Zelensky’s adviser defends PM Orbán: Claims Hungarian leader is ‘not pro-Russian at all’
The war in Ukraine has intensified with North Korean troops bolstering Russia in Kursk, prompting Ukraine, with Western backing, to expand the use of its longer-range weapons. Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak was questioned about PM Orbán’s perceived pro-Russian leanings and shared insights on Hungarian-Ukrainian ties, highlighting doubts about Russia’s rational leadership in an interview with Telex.
Russia is not rational
According to the interview with Telex, Mykhailo Podolyak thinks that PM Orbán’s calls for early negotiations in the EU reflect a belief in dialogue over escalation, a stance rooted in rational diplomacy. However, Ukrainian officials argue that this approach misunderstands Russia’s motivations and leadership under Vladimir Putin. While PM Orbán’s preference for dialogue aims to foster alliances and stability, the Ukrainian adviser warns that Russia operates on emotional, not rational, grounds. Driven by resentment over its Cold War defeat, Russia seeks revenge rather than cooperation, prioritising territorial aggression over lucrative economic opportunities with Europe. This, they argue, highlights the futility of negotiating with a state fuelled by hatred and ambition rather than pragmatism.
Is PM Orbán pro-Russian?
Mykhailo Podolyak says that despite perceptions, Ukraine does not view PM Orbán as pro-Russian but rather as a pragmatic leader prioritising Hungary’s national interests. While his actions may occasionally align with Russian goals, Ukrainian officials stress that Hungary remains committed to its shared values and agreements as part of the EU. Ukraine actively engages with Hungary through high-level dialogue and specialised committees, aiming for gradual progress in their relations. Ukrainian officials emphasise that no European leader, including PM Orbán, is ideologically aligned with Russia, recognising the long-term dangers of its violent and destabilising policies despite any short-term advantages.
Hungarian-language education in Transcarpathia
PM Orbán’s government has long expressed concerns over the preservation of Hungarian-language education in Transcarpathia, a sensitive issue in Hungarian-Ukrainian relations. As the adviser notes, Ukrainian officials acknowledge ongoing dialogue on this matter, with steps being taken to ease tensions. However, the process is still in progress, and concrete outcomes remain to be finalised.
Talks between Zelensky and Orbán
Mykhailo Podolyak highlights that direct talks between President Zelensky and PM Orbán, initiated during the European Political Community summit in Budapest, mark a significant step forward. These discussions encompass economic, political, and cultural issues, signalling renewed bilateral engagement. Hungary’s potential involvement in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction aligns with its interest in EU-wide economic growth, underlining a shared pragmatic vision. Supporting Ukraine, including military aid, is seen as a mutual benefit, fostering stability, market expansion, and a future free of new European conflicts.
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European Parliament condemns PM Orbán’s visit to Georgia
The European Parliament recently adopted a resolution strongly criticising the fairness and democratic nature of the parliamentary elections in Georgia.
The vote, which took place on the 26th of October, was considered neither free nor fair, as serious abuses and irregularities were observed. The EP says these problems represent a serious setback in the country’s democratic development and are clearly the responsibility of the ruling Georgian Dream party.
A number of irregularities were observed during the elections, including voter intimidation, ballot stuffing and media interference. Manipulation of electronic voting systems was also reported, which particularly undermines the credibility of the electoral process. The EP considers that the results announced by the Central Election Commission of Georgia do not reflect the true will of the Georgian people.
New elections and international supervision
According to 444, some Members of the European Parliament called for fresh elections to be held within a year, under international supervision and with an independent electoral administration. Under the current circumstances, the EU and other international actors should not recognise the election results as they undermine the basic principles of democracy, stated the European Parliament.
As part of the resolution, the EP proposes that EU Member States introduce targeted sanctions against Georgian political leaders and officials. These sanctions would target those responsible for violating democratic standards, abusing state power and subordinating institutions to party interests.
The European Parliament is proposing a tougher approach to relations between the EU and the Georgian government. Recent anti-democratic laws, such as the ‘Foreign Influence Law’, have led Georgia to virtually halt its EU integration efforts. The Parliament stresses that the actions and policies of the Georgian authorities are incompatible with Euro-Atlantic integration.
According to the European Parliament, Russia is playing an important role in Georgia’s democratic process. It is trying to discourage Georgian society with disinformation campaigns, such as the narrative that the opposition, under Western control, would lead the country to war. The EP warns Georgia that attempts to ban political parties would further damage the country’s relations with the EU.
Viktor Orbán and Georgia
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s visit to Georgia has drawn sharp criticism from the European Parliament. Orbán congratulated the Georgian Dream party before accepting the official results of the elections and praised the close cooperation with the ruling party. According to the EP, the visit violated the EU’s common foreign policy position and undermined common European action.
In Georgia, many protested against electoral fraud, while Viktor Orbán’s visit was not unanimously welcomed. However, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó sharply criticised EU foreign ministers and defended the Georgian elections.
The European Parliament’s resolution is not only about the situation in Georgia but also about the commitment of the EU and its member states to democratic values. The events in Georgia are a warning that the integration process can only be successful if the countries concerned respect the principles of democracy and the rule of law. Georgia’s fate is of vital importance not only to its own citizens but also to the European community.
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Featured image: depositphotos.com
PHOTOS: Protest held in Budapest against PM Orbán’s electoral law change
The opposition Democratic Coalition staged a protest against a redrawing of individual constituencies at a torch-lit march in Budapest on Friday evening.
The party’s politicians said the ruling parties were afraid and wanted “to cut up” Budapest constituencies because the opposition parties’ candidates were winning in them.
The demonstration started at Szechenyi embankment, near the statue of social-democrat politician Anna Kéthly where DK lawmaker László Varjú said they would resist and not allow a redrawing of Budapest individual constituencies.
It proceeded to the Batthyány Eternal Flame monument near Parliament, where DK lawmaker Balázs Barkóczi said that they wanted to send out the warning that ruling Fidesz’s “latest sneaky move” threatened democracy and was sending the message that it neglected the rules of democracy.
Mayor of Budapest’s 11th district Imre László accused the ruling parties of continually manipulating the elections in order to hold on to power. Mayor of the 7th district Péter Niedermüller said that those in power would “scribble” the borders of districts in an effort to ensure that their people could win.
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Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People commemorated in Budapest – PHOTOS
In cooperation with embassies of Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and Norway: Embassy of Palestine in Hungary commemorates the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.
The Embassy of the State of Palestine in Hungary, in collaboration with the embassies of Norway, Slovenia, Spain, and Ireland, marked the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People with a special event at the Palestine Residence in Budapest.
The gathering, attended by diplomats and international representatives, underscored the global commitment to supporting Palestinian rights and highlighted efforts to expand recognition of the State of Palestine. The event began with a performance of the Palestinian national anthem by Tunisian artist Mohamed Alloul, followed by a speech from Dr. Fadi Elhusseini, Ambassador of Palestine to Hungary.
Ambassador Elhusseini stressed that solidarity with the Palestinian cause must go beyond rhetoric, calling for tangible action to end the genocide and the occupation. He urged those who didn’t to recognize Palestine, noting that this recognition is critical to achieving stability and a just resolution to the conflict. He emphasized that Palestine has existed since the dawn of time and will remain till the end of time.
Elhusseini said that Palestine is under occupation and that negotiations are meant to tackle future arrangements, including borders, which the ambassador considered the key to the solution. The ambassador also highlighted the ongoing legal developments, including these at the International Criminal Court, the International Court of Justice, and the United Nations General Assembly’s calls for an end to the occupation. Elhusseini concluded by reaffirming the resilience of the Palestinian people, vowing that they would continue to fight for justice, freedom, and a free Palestine.
The Palestinian ambassador appreciated the great turnout to participate from representatives of the countries present, which embodies a message of support for the Palestinian people in all its spectrums.
Diplomats from several countries shared their solidarity with the Palestinian cause, including:
- Archbishop Michael W. Banach, Apostolic Nunciature and dean of diplomatic corps
- Ambassador Karima Kabbaj of Morocco, Dean of the Arab Diplomatic Corps
- Ambassador Alfonso Dastis of Spain
- Ambassador Dr. Marjan CENCEN of Slovenia
- On behalf of Africa, Ambassador Mr. Gangumzi TSENGIWE of South Africa
- Ambassador Ranger Almqvist of Ireland
- On behalf of Latin America, Ambassador Ignacio RUIZ PEREA of Colombia
- Chargé d’Affaires Sten Iversen of Norway
- On behalf of Asua, Chargé d’Affaires Ivani Mahdiat Sofiana of Indonesia
- Ambassador Ms. Susan Kleebank of Brasil
Olive oil and za’atar were presented to the participants to emphasize the importance of Palestinian identity and culture.
Here are some more photos:
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Hungarian foreign minister outraged in Geneva due to the violated rights of the Hungarians living in Ukraine
Acting together against the violation of the rights of ethnic minorities in any country is an important obligation for the international community, Péter Szijjártó, the foreign minister, said in Geneva on Friday.
According to a statement from the foreign ministry, Szijjártó spoke at the United Nations Forum on Minority Issues, and said “the centre of the heart of Hungary’s foreign policy is to make sure that the rights of Hungarian communities that live outside our borders are respected.”
He said one of the keys for preserving their national identity was access to “our very unique” mother tongue, adding that that access was not fully provided for ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine’s Transcarpathia province.
“The members of the Hungarian community in Transcarpathia have to suffer from the fact that their rights … are seriously violated” in terms of using their mother tongue in education, media, culture, and public administration, the minister said.
“There are even legislative attempts to ban using the mother tongue out of the classes,” he said, adding that under international law those violations could not be explained.
“We consider it an obligation of the international community to stand up when it comes to violation of rights of national communities regardless in which country it takes place,” the minister said, adding that such violations must not be considered a bilateral issue.
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PHOTOS: Hungary gets brand-new military choppers, troops prepare for Chad mission amid French withdrawal
New Airbus H225M military choppers arrived in Hungary on Tuesday. The new helicopters will be used by the Hungarian Defence Forces. Meanwhile, Chad decided to end military cooperation with France. As a result, French soldiers are to return home soon. However, the Chad-Hungary agreement about sending a contingent of Hungarian soldiers to the Sahel area country remains in effect. Thus, the Hungarian military may depart to the African country soon.
According to portfolio.hu, new Airbus H225M military choppers arrived in Hungary to be used by the Hungarian Defence Forces. The main area of use of this type is the transportation of soldiers, but it is also used as a search and rescue aircraft.
The Hungarian Defence Forces ordered two versions from the French company. One is equipped with missiles (70 mm Hydra missiles and Spike precision-guided surface-to-air missiles), while the other is not since the Hungarian Defence Forces would only like to use it for transport duties. Thanks to the two new choppers, the Airbus H225M fleet of the Hungarian military grew to 12. In 2025, Hungary will receive another four aircraft. Therefore, the fleet will become complete with 16 helicopters.
Check out some more photos:
Chad sends home the French, welcomes Hungarian troops
It sounded odd at first when the Hungarian prime minister’s spokesperson announced that Chad’s president, Mahamat Idriss Deby, would travel to Hungary and meet with PM Orbán in Budapest in September. Before, Hungarian media wrote about a possible Hungarian military mission to the unstable Sahel Area country. They added that one of the brokers of the deal was PM Viktor Orbán’s only son, Gáspár Orbán, who travelled to Chad multiple times.
Based on the official statements, the two leaders talked about stopping illegal migration, fighting against international terrorism, and possibilities in mutual training and operations. Later, the Hungarian defence minister highlighted that Chad and Hungary signed an anti-terrorism cooperation. The two countries also signed a strategic partnership agreement.
We wrote before that in November, the Hungarian Parliament passed a law that allowed the Orbán cabinet to make decisions about sending troops abroad without needing approval from Parliament, even skipping public debate in certain cases.
200 Hungarian troops may replace 1,000 French soldiers
The Hungarian Parliament authorised the government to send 200 Hungarian troops to Chad last November. Then, news emerged about sending the contingent to the African country this spring, but nothing happened.
France24.com wrote that Chad was ending the military cooperation agreement with France. Despite hosting more than 1,000 French soldiers, they decided to send them home even though the document did not specify a date. Chad is the last foothold of France in the region. Before, President Deby relied on French military support e.g. against Boko Haram and other active militant groups. However, now he seeks closer ties with Moscow, and it seems Hungary is joining that group of countries.
Telex.hu wrote that the agreement about sending 200 Hungarian troops to Chad is still in effect; however, nobody knows when the contingent will be deployed to the African country. Experts could not tell what the reason for such a mission could be. VSquare acquired information that Gáspár Orbán, the prime minister’s only son, would have liked to create a Hungarian military intelligence centre in Chad.
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Orbán says Romania is a testing ground for social media platforms used in a campaign
Orbán said the government’s earlier pledge of a one million forint average wage had been received by “a choir of the sceptical” but he said it had been no different from the reception of the government’s 2010 announcement of efforts to create one million new jobs.
“They said it was impossible, still, compared to 3.7 million employed at the time now we have 4.7 million people in employment… Hungary can achieve the one million forint average wage,” he said.
The prime minister suggested that companies should strive for efficiency and higher productivity to be able to offer the higher wages. He also added that the government was open to proposals by the chamber of commerce aimed at tax cuts, better vocational training and programmes to increase the efficiency of companies.
Hungarians in Romania must have parliamentary representation, Orbán says
Meanwhile, Orbán said that at the parliamentary elections set for Sunday, Hungarians in Romania will have to “make sure” that they have representation in the national assembly. “Without parliamentary representation it is impossible to promote the interests of the Hungarian community in the whole of the Carpathian Basin,” he added. If ethnic Hungarians had “appropriate weight” in the Romanian parliament they could make the Hungarian government’s job easier, facilitating assistance to them from Hungary.
He said Hunor Kelemen, the head of the Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (RMDSZ), had “held his own” in the first round of the Romanian presidential election, representing not just ethnic Hungarians but the entire nation.
He said the Romanian presidential election campaign had demonstrated how modern technology connects with voters, adding that the kind of social media platforms used in a campaign and how they influence voters was a “very exciting and undetermined question”.
“Romania is a testing ground for this, and we can draw the various conclusions and determine whether we have any work to do in preventing such problems in Hungary,” he said.
Hungary will get peacetime budget in 2025
On another subject, the prime minister said the “peacetime” budget bill submitted by the government opened the door to a new economic policy.
He said the draft budget being debated in parliament assumes that US President-elect Donald Trump can end the war. This is why, Orbán said, the government could implement a large minimum wage increase, roll out credit for young blue collar workers, launch a scheme for strengthening SMEs and introduce measures to ensure affordable housing and support young people.
Orbán said Hungary was capable of making use of the opportunities presented by peace, adding that “we won’t waste a single moment”.
Struggles with the EU
He added, at the same time, that the government would have to carry out these measures “in opposition to the European Union”.
“We’re locked in simultaneous struggles with the European Union on the issues of economic policy, migration and child protection,” the prime minister said. “The point of the National Consultation survey is to strengthen Hungary’s position in this struggle and to be successful in fighting these battles.”
He said the end of the war would mean peace, peace would mean security and security would bring a “good economy”.
But, he said, the EU was “constantly blocking and attacking Hungary’s economic policy”. He said he fended these off and wanted to “protect Hungary from these decisions in Brussels”, adding that this required a fight, which required strength and support. “We’re in the opposition in Brussels,” he added.
Orbán said the implementation of the migration pact would be “fatal” for Hungary.
He also said the hearing of the lawsuit aimed at scrapping Hungary’s child protection law was under way at the European Court of Justice. He said there was a political party that would allow same-sex couples to adopt in Hungary. “This is completely at odds with the child protection law,” Orbán said, adding that “we have to win the battles against Brussels.”
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PM Orbán nominated new Hungarian National Bank governor, forint strengthening, government change comes
“We have never been this close to peace, and the wartime situation has never been this dangerous,” Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said in an interview with public radio on Friday. The prime minister also said he has nominated Mihaly Varga to serve as central bank governor, adding that the incumbent finance minister has accepted the nomination.
As regards the Russia-Ukraine war, Orbán said “we’re in a very difficult and strange situation”, adding that there had been two recent reports which emphasised the responsibility of European politicians.
One of these, he said, was that Russia had “indeed launched an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads”. “If they use these, the war will escalate into a global conflict and will also have a nuclear dimension,” he warned. Orbán also cited Russian reports saying that American and French troops have also died in air strikes. “This goes to show the danger of the war’s escalation and expansion,” he said.
“This is an extremely dangerous moment,” the prime minister said, adding that he hoped that the “weapon demonstration” will urge the West to exercise caution.
Depressing developments in the European Parliament
Meanwhile, Orbán called Thursday’s developments in the European Parliament “depressing”, saying it was clear that many European heads of government wanted to continue the war “and even step up its intensity”. Orbán said that the EP adopted a resolution reinforcing its support for Ukraine in which it declared that “a pro-peace president may have won in America, but for now there’s still a pro-war administration in power”.
He said the “Trump effect” could not yet be felt, as the incumbent US administration was the one to decide on giving more funding to Ukraine.
“We have to survive the next 1.5-2 months,” Orbán said, noting that Hungary was engaged in “intense diplomatic efforts in the interest of a ceasefire and peace”. Orbán said he will speak with the president of the new European Commission on Sunday.
PM Orbán nominated Minister Mihály Varga as Hungarian National Bank governor
Concerning Varga’s nomination as central bank governor, Orbán said Varga was Hungary’s most experienced economist and politician dealing with economic policy.
“From January 1, we will undoubtedly be working under a different economic management system,” Orbán said, adding that he would be happy to discuss the details “in due course, in December”.
Highlighting the role of the central bank, the prime minister said the bank was key to the Hungarian economy, a “safeguard of stability”, an institution which had “the powers, skills, decision-making positions to preserve the value of the forint and to fight inflation.”
PM Orbán wrote in a Facebook post that Mihály Varga had already seen “a crow on a pole.”
Referring to his candidate for governor, he suggested Varga was one of “the most experienced and calmest” experts “who has been in difficult battles … and could stand his ground in any situation.” He said the position required “experience in economic policy, not just intellect,” adding that apart from Varga, the national economy and energy ministers had also been eligible candidates. He noted that Marton Nagy, the national economy minister, had served as deputy governor of the central bank before, but added that he had “resisted the temptation” of proposing Nagy for the post.
Orbán praises Matolcsy
Concerning the incumbent central bank chief, Orbán said György Matolcsy had done “quite an excellent and good job” in his position. He added that Matolcsy was “impulsive” and had “continuously sent impulses to the government”, and expressed his gratitude for Matolcsy’s “making proposals for the right decisions at the right moment”. He said it had been Matolcsy’s “heroic deed” to help forex loan holders “out of the trap many hundreds of thousands of families in central Europe had been caught in”.
The outgoing governor had “historic merits”, Orbán added.
Meanwhile, Orbán said that an increase in the minimum wage would push up all other wages as well. He suggested that the current wage increase was so large that during the combined three years it would amount to a 40 percent increase, which he said was not only unprecedented in the history of Hungary, but a wage increase of this magnitude had only occurred once in Europe.
He said he was proud of the agreement and the government’s contribution to the deal. He said the government sought to help employers through tax benefits to ensure that they can offer higher wages. He said he trusted that the trend would continue and the government’s goal to increase the average wage to one million forints a month could be achieved.
Mr Varga said he would serve Hungary’s stability and development:
4,800 days spent as minister
Finance Minister Mihaly Varga said on Friday that he is accepting the nomination for the position of governor of the National Bank of Hungary (NBH). “I accept the honourable request of the Prime Minister with gratitude. I will continue to serve the stability and prosperity of Hungary with my future work,” Varga said in a post on social media. He noted that it has been a great honour for him to serve his country for 4,800 days, first as national economy minister then as a finance minister.
Forint eases on interbank forex market
The forint traded at 412.96 to the euro around 10:00 in the morning on Friday, edging down from 412.84 late Wednesday. The forint firmed to 390.60 from 391.38 against the dollar. It eased to 443.38 from 442.95 to the Swiss franc.
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Chinese edition of book on Hungarian strategy written by Balázs Orbán launched
Balázs Orbán, the prime minister’s political director, launched the Chinese edition of his latest book on Hungarian government strategy at an event hosted by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) in Beijing on Thursday.
Hussar Cut: The Hungarian Strategy for Connectivity, examines the shifting global order from a Hungarian perspective. The book takes its title from a swift, daring and risky manoeuvre by the Hungarian cavalry that could reverse the outcome of a battle.
In a speech at the CASS, Orbán said the book had been penned in extraordinarily turbulent times, when every country, Hungary too, needed courage and the ability to adapt to achieve success.
He acknowledged that the West was no longer the dominant world power as countries in the East took a bigger share of the global economy. He likened Hungary’s role in the new global order to the “keystone” at the top of an arch over two pillars, stabilising the whole.
“Hungary wants to fill this role between Asia and Europe,” he said.
Orbán said the policy of economic neutrality adopted by Hungary’s government meant decisions on trading partners, on investments and on technologies were taken on the basis of the national interest. “We hope that new economic policy will produce great advances,” he added.
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Hungary praises Albania’s progress on path to integration
Albania is making spectacular progress on the road to integration during Hungary’s EU presidency, which shows the entire Western Balkans that there is hope for accession, the foreign minister said on Thursday.
The foreign ministry cited Péter Szijjártó telling a joint press conference with Adea Pirdeni, Albania’s minister of state for public administration and anti-corruption, that the world was going through a decidedly dangerous period, with the increasing danger of the escalation of the war in Ukraine.
He added that the most dangerous two months of recent years were only just beginning and would last until the inauguration of the US President-elect Donald Trump.
Szijjártó said the security and economic situation of the European Union had weakened significantly, so new dynamism was needed. This new force and freshness could come from the ambitious countries of the Western Balkans that want to join it, he added.
“So speeding up EU enlargement is a real European interest, which fully coincides with Hungary’s national interests because peace, freedom and stability in our neighbourhood, in the Western Balkans, is in our fundamental interest,” he said.
“It is a very important objective of our responsible neighbourhood policy,” he said.
Szijjártó decried that the countries of the region had been kept waiting more than fifteen years on average in the accession corridor.
“If we cannot provide this opportunity, it will seriously harm the credibility of not only our enlargement policy but the whole of the EU, which should be avoided,” he said.
Szijjártó said Albania had made spectacular progress during the Hungarian EU presidency recently, with the start of its accession talks on essential matters.
“And now we’re working to ensure that EU organises another intergovernmental conference with Albania still under the Hungarian presidency in December — after the first group of chapters were opened at the first intergovernmental conference — and we can also open another group of negotiating chapters, namely the sixth, on external relations,” he said.
“Real accession talks have started: a new defence and security partnership agreement has been signed between the EU and Albania, and Albania has joined the Single Euro Payments Area,” he added.
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Budapest city assembly postpones deputy mayor vote amid political tensions
Budapest’s city assembly removed from the agenda a vote on the city’s deputy mayors from its session on Wednesday.
The removal was proposed by Richárd Barabás, group leader of Párbeszéd-Greens, and was adopted with 18 votes for, one against and three abstentions. In a debate before the vote, Barabás said “there seems to be no consensus” concerning the candidates.
Gergely Karácsony, Budapest’s mayor, has proposed Ambrus Kiss, director-general of the mayor’s office, and Dávid Vitézy, group leader of the Podmaniczky Movement, for the posts.
Alexandra Szentkirályi, group leader of the ruling parties, slammed the proceedings and called the vote’s postponement “unserious”.
“The left-liberal majority has the power to elect” those officials, she said, and decried that “a rainbow coalition … as reflected in the nominations for deputy mayor” was forming in the assembly.
In his response, Tisza’s Áron Porcher said his party had not proposed the voting order and that the decision was up to the mayor.
Karácsony said his task was to support the assembly’s decision-making and he had proposed the voting order “aware of that responsibility” and in a transparent manner. He added that “most groups have no objections” to the procedure.
Krisztina Baranyi of the Two-Tailed Dog Party and mayor of the ninth district regretted that the vote was removed from the agenda and warned that the continued failure to elect the deputy mayors could lead to the assembly’s dissolution. She said the situation should be resolved not only by the mayor but also by the largest groups in the assembly.
Meanwhile, the opposition Democratic Coalition (DK) said it would submit an amendment to the 2025 budget, saying that it was designed to introduce austerity measures concerning Budapest and other municipalities. DK’s MP Erzsébet Gy Németh said the government had “geared up tangibly in its effort to destroy Budapest”, adding that her party would “not let that happen”.
In its proposal, DK would reduce the solidarity tax imposed on larger municipalities to the 2019 level of an annual 10 billion forints while calling for a grant of 200 billion forints for Budapest to buy new suburban train carriages. Also, the tax on vehicles “should be given back to Budapest” and be used exclusively for road repairs, according to DK.
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Hungary’s 2025 budget aims for sustainable growth and increased support for families, businesses, and security
The government’s 2025 budget bill adopts a new economic policy that lays the foundations for lasting growth, Finance Minister Mihály Varga told lawmakers in parliament on Wednesday.
Presenting the budget during a plenary debate, Varga said the 2025 budget contained all of the resources necessary to increase further support for families raising children, strengthen businesses, protect regulated utility prices for households, preserve the purchasing power of pensions, guarantee the physical security of the country and to continue to defend Hungary’s borders from illegal migration.
He added that the budget could return the economy to the path of sustainable, high GDP growth while paving the way for dynamic wage growth and an increase in the purchasing power of incomes. He said the government aimed to create more jobs, as well as preserve the 1 million created since 2010. The budget bill assumes 3.4pc GDP growth and 3.2pc average annual invitation. It targets a general government deficit equivalent to 3.7pc of GDP.
Varga said more than 300 new investments, worth a combined HUF 8,100bn, would be launched next year. Those projects will pump HUF 480bn into the economy in 2025, he added.
He said funding had been boosted for all areas from a year earlier. He added that the more than HUF 3,750bn earmarked for support for families raising children was two-and-a-half times the amount allocated in 2010, at current prices. He noted that tax allowances for families raising children would double in two steps, from July 1, 2025 and January 1, 2026. Next year’s allocation for pensions will rise by HUF 655bn to HUF 7,200bn, he said. Since 2010, pension spending has increased by 25pc, adjusted for inflation, he added.
Spending on healthcare will rise by HUF 330bn to HUF 3,717bn, well over the HUF 2,520bn earmarked in 2010, he said. Education expenditures will climb by close to HUF 500bn to HUF 3,876bn, an 88pc increase over the allocation in 2010, adjusted for inflation, he added. Varga said public sector wages would continue to rise in 2025.
The 2025 budget bill targets payouts of more than HUF 3,000bn for European Union-funded projects and over HUF 2,100bn of transfers from Brussels, he said. Hungary will contribute close to HUF 700bn to next year’s EU budget, he added.
Fidesz: 2025 budget ‘will make Hungary successful again’
The adoption of next year’s budget will ensure that Hungary is successful once again, Fidesz MP Erik Bánki said in the debate on the 2025 budget bill in parliament on Wednesday.
The new budget, he said, would provide the basis for Hungary’s economy “to return to the dynamic and sustainable growth path” it enjoyed before the pandemic. The key aims of the government’s new economic policy action plan are to boost the purchasing power of incomes, ensure affordable housing and fortify Hungarian businesses, he said.
Further expanding support systems for Hungarian families was, he added, another priority goal. The budget bill targets annual economic growth of 3.4 percent and assumes inflation averaging 3.2 percent, while the budget deficit is expected at 3.7 percent of GDP, according to the finance minister.
The spokesman in the debate representing the opposition Democratic Coalition, László Varju, said it was doubtful that the proposed budget was either fully legal or sound, and he described it as a “Jack of all trades but master of none”.
He pointed to “massive risks” associated with the budget’s headline figures, insisting that targeted revenues would fall short.
Varju also accused the government of failing to tap EU funds, underestimating the forint-euro exchange rate, and omitting to take external factors into account regarding its growth forecast.
The DK politician further slammed the budget bill for not providing adequate financing for public services such as in the health and education sectors, though it raised the curtain for vast spending before the 2026 elections.
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Fidesz: Patriots reject Ursula von der Leyen’s new EU Commission
The Patriots for Europe group will not vote for Ursula von der Leyen’s new European Commission in light of its “backroom deals and poor decisions” that “set Europe on the path of crisis in the past five years”, Fidesz MEP Kinga Gál said in Strasbourg on Wednesday.
“The Patriots’ and Fidesz delegation’s stance is clear: we and the European majority who voted for us in the European parliamentary elections want European politics to change,” Gál said before a plenary debate on the commissioners and the commission’s programme.
She insisted that Europe was on the path towards “bankruptcy” on issues such as illegal migration, the centralisation of the Brussels administration, “anti-farmer greenwashing”, and its “pro-war position”.
She added that the new commission, backed by the European People’s Party and left-liberals, was incapable of answering to voters who desired change in the way the bloc was run and the policies it pursued.
Gál said the “unacceptable pact” determining the next five years would lead to “further illegal migration, war-mongering, ideologically driven politics, and the blackmailing of member states” by withholding EU funds.
Commenting on commissioner hearings in the EP, she said the outcomes had been decided in advance, regardless of the commissioner-designate’s professional preparedness, and she insisted that Hungary’s Olivér Várhelyi had amply demonstrated his competence.
The Patriots group and Fidesz “represent change in the EU”, she said. “It’s clear that our voters everywhere want a voice for change,” she said, adding that “peace, an end to illegal migration, border protection, freedom from ideology and sovereignty” were their top priorities.
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Raising the stakes: Hungary faces growing EU pressure for child protetcion law!
Hungary is heading to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) on last Tuesday over a controversial child protection law that has faced criticism since its introduction in 2021. Critics, including the European Commission and numerous EU member states, have labelled it anti-LGBTQ+, claiming it discriminates under the pretext of regulating sexual education, adoption, and media content.
According to Portfolio, the European Commission initiated infringement proceedings against Hungary last year, arguing that the law conflicts with EU principles of equality and fundamental rights. The case has since escalated, with 16 other member states joining the legal challenge. Such a level of involvement is unprecedented in a case of this kind, highlighting the profound impact it has across the bloc.
The ECJ’s ruling could do more than determine the future of this law—it could redefine Hungary’s relationship with the EU and set a precedent for how the Union addresses member states accused of deviating from shared democratic values.
What could this case mean for Hungary?
The court’s Advocate General is expected to deliver a preliminary opinion in the coming months, but the final ruling will likely take longer. Whatever the outcome, it will almost certainly influence the EU’s broader stance on Hungary. For years, the European Council has hesitated to invoke Article 7—a process that could strip Hungary of its voting rights in the EU—but that caution may diminish if the court delivers a strongly unfavourable ruling against the Hungarian government.
As Portfolio reported, Germany has already called for renewed discussions on Article 7, with the issue returning to the agenda during this week’s Council meeting. Although no concrete actions are expected immediately, the mounting pressure on Hungary is evident.
This legal battle is not just about political ideology—it has significant financial implications. Hungary has already lost access to €600 million in EU cohesion funds, with the EU citing breaches of its Charter of Fundamental Rights. Depending on the outcome, this case could either exacerbate those financial losses or pave the way for the restoration of much-needed funds. Either way, the stakes are high, particularly as Hungary’s economy continues to face difficulties.
A really bad timing
This case comes during a period of heightened tensions between the EU and Hungary’s government. While Brussels accuses Hungary of undermining democracy and fundamental freedoms, the Hungarian government has doubled down on its narrative, with pro-government think tanks such as the Nézőpont Institute deflecting blame onto the EU itself. The result is a fraught political tug-of-war, making consensus increasingly elusive.
Beyond the political and legal wrangling, a more fundamental question looms: what happens when a member state openly defies the Union’s core principles?
What comes next for Hungary and the case?
The ECJ’s decision could have far-reaching implications for the EU’s ability to enforce its values, not just with Hungary but with any member state that challenges its rules. This moment is critical for Hungary, which is facing increasing isolation within the Union.
In the coming months, the debate is set to intensify. Whether the outcome promotes unity or deepens divisions remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the EU’s identity and future direction are as much on trial as Hungary’s law.
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Billions lost in EU funding to cause economic fallout for Hungary
Hungary faces a substantial loss of EU funding this year, intensifying budgetary pressures. Additionally, the government’s economic targets are under threat due to slowing export markets, declining domestic consumption, and a weakening forint.
Major losses in EU funding
As Portfolio writes, Hungary faces substantial losses in EU funding this year, with estimates suggesting over EUR 1.1 billion could be forfeited due to unresolved rule of law disputes and delays in the conditionality procedure. Additionally, EUR 300 million in fines are set to be deducted by the European Commission. Under the n+2 rule, any suspended funds not addressed within two years will be permanently lost, posing a critical deadline for Hungary to lift the freeze by year-end. The frozen funds impact key allocations, including HUF 430-450 billion (approximately EUR 1-1.1 billion) from the 2022 budget, targeting vital programmes.
Concerns about transparency
Hungary’s budget faces mounting pressure due to fines from the European Court of Justice, including a daily EUR 1 million penalty and a one-off EUR 200 million for failing to implement asylum reforms. The European Commission has already deducted EUR 300 million from cohesion and agricultural EU funding, delaying development projects and complicating efforts to meet the 2024 budget deficit target. Approximately HUF 125 billion (EUR 304 million) must now be sourced domestically to replace these funds.
Despite reforms claimed by the government in autumn 2023, the European Commission continues to express concerns about transparency and anti-corruption measures. Key unresolved issues include strengthening the Integrity Authority, improving asset declarations, ensuring judicial oversight of corruption cases, and addressing conflicts of interest in public institutions. Budget Commissioner Johannes Hahn highlighted the slim chances of resolving these disputes before year-end, with inevitable resource losses under the n+2 rule looming in 2024.
Still optimistic?
Hungary’s medium-term economic plans, released in November, aim to address the European Commission’s excessive deficit procedure and the ongoing challenges of securing EU funding. GDP growth is forecast at a modest 0.8% for 2024, down from earlier projections of 1.5%, with hopes for recovery to 3.4% by 2025. However, external risks, including potential trade conflicts involving the US, EU, and China, threaten these targets, potentially reducing domestic GDP growth by 1-1.5%.
The government is committed to reducing the structural deficit to 2.7% of GDP by 2025 and public debt annually to meet EU requirements, yet this year’s budget deficit is expected to reach 4.5%. Achieving these fiscal goals is complicated by limited EU funding access, daily fines tied to migration policy, and the potential loss of frozen cohesion funds. Rising costs for pensions, public sector wages, and essential services, alongside weak export markets and cautious consumer spending, further challenge recovery. Plans to boost investment and energy efficiency depend on fiscal discipline, posing a significant test for the government’s strategy.
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- European Commission demands a further EUR 60 million from Hungary
- Orbán cabinet: Hungary can receive 6.61 billion euros from the EU in 2025
Featured image: depositphotos.com
Socialists propose fund for preventing violence against women in Hungary
The opposition Socialists have proposed the government should set up a fund for the prevention of violence against women and to include the fight against domestic violence as a subject in the national curriculum, the party’s parliamentary deputy group leader said on Monday, marking International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
In Hungary, between 10,000-12,000 instances of domestic violence are reported to the police each year, Zita Gurmai told MTI in a statement, adding that more than one-fourth of the women become target of physical abuse even if they are pregnant.
“It is shocking, but still a fact that one woman dies in Hungary every week because of domestic violence.”
Authorities often attribute less than required importance to violence against women, said Gurmai. As regards sex crimes, investigations too often turn into “blaming the victim” with the authorities focusing their attention to “how the victim’s behaviour could have motivated the crime”.
According to the United Nations” website, women’s rights activists have observed 25 November as a day against gender-based violence since 1981. This date was selected to honour the Mirabal sisters, three political activists from the Dominican Republic who were brutally murdered in 1960 by order of the country’s ruler.
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Hungary, Malta sharply oppose re-emergence of blocs in world
Hungary and Malta both oppose the re-emergence of blocs in the world while both support action taken against illegal migration and efforts to boost European competitiveness, Péter Szijjártó, the foreign minister, said after meeting his Maltese counterpart on Monday.
According to a ministry statement, at a joint press conference, Szijjártó congratulated Ian Borg on his appointment as deputy prime minister and thanked him for making Hungary the first stop on his list of official foreign visits.
Szijjártó highlighted the importance of dialogue and regular consultations given the current security situation and economic challenges, noting that they identified common points of agreement. “One such point is that we both oppose developments that tend towards the re-emergence of blocs in the world.”
“We Hungarians oppose such developments, based on our own experience, that Hungary has always had the best chance to develop … when cooperation between East and West is civilised and cultured,” said Szijjártó.
He said Hungary and Malta are among the countries with the most open economies in the world, adding that both seek a world of connectivity in the coming years and free-flowing global trade.
The minister said economic growth depended on calm, stability, and predictability, which was possible only in peacetime.
“War creates a poor environment and stymies the smooth functioning of the economy and hampers growth,” he said.
Szijjártó also said neither Malta nor Hungary had shipped weapons to Ukraine.
He welcomed Malta’s continued support for Hungary’s EU presidency and the consensus between the two countries on important issues such as firm measures taken against illegal migration, improving Europe’s competitiveness, integrating Western Balkan countries into the EU and ensuring an effective Schengen zone.
Szijjártó noted that Malta fulfilled an “important international role” as current chair of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), “the last regional platform of East-West dialogue”.
Regarding cooperation on tourism, Szijjártó said the number of Hungarian visitors to Malta has increased by 40 percent so far this year compared with 2023, while the number of Maltese tourists has risen by 50 percent.
Read also – Good news for passengers: Flight to Western Europe from Hungarian city continues to operate
Survey: Fidesz retains lead in polls
Across the whole voter base the ruling Fidesz-Christian Democrat alliance has a “convincing, 12 percentage point lead” over the opposition Tisza Party, pollster Magyar Társadalomkutató said on Monday, citing its latest survey.
According to Társadalomkutató’s report, 38 percent of voting age adults would support the ruling parties, while Tisza would garner 26 percent, if elections were held next weekend. The pollster added that the ruling parties’ lead was somewhat smaller, 8 percentage points, among decided voters.
Based on feedback from politically active respondents, the radical Mi Hazank and satirical Two-Tailed Dog parties would clear beside Fidesz-KDNP and Tisza the parliamentary threshold with a 6 percent support each.
The poll was conducted on a representative sample of 1,000 people between November 19-22.
Another poll from November: Péter Magyar’s Tisza party ahead of PM Orbán in latest polls but won’t field candidates on next election
End of October: Tisza Party gains momentum, outshining Hungary’s leading Fidesz Party