Latest news in Hungary - 15 Feb 2025

- Viktor Orbán Press Chief Departure: Bertalan Havasi, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's press chief, has announced his resignation from the position. Further details on his future responsibilities will be disclosed by the Government Information Center soon. Read more here

- Karácsony vs. Nagy Márton: Taxation Debate Continues: A heated discussion persists between Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony and National Economy Minister Márton Nagy over business taxation. Karácsony challenges Nagy's claims regarding Budapest's business tax contributions, with emphasis on Budapest's solidarity tax surge since 2019. A face-to-face meeting is suggested to improve national collaboration. Read more here

- Detention of Óbuda Mayor Extended: László Kiss, the mayor of Óbuda remains in detention for an additional three months while investigations into municipal contract mismanagement continue. His party claims no new evidence supports this extension as they assert his innocence. Read more here

- Solidarity Contribution Tax Burden Discrepancies: The Hungarian government has allocated 360 billion forints to be withheld from local governments under the solidarity contribution tax scheme. Budapest will contribute 89 billion forints in 2025, highlighting significant variance in tax burdens across municipalities. Read more here

- IKEA Delivery Delays in Hungary: Customers in Hungary can expect about a week of delays for small package deliveries from IKEA due to operational challenges. The company has confirmed that larger deliveries are not affected and appreciates customer patience during this time. Read more here

- Changes to State-Funded Higher Education Places: The Hungarian government is reallocating state-funded higher education places, with reductions mainly in humanities and increases for computer science and teacher education. Concerns arise over how this may affect access to education and increase social inequalities. Read more here

- Significant Shipment on Hungarian Roads: A historical 720-ton shipment, including a 380-ton generator, is underway on Hungarian roads, bound for Romania. The complex logistics of this shipment are expected to be completed by early May. Read more here

- Bribery Scandal At Rétság Inspection Station: A bribery scandal has emerged at the Rétság technical examination station, where serious vehicle defects were overlooked in exchange for bribes. Police have detained suspects involved in certifying unsafe vehicles. Read more here

- Classical Concerts This Weekend: Several classical music concerts are taking place across Hungary this week, perfect for those looking to enjoy live performances. Notable events include the Győri Philharmonic's performance and concerts in Szolnok and Miskolc. Read more here

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