading of drugs

Education plays a crucial role in the fight against the spreading of drugs. Prerequisites of
determined action against distributors and suppliers of drugs include increasing the
effectiveness of detection, the improvement of the technical equipment and of the skills
of the personnel, as well as exchange of information and co-operation with international
partners. Distinguished attention needs to be paid to the spreading of new synthetic drugs.


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III.4.4. Political and religious extremism

The Republic of Hungary has a fundamental national security interest in providing for its
competent state authorities to prevent and impede any endeavour aimed at disturbing the
exercise of fundamental human rights and the functioning of the country’s democratic
system or its constitutional institutions. Successful containment of political or religious
extremism may in the long term be achieved through a more successful management of
those social problems that may create bases or circles of sympathisers of such tendencies.

III.4.5. Demographical challenges

Due to our present-day social structure, the present form of the welfare state cannot be
maintained even during times of economic growth. This negative process may be
reversed through an increasing role of self-care and through a carefully designed
demographic and immigration policy that includes fostering the willingness to have
children.

**IV. INSTRUMENTS TO IMPLEMENT THE NATIONAL SECURITY**
**STRATEGY**

A national economy steadily moving on a path of growth may provide favourable
conditions for the implementation of the National Security Strategy. The stability of
Hungary’s democracy and security needs to rely on solid economic and civilisational
fundaments, which, on the one hand, provides for the resources of an effective security
policy, and on the other, increases the country’s recognition through the enhancement of
the country’s stability and national identity. Hungary’s long-term goal is to catch up with
the advanced European countries by means of its economic performance. Instruments to
fulfil this strategic goal include: the increase of economic competitiveness, the pursuit for
financial and price stability, as well as to unfold the cohesive forces of the economy and
the society.

In its efforts to provide for its security, Hungary is primarily relying on political means,
taking advantage of the opportunities of diplomatic, economic and cultural co-operation.
The main guarantee of the country’s military security is provided by allied co-operation
taking place in the framework of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. Hungary needs
to possess the military capabilities required for the collective defence of Hungary within
the framework of NATO and for the collective defence of its allies, as well as capabilities
required for crisis management and peacekeeping operations and disaster-relief launched
with the participation of NATO-allies. Hungary needs to be able to participate also in
crisis-management activities taking place within the framework of the European Union.
The Hungarian Defence Forces need to possess rapidly deployable and sustainable forces
suited for flexible use and available also for expeditionary operations that are able to cooperate with allied forces and can be used in crisis spots without any geographical
limitations. The necessary capabilities need to be developed in a way co-ordinated with
NATO, co-ordinating force contributions committed in the NATO and EU framework,
and by making use of the opportunities lying in bi- and multilateral international co

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operation and development programs. The goal is to develop an armed force that is new
in the sense of operational philosophy, able to fulfil the commitments made to NATO,
that is financially affordable, capability-based and specialised in the framework of the
North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, that constitutes an integral part of the society and
enjoys the latter’s support, that is placed under democratic and civilian control, and that is
composed of members committed to their countries and profession, properly trained and
motivated, commanding the respect of the society. Respective goals and tasks need to be
set down in the National Military Strategy.

Besides military operation, law enforcement, medical, humanitarian and activities of
civilian nature are also playing an ever-increasing role in crisis management operations
undertaken by the international community. The geographical distribution of such
operations has changed as well; besides the Western Balkans and the European
peripheries (e.g. Caucasus), Central Asia and the Middle East have increasingly moved
into the focus of international crisis management. As a result of membership in the UN,
OSCE, NATO and the EU, Hungary has to prepare for an increasing and permanent
involvement in the fields of crisis management and peacekeeping. Our goal is for the
Hungarian participation in international operations, based on national interests, to be
appropriately timed and substantial. In order to promote the effectiveness of such
Hungarian participation, there is a need to assess human and material resources to be
used, as well as to contribute a co-ordinated and transparent structure avoiding
duplications and ensuring flexible response from the public and budgetary perspectives
alike.

National security services help defend the country’s sovereignty and constitutional order
and assert its national security interests by carrying out their activities as set down by
Law. By providing information required for governmental decisions, natural security
services need to directly support the process of preparing decisions and the elaboration of
appropriate alternatives of such decisions. They need to inform the Government on the
current and long-term development of external and internal vulnerability of the country.
Information gathering must extend to global, regional and internal sources of danger
alike. In order to detect and eliminate sources of threat, national security services need to
pursue preventive and intelligence activities alike. During this process, changes taking
place in the region, integration processes, new types of challenges and threats will need to
be taken into account, as well as threats to Hungarian institutions operating abroad and to
Hungarian units and experts taking part in crisis management and peacekeeping tasks.
National security services need to pay distinguished attention to the participation in the
fight against cross-border international terrorism. According to the security challenges
Hungary is facing, they need to develop and maintain a new type of co-operation with the
civilian and military national security services of allied states as well as with respective
services of other states sharing an interest in attaining the goals identified in the National
Security Strategy.

Successfully coping with the challenges to security requires closer co-operation between
the various institutions of law enforcement and the modernisation of their respective
structures. In the framework of the ongoing reform of the Hungarian Police, detection


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and prevention of organised crime, and of crimes related to drugs, arms trade,
international terrorism and money laundering in particular, as well as action against
cyber-crime must be enhanced by making use of the potential of international cooperation. With the context of police reform, the organisational structure needs to be
transformed in order to bring its services much closer to the citizens to be protected and
their property. Co-operation between national security services and law enforcement
authorities - as well as armed forces, if necessary, and the improvement of co-ordination
between these bodies and other authorities entitled to supervisory activities constitute a
significant reserve of our national security.

The changing set of tasks of the Hungarian Border Guards, the increased protection of the
EU’s external borders as well as the development of the controlling system of internal
borders also require a transformation of the organisational structure and a linkage to be
established between the border protection and law enforcement activities. It is our basic
interest for the future external borders not only to serve our own national security but the
security of the entire European Union.

Disaster-relief forces (civil defence, fire department) protect the lives of the population
and its material assets in times of natural and man-made disasters and of states of
emergency, also in co-operation with designated units of the armed forces, if required.
The conditions and the guidelines for the development of capabilities of disaster-relief
have been laid and co-ordinated by the National Disaster-Relief Strategy. Specially
prepared units of the armed forces and their means supplement the capabilities of these
organisations to prevent and relieve natural and man-made disasters by carrying out
special kinds of activities of technical nature.

**V. SECTORAL STRATEGIES**

As a result of the comprehensive definition of security, the tasks derived from the
implementation of the National Security Strategy are divided among sectoral policies.
The task of sectoral strategies is to elaborate, within the frameworks laid out by the
Hungarian National Assembly’s Resolution No. 94/1998 (XII.29) on the Basic Principles
of the Hungarian Security and Defence Policy, and on the basis of the values, interests
and goals set out in the National Security Strategy of the Republic of Hungary, and in a
manner specified according to the particular features and fields of the sectoral branch
concerned, the practical modalities of the preservation of the external and internal
security of the Republic of Hungary. Sectoral strategies can be successful if their
elaboration and implementation takes place in a co-ordinated manner. A dialogue and
practical co-operation with non-governmental organisations may facilitate the
implementation of the National Security Strategy.

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