Latest news in Hungary - 24 Jul 2025

Kneecap Performance Banned in Hungary: The Hungarian government has prohibited the rap trio Kneecap from entering the country for three years, citing national security concerns and anti-Semitic hate speech as reasons, following plans for their performance at the Sziget Festival. The decision aims to protect Hungarian Jewish communities, as the band has previously faced backlash for their controversial political views. Read more here

Karácsony Summoned as Suspect: Gergely Karácsony, the Mayor of Budapest, has been summoned for questioning as a suspect in an ongoing investigation linked to this year's historic Pride event, stating he is proud to stand for freedom amidst the scrutiny. The mayor's questioning is scheduled for next week, but the police have not provided further details on the case. Read more here

Entry Ban for Children Under 14 at Major Baths: Budapest's Rudas and Széchenyi Baths are now off-limits to children under 14 due to new regulations aimed at health and safety. The decree restricts young visitors from using thermal pools unless accompanied by an adult and with a medical prescription. However, other baths like Palatinus and Páskl, which have children's pools, remain accessible for young ones. Read more here

Nationwide Heat Alert in Hungary: Hungary is under a third-level heat alert from July 23 to July 26, 2025, due to extreme temperatures, affecting vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. Authorities urge everyone to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight from 11 AM to 3 PM, and maintain caution on the roads. Read more here

Controversial Eviction in Óbuda: Farmer Péter Seres remains on city-owned property amid ongoing eviction attempts by authorities in Óbuda, which have been stalled due to disputes over access and animal welfare concerns. The city is facing a lengthy legal battle as Seres claims adverse possession over the land they occupy, despite the municipality's documentation of unauthorized land use. Read more here

Szijjártó Defends LGBTQ+ Rights in CNN Interview: In a recent CNN interview, Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó asserted that love is free in Hungary while addressing concerns about same-sex couples expressing affection publicly. He emphasized that while provocative behavior at Pride events is discouraged, same-sex couples are welcome in Budapest without fear of arrest. Szijjártó also discussed Hungary's stance on Ukraine and the EU. Read more here

Allegations of Cover-Up in Swimming Abuse Case: Kristián Kulcsár, the former president of the Hungarian Olympic Committee, has accused the Hungarian Olympic Committee and Swimming Federation of covering up allegations of decades-long abuse by late swimming coach Széchy Tamás. He criticized the silence of sports officials, and Olympic champion Katinka Hosszú also expressed concern over the federation's failure to protect young athletes. Read more here

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