Hungary’s chief security advisor György Bakondi has warned of a tenfold increase in migration pressure on the Serbia–Hungary border, with 1,841 illegal migrants apprehended this year compared to 191 in the same period last year. He highlighted the potential for a mass migration wave from conflict zones like Syria and Congo.

The 2025 Tour de Hongrie, Hungary’s premier cycling race, will begin at Budapest’s Szent Gellért Square and conclude at the Esztergom Basilica. With 885 kilometres of challenging routes, including the iconic Kékestető climb, this year’s edition features record Hungarian participation and promises thrilling competition.

Hungary has established a new 150-member anti-narcotics unit to tackle drug trafficking and organized crime, with Parliamentary State Secretary Bence Rétvári declaring that ‘drug dealers belong in prison.’ The unit, part of the National Bureau of Investigation, aims to dismantle trafficking networks.

The Botanical Garden of the University of Szeged is showcasing its stunning collection of tropical orchids through thematic guided tours on select Saturdays. With over 250 species and hybrids on display, visitors can explore the exotic blooms of these fascinating plants, including rare varieties like Paphiopedilums and boat orchids.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has warned that the European Union faces tough months ahead following Donald Trump’s return to power, urging Brussels to prepare for a ‘Trump tornado’. In a Facebook post, Orbán criticized EU leaders for underestimating Trump’s impact, while emphasizing the need for a strong deal to preserve economic ties with the US.

Hungary’s tourism sector experienced a record-breaking year in 2024, with increased visitor numbers and growing revenues driving economic expansion. National Economy Minister Márton Nagy highlighted tourism as a key driver of GDP, announcing new initiatives such as regulatory changes and infrastructure investments to sustain momentum.

The Hungarian government remains steadfast in resisting pressure from both Brussels and the domestic opposition on key issues such as energy security, migration, and pension policies, said Balázs Orbán, the prime minister’s political director. He criticized EU policies and highlighted Hungary’s commitment to national sovereignty.

Hungary has honoured one of its most iconic inventions, the Rubik’s Cube, with a commemorative stamp celebrating its 50th anniversary. Recognized globally as a symbol of Hungarian ingenuity, the puzzle has left a lasting mark on science, education, and design.

The ‘Family 2025’ conference reaffirmed Hungary’s dedication to family-centric policies as a cornerstone of national stability and development. Hungary’s approach, combining financial incentives with ideological resistance, aims to ensure long-term family prosperity and national sovereignty in an evolving geopolitical landscape.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán discussed the country’s economic outlook, European Union conflicts, and global political shifts in a radio interview. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the middle class, argued in defence of government policies, and criticized Brussels for its economic approach.

Several Hungarian schools received bomb threats via email overnight, prompting authorities to heighten security and conduct evacuations. The Ministry of Interior urged school administrators to monitor their emails and report any threats immediately to law enforcement.

Viktor Orbán underscored the dual nature of film as both an art form and an industry, emphasizing that while artistic freedom is essential, the state plays a crucial role in developing the film sector. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Film Institute’s new studio complex in Fót, he highlighted Hungary’s deep-rooted cinematic heritage and the government’s commitment to revitalizing the industry.

The Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music will celebrate its 150th anniversary with Talent Day on 9 February, offering performances by students, open classes, lectures, and a grand symphonic concert in the evening. The event provides a rare opportunity to explore the academy’s musical excellence.

The 34th National Science and Innovation Olympiad (OTIO) has attracted a record number of participants, with 428 young competitors forming 296 teams, including 17 from beyond Hungary’s borders. Minister for Culture and Innovation Balázs Hankó highlighted the crucial role of innovation in boosting Hungary’s competitiveness.

Hungarian workers are increasingly optimistic about their ability to weather unemployment, as revealed by a recent study from BNP Paribas Cardif and Medián. The findings show rising confidence in finding new jobs and improved financial preparedness among respondents.

A recent study commissioned by Hungary’s National Media and Infocommunications Authority reveals that Facebook’s opaque moderation policies may have restricted up to half a million Hungarian users. The research highlights the lack of transparency in tech giants’ content rules.

Bomb threat emails targeting Hungarian schools last week were traced to Ukrainian IP addresses using a Russian email provider. While this provides clues, determining the actual origin remains complex due to disposable email accounts and VPN technologies, experts say.

The University of Szeged (SZTE) is hosting Physics Day once again this Saturday, offering engaging programmes for science enthusiasts. Attendees will discover the vast applications of a physics degree and witness captivating experiments and presentations.

The Tokaj wine region is rising to the challenges posed by climate change and shifting market trends. János Áder, former President of Hungary, discussed these issues with winemaker István Szepsy Jr. in the latest Blue Planet podcast episode.

Hungary’s government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with China during a Lunar New Year celebration in Budapest.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán reflects on the nation’s resilience and leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic in a newly released documentary. The film chronicles the efforts of government, healthcare, and everyday heroes during one of Hungary’s greatest challenges.

A new television series titled Puskás will explore the most thrilling decade of Hungarian football legend Ferenc Puskás’s life, chronicling his journey from ‘Öcsi’ of Kispest to becoming a global star with Real Madrid during the 1950s.

The Hungarian government has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a 40-kilometre motorway connecting Szombathely to Körmend and Kőszeg by the end of the decade. The 200-billion-forint project aims to bolster regional connectivity and economic growth in the area.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán addressed recent bomb threats and national security issues in his regular public radio interview, emphasizing the need for vigilance and resilience. He highlighted Hungary’s stance on migration, energy security, and its strategic position in Europe and beyond.

Hungary has overtaken Greece to become Europe’s leader in solar energy production, with solar systems accounting for 25 per cent of the country’s electricity production in 2024. This remarkable achievement highlights Hungary’s rapid growth in renewable energy capacity.

Multiple Hungarian schools were evacuated on Thursday morning following bomb threats impacting institutions in Budapest and regional areas. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán assured the public that safety measures are being reinforced and investigations are underway.

One hundred years ago, on 22 January 1925, the first Hungarian crossword puzzle appeared in print. To mark this centennial milestone, the National Association of Puzzle Solvers (ROE) is hosting a grand competition in Budapest, celebrating a legacy of ingenuity.

Across the country and beyond Hungary’s borders, the day is observed through a wide variety of cultural programmes. In Budapest, the National Archives opens its doors to visitors today, showcasing treasures such as the first edition of Kölcsey’s poetry collection, which includes the ‘Himnusz’.

As the world undergoes profound transformations, Hungary’s leadership emphasizes the importance of sovereignty and preparedness in politics, economics, and foreign policy. Failure to adapt could leave nations behind in the competitive global arena.

Hungarian Post has released its twelfth and final Chinese Zodiac stamp sheet, celebrating the Year of the Snake. The series, marking 12 years of honouring the Lunar New Year, underscores the enduring friendship between Hungary and China.