Hungary looks north for inspiration

Over 230 people attended the conference "The Nordic model - lessons from a unique development model", initiated by the Hungarian-Scandinavian Friendship Group of the Hungarian National Assembly organized in close collaboration with the Norwegian Embassy in Budapest.

The Norwegian professor and former State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Janne H. Matlary, and Arni Hole, Director General from the Ministry of Children, Equality and Social Inclusion were the main speakers at the event, which was opened by Ambassador Siri Sletner.

- The Nordic model is not a set of instruments that can or should be accepted uncritically as most of the elements are specific to our social structures, and have developed throughout our history. Nevertheless, some principles, instruments and aims can and should be applied outside of the Nordic region, albeit in a way that is adapted to the local conditions, said Ambassador Sletner.

Clear recommendations
Matlary and Hole came with clear recommendations to the Hungarian parliament from the pulpit of the upper house in the Hungarian Parliament. They emphasized the importance of a functioning state, separation of power, a sustainable welfare system, gender equality and a balanced workplace.

Matlary highlighted in particular the rule of law and the principle of separation of powers, the latter particularly important for countries such as Norway and Hungary, which both currently have a majority government.
Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of public consultation, tripartite, comprehensive welfare arrangements and zero tolerance when it comes to corruption, as fundamental values of the Nordic model.

Hole focused on gender equality and how to balance the work and leisure relationship. She pointed out that high female participation in the labor market and rising fertility rate does not need to be a paradox, and ended with the following clear recommendation as to what may be the first step for Hungary:

- Change the name from maternity leave to the gender-neutral parental leave. The practice of a three-year leave of absence for mothers is too long for women to be able to make a career. It must be shortened, or fathers should be involved more.

 

Hungarian adaptation
Hungarian experts and parliamentarians reflected on the main conclusions and considered the options on how to transfer the best of the Nordic model to Hungary - especially how the employment rate for women could be increased. Today, only half of the mothers return to work after maternity leave.

- Gender equality and family values are no dichotomy. They can be combined, said Professor Beata Nagy.

The conference was specifically aimed at the Hungarian parliamentarians, academia and civil society. The Hungarian-Scandinavian Friendship Group will continue to organize thematic seminars on various aspects of the Nordic model. Next topic will be the Nordic economic model.