Latest news in Hungary - 21 Jan 2025

- Mayor Karácsony's Court Victory Over City Funds: Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony announced a court ruling favoring the city's claim against the government concerning the unlawful withholding of 58 billion HUF in funds. The ruling emphasizes that without adequate support, the city's operations are at risk. This case will now be reviewed by the Constitutional Court for further action. Read more here

- Tisza Party Polls Ahead of Fidesz: Recent polling from the IDEA Institute shows a significant shift in Hungarian political preferences, with the Tisza Party leading at 33% compared to Fidesz’s 26%. Among confirmed voters, Tisza's support rises to 45%, while Fidesz stands at 36%. The results suggest a narrowing window for undecided voters, now at 26%. Read more here

- New Developments in Rákosrendező Area: The Hungarian government has sold the Rákosrendező area to Eagle Hills Zrt for 50.9 billion HUF, with plans for significant development including buildings up to 500 meters tall. The move comes amid controversy regarding its implications for local infrastructure and public space. Read more here

- MÁV's Station Renovation Program Update: MÁV Zrt. has reported a request from the State Audit Office for data related to its station renovation tender, surprising the company. Officials indicate information will be available after bid evaluations conclude by January 31, sparking discussions on public-private partnerships in Hungary. Read more here

- Budapest to Exercise Preemption Right: Mayor Gergely Karácsony announced that Budapest will use its preemption right on the Rákosrendező area, potentially reclaiming 28 billion HUF following a ruling against an unlawful solidarity contribution from the government. This decision follows strategic legal maneuvers aimed at safeguarding the city’s financial stability. Read more here

- Local Tensions in Politics: Independent MP Bence Tordai criticized the National Health Insurance Fund regarding its response to asthma medication support withdrawals, highlighting the growing burden healthcare cost increases place on residents. This reflects ongoing issues in healthcare funding tied to governmental policies. Read more here

- Salaries Increase for BME Academic Staff: The Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) is implementing salary increases for its academic staff starting January 1, 2025, with assistant lecturers seeing pay rises from 326,000 HUF to 500,000 HUF. This move aims to enhance salaries in the education sector amid ongoing dissatisfaction with current pay rates. Read more here

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