At a Crossroad
Hungary’s Energy Sector
Deutsche Fassung
Abstract
Because of its low coal reserves, Hungary is more dependent on natural gas and oil imports than other East Central European countries. Therefore, in the past two decades, the country has focused on integration into the European energy market. Western European companies were brought into the country, the Hungarian oil company MOL expanded into neighbouring states, and Hungary involved itself in the two major gas pipeline projects Nabucco and South Stream. However, the government of Viktor Orbán is increasingly emphasising autarky and more state influence. Conflicts with international investors and the European Union are pre-programmed.
(Osteuropa 12/2011, pp. 231–248)