Latest news in Hungary - 24 Sep 2025

Police Intervene Amid Taxi Protests: On September 24, police towed away obstructive taxis on Margaret Bridge and Andrássy Avenue during protests organized by taxi unions. A total of eight taxis received misdemeanor reports, and fines were imposed in six cases. The taxi drivers are demanding changes to proposed regulations that they feel do not support their interests. Read more here\

First Hungarian Completes Via Dinarica Trail: Júlia Bakó, a 31-year-old sociologist, has likely become the first Hungarian to complete the 1,300 km Via Dinarica hiking trail, finishing her journey over 55 days and climbing Maja e Jezercës in the Accursed Mountains. Her adventure, which took her through untouched nature and various national parks, aims to raise awareness about the trail and inspire more women to take on long-distance hiking. Read more here

Significant Shortage of Police Officers in Hungary: Hungary is facing a shortage of at least 4,500 police officers, with last year's police academy graduation rates at an all-time low. Officers cite low wages and high workloads as key reasons for their dissatisfaction, with average salaries struggling to keep pace with inflation. Only 240 applied for patrol training last year, resulting in just 22 graduates. Read more here

Pécs Doctor and Coroner Sentenced for Illegal Bone Trade: A physician and a coroner in Pécs received suspended sentences and fines for illegally trading human bones for educational purposes, with the doctor sentenced to 1 year and 8 months and the coroner to 1 year and 6 months. Their illicit activities were uncovered in 2019 when human bones were found improperly stored, leading to a scandal involving bribery and unauthorized extraction. Read more here.

Recall of Chocolate Products Due to Contamination: Real Nature Ltd. has recalled its 75-gram dark chocolate cherries and almonds after potential contamination with moth remnants was reported. The National Trade and Consumer Protection Authority urges consumers not to eat these products and has implemented measures for their withdrawal from circulation. Read more here

Homeless Shelters Under Scrutiny: The Capital Government Office has initiated a procedure to revoke the operating license of MET's homeless shelters due to serious unaddressed deficiencies found during inspections. While MET must demonstrate compliance to continue its activities, officials assure that alternative care provisions will be available for homeless individuals. Read more here

Budapest's Financial Crisis Deepens: A recent preliminary report indicates that the Municipality of Budapest is facing a worsening financial situation, with claims of potential technical bankruptcy by the end of 2023. Key findings highlight declining financial assets, a lack of transparency in budget reports, and a significant portion of the 2026 budget already spent by September 2025, raising concerns over the city's financial management and sustainability. Read more here

Garbage Collectors' Strike in Budapest: Garbage collection services have halted in Budapest as workers strike due to shortages of sanitation supplies and equipment. This strike impacts various collection points, with delays in bulky and green waste disposal reported. The situation echoes previous strikes over wage concerns that were resolved quickly through negotiations. Read more here

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