Latest news in Hungary - 17 Feb 2025

** Courts dismiss Olympic referendum ** Police to check busses and trucks ** Budget increase for housing ** Hungary accused of blocking Ukraine's EU path ** Decathlon launches leadership program **

February 17, 2025

- Curia Dismisses Momentum's Olympic Referendum Initiative: The Momentum Movement's appeal for a referendum on Budapest hosting the Olympics has been rejected. This comes amid Prime Minister Orbán's hints at potentially bidding for the 2036 Games, despite concerns over estimated costs exceeding 5 trillion forints. Read more here

- Hungary Accused of Blocking Ukraine's EU Accession: Ukrainian Justice Minister Olha Stefanyshyna has accused Hungary of obstructing Ukraine's EU membership progress, citing Hungary's demands for additional conditions. This tension persists as Ukraine seeks better relations while also supporting its Hungarian minority. Read more here

- Utility Support Spending Approaches 5000 Billion Forints: Over the past two and a half years, the Hungarian government allocated nearly 5000 billion forints for utility protection support, exceeding spending on defense and raising questions about the sustainability of such financial aid. Read more here

- Increased Funding for Housing Construction: Hungary's National Economy Minister announced a budget increase for housing development from 200 billion to 300 billion forints due to rising demand. The initiative aims to construct at least 25,000 new apartments as part of government efforts to tackle the housing crisis. Read more here

- Police Conducting Traffic Safety Inspections This Week: From February 17 to 23, police are conducting Europe-wide traffic safety inspections on trucks and buses across Hungary. This initiative emphasizes compliance with legal regulations and aims to improve safety standards on the roads. Read more here

- Frosty Week Ahead: Expect a cold snap with temperatures dropping to -15°C in northern Hungary and nighttime lows reaching between -10°C to -3°C later in the week. Residents are advised to prepare for winter conditions. Read more here

- Decathlon's Future Leaders Program: Decathlon is launching a program aimed at developing future retail leaders in Hungary. The initiative offers practical experience and leadership training, preparing participants for managerial positions within the company. Read more here

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