Latest news in Hungary - 8 Feb 2025

- 2024's Secret Government Resolutions: Hungary's government continues to issue secret resolutions, with 28 classified documents in 2024—a steady rate from the previous year. In comparison, there were 457 published resolutions. Ministers can now allocate funds based on performance, lessening the need for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's direct approval for small amounts. Read more here

- New Specialized Hospital Care Directive: A new directive from Interior Minister Sándor Pintér specifies who is eligible for specialized care at the North Pest Center Hospital. High-ranking officials, national athletes, and internationally protected individuals can access this specialized care, with some leeway for exceptional law enforcement cases. Read more here

- Budapest Police Initiate Increased Checks: Increased police inspections have been observed in Budapest’s underpasses due to public order complaints. Recent operations inspected 446 individuals, resulting in eight detentions. The initiative is part of efforts to enhance safety in key areas like Kálvin Square and Blaha Lujza Square. Read more here

- MVM Diversifies Gas Supply: MVM Group has shifted gas supply routes, redirecting supplies from Ukraine to the Turkish Stream for enhanced energy security. The CEO emphasized the importance of varied supply routes and confirmed the ongoing long-term contract with Russia. Read more here

- B My Lake Festival Moves to Lake Velence: This year’s B My Lake festival will take place at Velence’s North Beach from July 24 to 26, marking its departure from Lake Balaton. The event promises nearly 100 DJs in the electronic music scene and is expected to draw tens of thousands of fans. Read more here

- Significant Water Shortages Due to Dry Weather: Hungary faces critical water shortages and poor soil conditions, attributed to significantly below-average precipitation in early 2024. This situation is affecting plant growth and has led to expectations of low temperatures without substantial rainfall in the coming weeks. Read more here

- New Leadership Selection for Budapest Companies: In a bid to improve transparency, the Budapest assembly approved open applications for leadership roles in city companies, including the Budapest Transport Center. This decision follows concerns about corruption due to past project controversies. Read more here

- Challenges Ahead for Rákosrendező Development: Mayor Gergely Karácsony highlighted potential challenges related to financing and state support for the Rákosrendező project, indicating it may take five years before construction begins, stressing the need for effective planning and community input. Read more here