As Brazil takes the helm of BRICS in 2025, Indonesia has officially joined the group as a full member, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration among emerging economies and advancing the priorities of the Global South.

In 2024, over 50 films supported by Hungary’s National Film Institute debuted, including 13 in cinemas and more than 40 on television. The NFI-sponsored productions attracted over 575,000 viewers in film theatres.

To celebrate the reopening of the Hangdóm, Hungary’s House of Music is hosting an audiovisual festival from 14 to 19 January. Featuring premieres, returning favourites, and artist discussions, the programme showcases cutting-edge 360-degree films and installations.

Starting January, Vodafone Hungary will operate under the new name One Magyarország, marking a major rebranding in the telecom sector. The Vodafone HU network will be renamed One, with integrated services uniting the operations of Vodafone, Digi, and others.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, in his year-end interview with M1 News, expressed cautious optimism about peace in the Ukraine war, reflecting on three challenging years marked by conflict, economic upheaval, and diplomatic struggles. He shared his vision for a resilient Hungary ready to seize opportunities in 2025.

On 29 December Duna Television will premiere the acclaimed Hungarian film Semmelweis. The most-watched Hungarian production of 2023 portrays the heroic efforts of Ignác Semmelweis, known as the saviour of mothers, as he makes a groundbreaking medical discovery.

In October 2024 Hungary saw a surge in wages, with the average gross income rising by nearly 13 per cent compared to last year. This growth, coupled with low inflation, marks the 14th consecutive month of significant real wage increases.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán emphasized the importance of swift economic action and strategic calm in addressing the challenges facing Hungary and Europe. From advancing peace efforts to pushing for reforms, he detailed his vision in an interview with Kossuth Radio.

Mateusz Morawiecki, the former Polish prime minister and candidate for the presidency of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), has pledged to enhance the role of nation-states in the EU. He envisions a more sovereign Europe built on collaboration and reform.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stated that Budapest defines itself in opposition to Brussels, aiming to transform the EU’s direction in the coming years. At a summit in Brussels, Orbán called for migration control, lower energy prices, and a Christmas ceasefire in Ukraine.

Starting 1 January 2025, Mathias Corvinus Collegium (MCC) will become the 75 per cent owner of Inforádió, marking a strategic partnership aimed at combining the station’s media expertise with MCC’s intellectual resources.

Budapest police officers have donated over nine tonnes of non-perishable food and treats to help those in need. The contributions, including baby food and festive goodies, will be distributed to children’s homes, large families, and care centres.

The Hungarian National Assembly has approved changes to electoral laws, including the redistribution of constituencies, optional ballot envelopes, and revised candidate withdrawal deadlines. These measures aim to align with demographic trends and streamline voting procedures.

Hungary’s 2024 innovation strategy includes a 215 billion forint allocation for research and innovation, a reform of the research network, and increased funding for excellence programmes. The government aims to enhance scientific output and global collaboration.

A recent Századvég poll reveals that 77 per cent of Hungarians believe Donald Trump, upon assuming office in 2025, could end the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war. The findings highlight strong public support for peace initiatives, aligning with Hungary’s diplomatic efforts.

Hungarian researchers have developed a state-of-the-art VR system tailored for mice. The Moculus device, optimized for rodents’ vision, accelerates learning processes and revolutionizes brain research, paving the way for advanced therapies in vision restoration.

A recent KINCS survey reveals that 70 per cent of Hungarians are optimistic about 2025, anticipating improvements in their lives. Families with young children, large households, and young people are the most hopeful, expecting better opportunities and higher living standards.

A new documentary unveils the extraordinary professional and personal journey of Nobel laureate Ferenc Krausz. Premiering on 30 December on Duna TV, the film captures his life, groundbreaking discoveries, and unwavering passion for science and exploration.

George Szirtes, a Hungarian-born British poet, has been awarded the King’s Gold Medal for Poetry by King Charles III. The prestigious honour, established in 1933, recognizes his profound contributions to contemporary poetry and his exploration of global themes.

Hungary’s culinary scene shines brightly as the 2024 Michelin Guide awards reaffirm excellence. Iconic venues like Tata’s Platán and Budapest’s Stand retained two stars, while eight other restaurants, including one newcomer, received their coveted Michelin star this year.

The Hungarian Film Festival dates back to 1965, when it began in Pécs as the Hungarian Feature Film Festival, exclusively showcasing feature-length productions. Over the decades, the programme expanded to include documentary and animated films, with its name changing to the Hungarian Film Festival in 1989. Traditionally held during the first week of February, the event was aligned with the Berlin Film Festival and ran annually until 2011.

According to Századvég’s December survey, Hungary’s ruling coalition, Fidesz–KDNP, continues to lead confidently in party preferences, while Tisza Party leader Péter Magyar’s approval ratings have suffered a significant decline amidst recent controversies.

This week’s Orbán interview on public radio showcased Hungary’s proactive approach to fostering peace, navigating global changes, and ensuring domestic stability. As the government looks to implement the 2025 budget, its commitment to supporting Hungarian families and maintaining sovereignty remains unwavering, the PM declared.

On the morning of 12 December, in a true Christmas spirit, the US Embassy in Budapest posted a video on X and YouTube criticizing the Budapest–Belgrade railway project, insinuating that Viktor Orbán is making secret deals with China. Our reaction.

Four Hungarian students achieved silver medals at the Romanian Master of Informatics (RMI), a renowned international programming competition held in Bucharest from 27 to 29 November 2024. Competing among 190 students from ten countries, their success highlights Hungary’s promising talent pool.

The Festival Academy Budapest (FAB) is marking its 10th anniversary with a spectacular line-up of festivals, masterclasses, and competitions, transforming Hungary into a hub of classical music and cultural celebration.

A recent survey by BNP Paribas Cardif and Medián reveals that most Hungarians view artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool to improve work efficiency. While workforce changes are anticipated in the near future, optimism prevails among employees about AI’s impact.

Hungarian tourism is thriving, with a record-breaking year in visitor numbers and accolades for the country’s gastronomy. Liszt Ferenc Airport is Europe’s fastest-growing hub, and the government continues to invest in the sector’s future, signalling sustained growth.

The Mathias Corvinus Collegium (MCC) is revitalizing one of Miskolc’s iconic hotels, blending heritage with education. Set to open for students in the 2027–2028 academic year, the new centre aims to inspire and support the city’s brightest young minds.

Hungary aims to elevate its universities to the global elite, building on its cultural and academic strengths, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said at the handing over of the new facilities of the Budapest University of Veterinary Medicine.