Hungarian workers are among the most physically and mentally strained in the European Union, according to a 2024 report by Eurofound. The findings show a growing issue that could have far-reaching consequences for both employees and employers.
When asked how often they feel mentally exhausted due to their work, 19% of Hungarian respondents said “always” or “most of the time”. While this is below the highest figure recorded in Cyprus (36%), it still places Hungary among the more affected EU countries. By contrast, the Netherlands reported the lowest rate at just 6%.
The situation is even more concerning when it comes to physical strain. More than one-third of Hungarian workers (37%) reported frequent physical exhaustion, making Hungary the second most affected country in the EU, again behind Cyprus, according to the survey.
Burnout and stress increasingly driving resignations
Experts say the issue is no longer just about pay. According to the WHC Group, an increasing number of resignations in Hungary are now linked to unmanaged stress, excessive workloads and burnout rather than salary demands alone, G7 writes.
This change is a sign of a deeper structural problem within workplaces. Persistent exhaustion not only affects individual well-being but also has serious organisational consequences. Companies are facing rising staff turnover, declining productivity and a deterioration in workplace culture.
Motivation levels lag behind much of the EU
The data also points to weaker workplace motivation in Hungary. Only 61% of Hungarian employees said their job motivates them to perform well, placing the country behind many of its European peers. Lower figures were recorded only in a handful of countries, including Cyprus, Greece, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
This suggests that, beyond workload and stress, broader workplace conditions and management practices may also be contributing to dissatisfaction.
Workplace safety concerns add to the pressure
Concerns about working conditions are further compounded by shortcomings in occupational safety. Data cited by the Hungarian Trade Union Confederation show that the number of workplace accidents in Hungary rose by 5% last year, increasing from 20,240 to 21,252 cases.
The organisation argues that this rise reflects gaps in workplace safety standards, which may be adding to both physical strain and psychological stress among employees.
Limited policy focus on labour conditions
Looking ahead, there are questions about whether the issue will receive sufficient political attention. While the programme of the Tisza Party includes general commitments to improve working conditions, such as extending collective agreements beyond wages, it lacks detailed proposals on strengthening labour protections.
There have been some targeted promises, including plans to review environmental and operational permits in the battery industry through a dedicated national authority. However, reforms to labour inspections or occupational safety enforcement have not been prominently featured.
Additionally, recent government planning announcements suggest that trade unions may not play a central role in future policy frameworks, raising further concerns about representation and worker advocacy.
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A growing challenge for Hungary’s labour market
Taken together, the findings paint an unsettling picture. High levels of physical and mental exhaustion, combined with safety concerns and relatively low motivation, are placing increasing pressure on Hungary’s workforce.
Without meaningful improvements in working conditions, experts warn that the country could face continued declines in productivity and rising employee turnover, which would pose a long-term challenge for the economy as a whole.
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