Latest news in Hungary - 21 May 2025

Fidesz Seeks Foreign Donations Amid Controversy: The Hungarian ruling party Fidesz is set to debate a bill aimed at increasing transparency but critics argue it targets NGOs and media receiving foreign funds. Ironically, Fidesz is actively soliciting donations from abroad, raising questions about how they will ensure these contributions comply with their own proposed regulations. Read more here

Fire Sparks Evacuations in Budapest's VIII District: A fire on the roof of a residential building on Déri Miksa Street led to the evacuation of 25 residents, but was quickly controlled by firefighters, affecting only a one-square-meter area. Read more here

Man Rescued After Tram Accident in Budapest: A man was rescued after being struck by a tram on Kőrösi Csoma Sándor Road on Tuesday evening, with firefighters using a lift to tilt the tram for his extraction. He was taken to the hospital, but details regarding his condition remain unknown. Read more here

Traffic Closures in Budapest Due to Delegation Movements: Starting from May 21, 2025, various roads in Budapest will face multiple closures as a result of delegation movements, with changes affecting the I, V, VI, XIV, and XV districts at different times throughout the day. Significant routes such as Andrássy út and Várkert Bazár will be impacted. Read more here\

Investment Boost for Városmajor Park Development: Following a 20 million forint contribution from István Tiborc's BDPST Group, the Városmajor Park renovation initiative has attracted over 150 million forints in support from various sources, including private donations and local companies. Despite past delays in funding, the two opposition-led districts are now actively engaging with the community on how to improve the park, aiming for a total of 600-700 million forints for a significant makeover. Read more here

Increased Police Checks for Cyclists and Motorcyclists: From May 21 to 23, Hungarian police will conduct intensified checks on cyclists and motorcyclists as part of the European "2Wheelers" operation. Officers will monitor the use of high-visibility clothing, helmets, lighting devices, and adherence to regulations, aiming to enhance safety and reduce injury severity in accidents. Read more here

Vitézy Calls for BKV Investigation: Dávid Vitézy has proposed that the Capital Assembly initiate an investigation into BKV's leadership, focusing on potential corruption over the past eight years and reviewing past IT and cleaning contracts. He also suggests extending the application deadline for new leadership roles and claims that Mayor Gergely Karácsony misused his powers in recent appointments. Read more here

Stormy Weather Ahead: Over the next 72 hours, Hungary will experience heavy rainfall and strong winds, with more than 10 mm of precipitation expected nationwide. While showers and thunderstorms are likely Wednesday through Friday, clearer and sunnier conditions should return by the weekend, with temperatures ranging from 13 to 26 degrees Celsius. Read more here\

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