Latest news in Hungary - 13 Oct 2024

- New Leadership for LGBTQ Parliamentary Group: László Sebián-Petrovszki from DK has taken over as head of the Diverse Hungary parliamentary group, which advocates for LGBTQ rights in Hungary. The group has condemned governmental actions seen as hostile towards the LGBTQ community and is committed to restoring suppressed rights. Read more here

- Wizz Air Flight Fiasco Strands Passengers: Over 200 passengers were left stranded in Dubai after Wizz Air canceled their flight to Budapest due to a mix-up at the airport, where they were dropped off at the wrong flight. Despite the airline offering accommodation, many travelers found the support lacking and paid for their own hotels. Read more here

- NAV Takes Down Tax Fraud Ring: Hungary's National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) has disrupted a tax fraud ring that caused over 2 billion forints in damages. The operation included raids at 49 locations and led to the detainment of five suspects involved in creating shell companies for fraudulent invoicing. Read more here

- Budapest's Community Projects Announced: Thirteen new community projects in Budapest have been approved, totaling 1 billion forints, with initiatives ranging from a dog waste cleanup in Józsefváros to green projects and restroom renovations. The decisions were made based on votes from over 29,000 local residents. Read more here

- BYD Expands Electric Vehicle Production in Europe: Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is set to open its first European factory in Szeged, Hungary, by the end of 2025, aiming to address local employment demands and expand its market presence in Europe. This facility will complement a second planned factory in Turkey by 2026. Read more here

- Rising Numbers of Abandoned Babies in Hungary: There has been a significant increase in abandoned infants in Hungarian hospitals, now around 280-300, as many children struggle to find adoptive families. Complicated adoption processes and a lack of foster parents exacerbate the issue, drawing attention to children's rights. Read more here

- Concerns Over Guest Workers in Battery Factories: Hungary's plans to recruit guest workers for its expanding battery industry have raised sociological concerns regarding public trust and social cohesion, with experts warning of potential localized tensions as integration processes are navigated. Read more here

- Cold Front Bringing Change to Weather: A cold front is approaching Hungary, leading to a mix of clouds, minimal sunshine, and cooler temperatures ranging from 16 to 22 degrees Celsius this Sunday. Light precipitation is expected in the northern regions, while temperatures will dip into a breezy week ahead. Read more here