The European Union's Court of Justice has ruled that Hungary was wrong to deny a frequency license renewal to opposition radio station Klubradio, according to reports from Swedish media outlets. The court found that Hungarian authorities' actions were "disproportionate" when they refused to extend the independent, government-critical station's broadcasting license on the FM band four years ago. Hungarian authorities had cited alleged programming deficiencies and poor finances as reasons for denying the license renewal in 2021.
Klubradio's chief Andras Arato condemned the shutdown at the time, calling it a way to further silence opposition in the country. The EU Commission brought the case to court, which has now concluded that Hungary's measures were excessive. Arato reportedly described the shutdown as "shameful and cowardly" in comments to AFP news agency.
calling it a way to further silence opposition in the country
described the shutdown as 'shameful and cowardly'