Canada disappointed by Hungary’s decision on Central European University

December 3, 2018 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“Today’s announcement that the Central European University (CEU) will be forced to relocate after Hungary’s refusal to allow it to continue operations in Budapest is a terrible loss.

“Canada had hoped that Hungary would take the steps necessary to find a solution allowing the CEU to continue to operate freely in Budapest, especially given the significant efforts undertaken by the CEU to meet new requirements imposed by the 2017 Hungarian law on higher education.

“This forced move is a blow to academic freedom, which is a fundamental right, and all the more troubling given that Hungary is a NATO and EU member state. The CEU is an institution of great repute, with many Canadian students and faculty. This decision will not only affect the CEU, but also the entire higher education landscape in Hungary.”