New motorway stretch, twin tube tunnel inaugurated in Hungary – PHOTOS
Local and central government officials inaugurated a 4-kilometre new motorway stretch of the M85 motorway, between the city of Sopron and the border with Austria, on Saturday.
In his speech, Orbán noted that in 1921 Sopron and its surrounding villages voted in a referendum to remain within Hungary’s borders, but the global powers had separated Hungarians with the new borders forced on them. But, he added, the fact that “we are here 103 years later” was a testament to the nation’s strength and its confidence in the future.
The prime minister said that after the first world war Hungary’s enemies had decided that Hungarians “should be small and poor”. But Hungarians never accepted this fate, and “we always wanted Hungary to be a big and rich country”. “If we lose the war, we’ll win peace,” Orbán said. He said Hungarians had always lost out when the nation had been “pushed to civilisational borders”. “We were on the losing end when the Christian-Islam civilisational border was located on the country’s territory, centuries of war cost Hungarian lives, and the country’s economic strength was also lost,” he said.
“We were also losers of the Cold War when we were ripped away from Europe,” the prime minister said. “Sopron was also a loser of this period, with the most difficult period in its history being the time when the Iron Curtain was but a few kilometres away, multiplying all the tragedies of the Trianon peace treaty.”
Sopron has only been able to develop when it was connected to the world around it, Orbán said. The Sopron area connects not just north and south, but also east and west, and is where the Carpathian Basin meets the Alps region, Orbán said. “And what’s true for Sopron is also true for Hungary: it can only develop if it can take advantage of its favourable geographical location and if it connects to the world around it instead of closing itself off,” the prime minister added.
He said this required active political and economic relations as well as infrastructure connecting the country to the rest of the world such as airports, railways, bridges and motorways.
He said his government had decided to turn areas that had been on the periphery during the Cold War into central hubs and “put Hungary on the map, in the middle of Europe”.
The government has spent 4,200 billion forints (EUR 10.3bn) on public road developments over the last 15 years, building 870 kilometres of motorways and highways, Orbán said.
Including the M85 motorway, there are now 10 expressways that extend to the country’s borders compared to just three in 2010, Orbán said.
The completion of the M85 links it with the Austrian border and the entire Hungarian motorway network, he said.
Romania’s accession to the European Union’s passport-free Schengen zone meant that “we have eliminated the Romania-Hungary border”, he said, adding that Saturday’s inauguration could be considered connecting Hungarians in Burgenland with Hungarians in Transylvania.
He said next year will see the M44 expressway linked to the motorway at Kecskemet, in central Hungary, and preparatory works are under way on road M49 as well as the new section of the M4 motorway. Today there are ten four-lane expressways that extend to the border, but that number will rise to 19 within ten years, he added.
Next year the government will spend some 8,100 forints on more than 300 investment projects which will make Hungary a “real connection point” and a commercial and logistics hub in Europe.
Orbán said his plan was that in 2025 “we’ll push the clouds of war aside”, adding that the government was working to make 2025 “a fantastic year” for the economy.
BMW and China’s CATL and BYD plants will start production and the Demjan Sandor Programme which aims to scale up SMEs will also be launched, the prime minister said.
Wages will rise, and Hungary will see an unprecedented minimum wage increase over the next three years, he added.
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Austrian ambulances could soon assist Hungarian patients for faster emergency response
Thanks to a recently signed Austrian-Hungarian agreement, ambulances from Austria may now assist Hungarian patients if they can reach the emergency site faster than Hungarian rescue teams. This development was reported by ORF’s Hungarian-language news site.
Cross-border cooperation for better emergency care
The agreement, finalised during the summer and approved by the Hungarian Parliament in November, aims to improve emergency services along the Austrian-Hungarian border, ORF reported. It allows rescue dispatchers in Burgenland and western Hungary to request mutual assistance when needed. This is particularly beneficial in cases where an Austrian ambulance can respond faster to an emergency in Hungary or if the closest hospital to a critically ill patient is located across the border.
The cooperation will also extend to air rescue services, ensuring that severe cases, including accidents and critical illnesses, can receive timely and effective treatment. Both countries expect this collaboration to enhance safety and healthcare access for patients in border regions.
Benefits for both nations
The agreement is not one-sided. If an Austrian resident suffers an accident in Hungary, local authorities can call for Austrian medical services to transport the patient to a hospital in Austria. The personnel involved in these cross-border operations will have equal rights and responsibilities as their counterparts in the host country.
This arrangement ensures that emergency responders can work seamlessly, overcoming bureaucratic barriers that might otherwise delay critical care. It is designed to save time and lives in situations where every second counts.
Implementation details to follow
Further specifics of this cross-border agreement will be clarified in an upcoming cooperation contract between Burgenland’s provincial leader and Hungary’s Minister of the Interior, Telex wrote based on ORF’s report. This document will outline the exact rules for mobilising ambulances and utilising hospitals in the neighbouring country. It will also establish communication protocols between Austrian and Hungarian rescue dispatch centres, ensuring that the system operates smoothly and efficiently.
This groundbreaking collaboration marks a significant step toward integrated emergency care in the region, offering faster and safer solutions for patients on both sides of the Austrian-Hungarian border.
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Austria’s growing Hungarian population: What’s behind the numbers?
The number of Hungarians living in Austria has increased significantly in recent years, and the number of Hungarians in Austria could reach more than 100,000 by early 2024. Reasons include better job opportunities, a more stable healthcare system and higher incomes.
In an interview with Szeretlek Magyarország, the Császár couple explained their decision to move to Austria: They decided to move because of their child’s health problems, as they could not find adequate care in Hungary. According to them, the Austrian healthcare system is so advanced and reliable that their child is already receiving the treatment he needs.
The basics of living in Austria
In addition to the healthcare system and higher wages, cost coverage is an important consideration in Austria. For instance, a family of three must have an income of EUR 2,000 to obtain a residence permit, which ensures that the family can live on its own. Rental prices are relatively similar in the countryside and in Vienna, usually between EUR 600 and EUR 800, which includes a share of the rent. Car maintenance, internet and telephone costs are also considerable, but two earners can live comfortably.
In terms of food prices, meat and services are more expensive than in Hungary, but the difference in quality makes it worthwhile for many. Rental prices in eastern Austria and western Hungary are converging, so some families are moving to areas close to the border.
When working in Austria, German language skills are a priority, especially for those looking for graduate jobs. Although English may be sufficient for certain professions, such as programming or medicine, it is mainly spoken in Vienna. In rural areas, German is almost essential. There is less demand for language skills in catering and in lower-skilled jobs such as cleaning or dishwashing, but even here, at least a basic knowledge of the language comes as an advantage.
The situation is somewhat easier for skilled workers, as there is a high demand for this type of labour. They can find employment without language skills, as practical skills predominate. Factory workers working three shifts can earn up to €2,000, well above what they can earn at home.
Hungarian Communities and Integration
Austrian society is basically inclusive and does not discriminate between nationalities. This is partly due to the fact that the culture and customs of Hungarians are in many ways similar to those of Austrians, which facilitates integration. Hungarian communities are active, with many Hungarians living in small towns and schools close to the border. Hungarian language assistance is also available in educational institutions and government offices.
A good example of the cohesiveness of Hungarians in Austria is the Hungarians in Austria website and related Facebook group, set up by the Császár couple. The site offers practical advice and helps people navigate the Austrian system, which is very different from the Hungarian system.
Challenges and the possibility of returning
For those moving to Austria, the biggest challenges are language barriers and bureaucracy. Those who set off unprepared are often forced to return home at short notice. However, those who start with careful planning, sufficient financial resources and at least a basic knowledge of the language are more likely to find a permanent job and a home.
The idea of repatriation is often raised, especially by older people, but the conditions for this are currently poor in Hungary. Improvements in the health and pension systems would be key to encouraging people to consider moving home. Subsidies from the Austrian government, such as family allowances or the climate bonus, also make living there more attractive.
The situation of Hungarians living in Austria is varied: higher incomes and better healthcare make the country attractive to many, but language skills and lack of preparation can be a barrier. Integration is generally smooth, thanks to Austria’s welcoming society and the activism of Hungarian communities. Although the idea of returning is sometimes raised, Austria’s more stable economic and social system currently offers more attractive opportunities.
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Featured image: depositphotos.com
PM Orbán’s friend, the wealthiest Hungarian, Lőrinc Mészáros, may buy top Austrian football club
Lőrinc Mészáros is the wealthiest Hungarian who gained his wealth from public procurements won under the prime ministership of Viktor Orbán. Orbán and Mészáros are friends, and both live in Felcsút, a small village near Székesfehérvár. It seems Mészáros wants to buy Austria Wien, one of the top soccer clubs of our western neighbour, which is in second place in the Bundesliga, only 3 points behind Sturm Graz.
Lőrinc Mészáros may buy a top Austrian football association
According to 444, the Hungarian entrepreneur from Felcsút is negotiating with Austria Wien about becoming a shareholder in one of Austria’s top soccer teams. Kurier, a local newspaper, wrote about the talks. Austria Wien needs an investor urgently because they have to buy back some shares from a minority owner by next Saturday. If not, share prices will increase by 20%, an unbearable burden since the club struggles with severe financial problems.
According to the newspaper, the football association’s primary target was to sell its stadium, Estadio Franz Horr, known as Generali Arena, for EUR 45-50 million. However, Lőrinc Mészáros is interested in the club, not the stadium. Reportedly, he expressed that interest months ago. 444 contacted the Mészáros Group with their questions but has not received an answer yet.
With a successful deal, Mészáros could become the minority owner of a renowned Austrian soccer association. So far, Austria Wien has won the Bundesliga 23 times, the Austrian Cup 27 times, and the Austrian Supercup 6 times. They are currently in second place of the Austrian Bundesliga, only three points behind Sturm Graz.
Mészáros owns Felcsút and NK Osijek
This is not the first time that the richest Hungarian has got into the news regarding the purchase of an Austrian club. Four years ago, Mészáros’s name came up in connection with Mattersburg as a potential buyer.
Mészáros is the owner of the Puskás Academy in Felcsút, the prime minister’s village. Felcsút is now a member of the top Hungarian football league.
He also has an interest in Croatia’s football league by owning NK Osijek. The team struggled with financial problems before the acquisition, but under Mészáros’s ownership, it began to flourish. The Hungarian businessman built a new stadium and an academy for a lot of money. However, based on their financial reports, the club is now profitable, generating a solid HUF 6.7 billion (EUR 16.2 million) for the owner last year. That is four times what last year’s champion, Dinamo Zagreb, achieved (HUF 1.7 billion, EUR 4.1 billion). The team’s finances are exceptional in the first-class Croatian football league, in which it occupies 5th place.
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Austria closes off road with a concrete barrier to stop Hungarian commuters
In Austria’s eastern province of Burgenland, a municipal decision to block a cross-border road with a concrete barrier has sparked controversy. The closure, near Kelénpatak (Klingenbach) and Cinfalva (Siegendorf), aims to curb rising traffic linked to Hungarian commuters but has drawn criticism for disrupting local transit. The move highlights tensions in border communities adapting to increasing cross-border movement.
Tension at the border
As we have reported HERE, tensions have been escalating at the Austrian-Hungarian border, particularly affecting commuters from Hungary who travel to the village of Schattendorf. After prolonged road construction, access for Hungarian residents has been severely restricted, forcing them to take a detour of 30 kilometres instead of the usual 2 kilometres to reach their destinations. The Mayor of Schattendorf, Thomas Hoffmann, has not fulfilled his promise to allow “neighbourhood traffic,” and many residents from the nearby village of Ágfalva are struggling to obtain the necessary permits to cross. Despite being willing to pay for access, they face bureaucratic hurdles, including the installation of concrete barriers.
Austria’s drastic act to stop Hungarian commuters
As Telex reports, Austria has implemented another border road closure to address growing traffic from Hungary, particularly commuters travelling from the Sopron region to Austria for work. Following the earlier closure of the Ágfalva–Somfalva crossing, the Klingenbach council decided to block an exit ramp with a concrete barrier, a measure supported by the provincial government. Installed recently, the closure has already intensified morning congestion near the Sopron border, reflecting the increasing challenges posed by rising commuter numbers.
Legal basis?
Following the closure of the Somfalva (Schattendorf) border, many Hungarian commuters rerouted through Klingenbach, prompting Austria’s latest move to block the road. While the inconvenience to residents is understandable, Hungarian commuters fear that more villages in the neighbouring country might follow suit, further complicating their daily journeys. Lawyer Dr Máté Ruzicska, who has previously challenged Austria’s “temporary” border controls since 2015, argues that such actions set concerning legal precedents. These controls, which commuters claim cost time and money, highlight ongoing tensions over cross-border traffic management.
Legal case
A legal challenge against the border controls was dismissed, with the court ruling them “not wholly unlawful”. Similarly, a case against the municipality of Somfalva over local border restrictions ended with the same outcome, though an administrative appeal remains pending. Lawyers argue that Austria’s actions violate EU law. Still, effective advocacy for commuters requires greater political will, both locally and at the European level—something currently lacking or not visible in public discourse. Hungary, they suggest, could play a stronger role in holding Austria accountable within the EU framework.
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- Austrian village makes it impossible for Hungarian commuters to pass the border
- The new Iron Curtain: Huge outrage at the Hungarian–Austrian border
Featured image: illustration, depositphotos.com
Hop on a festive train to Vienna and Zagreb’s Christmas markets with MÁV!
This Advent season, MÁV is offering festive train services to Vienna and Zagreb, with affordable ticket prices and a quick 2.5-hour journey from Budapest to the Austrian capital. Special Advent trains will operate to the Zagreb Christmas Market starting on 14th December. MÁV also presents a Christmas-themed selection of food and drinks on board, with festive meals and warm beverages available for travellers.
Advent EuroCity and Railjet: Festive trains to Vienna
MÁV is bringing the magic of Christmas markets closer to travellers with its festive train services this Advent season, Turizmus.com writes. From Budapest, the trains to Vienna, Austria, offer an efficient and comfortable way to reach the Austrian capital in just 2.5 hours. The Railjet and EuroCity trains operate on an hourly schedule, ensuring frequent and convenient options for passengers.
The special Advent EuroCity trains will run every Saturday from 30th November to 21st December, departing from Budapest’s Keleti station at 8:01 AM and returning from Vienna at 6:04 PM. These trains are particularly popular during the holiday season, and passengers are advised to purchase tickets in advance for the best prices and to guarantee seating. The MÁV-START offers START Europa tickets, which include seat reservations, ensuring a stress-free journey for all passengers.
Travellers can also take advantage of special discounts for children, with tickets for children aged 6-14 priced at just EUR 5, while children under 6 travel for free, making it an ideal family outing.
Zagreb Advent Express by MÁV
In addition to Vienna, MÁV is bringing back the popular Zagreb Advent Express, a special train to Croatia’s famous Christmas market. The train departs from Pécs on 14th December at 6:06 AM, with several stops along the way in Szentlőrinc, Dombóvár, Kaposvár, Somogyszob, and Gyékényes before reaching Zagreb. The round-trip tickets are available for EUR 54 for adults and EUR 38 for children. This festive journey is a great way to experience one of Europe’s most charming Christmas markets, which has earned a reputation for its cultural performances, children’s events, and traditional Croatian culinary delights.
Advent food and drink offers
On board the trains, passengers can indulge in a variety of seasonal dishes and beverages. Railjet trains feature a bistro section where travellers can enjoy festive meals, while EuroCity trains offer a special Christmas menu in the dining car. Highlights include holiday-spiced soups, fish soup, schnitzel with potato salad, stuffed cabbage, and the popular Christmas burger. For dessert, travellers can enjoy traditional treats like poppy seed bread pudding, vanilla custard, and Eszterházy cake. To keep warm, mulled wine and hot rum tea will also be available, adding to the festive atmosphere of the journey.
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The big comparison: Is the Vienna Christmas market cheaper than the Budapest one?
Discover how Vienna’s Christmas market compares to Budapest in both charm and cost. From festive treats to mulled wine and local delicacies, Vienna dazzles with its visual splendour but comes with higher prices. If you’re planning a festive escape, find out where your euros stretch further while soaking up the holiday magic!
Christmas market in Vienna
As HVG writes, the imperial city boasts a rich tradition of Christmas markets, with the Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz standing out as a must-visit. Set against the backdrop of the town hall, this market offers not just a traditional market and festive food and drink but also features a grand Christmas tree, a skating rink, a Ferris wheel, and dazzling decorations. While the market opens at 10 AM, the evening is the best time to experience the enchanting lights, despite the weekend crowds. Visitors are welcomed by a glowing archway and a charming two-storey carousel, adding to the festive allure.
Photo: Daily News Hungary / Fanni Forgács
Food prices
This year’s Christmas market in Vienna offers surprisingly reasonable prices compared to Budapest. While a hot dog near Budapest’s Basilica can cost up to HUF 7,000 (EUR 17.21), here, you can enjoy one with potato chips for just HUF 4,450 (EUR 10.90). Roast chestnuts are also a bargain at HUF 2,000 (EUR 5) compared to HUF 2,800 (EUR 7) in Budapest, and trdelník (similar to Hungary’s chimney cake) is uniformly priced at HUF 2,450 (EUR 6), regardless of flavour.
Although the variety of lángos toppings is limited, they are affordably priced, starting at HUF 2,000 (EUR 5). The market also showcases Austrian culinary delights, such as Tyrolean kiachl—a doughnut-like treat—costing between HUF 2,000 (EUR 5) and HUF 2,800 (EUR 7), making it a feast for both the palate and the wallet.
Drinks
At this year’s Christmas market, drinks come with a EUR 5 deposit for a festive red mug that you can keep as a souvenir. However, drink prices are often higher than in Budapest. A 0.25-litre serving of mulled wine costs EUR 5.40 (around HUF 2,200), compared to EUR 3.56 (HUF 1,450) for 0.3 l in Hungary. Punch is similarly priced, and beer is particularly costly, with some stalls charging up to EUR 4.80 (around HUF 1,950) for a small 0.33-litre pint. While the atmosphere is delightful, be prepared for higher drink costs.
Decoration
The Christmas market in Vienna goes beyond food and drink with an enchanting light show that transforms the space into a festive wonderland. Alongside beautifully decorated stalls, visitors can marvel at LED globes and deer. The trees in the square sparkle with red-lit hearts, and a giant LED heart occasionally floats overhead to the sound of music.
While the organisers have created an Instagram-worthy visual spectacle, the extensive light installations have resulted in cordoned-off lawns, making the space feel more confined compared to the more open layout of Budapest’s market. Nevertheless, Vienna’s market is unmatched in its dazzling, photo-ready atmosphere.
Photo: FB/Advent Basilica Budapest
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Russian gas supplies to Austria disrupted: Will this threaten Hungary’s gas supply?
As Russian gas supplies to Austria face disruptions over pricing disputes, concerns mount for Hungary’s gas supply, which still heavily relies on Russian imports. Despite a significant decline in Russia’s market share since the Ukraine conflict, Hungary remains one of the countries maintaining substantial purchases. This situation underscores the challenges in the European gas market, where geopolitical tensions and rising prices are pushing nations to seek alternative energy sources. What will happen to Hungary’s gas supply?
Pricing disputes
As Reuters reports, Russian gas supplies to Austria were disrupted for a second consecutive day on Sunday due to pricing disputes, prompting other European buyers to acquire the unsold volumes. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges within the European gas market and the collective efforts to diminish reliance on Russian energy sources. Historically, prior to the war in Ukraine, Russia was the predominant gas supplier to Europe; however, it has since lost a significant portion of its clientele across the continent. Despite these shifts, countries such as Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic continue to import substantial amounts of Russian gas, while Italy and Serbia maintain smaller volumes.
The region’s gas supply
As Pénzcentrum writes, Gazprom has halted gas supplies to OMV, the Austrian energy company, following OMV’s threat to seize gas as compensation in a contractual arbitration dispute. Consequently, deliveries to Austria were also suspended on Sunday, although total daily gas deliveries to Europe via Ukraine remained stable at 42.4 million cubic metres. The Slovak state-owned company SPP confirmed its ongoing imports of Russian gas and noted an increase in demand from other European buyers, indicating that interest in Russian gas persists despite the geopolitical tensions.
The situation surrounding Hungary’s gas supply is particularly noteworthy, as Russian gas remains a more cost-effective option compared to alternatives. Austrian officials have stated they possess sufficient gas reserves to manage the shortfall and can source additional supplies from Germany and Italy if needed. As colder temperatures drive up heating demands, European countries are withdrawing from gas storage facilities earlier than in previous years, intensifying the urgency for reliable energy sources.
What will happen to Hungary’s gas supply?
Concerns regarding Hungary‘s gas supply are intensifying as supply and weather factors threaten gas stocks at the end of winter. Aldo Spanjer, Chief Commodity Strategist at BNP Paribas, noted that significant volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) may need to be procured during the summer to meet the European Union’s storage targets. The European benchmark price for gas at the Dutch TTF hub recently reached EUR 45.72 per megawatt-hour, the highest in nearly a year, signalling market tension and worries about future supplies.
As Russia’s market share declines due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Hungary remains reliant on Russian gas, particularly if Ukraine ceases its transit route by year-end. In such a scenario, Hungary’s gas supply will predominantly depend on imports from Slovakia and a new pipeline running through Turkey. This shift is crucial as Gazprom’s remaining supplies to Europe are expected to diminish, necessitating that Hungary adapt its energy strategy to secure reliable sources amidst rising prices and increased competition for LNG across Europe.
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Featured image: depositphotos.com
Wizz Air flight’s emergency landing in Budapest; Hungarian guest workers’ horrific accident
Dense fog over Debrecen in eastern Hungary forced a Wizz Air flight to make an emergency landing in Budapest. Passengers were later transported to Debrecen by bus. Tragically, on the same day, a horrific accident in Austria claimed the lives of three Hungarian guest workers.
Emergency landing in Budapest due to dense fog
According to Blikk, a Hungarian tabloid, heavy fog enveloped Debrecen earlier today. As a result, a Wizz Air flight from London, scheduled to land in Debrecen this afternoon, was redirected to carry out an emergency landing in Budapest after circling above the eastern Hungarian city.
András Vaskó, a meteorologist from Hungaromet, stated that the fog was expected to persist until Monday afternoon. A cold front moving through Hungary is anticipated to clear the fog. Such weather conditions are common in Hungary during November when anticyclones dominate, and the weaker autumn sunshine cannot evaporate moisture effectively. Fog often lingers until winds disperse it. We previously detailed meteorologists’ forecasts for the upcoming week in THIS article.
András Radó, a spokesperson for Wizz Air, confirmed to Blikk that the flight was unable to land in Debrecen due to the adverse weather conditions. He clarified that not all Hungarian airports are equipped with the ILS landing system, which assists pilots in poor visibility. Following the emergency landing in Budapest, passengers were transported to Debrecen by bus, and the delay was limited to a few hours.
Horrific accident in Austria
Three Hungarian guest workers, employed in Austria’s agricultural sector, lost their lives in a tragic accident near Gänserndorf. Their vehicle collided head-on with a tree, *Kronen Zeitung* reported, though the exact circumstances of the incident remain unclear, as cited by index.hu.
Two additional passengers were resuscitated at the scene and transported to a nearby hospital with severe injuries. According to Austrian police, the victims were aged 29, 30, and 39. They were en route to work in the carrot harvest in Lower Austria when the accident occurred.
The tragic incident took place on Friday evening amidst dense fog and darkness on the L9 road towards Breitstetten
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Featured image: illustration, depositphotos.com
Record number of Hungarian students flee the country for higher education abroad
More and more Hungarian students are deciding to continue their studies abroad. While the five most popular destinations have not changed in recent years, certain trends can be seen in the latest data.
Hungarian students abroad
As Portfolio writes, the 2023/2024 academic year is setting a new record for the number of Hungarian students studying abroad, now exceeding 17,500, according to Engame Academy. While Germany and the Netherlands remain popular destinations, the Netherlands is close to overtaking Germany due to recent shifts in students’ preferences. Brexit’s effects continue to impact applications to the UK, while the appeal of the Netherlands is rising. Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and the UK continue to rank as the top five destinations for Hungarian students, although their order has shifted in recent years. Engame Academy’s Rita Nádas advises students planning to study abroad to monitor these changing trends and start preparing during secondary school. Nádas says:
Many Hungarian students only decide on their higher education options in the final year of secondary school, often just before applying for admission. But abroad, successful university admission requires a strong application profile, with sound career guidance and skills development.
The top three
Austria and Germany remain top choices for Hungarian students studying abroad, with Austria attracting 3,862 students and Germany 2,986. Austria’s appeal lies in its free tuition and proximity, while Germany has seen a rise in Hungarian enrolment, nearing 3,000 students. The Netherlands, now in third place with 2,926 students, has become especially popular since Brexit due to its extensive English-language programmes, affordable fees of about EUR 2,500 per year, and an international environment that eases adaptation for non-Dutch speakers.
Denmark and the UK are popular options too
Denmark has secured fourth place for Hungarian students studying abroad, attracting 1,263 students in the 2023/2024 academic year. Known for its high-quality, tuition-free education for EU students, Denmark’s appeal has grown with more English-language courses, driving a 5% rise in Hungarian enrolments. Despite the high cost of living, Denmark’s educational offerings remain attractive to Hungarian students, surpassing the United Kingdom, which has dropped to fifth place. In contrast, only 1,154 Hungarian students currently study in the UK, which has declined significantly post-Brexit due to increased tuition fees and the removal of student loans for EU students.
While the UK previously saw growing interest from Hungarian students, with a record 2,650 enrolments in 2020/2021, Brexit has created substantial obstacles. Ireland is emerging as an alternative, although it still hosts only 161 students from Hungary due to stringent admission requirements.
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French President, Austrian chancellor offered help for PM Orbán’s biggest adversary Magyar
Péter Magyar, leader of the opposition Tisza Party, has had successful talks in Budapest with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer, the leader of the Austrian People’s Party, his party said in a statement on Thursday.
Talks focused on strengthening Hungary-Austria relations and intensifying bilateral political, economic and cultural cooperation between the two countries, the statement added.
In addition to domestic policy, the sides reviewed major European issues, it said.
They discussed the need for strong European regulations against illegal migration, and they were in agreement that all diplomatic means must be used to end the Russia-Ukraine war as soon as possible, it added.
According to the statement, the talks will continue in Vienna. Magyar is also scheduled to meet French President Emmanuel Macron, it added.
Magyar said both offered their help for him but he said the Tisza Party would like to expand independently.
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CNN: Hungarian Christmas Fairs in the World’s Top
CNN Travel collected the world’s best Christmas fairs in an article published on the 3rd of November. They wrote that such events can be traced back to Vienna, where the first recorded Christmas fair was organised in 1298 when the Árpád Dynasty ruled Hungary. Since then, more than seven hundred years have passed, but the Christmas Fair of Vienna remained one of the world’s best. Two Budapest Christmas fairs are also listed on the top.
Vienna’s Christmas fair dates back to the 13th century
According to CNN Travel, they tried to collect Christmas fairs from everywhere in the world: Germany, Switzerland, Singapore and New York.
In the first place, they listed Vienna’s Wiener Christkindlmarkt with its reindeer rides, giant Ferris wheel and classic Nativity scene. They also wrote that there were 20 Christmas markets in the Austrian capital, but this one will open on 16 November to remain open for the public until 26 December. The news outlet did not forget to mention that there is also a 110-square-meter children’s ice rink in front of the City Hall.
We would only like to add that you can easily reach Vienna from Budapest either by car in just three hours or by train. The train departs from Budapest’s Keleti railway station. The journey takes less than three hours. Trains depart every two hours from the Hungarian capital.
The second one was Basel’s Christmas Market, while the third on their list was Strasbourg.
Hungarian Christmas fairs in the world’s top
If you do not want to travel to Vienna, you can travel to one of the world’s top Christmas fairs in Budapest. According to CNN Travel, the Hungarian capital has two main Christmas fairs. The first one is in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of Budapest’s landmarks. The other one, the one at Vörösmarty Square, is located in the city’s heart.
CNN highlighted that participants might enjoy “the regular 3D light shows projected onto” the facade of the famous basilica. Additionally, there are more than 150 vendors selling traditional Hungarian dishes like chimney cake, lángos or Hortobágyi pancake, hot wine and crafts.
The Vörösmarty Square Christmas fair is in the heart of the city, attracting almost a million visitors every year. Its main highlight is the huge and richly decorated Christmas tree and a giant Advent calendar “that reveals a new window display on a daily basis from December 1 to 23.” You can also taste traditional Hungarian dishes, drinks, spirits, like the famous pálinka. You can also find gifts for your family and friends.
The Advent Bazilika Christmas fair will start on 15 November, awaiting visitors until 1 January. The Vörösmarty Square Christmas market will be open from 15 November and close on 31 December.
Read also:
- Here’s when one of the world’s most beautiful Christmas fairs will open in Budapest!
- How do Hungarians celebrate Christmas?
Surprisingly, Hungarians are not only going to the West to work
With Austria, Slovakia, and Romania drawing Hungarians across borders to work, recent statistics from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH) shed light on this growing trend of cross-border employment. Austria remains the most popular destination, with Slovakia and Romania emerging as surprising, though significant, alternatives for Hungarian workers.
Austria is the most popular foreign country for Hungarians to work
In 2022, the KSH reported that 122,000 Hungarian residents commuted to work abroad, making up nearly 3% of Hungary’s total workforce, Portfolio reports. Around 80% of these cross-border commuters headed to Austria, especially from western border towns, motivated by Austria’s higher wages despite the country’s higher cost of living. As of April 2024, Austria employs 118,000 Hungarians, marking a 4.4% increase in one year, according to G7. This influx makes Hungarians the second-largest foreign workforce in Austria, only outnumbered by Germans. Projections suggest that Hungarians may soon become the largest expatriate group in Austria, driven by wage differences and economic opportunities.
Interestingly, almost half of Hungarian employees in Austria commute rather than relocate, given Austria’s higher living costs. Commuting allows them to take advantage of Austria’s higher median wages—around EUR 2,000 monthly for Hungarians—without paying Austria’s elevated rent and consumer prices. Despite earning 27% less than the average Austrian, Hungarian wages in Austria are significantly higher than comparable wages at home, making commuting an attractive option. Yet, Hungarians in Austria often hold physical, non-office roles, with limited options for remote work, and the Hungarian government has yet to support remote work arrangements through a framework agreement, adding a layer of complexity to these cross-border jobs.
More and more people commute to Slovakia and Romania too
Surprisingly, Hungary’s eastern and northern border regions are also seeing substantial commuting patterns to Slovakia and Romania. According to KSH’s findings, many residents from Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County travel to Košice in Slovakia, while others from southeastern Hajdú-Bihar County commute to Oradea in Romania. Sándor Baja, CEO of Randstad Hungary, noted during the Budapest Economic Forum that a trip to Biharkeresztes would reveal “dozens of buses transporting Hungarian workers to Oradea.” This observation hints at a shifting perception of Romania’s wage competitiveness.
Recent insights challenge Hungary’s traditional view of Romania as a lower-wage country. As Árpád Boros, Staufen’s country manager for Hungary and Romania, explained, Romania’s wages have largely caught up with those in Hungary. In certain regions, wages in Romania even exceed those in Hungary, positioning Romania as an increasingly viable destination for Hungarian workers seeking better pay.
Higher wages key motivator for Hungarians
Higher wages remain a key motivator for these commuters, yet the decision is not purely financial. Austria’s living costs, 1.6 times those of Hungary’s according to Eurostat, mean that cost-adjusted wage advantages diminish, as we wrote earlier. When factoring in the cost of living, the Austrian median gross wage only represents a 1.6 times increase over Hungarian wages, rather than the 2.5 times difference indicated by unadjusted figures. Despite hopes that Hungary’s rising wages might curb cross-border commuting, the widening wage gap is pushing more Hungarians to seek better-paying opportunities abroad each year.
Whether in Austria’s bustling sectors or Romania and Slovakia’s border industries, the appeal of cross-border employment persists, fueled by wage disparities and limited remote work options at home. As neighbouring countries attract growing numbers of Hungarian workers, these cross-border patterns underscore the ongoing economic challenges faced by Hungary’s workforce.
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Erste Bank Hungary’s profit after tax up by a quarter in Q1-Q3
After-tax profit of Austrian-owned Erste Bank Hungary reached HUF 113bn (EUR 280m) in Q1-Q3, climbing from HUF 90bn (EUR 220m) in the base period, chairman-CEO Radovan Jelasity said at a press conference on Monday.
Operating revenue rose to HUF 183bn from HUF 150bn. Revenue from commissions and fees climbed 22pc.
Stock of client loans, including corporate bonds, edged up 2.2pc in the twelve months to the end of September. The lender’s NPL ratio fell to 2.3pc from 2.8pc.
Outlays in Q1-Q3 rose 25pc from the base period, Erste said.
Retail lending stock increased 11pc, while outlays were up 60pc. New mortgage volume more than doubled and outlays of personal loans increased 40pc. Outlays to SMEs slipped 4pc.
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Stock of retail deposits and managed investments reached HUF 6,163bn at the end of September, up 20pc from twelve months earlier. The share of investments reached a record 71pc.
Corporate lending stock, including bond subscriptions, fell 7pc to HUF 1,102bn in the twelve months to end-September.
At the press conference, it was also announced that after a decade’s hiatus, Erste is again financing residential real estate development: the bank has signed a loan agreement worth more than HUF 12 billion with LIVING to finance the construction of the 257-apartment Rome Park.
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A cold reality: More people freeze to death in a year in Hungary than in a decade in Austria
Hungary recorded a staggering number of hypothermia-related deaths last year, with 247 people succumbing to freezing temperatures—far more than Austria, where only 35 cases occurred, despite colder winters. Hungarian politician Bence Tordai highlighted these figures on social media, emphasising that more people died of cold in Hungary in 2023 alone than in Austria over the past decade. He argues this reflects a deep-seated issue in Hungary, with many elderly individuals struggling to keep warm in inadequately heated homes.
As reported by Telex, according to data from Hungarian and Austrian statistical offices, shared by Hungarian Member of Parliament Bence Tordai on Facebook, more people died from hypothermia in Hungary in 2023 than in Austria over the past ten years. This stark comparison draws attention to a crisis affecting Hungary’s most vulnerable, particularly the elderly.
Austria: similar population, colder winters, far less hypothermia-related deaths
The 2023 statistics reveal that hypothermia ranked as the third leading cause of accidental death unrelated to vehicle accidents in Hungary. In Austria, which has a similar population size but typically colder winters, only 35 individuals died from cold last year. Tordai noted that comparing these figures across a decade underscores the severity of Hungary’s situation: fewer people died of hypothermia in Austria in the past ten years than in Hungary in 2023 alone. He suggests this troubling trend points to government responsibility.
Tordai’s post also provided insight into the demographics and locations of the victims. According to Hungary’s Central Statistical Office (KSH), 70% of those who died from hypothermia were over 60, with 60% of these deaths occurring at home. Contrary to common perception, hypothermia primarily affects those in poorly heated homes rather than those living on the streets. Only 17% of cases occurred in public spaces.
Authorities have failed to address the issue
The MP criticised the government for its inaction, claiming that despite proposals aimed at preventing hypothermia deaths and alleviating Hungary’s housing crisis, authorities have failed to address the issue.
Every year, hundreds of people die from hypothermia in Hungary, with the problem deeply rooted in the country’s housing crisis. A Telex article published last December detailed similar findings, with data from KSH confirming that elderly individuals frequently die from cold in their own homes.
Approximately three million people in Hungary are estimated to be affected by housing instability, struggling to afford rent, mortgage payments, and utility costs. Compounding this issue, nearly 520,000 Hungarians lived in poorly heated homes in 2020, shedding light on how many could be at risk of hypothermia within their own walls.
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Hungary stands alone: Orbán declares nation a ‘conservative island’ in Europe’s ‘liberal ocean’
Unlike many other European Union member states, Hungary has not taken in people belonging to foreign cultures, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said in an interview with Austria’s ServusTV on Thursday, adding that Hungary pursued a family-friendly policy and was a “conservative island in the European liberal ocean”.
The prime minister said there were more children being born today on the southern side of the Mediterranean than on the northern side, adding that Germany and Austria, for example, were not defending against this trend, but instead saw the solution to this problem in migration policy. Hungary, on the other hand, favoured supporting families, he said.
He said the trend of deaths outstripping births was the result of the policies of the last 30-40 years, noting Europe’s shrinking and ageing population.
Orbán said “money alone” would not increase the birth rate, arguing that a family-friendly culture was needed.
This, he added, required that young people feel secure and choose to have families. He said this called for a predictable economic policy, persistence and a change in mindset, which, he said, meant at least 10-20 years.
Orbán said the European economy was “suffering from pneumonia” and had serious problems.
He cited French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent warning that the EU could be “out of the market” within two or three years, and former European Central Bank chief Mario Draghi’s warning that the European economy could fail.
The prime minister said the signs of this decline were visible in the Austrian and German economies and many other places, underlining the need to make the European economy competitive again.
He said the crux of this problem was energy prices, arguing that Brussels’ policies had led to European companies having to pay 2-3 times what American businesses are paying for electricity, while gas was 3-4 times more expensive. Europe, he added, could not compete like this, and needed a new energy policy, otherwise its businesses would go bankrupt.
As regards migration, Orbán said there were two different kinds of European countries: those that had taken in people belonging to foreign — mainly Islamic — cultures, and those that had not, noting that Hungary belonged to the latter group.
Hungary, he said, only issued as many work permits to those belonging to foreign cultures as were needed in the labour market, and they had to leave the country once their work permit expired.
Orbán said Hungarians believed illegal migration never made matters better anywhere, only worse, arguing that it led to a rise in crime, anti-Semitism and homophobia.
Nobody in Hungary wanted illegal migrants in the country, he said, adding that Hungary was a “conservative island in the European liberal ocean”.
Meanwhile, Orbán said he considered it important for there to be more and more patriotic heads of government in Europe, adding that he trusted that Austria would soon have a head of government from the Freedom Party (FPO). He said there was also a good chance that Czechia would elect a patriotic leader and that Marine Le Pen’s party could form a government in France.
Orbán said four or five EU countries being led by patriotic heads of government would also have a positive impact on Brussels’ policies.
He criticised EU policy, saying that the leadership in Brussels had created a culture and a hegemonic mindset in which one who was not a liberal could not be considered a democrat. He said this culture had been created with the help of US financier George Soros, who was “pumping money” into this kind of politics.
Orbán said there was also room on the political scene for liberals, and encouraged them to express their views, after which voters would make their choice.
Concerning the war in Ukraine, the prime minister said he was not “pro-Russian”, but rather pro-peace, adding, at the same time, that the conflict was a “fraternal war which we have nothing to do with”.
He said there was a major risk of the war expanding, which would lead to a world war, and called for an urgent ceasefire and peace talks.
Orbán underscored the importance of next week’s US presidential election, saying that Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, had not started any wars during his presidency, and had ended any ongoing wars as quickly as he could.
As regards stopping illegal migration, the prime minister said he would “sit down with President Trump”, and Europeans and Americans could conclude “good agreements”. He said Trump would be replacing a “pro-war president” as a “pro-peace president”, which could also bring about change in the policies coming out of Brussels.
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Orbán and Austria’s Kickl sign Vienna declaration for ‘patriotic’ European reform
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Herbert Kickl, the leader of Austria’s Freedom Party, signed a joint declaration in Vienna on Thursday.
Hungary and Austria wanted to reaffirm their commitment to their friendly and neighbourly ties as well as their unwavering historical and cultural relations.
The sides expressed their joint will “to work on preserving and developing the diversity of our wonderful European continent as an alliance of positive reforms”.
“We are especially proud that we have concluded an alliance at a European level, with successful partners from Europe’s great nations, that is aware of the special responsibility arising from the Western character of our continent,” the declaration says. “It is our intention to become a force serving Europe and bringing positive change as equal partners and friends. Patriotism is a form of pride for our own country and its culture. And only those who appreciate their own country can understand and respect others’ patriotism.”
The signatories believe that reforming Europe and the European Union does not call for forced centralisation and making institutions even more complicated, but for “returning power to the people and to the MPs elected by member states”.
The key to a successful reform of Europe lies in appreciating and preserving the diversity of the continent’s peoples, national cultures and lifestyles. The political weight of Brussels needs to be reduced and at the same time, member states’ direct and parliamentary democracy should be strengthened.
“We believe that the greatest danger to European culture is extensive illegal migration and the organised abuse of asylum rights,” the declaration says. “These do not just lead to conflicts between various cultures, but also to the decline of native cultures, thereby threatening the character of Europe itself. All available tools of the rule of law must be used to tackle illegal migration and the abuse of asylum rights.”
The signatories take a firm stand against “the absurd idea that there are other genders besides men and women, and against our children losing their identity already at a young age through left-wing sensitisation efforts”.
The signatories actively support ending the wars going on in the world as soon as possible through ceasefire and negotiations, calling on Europe to provide a venue for peace negotiations and thereby for a return to the original idea that regarded the European Union as a peace project, the declaration says.
“We, the Patriots for Europe, want the European Union to focus on its actual goals, that is to ensure peace, freedom, security and prosperity for as many citizens as possible. We affirm our intention to further consolidate and strengthen our successful alliance internally, as well as to expand it externally,” the Vienna Declaration states.
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Masses of Hungarians move to live and work in Austria
The number of Hungarians living in Austria has increased significantly since 2019, according to the statistics of the Austrian immigration office.
According to 444.hu, in 2019, 79 thousand Hungarians lived in our Western neighbour. In 2024, that number grew to 94.7 thousand. In Burgenland, a former territory of the Kingdom of Hungary and Austria’s Easternmost territory, 40,900 locals were born outside the country. That is 13,6% of the region’s population and is a 22.8% rise compared to 2019.
The biggest foreign group in Burgenland are the Hungarians. Their number is slightly above 8,300. The following group is those born in Germany (4,600), and Romania (4,500). In Vienna, 25 thousand Hungarians live, while their number was only 23 thousand in 2019.
On a national level, the most numerous foreign group in Austria are the Germans (265 thousand). They are followed by those born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Türkiye, Romania, and Serbia.
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