Latest news in Hungary - 24 Jun 2025

Fishing on Orfű Warns of Major Drug Raids: The organizers of the Fishing on Orfű festival, starting June 15, are cautioning attendees about heightened police activities, including identity checks and inspections due to a new drug law. This marks an unprecedented level of scrutiny for the event, as no similar drug-related measures have been taken in its 18-year history. Read more here

New Law Prohibits Begging with Animals: The Hungarian Parliament has passed an amendment making begging with live animals a misdemeanor, with fines of up to 50,000 forints possible. While aimed at protecting animal welfare, social workers express concern that vulnerable individuals may be unfairly penalized, as pets can provide crucial emotional support during difficult times. Read more here

Daily News for Curious Minds

Be the smartest person in the room by reading 1440! Dive into 1440, where 4 million Americans find their daily, fact-based news fix. We navigate through 100+ sources to deliver a comprehensive roundup from every corner of the internet – politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a quick, 5-minute newsletter. It's completely free and devoid of bias or political influence, ensuring you get the facts straight. Subscribe to 1440 today.

Sign up now!

33 Embassies Support Budapest Pride: In a significant show of solidarity, 33 embassies, led by the Netherlands, have jointly affirmed their support for the upcoming 30th Budapest Pride, advocating for LGBTQ rights and freedom of expression. Despite a recent decree banning the parade, Budapest's mayor insists this does not affect the officially supported event. Read more here

Free Water for MÁV Group Passengers: In response to a third-degree heat alert, MÁV Group will provide free bottled water to passengers from June 24-26 at major train stations in Budapest and select regional locations. Water distribution will take place daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, and passengers are encouraged to show a valid ticket when collecting their bottled water. Read more here

Budapest Pride March This Saturday: The Budapest Pride march is set to begin at 2 PM on Saturday from City Hall Park, with Mayor Gergely Karácsony emphasizing the event’s significance amidst regulatory challenges. He anticipates record attendance and insists that it will be a municipal event, aiming to sidestep potential legal restrictions. Read more here

Mol Group Takes Over Budapest University of Technology and Economics: The Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) has officially transitioned to private maintenance, with the Mol Group acquiring its maintenance rights for 50 billion forints. This move, supported by a two-thirds majority of the BME Senate, aims to foster closer ties between academia and industry, potentially enhancing research and innovation initiatives at the university. Read more here

Mass Layoffs at Dunaújvárosi Steelworks: On June 23rd, Dunarolling Dunai Vasmű Kft. laid off 1,700 employees in a single day, issuing termination notices in a long, alphabetical queue. This follows reports of the company's impending liquidation, with another 800 layoffs planned for July 1. Read more here

Hungary Secures $4 Billion Loan Amid Budget Struggles: The Hungarian government has successfully sold $4 billion in dollar-denominated bonds, garnering three times the subscription amount and indicating strong investor confidence despite a looming budget deficit. This move comes as the economy is not expected to grow this year, necessitating increased borrowing to manage government finances. Read more here

Dave Chappelle to Perform in Budapest: Acclaimed comedian Dave Chappelle will bring his stand-up act to Budapest on July 17 at the Eiffel Műhelyház, with a mobile phone-free policy in place for attendees. Tickets for registered Live Nation members go on sale on June 25, with general sales opening a day later. Read more here

Péter Magyar's Immunity Cases Reviewed by EU Parliament: The European Parliament's Justice Committee has discussed two immunity cases against Péter Magyar, linked to allegations of defamation and misconduct, with a third case recently added. These proceedings highlight ongoing tensions within Hungarian politics, as Magyar vows to resign his immunity if Hungary joins the European Public Prosecutor's Office. Read more here

-