Latest news in Hungary - 28 Sep 2024

- Speeding Up the Rails: Hungary is set to modernize its railway system with a loan from the European Investment Bank amounting to 800 billion HUF. Plans include eliminating slow signals on 119 kilometers of track and upgrading 490 kilometers to ensure quicker and safer journeys. These upgrades come after recent train derailments have put a spotlight on safety. Read more here

- Minimum Wage Increase Debate: A draft proposal from the Ministry of Economic Development suggests that Hungary's minimum wage could rise to at least 50% of average gross earnings from last year, potentially reaching 301,100 HUF—a 12.85% hike! While the legislation encourages this, it isn’t mandatory, so don't start counting your extra cash just yet. Read more here

- Winds of Change in Budapest: Hold on to your hats—Budapest just recorded gusts of wind reaching 87.8 km/h, breaking the prior record of 74.9 km/h. This blustery event was due to warm air colliding with a cyclone. Remember to check the weather and avoid those pesky umbrellas this weekend! Read more here

- Motherless Infants in Hospitals: A harrowing situation is unfolding in Hungarian hospitals, where approximately 280-300 abandoned infants are longing for maternal love amid a lack of adequate caretaking. Recent changes aim to speed up the adoption process. Read more here

- New Parking Regulations for Budapest: János Lázár's proposed regulations are sparking debate, mandating parking spaces for every new pub and homeless shelter in Budapest. Critics warn this could slow urban development and increase housing costs in the city, contradicting efforts to promote biking and public transit. Let’s see how this unfolds! Read more here