The United States has imposed sanctions on Antal Rogan, a senior Hungarian government official, for his involvement in significant corruption during his tenure in various governmental roles, including as the Minister in Charge of the Cabinet Office under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. On January 7, 2025, the U.S. government designated Rogan under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, a move that targets individuals involved in corruption and human rights abuses globally.
According to the U.S. Department of State, Rogan has been at the center of schemes that have helped consolidate power and control over Hungary’s strategic sectors, benefiting him and his political party while undermining the interests of the Hungarian people. The U.S. accuses Rogan of enabling a system where Hungary’s political and economic spheres have been deeply influenced by oligarchs and undemocratic actors, further exacerbating corruption and a climate of impunity.
In a statement, the U.S. Department of State emphasized that Rogan’s actions reflect the broader concerns regarding state capture in Hungary, a process where key sectors of the state are dominated by politically connected elites and their allies, often to the detriment of the public.
A Focus on Corruption and Undemocratic Practices
The sanctioning of Rogan aligns with the U.S. Strategy on Countering Corruption, which specifically identifies state capture as a significant concern. As the U.S. government continues to prioritize the defense of democratic institutions globally, Rogan’s designation underscores America’s commitment to holding accountable those responsible for undermining governance, transparency, and the rule of law.
“Rogan’s activities have enabled a system that benefits a select few while hurting ordinary Hungarian citizens,” said Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the Department of State. “Through today’s actions, we aim to prevent corrupt actors from exploiting the U.S. financial system to facilitate their illicit activities and promote accountability.”
Global Magnitsky Sanctions Program
The designation of Rogan is part of a broader effort by the U.S. government to target individuals engaged in serious corruption worldwide. These actions were taken pursuant to Executive Order 13818, which was implemented under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. The law allows the U.S. to impose sanctions on individuals who are responsible for or complicit in corruption or human rights abuses, regardless of where they are located.
Under these sanctions, Rogan and any associated individuals or entities will be blocked from accessing U.S. financial institutions and engaging in any business transactions involving U.S. persons. Furthermore, U.S. citizens and companies are prohibited from conducting any financial transactions with Rogan.
U.S. Call for Accountability and Transparency in Hungary
The United States continues to call on Hungary’s leadership to address corruption openly and decisively. By taking action against officials like Rogan, the U.S. seeks to send a message that corruption at the highest levels must not go unchecked, as it undermines both national and regional stability.
“We urge Hungary’s leaders to take proactive and meaningful steps to root out corruption, promote greater transparency, and restore the integrity of Hungary’s democratic institutions,” Miller stated. “A more transparent Hungary, free from corruption, will not only enhance the strength of the Transatlantic Alliance but also contribute to a more prosperous Europe.”
Looking Ahead
This latest round of sanctions is part of the United States’ broader commitment to fighting corruption and promoting good governance around the world. The U.S. government has made it clear that its financial system will not serve as a tool for those who seek to exploit it for personal gain at the expense of the public good. As the situation in Hungary continues to evolve, the U.S. remains steadfast in its support of democracy and transparency, both within the country and across the region.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury has also implemented these sanctions under the authority of Executive Order 13818, which specifically targets human rights abusers and corrupt officials globally. For more details on the measures, the U.S. Treasury has released an official press statement.
The sanctions against Rogan are part of the U.S.’s continued efforts to ensure that corrupt actors face the consequences of their actions, helping to build a stronger and more accountable global system.