RIGHT OF ASSEMBLY AND THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POLICE (FROM SOCIAL CHANGE, CRIME AND POLICE: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE, JUNE 1-4, 1992, BUDAPEST, HUNGARY, P 229-234, 1993, JOZSEF VIGH AND GEZA KATONA, EDS. -- SEE NCJ-144794)

• NCJ Number: 144816
• Author(s): I Bokonyi
• Date Published: 1993
• Length: 6 pages
• Sale Source: Eotvos Lorand University
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Description
• Language: English
• Country: Hungary

Annotation

This paper describes the legislation that guarantees the right of assembly in Hungary and profiles the responsibilities of the police in implementing the legislation.

Abstract

Hungary's first act on the right of assembly was passed in 1989; in May 1990, the Minister of the Interior specified the duties and responsibilities of police in this area. The act stipulates that, at least 3 days before an assembly in a public place, the intent to assemble must be reported to the police of the jurisdiction in which the assembly is to occur. Although the police can refuse to grant a permit to assemble in a public place, the law specifies that such a prohibition cannot be based on the aims or agenda of the assembly. The police prohibited only three of the 1,376 public demonstrations held from May 1990 to December 31, 1991. Those prohibited from assembly by the police can appeal the ban to a court. Police presence at public assemblies can take three forms: control duty; protection duty (when a violation of public order is expected during the demonstration); and liaison duty, which involves police contacts with the demonstration organizers before the event regarding arrangements and plans to maintain order. Officers must make a written report after each event. The use of the right of assembly and the associated legal regulations for police work apparently comply with the international requirements of a democratic society. 5 references