Latest news in Hungary - 19 Jun 2025

10.2 Billion Forints Returned to Budapest: The Hungarian State Treasury has transferred 10.2 billion forints back to Budapest after a court ruled the funds were unlawfully deducted as a solidarity contribution. Mayor Gergely Karácsony stated they are still awaiting interest payments and that the government will enter negotiations over these contributions amidst ongoing financial discussions. Read more here

Tragic Workplace Accident in Somogy: A 29-year-old man died from slurry poisoning while attempting to repair a blocked drainage pit at a pig farm in Barcs, Somogy County. After rescuing a colleague, he fell ill from toxic gases and could not be revived despite firefighters' efforts. The police are investigating the incident. Read more here

Fekete-Győr Launches Foundation for Political Persecuted: Fekete-Győr András has established the Foundation for Political Persecuted to support individuals affected by the Orbán regime, focusing on legal and financial aid, documentation of cases, and advocating for reparations after a potential change in government. The advisory board includes notable figures such as Iványi Gábor and Szél Bernadett, all committed to transcending partisan politics. Read more here

New British Ambassador to Budapest Announced: Justin McKenzie Smith will take over as the new British Ambassador to Hungary in October, succeeding Paul Fox, who has served since 2020. McKenzie Smith brings over 30 years of experience in the UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office, having held ambassadorial positions in Georgia and various roles in Moscow, New York, and Mexico City. Read more here

Tisza Party to Hold Congress Mid-July: The Tisza Party will host a congress on July 12, focusing on governmental readiness and addressing the concerns of Hungarians. A recent Medián survey shows the Tisza Party leading Fidesz by 15 percentage points among some voters, indicating growing dissatisfaction with the current direction of the country. Read more here

Heroic Waiter Honored for Rescuing Géza Jeszenszky: László Kézdi-Schlachta, a waiter who intervened during an attack on former foreign minister Géza Jeszenszky, received a commendation and sports center subscription from the V. district municipality. The incident took place on June 1, involving a masked assailant armed with a masonry hammer, leading to serious injuries for Jeszenszky. The attacker, now suspected of attempted murder, faces potential life imprisonment if convicted. Read more here

Uber's Return and Discounted Fares Create Controversy in Budapest: Since resuming operations in June 2024, Uber has sparked debate by offering discounts of up to 80% off regulated fares, raising questions about legality and market fairness. While drivers receive the full regulated fare, many express concerns over the impact of these promotions on their income and the competitive landscape. Read more here

Hungarian Citizens Evacuated from Iran: Amid escalating conflict in Iran, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs successfully evacuated six Hungarian citizens by car to Azerbaijan after a 12-hour wait, facilitated by the closure of airspace. Additionally, fifteen diplomats and their families are being transferred to Baku, where the embassy's operations will temporarily relocate. Read more here

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