György Matolcsy (minister of national economy) said in a CNN report Hungary was a fairy tale. Hungary’s GDP decreased by 0,7% in the first quarter of 2012 compared to the previous year. Half of the main industry sectors stagnated according to the Hungarian Central Statistical Office. It would be a bit strange not to notice the contradiction between Matolcsy’s statement and the facts. But he is right actually. Hungary is a tale nowadays as it is surreal what we pass through. It is not realistic that government representatives smuggle ashes to other countries. (Hungarian government officials support contentious re-burial in Romania without Romania’s consent). It is also not realistic that the minister responsible for the economy dreams about success while the economy is down and he introduces weird taxes. On the other hand there is Közgép (a holding with strong Fidesz ties) which has a more than unique success. So, Matolcsy is right. Hungary is a tale. Although I would not say it is fairy tale. If we returned to the reality, we would have to sort out crisis management. The competent officials have their focus on Euro Cup matches anyway. If the Euro Cup is over, they will return to the history book to get some new idols and the well-known slogans will be continued. Is it important what the Hungarian Central Statistical Office publishes?

Péter Pető, Népszabadság, June 8. 2012.