At the World Science Forum in Budapest former President of the Republic János Áder highlighted a groundbreaking Hungarian methodology designed to replace GDP as the primary measure of economic performance. The new approach accounts for the environmental and social costs of economic activity, thus offers a transformative vision for evaluating progress.

In a wide-ranging interview with Kossuth Radio, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán addressed critical global and domestic challenges, from the Ukraine war and impending changes in US leadership to the ICC warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu, Hungary’s stance on peace, migration, and a realigned economic strategy.

Budapest faces a worsening drug crisis, with drugs cheaper and more accessible than ever, warns Alexandra Szentkirályi, leader of the Fidesz–KDNP faction in the capital city’s municipal assembly warned in a video posted on social media. She expressed harsh criticism of the city’s drug strategy, describing it as ‘pro-drug’ and covert drug liberalization, urging an immediate overhaul.

A newly published book unveils the rich history of Budapest’s iconic Várkert Bazaar. Chronicling its construction, transformation, and restoration, the book celebrates a landmark that has become a vibrant cultural and diplomatic centre. While you may not be able to read the book as for now it is only available in Hungarian, remember: if you happen to be in Budapest during the winter holidays, the Várkert Bazar is a must see!

The National Media and Infocommunications Authority’s Internet Hotline has made combating online abuse a priority with its autumn campaign, focusing on intimate image exploitation, grooming, and cyberbullying. This year’s campaign, supported by influencers like Pamkutya and the Mélylevegő Project, effectively reached younger audiences via social media and video-sharing platforms.

As Christmas approaches, experts warn of heightened cybercriminal activity and increasing online fraud. Representatives from financial, law enforcement, and victim support organizations highlighted the growing risks and prevention strategies at a conference in Budapest.

Katalin Moldovai’s first feature film, Without Air, garnered both the Youth Jury Award and the prestigious Golden Debut prize at the 3Kino Festival in Prague, a showcase for the latest films from the Visegrád countries.

The World Science Forum (WSF) 2024 begins today in Budapest, focusing on the intersection of science and policy amidst global transformations. Hosting nearly 500 scientists and policymakers from over 100 countries, the event features discussions, awards, and exhibitions.

A new exhibition, Rubik 80/50 — Fifty Years of Magic, has opened in New York’s TriBeCa district. Celebrating 50 years of the Rubik’s Cube and its inventor Ernő Rubik’s 80th birthday, the exhibit offers a dynamic journey through the legacy of a global icon.

Energy markets, trade dynamics, and technological innovation are at the forefront of global economic concerns. The second panel of the Trump 2.0 event organized by the Danube Institute brought together experts to discuss expectations on how Trump’s second term might impact economy and trade policies.

From NATO dynamics to the conflict in Ukraine and the volatile Middle East, the re-election of Donald Trump raises pivotal questions about the trajectory of international relations. In a thought-provoking event organized by the Danube Institute, experts discussed what we can expect in the future of the US foreign policy.

The BudapestGO app is set to become more user-friendly with new features, including streamlined access to schedules, a dark mode option, and improved in-app communication. The improvements to BudapestGO are part of the ongoing efforts of the Centre for Budapest Transport (BKK) to assess user satisfaction and implement updates that reflect customer needs.

No-till farming is more than an erosion control method—it’s a gateway to improved soil health, enhanced water retention, and healthier food production. Former Hungarian President and Chairman of the Blue Planet Climate Protection Foundation János Áder and agricultural expert Ferenc Berend discussed this transformative technique on the Blue Planet podcast.

An outdoor photo exhibition titled Photo Trail has opened at Budapest’s City Park Promenade, showcasing Hungary’s rich wildlife. Targeting children, the exhibit features 81 stunning images selected from the Hungary 365 photography competition entries.

The Budapest Ballet Grand Prix, an international ballet competition organized by the Hungarian Dance Academy, kicks off today. Hosted at the National Dance Theatre and Müpa Budapest, the event brings together young talents from across the globe for a week of artistic excellence.

Hungary’s National Tree-Planting Day, scheduled for 1 March 2025, aims to see over 100,000 trees planted nationwide. The 10 Million Trees NGO, launched in 2019, is calling on citizens, organizations, and institutions to unite in this significant reforestation effort.

What drives creativity? A thought-provoking roundtable brought together experts from diverse fields to explore the meaning of creation, the challenges of collaboration, and the personal and collective forces that shape innovative work.

A riveting roundtable discussion brought together champions of sports, science, and mentorship to explore the multifaceted nature of perseverance. From athletic triumphs to breakthroughs in behavioural research and youth development, the panellists shared lessons on resilience and success.

This year’s Highlights of Hungary Awards celebrated three outstanding Hungarian achievements: the preservation efforts of Levente and Tímea Gáll, the compassionate work of the Hungarian Hospice Foundation, and the artisanal excellence of Szabi the Baker. The winners each received 2 million forints and national acclaim for their dedication to community, tradition, and humanity.

Political director to Hungary’s Prime Minister Balázs Orbán highlighted the potential economic benefits of a Trump-led US administration, emphasized EU reforms, and detailed Hungary’s vision for boosting competitiveness and fostering global partnerships.

Hungarian Minister of National Economy Márton Nagy visited Shenzhen for the China Hi-Tech Fair, spotlighting Hungary’s AI and supercomputing advancements and emphasizing AI regulation. In his keynote address he reiterated Hungary’s commitment to international tech cooperation and regulation.

A recent content analysis by the Center for Fundamental Rights reveals that in the year leading up to the US presidential election, Donald Trump cited Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán 109 times, which far surpasses mentions of other European leaders such as Emmanuel Macron and Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

On 20–23 November Budapest will once again host the World Science Forum (WSF), organized by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. This year’s theme centres on the connection between science and policy during global transformations, gathering leaders from around the world.

According to a new Real-PR 93 survey, 74 per cent of Hungarians support the government’s target to raise the average salary to one million forints, reflecting broad approval among all demographics and age groups from across the political spectrum.

Donald Trump has announced that he would appoint Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to jointly lead a new federal department focused on government efficiency. The establishment of the department, promised during the presidential campaign, aims to streamline federal operations, cut excessive regulations, and curb wasteful spending.

The Student City planned to be developed with government funding in Budapest could provide thousands of new student residence places within three years, as the country’s demand for higher education housing grows. Minister Balázs Hankó discussed this ambitious project, the success of Hungarian universities, and the housing needs of young people in a recent television interview.

Addressing COP29 in Baku, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán urged for climate policies guided by ‘common sense’ rather than ‘ideology, panic, or alarm’. Hungary, he argued, must balance its green ambitions with sustainable economic growth.

As the US prepares for a presidential transition, Ambassador David Pressman may soon depart Budapest in line with protocol for political appointees under a new administration. There has been no career diplomat leading the US mission in Hungary since the 1990s.

Robbie Williams is set to return to Budapest, thrilling fans with a concert at the MVM Dome on 12 September 2025 as part of his ‘Live 2025’ world tour. Williams, no stranger to breaking records, has established himself as a powerhouse in live music. His 2006 world tour achieved a remarkable milestone, selling over 1.6 million tickets in just one day, and his three-night performance at Knebworth attracted 375,000 fans, setting an attendance record.

In a recent meeting with the Hungarian foreign minister, Slovak House Speaker Peter Žiga reiterated his government’s commitment to preserving the status quo on minority rights and stressed that, instead of restrictive policies, the Slovak government plans to enhance the quality of life for the Hungarian community in southern Slovakia. This would involve improvements to transportation infrastructure, including new roads and bridges to support regional development.