Latest news in Hungary - 7 Feb 2025

- Budapest's Rákosrendező Area Development Plans: Mayor Gergely Karácsony has outlined ambitious redevelopment plans for the Rákosrendező area, aiming to convert it into a Park City with 8,000 to 10,000 affordable apartments and a large public park. The project is expected to take up to twenty years, with city officials emphasizing community involvement in the planning process. Read more here

- Government's withdraws from Rákosrendező Project: The Hungarian government has officially withdrawn from the previously controversial Mini-Dubai development plan in Rákosrendező. BKM Zrt., a municipally-owned company, will now have the opportunity to purchase the land, with Mayor Karácsony stressing that local interests will take precedence over foreign investments. Read more here

- Influenza Cases Rise in Hungary: Over 83,000 people sought medical assistance for influenza-like symptoms in Hungary last week. Authorities reported 244 confirmed influenza cases among tested samples, alongside increases in other respiratory viruses. Increased vigilance and preventive measures are advised as Influenza A variants rise sharply. Read more here

- Major M1 Motorway Expansion Plans: The M1 motorway will undergo a major upgrade to expand from Budapest to Győr, increasing its capacity to six lanes. The project, projected to cost around 800 billion HUF, aims to improve suburban transport and is expected to start in August 2025. Read more here

- New Cybersecurity Commissioner Appointed: Farkas Örs has been appointed as Hungary’s new Commissioner Responsible for Cybersecurity, tasked with enhancing the country's digital security measures. This position will play a critical role in addressing contemporary technological challenges. Read more here

- Healthcare Funding Crisis Highlighted: The President of the Hungarian Medical Chamber has raised concerns over chronic underfunding in the healthcare system, calling for a demonstration on March 8 to demand increased investment. He highlighted the urgent need for reforms amid alarming preventable death rates. Read more here

- Orbán's Upcoming Annual Speech: Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is scheduled to deliver his annual evaluation speech on February 22. This significant political event will set the tone for the upcoming parliamentary session beginning on February 24, marking an important moment in Hungarian politics. Read more here

- Heating Issues at Fazekas Mihály School: The Fazekas Mihály Primary School in Budapest is grappling with heating problems, temporarily relocating classes while awaiting repairs. Authorities assure that all classes are currently within legal temperature standards. Read more here