BRUSSELS, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban offered to make changes to controversial new laws when threatened with legal action by the European Union.
The new series of laws involve making the central bank less independent, a removal of a great deal of checks and balances on Orban's power, as well as the adoption of a new Constitution.
The European Commission, the executive arm of the EU, announced Tuesday that it would pursue legal action against Orban. While he has given ground on some issues, he remains stubborn in regards to the central bank, The New York Times reported. If the commission is not satisfied with the changes he makes, the matter could go before the European Court of Justice.
The EU has struggled with how to handle member nations that undermine the union's basic principles. While it nations must meet demanding criteria to gain membership, once they have it, there are few means to continue to enforce the criteria.
The reports that the European Court of Justice so far has the ability to fine Hungary.
