Could this be the last clock change in Hungary?

For years, the biannual clock change has been a subject of debate across Europe, including in Hungary. While the original purpose of daylight saving time (DST) was to reduce energy consumption, recent research has highlighted its adverse effects on health and daily life. Despite growing opposition, Hungary will still adjust its clocks in March 2025—but for how much longer?

Hungary’s position on the issue

The European Parliament voted in 2019 to abolish seasonal clock changes, giving member states until 2021 to decide whether to adopt permanent winter or summer time. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other political priorities, the decision-making process was delayed. Although discussions have resurfaced in recent weeks, no final agreement has been reached at the EU level, Femcafe writes.

According to Hungarian government statements, the country would prefer to adopt permanent summer time if an EU-wide decision is made to abolish DST. According to Világgazdaság, Minister Gergely Gulyás recently reiterated this stance, stating that while no immediate change is expected, Hungary would align with a unified European resolution favoring summer time.

Public opinion and the scientific perspective

Surveys indicate that most Hungarians support abolishing the clock change, yet there is no consensus on which time system should become permanent. A previous study revealed that 46% of respondents favored summer time, while 35% preferred winter time. Those advocating for summer time argue that longer daylight hours improve overall well-being and encourage outdoor activities. On the other hand, supporters of winter time highlight its alignment with natural light cycles, which could benefit sleep patterns and productivity.

Scientific research increasingly supports eliminating the clock change due to its negative effects on human health. The abrupt time shift disrupts the body’s internal clock, leading to sleep disturbances, fatigue, and reduced concentration. Studies also suggest that the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and traffic accidents rises in the days following the transition.

Will 2025 mark the end of clock changes?

Although the European Union has been working toward ending DST for years, progress has been slow due to the need for consensus among member states. If the process is finalised in the near future, Hungary could see its last clock change in 2025. Until then, the practice remains in effect, meaning that on 30 March 2025, at 2:00 AM, clocks in Hungary will once again move forward to 3:00 AM.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com