Latest news in Hungary - 24 May 2025

Internal Conflict in KDNP: Tensions are rising within the KDNP as Gergely Gaal resigns from the party's presidency amid a public fallout with party president Zsolt Semjén over campaign strategies and internal governance issues, highlighting dissatisfaction with the party's dependency on Fidesz and calls for greater independence ahead of the 2025 elections. Read more here

KDNP Proposes Law for Manned Checkouts: In response to concerns from pensioners about automated checkout machines, István Simicskó of the KDNP has proposed a law that would require stores over 400 square meters to offer at least one manned checkout. He argues for the need to prioritize a human-centered shopping experience, allowing customers the choice of payment methods. Read more here

MEPs Demand Suspension of EU Funds to Hungary: A group of 26 Members of the European Parliament has urged the EU to freeze all funds allocated to Hungary, citing concerns over the deterioration of the rule of law under Viktor Orbán's government. Key issues highlighted include government interference with the Integrity Authority, judicial independence, and the ban on the Budapest Pride march. The European Commission is currently reviewing this request. Read more here

Szijjártó Criticizes Trump's Proposed Tariffs: Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has condemned U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion of a 50% tariff increase, blaming Brussels for failing to negotiate effectively, and calling the situation harmful to Europe's economy. He reiterated Hungary's call for the EU to reduce tariffs against the U.S. as tensions rise over trade policies. Read more here

European Commission Urges Hungary to Repeal Anti-Transparency Law: The European Commission is calling for the Hungarian government to withdraw its proposed anti-transparency law, stating it violates EU principles and threatens civil society. Over 320 organizations have also urged immediate action against the bill, which they claim endangers independent media and the rule of law. Read more here

Turkic States Organization Summit in Hungary: Hungary hosted the informal summit of the Turkic States Organization, marking its deepening ties with Turkic nations and underscoring its unique position as the only non-Turkic EU member in the group. The event highlighted Hungary’s aim to enhance energy relations amidst EU scrutiny, coupled with the government framing this approach as a defiance against EU energy policies while pursuing strategic investments in the region. Read more here\

Péter Magyar Faces Counter-Protest in Oradea: During a speech in Oradea after completing a 300 km march, Tisza Party president Péter Magyar encountered a group of counter-protesters who disrupted his address with shouts and honking, while Romanian gendarmes intervened. Despite the tensions, Magyar expressed gratitude to all attendees before concluding his speech. Read more here

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