Latest news in Hungary - 25 Jun 2025

Nationwide Fire Ban in Hungary: A nationwide fire ban will be enforced starting Wednesday due to extreme heat and ongoing drought conditions, prohibiting fires in forests, tree plantations, designated fire pits, and burning wild vegetation. Authorities warn that the risk of rapid fire spread is high, with the potential for major environmental damage if the ban is not observed. Read more here

Investigation Launched Against Wizz Air: The capital government office is investigating Wizz Air after the cancellation of the Dubai-Budapest flight left passengers stranded in Riyadh without assistance. The inquiry will assess if the airline met its obligations regarding passenger support and compensation, with potential fines of up to 650 million Forints if violations are found. Read more here

Historic Salary Increase for Researchers: The Hungarian Research Network (HUN-REN) has secured 18 billion forints from the government for immediate salary increases for researchers and staff, marking a significant step towards enhancing the appreciation of scientific work. Additionally, HUN-REN's Steering Committee has decided to integrate several research centers under ELTE, prompting concerns from some researchers regarding the impact on the network's cohesion. Read more here

Hungary's Astronaut Launches to the ISS: After a 45-year hiatus, Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu is set to launch to the International Space Station, marking a significant milestone for the country's space program, HUNOR. Kapu, selected from 240 candidates, will conduct scientific research aboard the ISS, supported by a $99 million space development program initiated by the Hungarian government. Read more here

Extreme Heat Alert in Hungary: A red code has been declared for eight counties, including Budapest, with temperatures potentially reaching up to 39 degrees Celsius on Thursday. Authorities are urging social institutions to assist homeless individuals during this heatwave, which is expected to last until a cold front arrives on Thursday evening, bringing cooler weather by Friday. Read more here\

Giant Night Moths Swarm Hungary: The silver gamma moth, a nocturnal insect causing agricultural damage, is currently invading various districts in Hungary, including Budapest. While these moths are not new to the area, their population has surged, leading to potential challenges for farmers, particularly for crops like tomatoes. Residents are encouraged to monitor their surroundings and report any significant sightings. Read more here

International Porn Scandal Linked to Hungary: An investigation by the European Investigative Collaborations has uncovered that the payment services provider Worldline, with ties to Hungary, has been involved in processing funds for criminal clients, including French porn businesses, while charging unusually high commissions. The scandal highlights questionable financial practices and connections to illegal online casinos and prostitution, raising legal scrutiny for associated Hungarian companies. Read more here

Tiborcz Acquires Marriott Hotel in Budapest: Tiborcz István's companies have expanded their hospitality portfolio by purchasing the Marriott Hotel in Budapest, now owning a total of seven hotels in the city, including notable locations like the Gellért and Svábhegy Grand Hotel. This acquisition highlights Tiborcz's growing wealth and influence in Hungary's real estate market, with his hotels predominantly located on Pest's Apáczai Csere János and Dorottya Streets. Read more here

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