ᐅ NEWS from Hungary » Let's Learn Hungarian

Budapest Riverside to Be Pedestrian Only from March

2025-03-10T09:45:09+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesten a pesti alsó rakpart március 15-től gyalogosoké és kerékpárosoké lesz. Ez a változás hétvégére és ünnepnapokra vonatkozik őszig. Gergely Karácsony polgármester szerint ez a lépés jót tesz a városnak és a környezetnek . Így több hely jut a sétálóknak a Duna mellett.

Listen to this text (00:18)

Translation

In Budapest, the lower Pest embankment will be designated for pedestrians and cyclists starting 15th March, applicable on weekends and public holidays until autumn. According to Mayor Gergely Karácsony, this change will benefit both the city and the environment, providing more space for walkers along the Danube.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: From which date will the Budapest riverside be for pedestrians and cyclists?

The Budapest riverside will be for pedestrians and cyclists from March 15.

Question 2: Who believes this change is good for the city and the environment?

Mayor Gergely Karácsony believes this change is good for the city and the environment.

Exercise: Vocabulary

alsó - lower

vonatkozik - apply

ünnepnap (n.) - holiday

polgármester (m.) - mayor

lépés (n.) - step

környezet (n.) - environment

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▌10/03/2025

In a move that is set to enhance Budapest's appeal as a pedestrian-friendly city, the Pest lower embankment will be exclusively accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, and users of other small mobility devices starting on 15th March. This conversion follows a similar pattern from previous years, closing the area to vehicles during weekends and public holidays from autumn to spring.

Announced by the city's mayor, Gergely Karácsony, this initiative is part of a broader effort to make urban spaces more conducive to foot traffic and leisure activities. The change is intended to last until autumn, providing a more serene and safer walkway along the Danube River for citizens and tourists alike.

The decision has been communicated through the mayor's social media platforms, where he highlighted the significance of this transformation for both the environmental benefits and the enhancement of urban life. The closing of the embankment forms part of a wider strategy to renew and revitalise key public areas in Budapest.

Budapest Riverside to Be Pedestrian Only from March (Illustration)

This temporary restriction of vehicular access, while disruptive to some motorists, is seen as a necessary step towards reducing urban congestion and pollution. It will allow pedestrians to enjoy the full width of the embankment uninterrupted, fostering a healthier and more community-focused urban environment.

While this change has been welcomed by many environmental groups and city residents who value increased pedestrianisation, some concerns have been raised regarding traffic detours and potential congestion in surrounding areas. City planners aim to monitor the situation and adjust as necessary to minimise inconvenience.

The latest announcement reinforces Budapest's commitment to sustainable urban development, ensuring that city improvements keep pace with modern traffic and environmental demands.

Info: "Hungarian Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Hungarian", a language school dedicated to teaching Hungarian to learners worldwide. Offering various types of online Hungarian course, we cater to different levels of proficiency, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

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Outbreak Sparks Closure of Hungarian Zoo

2025-03-08T08:51:35+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Az egyik magyarországi állatkert bezárt egy állatbetegség miatt. A győri állatkertet a száj- és körömfájás miatt átmenetileg lezárták. A betegség a Kisbajcs közelében lévő állatgazdaságban tört ki. Az érintett állatokat megfigyelik , és azokat az állatokat, akik ki vannak téve a vírusnak, tilos mozgatni. Az állatok között elterjedő betegség nem veszélyes az emberekre.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

One of the zoos in Hungary has been closed due to an animal disease. The Győr Zoo has been temporarily closed because of foot-and-mouth disease. The outbreak occurred on a farm near Kisbajcs. The affected animals are being monitored, and any animals exposed to the virus must not be moved. The disease spreading among the animals is not dangerous to humans.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Why was the Hungarian zoo closed?

The zoo was closed because of foot-and-mouth disease.

Question 2: Is the disease dangerous to humans?

No, the disease is not dangerous to humans.

Exercise: Vocabulary

állatbetegség (f.) - animal disease

átmenetileg - temporarily

érintett - affected

megfigyel - observe

elterjed - spread

körömfájás (f.) - hoof disease

Read the full story

▌08/03/2025

A resurgence of foot-and-mouth disease in Hungary has led to the temporary closure of the Győr Zoo as part of rigorous measures to curb the virus's spread. Hungarian authorities have responded swiftly to the first outbreak of the disease in over 50 years, confirmed in early March at a cattle farm near the village of Kisbajcs in north-west Hungary. The farm hosts approximately 1,400 cattle, all of which are now under quarantine.

The National Food Chain Safety Office (Nébih) was alerted by a veterinarian at the farm on March 5th. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the virus the next day. The infected cattle exhibited classic symptoms, including high fever and characteristic blisters around the mouth and hooves, leading to immediate containment measures.

In response, Hungarian Chief Veterinary Officer Pásztor Szabolcs announced comprehensive restrictions across the Transdanubia region affected by the outbreak. These include a temporary halt to the export of susceptible livestock and a strict ban on the movement of such animals within specific zones for at least 72 hours. After this period, animals may only be transported for immediate slaughter.

In addition to the farm quarantine, a 10-kilometre surveillance zone is in place around the infected farm. All farms within this zone are under scrutiny, and samples have been collected for virus testing. Wildlife management has also been impacted, with hunting banned in the area.

Outbreak Sparks Closure of Hungarian Zoo (Illustration)

The detection of this highly contagious virus has broader implications as the outbreak coincides with a critical shipping period for Hungary's sheep industry, which typically exports lambs ahead of Easter. This has raised concerns among agricultural organizations, although officials hope the outbreak can be swiftly contained.

Another significant measure is the closure of the Győr Zoo, home to several endangered species susceptible to the disease. To safeguard these animals, zoo officials decided to close its doors pending further notice. This precautionary step aims to minimize risk and stabilise the situation, ensuring no cross-contamination occurs among zoo inhabitants.

Despite the rapid response, the disease's economic impact is anticipated to be significant. As such, both Nébih and Hungary's Ministry of Agriculture are conducting a full epidemiological investigation to comprehend the extent of the virus's spread and its possible origins. Authorities urge livestock keepers to adhere strictly to biosecurity regulations and report any suspicious symptoms immediately.

Although the virus does not pose a threat to human health, the risk of economic disruption remains high due to its implications on trade and agriculture. With stringent measures now in place, officials remain vigilant in their effort to prevent further dissemination of this formidable animal disease.

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Robert Palladino Leads US Embassy in Budapest

2025-03-05T16:37:27+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Robert Palladino lett az Egyesült Államok budapesti nagykövetségének ideiglenes vezetője március 7-től. Palladino tapasztalt diplomata , és célja az Egyesült Államok és Magyarország közötti kapcsolatok erősítése . Átmeneti vezető lesz egy új nagykövet kinevezéséig , aki még nem kapta meg a Szenátus jóváhagyását.

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

Robert Palladino has become the acting head of the United States Embassy in Budapest as of March 7th. Palladino is an experienced diplomat, and his aim is to strengthen the relations between the United States and Hungary. He will serve as the interim leader until a new ambassador is appointed, who has not yet received Senate approval.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What role is Robert Palladino temporarily taking on?

He is temporarily leading the US Embassy in Budapest.

Question 2: What is Robert Palladino's goal as the leader of the US Embassy in Budapest?

His goal is to strengthen the relations between the United States and Hungary.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ideiglenes - temporary

tapasztalt - experienced

diplomata (n.) - diplomat

kapcsolat (n.) - relations

erősítés (n.) - strengthening

kinevezés (n.) - appointment

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▌05/03/2025

The United States Embassy in Budapest has announced that Robert Palladino will serve as the acting head from March 7 onwards. This move comes as a temporary measure until the newly appointed ambassador, yet to be confirmed by the Senate, takes over.

Palladino, a seasoned diplomat, steps into this role following the departure of David Pressman, the previous ambassador who left in January. Known for his extensive experience, Palladino has previously served in diverse regions ranging from Asia to Europe and the Middle East.

Robert Palladino Leads US Embassy in Budapest (Illustration)

In his most recent position, Palladino was the Deputy Executive Secretary of the State Department under the Biden administration, where he directly supported the Secretary of State. During Trump's first term, he was pivotal in shaping U.S. foreign policy as the chief of staff to Stephen E. Biegun, the then Deputy Secretary of State. Additionally, he had roles as the deputy spokesperson for the State Department and the strategic communications director for the White House National Security Council.

His military background as a JAG officer in Asia and Europe further enriches his diplomatic credentials. Palladino holds degrees from the Notre Dame University, Washington & Lee University School of Law, and the U.S. Army War College. Fluent in Mandarin and Italian, he is married with two daughters.

The embassy has highlighted Palladino’s aim to strengthen the ties between the United States and Hungary during his tenure. His role entails managing communications with the Hungarian government and public until a new ambassador arrives. The appointment comes amid speculation that Bryan E. Leib, currently a prominent figure in supporting the Hungarian government's stance at the public policy think tank Alapjogokért Központ, was a potential candidate for the vacancy.

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For Now, a Temporary Chargé d'Affaires Leads the US Embassy in Budapest (Infostart)
Robert Palladino Appointed to Lead U.S. Embassy in Budapest (444.hu)
"David Pressman's Temporary Successor Announced" (Index.hu)
Headline: Career Diplomat Temporarily Appointed to Lead the U.S. Embassy in Budapest (HVG.hu)

Opposition Triumphs in Pápa Mid-term Election

2025-03-03T08:09:42+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Kerti Györgyi 75,4%-kal nyert az időközi választáson Pápán a "Közösen Pápáért" színeiben. Fő ellenfele , Heizer Zoltánné, Fidesz jelöltje, 24,6%-ot kapott . Az új választást az előző polgármester lemondása után tartották. Györgyi győzelme erősíti az ellenzéket a város politikájában .

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Kerti Györgyi won with 75.4% of the votes in the by-election in Pápa, representing the "Together for Pápa" alliance. Her main opponent, Heizer Zoltánné, the candidate for Fidesz, received 24.6% of the votes. The new election was held following the resignation of the previous mayor. Györgyi's victory strengthens the opposition in the town's politics.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What percentage of votes did Kerti Györgyi receive in the election?

Kerti Györgyi received 75.4% of the votes.

Question 2: Why was a new election held in Pápa?

A new election was held because the previous mayor resigned.

Exercise: Vocabulary

időközi - interim

ellenfél (n.) - opponent

kap - received

lemondás (n.) - resignation

ellenzék (n.) - opposition

politika (n.) - politics

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▌03/03/2025

An interim municipal election in the Hungarian town of Pápa has resulted in a significant victory for the opposition, with Kerti Györgyi, the candidate backed by left-wing parties and running under the banner “Közösen Pápáért” (Together for Pápa), winning with 75.4 percent of the vote. Her primary competitor, Heizer Zoltánné from the Fidesz party, secured just 24.6 percent.

This election was necessitated by the resignation of the previous mayor, who was from the Democratic Coalition (DK) and had stepped down after failing to secure a majority in the city council, despite winning the mayoral election the previous June. This recent result grants the opposition an opportunity to strengthen their position in the local government, reflecting a broader shift in the political landscape of Pápa.

Opposition Triumphs in Pápa Mid-term Election (Illustration)

Historically dominated by Fidesz, Pápa’s political dynamics shifted when the city elected its first left-wing mayor since Hungary’s political transition in 1990. Although the new mayor, Grőber Attila, did not achieve a council majority at the time, Kerti Györgyi's overwhelming victory in the election alleviates this challenge, offering the opposition parties renewed influence within the municipality.

The current composition of the 15-member city council now features seven seats each for Fidesz and the opposition alliance, with one crucial seat held by a member of the Mi Hazánk Movement, whose support could be pivotal in council decisions.

The turnout for the election was notably high, reflecting strong voter engagement in these shifts. Former prime minister Ferenc Gyurcsány acknowledged the result's significance, indicating a sustained momentum for the opposition in Pápa following this decisive win.

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Hungary's Population Decline Worsens in January 2025

2025-03-01T11:17:59+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Januárban Magyarországon 6367 születés és 12 855 haláleset volt. A születések száma 4,5%-kal csökkent , míg a halálozások száma 6,5%-kal nőtt . A termékenységi arány 1,35-re esett. A házasságkötések is csökkentek. Ez az adatok a népesség csökkenését és a demográfiai kihívásokat mutatják.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

In January, there were 6,367 births and 12,855 deaths in Hungary. The number of births decreased by 4.5%, while the number of deaths increased by 6.5%. The fertility rate dropped to 1.35. Marriages also decreased. These figures indicate a decline in the population and present demographic challenges.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How many births were there in Hungary in January 2025?

There were 6,367 births in Hungary in January 2025.

Question 2: What happened to the fertility rate in Hungary in January 2025?

The fertility rate in Hungary fell to 1.35 in January 2025.

Exercise: Vocabulary

születés (f.) - birth

halálozás (f.) - death

csökken - decrease

nő - increase

termékeny - fertile

kihívás (f.) - challenge

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▌01/03/2025

According to the preliminary data released by the Central Statistical Office of Hungary, this past January marked a significant demographic challenge for the country. The number of births fell to 6,367, representing a 4.5% decline compared with January of the previous year, while the death toll increased to 12,855, a 6.5% rise, making it the most deaths recorded in a January since 2022.

The total fertility rate, an indicator of the average number of children a woman is expected to have, further dropped to 1.35 from 1.40 in the previous year. This rate remains well below the replacement level of 2.1, highlighting a decreasing inclination towards childbearing among the population.

Hungary's Population Decline Worsens in January 2025 (Illustration)

The stark contrast between births and deaths resulted in a natural population decline of 6,488 people in January alone, compared to 5,404 in the same month last year. This accelerated rate of population decline underscores the continuing demographic challenges facing Hungary. The population decrease is equivalent to the vanishing of a town the size of Aszód in a single month.

The marriage rate also demonstrated a downward trend, with just 1,605 couples tying the knot, a 4.2% decrease from the previous year. In total, around 46,000 marriages were recorded over the past year, resembling the lowest levels seen since 2015.

Some analysts emphasize the unprecedented nature of these figures, noting that January experienced the highest mortality rate outside the pandemic or major flu seasons. As Hungary navigates these profound demographic shifts, the need for policy measures to address population decline becomes increasingly vital.

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Pine Weekendhouse in Hungary Listed for £450 Million

2025-02-26T19:08:52+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Pine Weekendhouse egy luxuscsaládi rezidencia Balatonakarattyán, Magyarországon. Hét hálószobás, két szintes épület, és egy egyszintes apartmanház alkotja . 450 millió forintért eladó . 2021-ben újították fel , támogatva a Kisfaludy Program által. Tartozéka egy fedett terasz. Tulajdonosa István Száraz, akinek magas szintű kapcsolatai vannak.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The Pine Weekend House is a luxury family residence located in Balatonakarattya, Hungary. The property comprises a two-storey building with seven bedrooms and a single-storey annex. It is on sale for 450 million forints. Renovated in 2021 with support from the Kisfaludy Programme, it features a covered terrace. The owner, István Száraz, is known for his influential connections.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where is the Pine Weekendhouse located?

The Pine Weekendhouse is located in Balatonakarattya, Hungary.

Question 2: How many bedrooms does the main building of the Pine Weekendhouse have?

The main building of the Pine Weekendhouse has seven bedrooms.

Exercise: Vocabulary

rezidencia (f.) - residence

szint (n.) - level

alkot - form

eladó - for sale

fel - up

kapcsolat (f.) - connection

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▌26/02/2025

The Pine Weekendhouse, a seven-bedroom "luxurious family residence" located near the Bezerédj Beach in Balatonakarattya, Hungary, has been put up for sale at a price of 450 million Hungarian forints (approximately £1.2 million). This picturesque property, listed in a local Facebook group dedicated to real estate transactions in the Balaton area, underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2021.

The property comprises a two-level building structure and a single-story apartment house, seamlessly connected by a covered terrace. The refurbishment was supported by the state-funded Kisfaludy Program, which granted 42.38 million forints towards its modernization. The sale of the property marks the end of the mandatory three-year period during which the winning bidders of the program had to operate the venue, according to local reports.

Pine Weekendhouse in Hungary Listed for £450 Million (Illustration)

Originally, the renovation support was awarded to Dry Beta Kft., a company linked to István Száraz. Száraz is a well-known figure in Hungary due to his connections with influential circles, including friends of Ádám Matolcsy, a notable name related to the Hungarian central bank. Száraz’s business ventures benefited substantially during the leadership of Matolcsy’s father at the bank, leading to significant financial success. Furthermore, Száraz is recognized not only for his local business undertakings but also for his involvement in the art world as a young patron in London.

This sale has attracted attention not only because of the property's luxurious appeal and the significant investment in its refurbishment but also due to the high-profile connections of its owner, István Száraz, making it a point of interest both economically and socially within the region.

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Gyurcsány Criticises Orbán and Trump in Scathing Speech

2025-02-24T13:34:42+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Ferenc Gyurcsány, a magyar politikus, bírálta Orbán Viktor miniszterelnököt. Gyurcsány a "Demokratikus Koalíció" vezetője, és beszélt a politikai problémákról. Szerinte Orbán nem figyel a fontos dolgokra. Gyurcsány szerint az országnak jobb szabályozásra van szüksége a bankok felett és jobb egészségügyi és oktatási szolgáltatásokra . Azt akarja, hogy Magyarország védje jobban a polgárait .

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

Ferenc Gyurcsány, the Hungarian politician, criticised Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Gyurcsány, who leads the "Democratic Coalition," discussed political issues, asserting that Orbán fails to address important matters. According to Gyurcsány, the country needs better regulation of banks and improved healthcare and educational services. He advocates for Hungary to better protect its citizens.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is the leader of the 'Demokratikus Koalíció'?

Ferenc Gyurcsány is the leader of the 'Demokratikus Koalíció'.

Question 2: What does Gyurcsány think Hungary needs better regulations for?

Gyurcsány thinks Hungary needs better regulations for banks.

Exercise: Vocabulary

bírál - criticise

szabályozás (n.) - regulation

egészségügyi - health-related

szolgáltatás (n.) - services

véd - protect

polgár (m.) - citizen

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▌24/02/2025

In a speech filled with fervor and emotion, former Hungarian Prime Minister and current leader of the Democratic Coalition, Ferenc Gyurcsány, delivered a critical evaluation of the current national and global political climate. The speech, which followed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's annual address, was a platform for Gyurcsány to denounce what he perceives as detrimental political alliances and policies.

Gyurcsány likened Orbán's situation to the sinking of the Titanic, suggesting that the Prime Minister is oblivious to the impending crises while orchestrating distractions. "A historic match is beginning, one we haven't faced in seventy years," Gyurcsány declared, projecting a future marred by political and social upheaval.

The speech was also an opportunity for Gyurcsány to draw direct parallels between Orbán and former U.S. President Donald Trump, accusing both leaders of fostering an alliance with "wealthy elites" at the expense of ordinary citizens. He described this purported alliance as a move to "dismantle democracy and control nations," highlighting a bleak vision of increasing global extremism driven by political and corporate giants.

Gyurcsány Criticises Orbán and Trump in Scathing Speech (Illustration)

Moreover, Gyurcsány has proposed significant regulatory changes targeting banking practices in Hungary. He called for strong state regulations over banks to prevent "unilateral business rule changes" and to dismantle the current "debt recovery system," which he claims forces numerous families into destitution.

The former Prime Minister also criticized what he perceives as the government's lack of performance in essential public services, such as healthcare and education. He argued that genuine governance success should be measured by the availability of doctors, teachers, and housing opportunities for young people, instead of mere legislative gestures.

Overall, Gyurcsány's speech painted a sharp contrast between his vision for Hungary and that of the current administration, urging a distancing from "Orbán's system" and advocating for a more protective state over its citizens. The impassioned speech emphasized a return to values supporting human rights and social justice, urging unity against the policies he views as detrimental.

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Hungary Faces Frosty Weekend with Strong Winds

2025-02-22T10:13:03+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A hétvégén Magyarországon hideg, száraz idő lesz. Szombaton napos, felhős idő várható, csapadék nélkül. A szél délkeleten erősödhet . A hőmérséklet nappal 4-10 fok között alakul . Vasárnap több felhő lesz, különösen a Dunántúlon, ahol eshet az eső. Éjszaka -9 és -1 fok között lesz. Jövő héten enyhülés várható.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

The weekend in Hungary will be cold and dry. On Saturday, it is expected to be sunny with clouds, but without precipitation. The wind may strengthen in the southeast. Daytime temperatures will range between 4 and 10 degrees Celsius. On Sunday, cloudiness will increase, especially in Transdanubia, where rain may occur. During the night, temperatures will be between -9 and -1 degrees Celsius. A warming trend is expected next week.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What type of weather is expected in Hungary on Saturday?

Sunny and cloudy weather is expected with no precipitation.

Question 2: What is the expected temperature range during the day this weekend in Hungary?

The temperature is expected to be between 4-10 degrees Celsius during the day.

Exercise: Vocabulary

hőmérséklet (f.) - temperature

erősödik - to strengthen

alakul - to form

különösen - especially

éjszaka (f.) - night

enyhülés (f.) - milding

Read the full story

▌22/02/2025

This weekend, Hungary is set to experience a dry and frosty spell, with significant winds forecasted. Forecasters predict that Saturday will largely see clear skies, although the northeast part of the Transdanubia region may initially encounter some cloudiness, which is expected to dissipate by midday.

By the afternoon, cloud cover is predicted to increase again, particularly in the south-western parts of the country, while the northeastern and eastern regions might experience some high, thin clouds. Importantly, no precipitation is anticipated over the weekend.

The southeast wind is predicted to pick up in various regions, possibly strengthening in places. Temperature-wise, daytime highs are expected to range between 4 and 10 degrees Celsius.

Hungary Faces Frosty Weekend with Strong Winds (Illustration)

On Sunday, the weather conditions are predicted to be more cloudy across the Transdanubia region, whereas other areas might enjoy sunnier conditions with some wisps of cloud. There will be a slight rise in the likelihood of rain in Transdanubia. The southern and southeastern winds are expected to remain light to moderate in strength.

In terms of temperature, nighttime values could plummet to between -9 and -1 degrees Celsius, with areas experiencing clear skies potentially recording even lower figures. Daytime temperatures are unlikely to exceed 8 degrees.

Looking ahead, the current weather pattern is expected to continue into the early part of next week. However, from Wednesday onwards, warmer air masses are forecasted to arrive in the region, signalling a gradual warming trend.

Despite the persistent chilly nights and a wind that is expected to intensify on Saturday, there is anticipation of a forthcoming thaw, as daytime temperatures are subtly on the rise.

Info: "Hungarian Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Hungarian", a dedicated language school offering a variety of online Hungarian courses designed for enthusiasts at all levels. Our programmes aim to help students understand and master the Hungarian language through engaging and flexible learning options.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

The weekend kicks off with chilly, rain-free weather. (24.hu)
Forecast: Warmer Air Masses Expected to Arrive Soon (Infostart)
Dry and Frosty Weather Expected This Weekend, with Increasing Winds (Blikk.hu)

Budapest Subway Cooking Ban from 2025

2025-02-19T13:26:30+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

2025. január 1-től Budapest megtiltja a főzést a metró aluljárókban. Ez a döntés a környezeti és infrastrukturális problémákat célozza meg. A tilalom azokra a helyekre vonatkozik , ahol nem megfelelő a konyhatechnikai felszerelés . Az ilyen tevékenységek szellőzési és olajlerakódási problémákat okoznak. A bérleti díjak változatlanok maradnak.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

From 1st January 2025, Budapest will prohibit cooking in metro underpasses. This decision aims to address environmental and infrastructural issues. The ban will apply to areas lacking appropriate kitchen facilities, as such activities cause ventilation and oil deposit problems. Rental fees will remain unchanged.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When does the cooking ban in Budapest subway stations start?

The cooking ban starts on January 1, 2025.

Question 2: What issues does the cooking ban aim to address?

The ban aims to address environmental and infrastructural issues.

Exercise: Vocabulary

megtilt - forbid

vonatkozik - apply

megfelelő - suitable

felszerelés (n.) - equipment

szellőzés (n.) - ventilation

olajlerakódás (n.) - oil deposit

Read the full story

▌19/02/2025

As of 2025, January 1, the city of Budapest will implement a ban on cooking within subway underpasses. This decision, confirmed by the Mayor's Office, aims to address several infrastructural and environmental challenges associated with such culinary activities in these locations.

According to local Hungarian news sources, the ban targets food establishments, such as buffets and pavilions in the subway areas, citing their "inadequate utilities and construction" for handling on-site cooking. The prohibition arises from persistent issues, including lingering odors and the accumulation of grease vapours in the ventilation systems, which pose cleaning challenges. Additionally, the improper disposal of used cooking oils and fats into the drainage systems—primarily designed for rainwater—has been highlighted as a significant concern.

Budapest Subway Cooking Ban from 2025 (Illustration)

The policy involves an individual assessment of each establishment, as mentioned in sources, indicating the absence of a blanket ban across all subways. The evaluations are set to align with the renewal of tenancy agreements for these food vendors.

While the initiative has been formally communicated to those affected, the decision has prompted noticeable changes for those accustomed to popular local treats like gyros, funnel cake (kürtőskalács), and fried sausages in subways. Despite narrowing menu options, rental charges for these vendors will remain unchanged, as clarified by the Mayor's Office, since space usage fees were never determined by the type of business activity.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Controversy Surrounds Tisza Party Congress in Hungary

2025-02-17T09:17:33+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Tisza Párt kongresszusa Magyarországon nagy politikai vita tárgya lett. Dömötör Csaba, a Fidesz párt tagja , azt állította , hogy a kongresszust az Európai Néppárt (EPP) támogatta . Magyar Péter, a Tisza Párt vezetője , új Magyarországot ígér, reformokat és méltányosságot szorgalmazott . A politikai helyzet kérdéseket vet fel.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

The Tisza Party Congress in Hungary has become a major topic of political debate. Csaba Dömötör, a member of the Fidesz party, claimed that the congress was supported by the European People's Party (EPP). Péter Magyar, the leader of the Tisza Party, promised a new Hungary, advocating for reforms and fairness. The political situation raises various questions.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who claimed that the Tisza Party Congress was supported by the European People's Party?

Dömötör Csaba claimed that the congress was supported by the European People's Party.

Question 2: What did Magyar Péter promise for Hungary?

Magyar Péter promised a new Hungary, advocating for reforms and fairness.

Exercise: Vocabulary

kongresszus (m.) - congress

tag (m.) - member

állít - claim

támogat - support

vezető (m.) - leader

szorgalmaz - advocate

Read the full story

▌17/02/2025

The Tisza Party's congress held recently in Hungary has sparked significant political discourse, with reactions highlighting contrasting views on the event's implications. Central to the controversy is the claim by European Parliament member Dömötör Csaba of the ruling Fidesz party, who suggested that the congress received financial backing from Manfred Weber and the European People's Party (EPP). The presence of numerous EPP logos at the event was cited as evidence of this political sponsorship, implying a connection that has political significance for both Hungarian and broader European dynamics.

In his social media commentary, Dömötör emphasized that the EPP's recent political alliances and decisions, such as their coalition with liberal and leftist parties in the past elections, have played a pivotal role in shaping current European policies. He broadly criticized these alliances for fostering unwanted migration policies and sanctions that have reportedly led to increased energy prices. Reactionary measures against Hungary's domestic policies, proposed reductions in agricultural subsidies, and support for progressive social agendas were also pointedly discussed, presenting a critical stance on the influence of the EPP on Hungarian politics.

On the other hand, Magyar Péter, leader of the opposition Tisza Party and once a political player himself, presented a robust vision during his address at the congress, positioning the party as a beacon for change much needed by Hungary. Emphasizing the importance of establishing a 'new Hungary', he laid out a series of ambitious policies, including economic reforms, reviving tax structures beneficial to small businesses, and safeguarding public assets. Magyar's speech was marked by promises of increased transparency, emphasizing the need for systemic changes in governance to ensure fair play and focus on public welfare.

Controversy Surrounds Tisza Party Congress in Hungary (Illustration)

Speaking to a diverse audience at the congress, Magyar pointedly criticized the current government under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, portraying it as overreaching and self-serving. He called upon Hungarian citizens to unite in the pursuit of a "free and independent Hungary," highlighting the division currently entrenched in the nation's politics, purportedly fueled by the existing administration. Among his proposals, the establishment of centers for elderly services and the reallocation of funds to enhance public healthcare and educational infrastructures were notably stressed, presenting a blueprint for societal rejuvenation.

Despite the fervent rhetoric and the enthusiastic reception at the Tisza congress, the ruling Fidesz party, and some public observers, view the proceedings skeptically, especially given Magyar’s past associations with Fidesz itself. Nonetheless, the congress has set the stage for a renewed confrontation in Hungary's political landscape, with the Tisza Party positioning itself as a leading opposition force, ready to challenge the status quo.

The unfolding situation raises pertinent questions about the influences shaping Hungarian politics and the outsiders seeking to leave their mark. As Hungary prepares for future electoral and policy battles, the debates stirred by the Tisza Party congress are likely to continue resonating through its political spheres.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Csaba Dömötör Claims Manfred Weber's Group Funded the Tisza Party Congress (Index.hu)
Péter Magyar: The Countdown Has Begun (444.hu)

Bomb Threats Affect Hungarian Schools and Childcare Centres

2025-02-15T11:09:23+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Magyarországon több mint 240 iskolát evakuáltak bombafenyegetések miatt. A rendőrség gyorsan reagált, de bombát nem találtak. Később egy 16 éves lányt tartóztattak le hamis fenyegetések miatt két gyermekotthon ellen. Ez az eset rávilágít a fenyegetésekkel kapcsolatos súlyos problémákra és a fiatalkorú elkövetők viselkedési mintáira.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

In Hungary, over 240 schools were evacuated due to bomb threats. The police responded swiftly, though no bombs were found. Later, a 16-year-old girl was arrested for making false threats against two children's homes. This incident highlights serious issues related to these threats and the behavioural patterns of juvenile offenders.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How did the police respond to the bomb threats in Hungarian schools?

The police responded quickly to the bomb threats.

Question 2: Who was arrested for making the false threats?

A 16-year-old girl was arrested for making the false threats.

Exercise: Vocabulary

evakuál - evacuate

fenyegetés (f.) - threats

tartóztat - arrest

hamis - false

rávilágít - highlight

fiatalkorú - juvenile

Read the full story

▌14/02/2025

Hungary experienced a disruption of significant scale when over 240 schools, including at least 20 in the capital, Budapest, received bomb threats. The alarming situation led to the rapid evacuation of these institutions and mobilized a robust emergency response across the nation. These threats were delivered through identical emails, sparking a nationwide investigation by Hungarian authorities.

During the thorough inspections that followed these threats, no explosives or devices were discovered. The Hungarian police ensured all affected institutions were secured and staffed with a police presence, as a measure of safety for students and staff. Although no physical danger was detected, the incident has ignited fears about possible links to similar threats reported last year in neighbouring countries, prompting a need for cross-border investigative efforts.

Bomb Threats Affect Hungarian Schools and Childcare Centres (Illustration)

In a related event, a 16-year-old girl was apprehended for making bomb threats against two children’s homes in Budapest's XVIII district. On the morning of February 11, she called two separate homes, falsely claiming that bombs were planted on their premises. The Budapest Metropolitan Police quickly identified and detained her. The teenager admitted to the offence but could not provide a clear motive for her alarming actions.

Authorities have noted a disturbing trend of juvenile offenders engaging in similar threats purely as pranks or to evade responsibilities like school exams. Previous instances have involved minors who had little understanding of the severe consequences their actions might entail. In one such instance, a young boy was found responsible for a bomb threat as he sought to skip school, unaware of the criminal charges such actions could bring.

The recent string of incidents highlights not only the seriousness with which these threats must be treated but also the broader implications for youth behaviour and its impact on public safety. Law enforcement continues to pursue these cases resolutely, with international collaboration for thorough investigation wherever necessary. Hungarian legal frameworks provide for significant penalties in such cases, emphasizing the critical need to address this issue with all due seriousness.

Info: "Hungarian Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Hungarian," a language school dedicated to teaching Hungarian. Our school offers various types of online courses, including Hungarian for beginners, to provide learners with the tools they need to start their language journey.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Bomb Threats Disrupt Over 240 Schools Across Hungary (The Budapest Times)
Teenager Threatens Budapest Children's Homes with Bomb Attack, Arrested by Police (Index.hu)
16-Year-Old Girl Arrested for Bomb Threats Against Budapest Children's Homes (24.hu)
16-Year-Old Girl Questioned for Bomb Threat (Blikk.hu)

Hungarian Inflation Soars to 5.5% in January

2025-02-12T17:15:55+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

2025 januárjában a magyar infláció 5,5%-ra nőtt. Az áremelkedés fő oka az élelmiszerárak növekedése, például a liszt, tej és tojás ára jelentősen nőtt. Az alapvető szolgáltatások árai is emelkedtek. A kormány fontolgatja az árkontrollt az infláció megfékezésére .

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

In January 2025, inflation in Hungary rose to 5.5%. The main reason for the price increase was the rise in food prices, with significant increases in the prices of flour, milk, and eggs. The cost of basic services also went up. The government is considering implementing price controls to curb inflation.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What was the main reason for the increase in inflation in Hungary?

The main reason was the increase in food prices.

Question 2: What is the government considering to control inflation?

The government is considering price controls to control inflation.

Exercise: Vocabulary

infláció (f.) - inflation

áremelkedés (f.) - price increase

kormány (f.) - government

fontolgat - consider

árkontroll (f.) - price control

megfékezés (f.) - containment

Read the full story

▌12/02/2025

Inflation in Hungary experienced a significant increase in January 2025, with consumer prices rising by 5.5% compared to the same month a year earlier, according to data published by the Central Statistical Office (KSH). This marks a notable acceleration from December's year-on-year inflation rate of 4.6% and exceeds the expectations of many analysts.

The report highlights that food prices played a significant role in driving inflation, increasing by 6% over the year. Particular attention was drawn to basic commodities such as flour, milk, and eggs, which saw substantial price hikes of 43.2%, 25%, and 23.8%, respectively. Meanwhile, fuel prices soared by 11.8% compared to January 2024, adding further pressure on household budgets.

In contrast, the core inflation rate, which excludes volatile items like food and energy, reached 5.8%, indicating persistent price pressures across other sectors. The increase in prices for services, which rose by 8.5%, also contributed significantly to overall inflation. Notable increases were observed in postal services, which went up by 16.8%, and telecommunications, with a 15% rise.

Hungarian Inflation Soars to 5.5% in January (Illustration)

To address the inflationary pressures, especially on essential items, the Hungarian government indicated potential measures, including reinforcing price controls on certain foodstuffs. Economy Minister Márton Nagy described the situation as "unacceptable," particularly the rising costs of essential goods such as milk and eggs, which heavily burden low-income households.

Further compounding the inflationary trends was the enactment of inflation-indexed taxes at the start of the year. As a result, excise duties on fuel and alcohol increased automatically in line with last July's inflation rate, adding an additional 4.1% increase. The Ministry of National Economy noted that these tax adjustments are expected to add 0.3 percentage points to the 2025 inflation rate.

Despite government efforts to stabilize prices, challenges remain, particularly in relation to the weakening of the Hungarian forint. Currency fluctuations have contributed to rising import costs, which are gradually feeding through to consumer prices.

Looking ahead, the government has pledged to continue monitoring price developments closely and to take further actions if necessary to protect consumers. This includes possible reintroductions of price caps on certain products, as recently hinted by Minister Nagy amidst ongoing meetings with retail and agricultural representatives.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hungary's Bid to Make Christmas Eve a Public Holiday Rejected

2025-02-10T09:05:13+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Kúria, Magyarország legfelsőbb bírósága, elutasította , hogy december 24-e munkaszüneti nap legyen. A népszavazást előzőleg a Nemzeti Választási Bizottság elfogadta, de később jogi aggályok merültek fel. A Jobbik továbbra is próbálkozik a javaslattal. Lengyelországban már sikerült december 24-ét munkaszüneti nappá tenni, ami példaként szolgálhat.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The Curia, Hungary's highest court, has rejected the proposal to make December 24th a public holiday. The referendum was initially approved by the National Election Office, but later legal concerns were raised. The Jobbik party continues to pursue the proposal. In Poland, December 24th has already been made a public holiday, which could serve as an example.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Which political party is continuing to propose making December 24 a public holiday in Hungary?

The Jobbik party is continuing to propose making December 24 a public holiday in Hungary.

Question 2: In which country has December 24 already been made a public holiday?

In Poland, December 24 has already been made a public holiday.

Exercise: Vocabulary

elutasít - reject

népszavazás (n.) - referendum

jogi - legal

aggály (m.) - concerns

próbálkozik - attempt

példa (n.) - example

Read the full story

▌10/02/2025

In Hungary, a proposal to declare December 24th, Christmas Eve, a public holiday was recently rejected by the Kúria, the country's supreme court. This decision came after the national election committee had initially approved a referendum on the matter, which was, however, contested by individuals leading to the Kúria's intervention.

The proposal was initiated by the Trade Union of Commercial Employees in collaboration with the opposition party Jobbik. Their intention was to allow Hungarians to dedicate this day entirely to family and festive preparations without work-related obligations. While the National Election Committee had authorised the referendum, the Kúria overruled this decision, citing legal inconsistencies.

The Kúria stated that the referendum would lead to legal issues, potentially requiring a constitutional amendment, which is not permissible under current Hungarian law. The decision highlighted problems such as the lack of clarity and the extent to which the proposed holiday would affect existing laws and workplace norms.

Hungary's Bid to Make Christmas Eve a Public Holiday Rejected (Illustration)

Despite this setback, Jobbik has announced its intention to persist with the initiative. They plan to propose a similar measure this year, hopeful for success in future attempts.

The Kúria's decision comes in contrast to recent developments in Poland, where legislative changes have successfully established December 24th as a holiday. Polish lawmakers passed the change through a legal process, ensuring that Christmas Eve will be a recognised holiday starting from 2025. This situation has been used by the Trade Union of Commercial Employees to counter arguments against the feasibility of such a holiday in Hungary, particularly concerning the economic impact of additional public holidays.

Hungary currently counts 11 national public holidays, while Poland will have 14 days off from 2025. This comparison has been a focal point in ongoing debates about whether Hungary’s economy can accommodate more non-working days.

Info: 'Hungarian Learner News' is a service from 'Let's Learn Hungarian', a language school dedicated to teaching Hungarian through various online courses. For those interested in discovering how to learn Hungarian fast, we provide comprehensive learning tools and resources to support your language journey.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

December 24th Declared a Public Holiday: Supreme Court Decision (24.hu)
The Curia Decides to Declare December 24th a Public Holiday (Index.hu)
New Decision on December 24th Holiday: Rejection Announced (Infostart)

MOME Rector Faces Confidence Vote Amid Student Protest

2025-02-08T09:35:11+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A MOME egyetem jelenleg problémákkal néz szembe Magyarországon. A rektor kinevezése és az egyetemi szervezet átalakítása miatt tüntetések vannak. A végrehajtó bizottság néhány diák kérését elfogadta és változásokat ígértek. A rektor , Koós Pál, szavazást kért, hogy bíznak-e benne. A diákok új vezetést akarnak.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

The MOME University is currently facing challenges in Hungary. Protests have arisen due to the appointment of the rector and the restructuring of the university's organisation. The executive committee has accepted some student requests and has promised changes. The rector, Koós Pál, has called for a vote of confidence. The students are demanding new leadership.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Why are there protests at MOME university?

The protests are due to the appointment of the rector and changes in the university's organization.

Question 2: What did the rector, Koós Pál, request to show his standing at the university?

Koós Pál requested a confidence vote to show whether people trust him.

Exercise: Vocabulary

jelenleg - currently

rektor (m.) - rector

kinevezés (f.) - appointment

tüntetés (f.) - protests

végrehajtó - executive

szavazás (f.) - vote

Read the full story

▌08/02/2025

The Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design (MOME) in Hungary is currently experiencing significant turmoil, as tensions between the university's leadership and its students have escalated into widespread protests. The conflict centers around the appointment of the university's rector and changes in its organizational structure.

The governing board, which oversees MOME, recently agreed to accept some of the students' demands, leading to hopes that the ongoing protests might abate. Among the board's concessions is a decision that changes to the university's organizational and operational framework must now be made with the mutual consent of the board and the university senate. Furthermore, the senate has been granted sole authority over the university's employment and student requirement systems.

Previously, controversy arose when the board installed Koós Pál as rector, overriding the senate's preferred candidate, Vargha Balázs. This decision sparked concerns over the autonomy of the university and has been a focal point of student unrest.

The discord has also been fueled by the restructuring plan, called the "University of the Future," which replaced traditional institutes with new knowledge centers. Some faculty and students expressed dissatisfaction with these changes, feeling that they do not adequately accommodate the interconnected nature of disciplines. Key positions in these centers were filled controversially, with candidates backed by the senate being overlooked.

MOME Rector Faces Confidence Vote Amid Student Protest (Illustration)

In response to the unrest, Rector Koós Pál has requested a confidence vote against himself, scheduled for 11 February. This move indicates the fragile nature of his position within the 31-member senate, which is divided on his leadership.

Student protestors, organizing under the MOME Front banner, have firmly called for the resignation of the rector and his deputies, claiming that the current leadership does not genuinely represent the university community. They have collected signatures from over half of the student body, emphasizing strong dissatisfaction.

The situation at MOME is further complicated by the way leaders of various knowledge centers were appointed. Allegations have been made that the rector bypassed the senate's decisions, choosing candidates who lacked the body's endorsement.

The governing board has sought to quell the discontent by outlining a new strategy wherein knowledge center directors are appointed for a probationary year with a view to moving towards a more community-driven selection process.

The events at MOME illuminate broader debates around the governance of higher education institutions in Hungary, especially after recent legislative changes that have affected university autonomy. As these tensions continue, the future of MOME's leadership and structure remains uncertain, pending the outcomes of both internal votes and external negotiations.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hungarian Protest Raises Over 200 Million for Youth Housing

2025-02-05T20:12:16+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Tavaly egy " influencer tiltakozás " során pénzt gyűjtöttek nehéz sorsú fiataloknak . 219 millió forintnál is többet gyűlt össze, és ebből lakásokat vásároltak. Ez a pénz segíti a fiatalokat, akik gyermekotthonokból kerülnek ki. Az Utcáról Lakásba! Egyesület lakást, érzelmi és lelki támogatást is nyújt a rászorulóknak .

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

Last year, during an "influencer protest", money was raised for underprivileged youth. More than 219 million forints were collected, and with this, homes were purchased. This money assists young people coming out of children's homes. The From Street to Home! Association provides housing as well as emotional and mental support to those in need.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who benefited from the money raised during the protest?

The money benefited young people leaving children's homes.

Question 2: What does the Utcáról Lakásba! Egyesület provide besides housing?

They provide emotional and psychological support.

Exercise: Vocabulary

influencer (m.) - influencer

tiltakozás (m.) - protest

sors (m.) - fate

fiatal - young

gyermekotthon (n.) - children's home

rászoruló (m.) - needy person

Read the full story

▌05/02/2025

In the wake of the "influencer protest" held a year ago, significant strides have been made in providing housing for vulnerable youths. The demonstration, initially centred on securing 25 million forints for a single individual, has exceeded expectations by raising over 219 million forints. This substantial fund has been channelled through the Utcáról Lakásba! Egyesület (From Street to Home Association), which has purchased four apartments and is securing a fifth, aimed at aiding young people emerging from difficult circumstances.

The protest last year was a response to a high-profile abuse case at a state-run children's home in Bicske. Rallying to the cause were multiple influencers who, alongside thousands, gathered at Budapest's Hősök tere (Heroes' Square) to advocate for state-supported youths. The event, apart from raising funds, highlighted broader social issues regarding the care system for young people.

Hungarian Protest Raises Over 200 Million for Youth Housing (Illustration)

Following the protest, the contributions of approximately 23,000 donors have facilitated housing for eight young individuals, with plans underway to accommodate two more. This initiative has been augmented by cooperative efforts with local municipalities, enhancing the capacity to support these youths. In addition to housing, the association provides emotional and psychological support, acknowledging the complexities involved in transitioning to independent living.

Bede Anna, the co-chair of the association, expressed the symbolic significance of this success amid the challenges faced by the approximately 23,000 youths under state care in Hungary. The association recognises that the move to a stable home environment represents not only logistical but also emotional shifts that demand careful, ongoing support.

The sizeable turnout and donations underscore a lingering societal impact from the protest, which also led to political ramifications, including high-profile resignations over the child abuse scandal. The community's overwhelming response has turned a moment of protest into an opportunity for real change, setting a precedent for future civic engagement in Hungary.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Green Fireball Lights Up Sky Over Lake Balaton

2025-02-01T09:29:03+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Csütörtök hajnalban egy zöld tűzgömb jelent meg az égen a Balaton felett Magyarországon. A jelenséget a Villa17-ben, Badacsonytomajnál rögzítették . Ez egy meteor, amely fényes zöld színben ragyogott . A film segítségével sokan megnézhetik az eseményt. Az ilyen tűzgömbök ritkák, és ritkán láthatóak.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

A green fireball appeared in the sky over Lake Balaton in Hungary on Thursday at dawn. The phenomenon was recorded at Villa17 near Badacsonytomaj. It is a meteor that shone a bright green colour. Thanks to the film, many people can watch the event. Such fireballs are rare and not often seen.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What color was the fireball over Lake Balaton in Hungary?

The fireball was green.

Question 2: Where was the fireball filmed in Hungary?

The fireball was filmed at Villa17 near Badacsonytomaj.

Exercise: Vocabulary

hajnal (n.) - dawn

jelenség (n.) - phenomenon

felett - above

rögzít - record

ragyog - shine

szín (n.) - colour

Read the full story

▌31/01/2025

In the early hours of Thursday, a stunning celestial event captivated early risers as a green fireball streaked across the sky above Lake Balaton in Hungary. The event, occurring at precisely 1:43 a.m., offered a mesmerising display to those lucky enough to witness it from outdoors.

For those who missed the spectacle, there is good news. The remarkable moment was captured by a camera located at Villa17 in Badacsonytomaj, as reported by Időkép, a weather service. This recording allows a wider audience to appreciate the luminous event, which displayed a brilliant green glow.

Green Fireball Lights Up Sky Over Lake Balaton (Illustration)

Experts explain that fireballs are particularly bright meteors originating from the entry of meteoroids into the Earth's atmosphere. The friction caused by their high-speed travel ignites them, creating a vivid light show. What made this particular fireball unique was its vivid green hue, a coloration attributed to the presence of various metals such as nickel and iron within the meteoroid.

Footage of the event shows the fireball illuminating the surface of Lake Balaton, enhancing the natural beauty of Hungary’s largest lake. The recording by Időkép's camera has been widely shared and viewed, drawing attention from both locals and international sky enthusiasts.

This occurrence was noted as part of the rare events where a meteor achieves or surpasses a brightness of -5 magnitude, classifying it as a fireball. Statistically, out of the numerous meteors entering Earth’s atmosphere, about one in a thousand reaches this level of brightness. The last similar sighting in Hungary was reported last November, which, according to some observers, even included sound effects.

Info: 'Hungarian Learner News' is a service from 'Let's Learn Hungarian', a language school dedicated to teaching Hungarian. We offer various types of courses for those looking to learn Hungarian online.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Green Fireball Streaks Across Lake Balaton Sky (Blikk.hu)
Hungary: Green Fireball Captured on Video Over Lake Balaton (HVG.hu)
Green Fireball Seen Over Lake Balaton (24.hu)

Hungary Narrowly Defeated by Croatia in Handball Quarterfinal

2025-01-29T17:07:01+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A magyar férfi kézilabda- válogatott 31-30-ra kikapott a horvátoktól a világbajnokság negyeddöntőjében . Magyarország vezetett , de a végén elvesztették a meccset. Lékai Máté és a csapat csalódott, de büszkék, hogy a legjobb nyolcba kerültek. Munka és kitartás jellemezte a játékukat.

Listen to this text (00:18)

Translation

The Hungarian men's handball team was narrowly defeated by Croatia with a score of 31-30 in the quarter-finals of the World Championship. Hungary had been leading, but ultimately lost the match at the end. Máté Lékai and the team were disappointed, yet proud to have reached the top eight. Their gameplay was characterised by hard work and perseverance.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What was the final score between Hungary and Croatia in the handball quarterfinal?

The final score was 31-30 in favor of Croatia.

Question 2: How did the Hungarian team feel after the match?

The Hungarian team felt disappointed but proud.

Exercise: Vocabulary

válogatott (n.) - national team

bajnokság (n.) - championship

negyeddöntő (n.) - quarter-final

vezet - lead

elveszít - lose

kitartás (n.) - perseverance

Read the full story

▌29/01/2025

In a heart-stopping finish, the Hungarian men's handball team narrowly lost to Croatia in the quarterfinals of the World Championship, with a final score of 31-30. The match, held in a charged atmosphere with 15,000 Croatian fans, saw Hungary leading until the final moments.

Despite the defeat, team captain Lékai Máté highlighted the significance of reaching the top eight, which places Hungary among the elite in the sport. However, he expressed disappointment at not capitalising on the opportunity to advance further. "We aimed to climb another step," Lékai remarked, underscoring the high stakes and vibrant atmosphere of the match.

Hungary Narrowly Defeated by Croatia in Handball Quarterfinal (Illustration)

The game was intensely competitive. Hungary had managed a four-goal lead with five minutes to go, yet Croatia launched a fierce comeback, closing the gap and ultimately surpassing Hungary with a decisive streak of goals. Bóka Bendegúz lamented the missed opportunities in the final minutes, noting the team's readiness against Croatia's defensive strategies but acknowledging a lapse in execution.

The defensive stalwart, Sipos Adrián, admitted that a series of missed chances and a crucial penalty against him contributed to the turning tide. Zoran Ilic, Hungary's top scorer with eight goals, echoed the collective disappointment but remained proud of the team's unyielding effort and adaptation throughout the match.

While the loss was a bitter pill, the team's campaign in the tournament has been marked by resilience and skill, achieving their goal of a quarterfinal appearance for the third consecutive time. Despite finishing eighth, the Hungarian squad has reinforced its stature on the global stage.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

OECD Expert Defends Hungarian Integrity Authority Leader

2025-01-27T14:12:35+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Bíró Ferenc az Integritás Hatóság vezetője . Vannak vádak ellene, például pénzügyi bűncselekményekről . Drago Kos, a korrupcióellenes szakértő, támogatja Bírót. Szerinte a vezetők kriminalizálása rombolja a társadalmat . Bíró tagadja a vádakat és hangsúlyozza az önállóság fontosságát. Kos nemzetközi támogatást kér Bírónak.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

Ferenc Bíró is the head of the Integrity Authority. He faces accusations, such as financial crimes. Drago Kos, an anti-corruption expert, supports Bíró. He believes that criminalising leaders damages society. Bíró denies the accusations and emphasises the importance of independence. Kos seeks international support for Bíró.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who supports Bíró Ferenc against the accusations?

Drago Kos supports Bíró Ferenc against the accusations.

Question 2: What does Bíró Ferenc emphasize regarding his position?

Bíró Ferenc emphasizes the importance of independence.

Exercise: Vocabulary

vezető (m.) - leader

bűncselekmény (n.) - crime

támogat - support

kriminalizálás (f.) - criminalisation

társadalom (n.) - society

hangsúlyoz - emphasise

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▌27/01/2025

The leader of Hungary's Integrity Authority, Bíró Ferenc, has found an unexpected supporter in Drago Kos, former head of the OECD Working Group on Bribery. Kos is publicly opposing the criminal charges brought against Bíró, which include accusations of significant embezzlement and misconduct.

According to official reports from the Central Chief Prosecution Office, Bíró Ferenc was questioned earlier this year in connection to allegations of using the Authority's resources for personal purposes. In particular, it is claimed that his partner used a car rented by the Authority, inflicting a financial loss of around 14 million forints. Bíró dismissed these claims as unfounded, arguing that he has been personally targeted in the investigation. Furthermore, he clarified that the use of the car by his partner was legal within the context of his official status.

In the face of these claims, Drago Kos expressed profound disappointment, stating that the criminalization of leaders of corruption-fighting bodies could have detrimental effects on society. He reiterated his respect for Bíró, whom he described as an honest and committed professional. Kos also acknowledged Bíró's achievements in establishing an effective agency within just two years—an accomplishment he believes commands respect.

OECD Expert Defends Hungarian Integrity Authority Leader (Illustration)

Moreover, Drago Kos called for international support for Bíró from leaders of anti-corruption institutions and activists worldwide. He emphasized that maintaining strong leadership in the fight against corruption is vital and that standing in solidarity with those wrongfully accused is essential for the integrity of such organizations.

This development comes amidst broader scrutiny of the Integrity Authority, with previous concerns having emerged about its activities. However, Bíró has remained steadfast, emphasizing that the Authority operates independently and that he aims to steer clear of political entanglements.

The situation has sparked discussions around the motives and implications of the charges against Bíró, as well as the broader challenges faced by anti-corruption bodies in a politically charged environment.

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Controversy Surrounds Budapest's Mini-Dubai Development

2025-01-25T09:16:57+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesten egy fejlesztési projektet terveznek Rákosrendező területen, amit "Mini-Dubai" néven ismernek. A projekt ellen tiltakozás van, mert a városvezetés más célokat szeretne, mint a kormány. Az önkormányzat szeretne több zöld területet és megfizethető lakásokat. A projekt titkos tárgyalásai problémákat okoztak a nyilvánosság számára.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

In Budapest, a development project is being planned in the Rákosrendező area, known as "Mini-Dubai." There is protest against the project because the city leadership has different goals from the government. The local administration wants more green spaces and affordable housing. The secret negotiations surrounding the project have caused issues for the public.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What is the name given to the development project in Budapest?

The development project is called 'Mini-Dubai'.

Question 2: Why is there a protest against the development project?

There is a protest because city leaders want more green areas and affordable housing instead of the current project.

Exercise: Vocabulary

fejlesztés (n.) - development

projekt (n.) - project

tiltakozás (n.) - protest

cél (n.) - goal

önkormányzat (n.) - municipality

nyilvánosság (n.) - public

Read the full story

▌25/01/2025

A proposed development project, dubbed "Mini-Dubai," in a derelict area of Budapest known as Rákosrendező has sparked a political debate. The project involves negotiations between the Hungarian government and investors from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aiming to transform the area into a high-end urban district.

The controversy came to light earlier this week when Gergely Karácsony, the Mayor of Budapest, announced that the municipality holds a pre-emptive purchase right over the land. This right could potentially allow the city to take control of the area to promote different development goals, such as building affordable housing and parks instead of skyscrapers.

Dávid Vitézy, a Budapest politician, criticised the government's secretive dealings in the project, arguing that the purchase agreement contradicts governmental promises of transparency. Vitézy raised concerns that the Hungarian state is surrendering significant control over a prime piece of land to foreign investors without adequate public input or sufficient financial return.

Controversy Surrounds Budapest's Mini-Dubai Development (Illustration)

Meanwhile, András Jámbor, a member of the Hungarian parliament, has called for transparency, questioning whether prominent political figures or their relatives have a vested interest in the project. His inquiry stems from the recent changes in ownership of companies linked to this development, which have sparked further scrutiny.

A significant twist in the proceedings is the potential intervention by the Municipal Council of Budapest. They are set to discuss whether to exercise the pre-emptive purchase right as part of their broader strategy. The council views the current development plan as not aligning with the city's urban development objectives, which focus on heritage conservation, sustainable transportation, and increasing green areas.

The controversy deepens with the involvement of renowned figures close to Hungary's political elite, including those linked to the Prime Minister's circle, thereby raising suspicions regarding the true drivers of the investment plan. This has led to further questions about the adherence to sovereign and competitive principles in this high-stakes development saga.

In the face of these challenges, Karácsony has vowed to pursue all necessary legal avenues should the government's actions infringe on the municipality's rights. The impending decision by the Municipal Council could significantly influence the direction and character of urban development in Budapest, setting a precedent for potential future projects.

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Arab Investment Sparks Controversy Over Budapest Project

2025-01-22T12:58:44+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesten eladtak egy 100 hektáros területet az Eagle Hills Group nevű cégnek az Egyesült Arab Emírségekből. Ez egy nagy fejlesztési projekt kezdetét jelenti. A helyi vezetők aggódnak, mert nem volt elég kommunikáció és átláthatóság. A magyar kormány és az emberek aggodalmukat fejezték ki az építkezések miatt.

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

In Budapest, a 100-hectare area has been sold to the Eagle Hills Group, a company from the United Arab Emirates. This marks the beginning of a major development project. Local leaders are concerned because there was insufficient communication and transparency. The Hungarian government and the public have expressed their worries over the construction plans.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who bought the 100-hectare area in Budapest?

Eagle Hills Group from the United Arab Emirates bought the 100-hectare area.

Question 2: What are local leaders concerned about regarding the project in Budapest?

Local leaders are concerned about the lack of communication and transparency.

Exercise: Vocabulary

hektár (n.) - hectare

terület (n.) - area

cég (f.) - company

fejlesztés (n.) - development

vezető (m.) - leader

kommunikáció (f.) - communication

Read the full story

▌21/01/2025

The sale of a 100-hectare area in Budapest's Rákosrendező district to the Eagle Hills Group from the United Arab Emirates has ignited a wave of controversy and concern among Hungarian officials and citizens. This significant real estate transfer paves the way for a massive development project dubbed the "Grand Budapest."

According to sources, the agreement, which involves investment exceeding 12 billion euros, was signed between the Hungarian state and the Eagle Hills Group. Initial plans outline the transformation of the area into a new urban district featuring luxury apartments and office buildings, potentially including some of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe.

The reaction from local leaders has been mixed. Gergely Karácsony, the Mayor of Budapest, labelled the project as "outright betrayal". He criticised the sale, asserting that the government prioritised private profit over public interest by selling off prime city land to foreign investors. Karácsony warns that such developments might overshadow affordable housing and greening efforts crucial to the city’s urban landscape.

Arab Investment Sparks Controversy Over Budapest Project (Illustration)

Meanwhile, concerns also mount from András Rózsa, the Mayor of Zugló, the district affected by the project. Rózsa is troubled by the lack of communication and transparency over the project's specifics. He demanded answers from Minister Lázár János, highlighting the potential for increased traffic congestion and the need for substantial infrastructure upgrades, such as the extension of the metro line and the construction of new transport links.

Adding another layer to the debate, the Hungarian Ministry of Construction and Transport has voiced its opposition to the construction of 500-metre-tall skyscrapers proposed for the site. The Ministry insists on adhering to the national architectural law, which prohibits such towering structures, suggesting that the development plans might need revision.

The Eagle Hills Group, led by Mohamed Alabbar, known for similar projects in Belgrade, has not disclosed the acquisition cost. Speculation abounds regarding the future impact of the development, particularly regarding environmental and societal implications, as past projects by Alabbar have faced criticism and legal challenges in other countries.

As discussions around the "Grand Budapest" progress, it remains to be seen how all parties, including the Hungarian government and its citizens, will balance urban development with maintaining the characteristics and needs of the city's communities.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Locomotive Fire Disrupts Traffic at Budapest's Keleti Station

2025-01-20T10:23:33+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Tűz ütött ki a Keleti pályaudvaron Budapesten péntek este. Egy dolgozó kórházba került füst miatt. Tűz két mozdonyt érintett . A vasutasok 30 vagont mentettek meg. Két mozdony megsérült . A MÁV munkája segítette a vonatok újraindítását. Tűzoltók segítettek eloltani a lángokat.

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

A fire broke out at the Eastern Railway Station in Budapest on Friday evening. A worker was taken to hospital due to smoke inhalation. The fire affected two locomotives. The railway workers managed to save 30 carriages. Two locomotives were damaged. The efforts of the Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) facilitated the recommencement of train services. Firefighters assisted in extinguishing the flames.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What happened to a worker during the fire at Keleti Station?

A worker was taken to the hospital because of smoke.

Question 2: How many locomotives were affected by the fire?

Two locomotives were affected by the fire.

Exercise: Vocabulary

pályaudvar (n.) - railway station

mozdony (n.) - locomotive

érint - affect

vasutas (n.) - railway worker

vagon (n.) - carriage

megsérül - be damaged

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▌20/01/2025

A fire that broke out at the Keleti Railway Station in Budapest last Friday evening caused significant disruptions, with one rail employee hospitalised due to smoke inhalation. The incident primarily affected a locomotive used for heating purposes, while the flames partially spread to an adjacent locomotive.

According to the Hungarian State Railways (MÁV), the fire broke out on a sidetrack and initially involved a single locomotive. Quick-thinking MÁV employees heroically rescued over 30 passenger carriages, which were at risk of being engulfed by the fire. Despite the damage to two locomotives, rail services resumed normal operations less than two hours after the incident. The efforts of the railway workers were highlighted in a video shared by MÁV on their social media, demonstrating the cooperation and bravery exhibited at the scene.

Locomotive Fire Disrupts Traffic at Budapest's Keleti Station (Illustration)

Hegyi Zsolt, the CEO of MÁV, expressed gratitude to the railway workers for their decisive and effective response, which helped avoid far greater losses. During the rescue operations, one of the shunting leaders fell ill and was transported to the hospital with suspected smoke inhalation. This individual is currently receiving medical care.

The Budapest Disaster Management agency reported that 22 professional firefighters and volunteer firefighters were deployed to tackle the blaze. A total of seven fire engines were dispatched to the site to assist in extinguishing the flames.

The fire incident is under ongoing investigation to determine its causes. Meanwhile, the MÁV continues to offer services without further interruption, thanks to the diligence of its staff. As the situation unfolds, it sheds light on the crucial roles played by emergency responders and railway personnel in managing unexpected hazards efficiently.

Info: "Hungarian Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Hungarian", a Hungarian language school. We offer a variety of online Hungarian courses designed to meet the diverse needs of learners.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Fire at Keleti Station: Video Released by MÁV (24.hu)
One Person Hospitalized After Locomotive Fire at Keleti Station (Blikk.hu)

New Hospital Directors Appointed Amid Financial Strain

2025-01-18T11:00:55+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Sándor Pintér új igazgatókat nevezett ki magyar kórházakban 2024. január 15-től. Az új vezetők Ézsi Robin Gábor, Óváry Csaba, Zsákai Zsolt, Stankovics Éva, és Lippai Norbert. Kihívások maradnak a kórházak pénzügyi helyzete miatt. Az új kinevezések reményt adnak a helyzet javítására .

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

Sándor Pintér appointed new directors to Hungarian hospitals as of 15th January 2024. The new leaders are Ézsi Robin Gábor, Óváry Csaba, Zsákai Zsolt, Stankovics Éva, and Lippai Norbert. Financial challenges remain for the hospitals, but the new appointments give hope for improving the situation.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who appointed the new hospital directors?

Sándor Pintér appointed the new hospital directors.

Question 2: When will the new directors start their work?

The new directors will start their work on January 15, 2024.

Exercise: Vocabulary

igazgató (m.) - director

vezető (m.) - leader

kihívás (n.) - challenge

pénzügyi - financial

helyzet (n.) - situation

javítás (n.) - improvement

Read the full story

▌18/01/2025

In a move aimed at addressing ongoing challenges within Hungary's healthcare system, Sándor Pintér, the Minister of Interior, has appointed new directors to several hospitals across the country. Despite the hopes placed on these appointments, significant concerns persist, particularly regarding the financial stability of the institutions.

The Ministry announced that following a successful application process, new leadership has been installed, effective from 15 January. The ministry expressed confidence that the newly appointed directors might ease some of the burdens faced by the hospitals. Notably, Ézsi Robin Gábor has taken the helm at the National Institute of Psychiatry and Addictology Nyírő Gyula, while Óváry Csaba, Zsákai Zsolt, Stankovics Éva, and Lippai Norbert have been appointed to hospitals in the Bács-Kiskun, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén, Heves, and Vas counties, respectively, all of which serve as both educational and healthcare institutions.

New Hospital Directors Appointed Amid Financial Strain (Illustration)

However, the Hungarian Medical Chamber (MOK) has voiced significant concerns over the financial situation of these institutions, suggesting that the inadequate state funding has led hospitals into a spiralling cycle of debt. This ongoing issue has compelled hospitals to either limit medical care or send patients away due to the lack of resources. The Chamber stressed the importance of addressing these funding challenges, emphasizing healthcare's role as a fundamental pillar of the functioning of the state.

These recent appointments come in the wake of last summer's heightened focus on unsustainable hospital financing issues, which resulted in job losses within the sector. The Ministry of Interior's attempts to intervene signal a commitment to resolving these financial hardships and restoring stability."

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Budapest Taxi Protest Demands Tax Reform and Regulation

2025-01-15T12:13:23+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Január 15-én a Taxisok Érdekvédelmi Szervezete tüntetést tartott Budapesten, a Hősök terén. A tiltakozók jobb adórendszert és zöldebb közlekedést követeltek . Kérik a taxi kvótát Budapesten, az inflációhoz igazodó adórendszert és magasabb áfa-mentességi határt. Folytatni fogják a küzdelmet , amíg nem kapnak választ.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

On the 15th of January, the Taxi Drivers' Advocacy Organisation held a protest in Budapest at Heroes' Square. The demonstrators demanded a better tax system and greener transport options. They are calling for a taxi quota in Budapest, a tax system aligned with inflation, and a higher VAT exemption threshold. They will continue their struggle until they receive a response.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When did the taxi drivers' protest take place?

The protest took place on January 15.

Question 2: What are two things the taxi drivers are demanding?

They are demanding a better tax system and greener transportation.

Exercise: Vocabulary

érdekvédelem (n.) - advocacy

tüntetés (f.) - protest

követel - demanded

kvóta (f.) - quota

infláció (f.) - inflation

küzdelem (f.) - struggle

Read the full story

▌15/01/2025

On 15 January, the Taxi Drivers' Advocacy Organisation staged a demonstration in Budapest, voicing concerns over financial and occupational issues impacting their sector. The location for the protest was the iconic Heroes' Square, from where a convoy proceeded to key government offices including the Ministries of Interior, National Economy, and Finance, as well as the City Hall.

According to the organisers, the demonstration aims to highlight key issues such as the need for "livable taxation" and "a greener and safer transportation network in Budapest." They demand the introduction of a taxi quota in Budapest, pointing out that similar measures have already been implemented in other major Hungarian cities. They also call for negotiation concerning "an inflation-responsive tax system," to ensure that it supports the Hungarian small business sector.

In statements released by the advocacy group, they expressed discontent with the lack of productive dialogue from the Ministry of National Economy. They argue that substantive discussions are necessary to secure fair living standards and access to financial support for small entrepreneurs.

Budapest Taxi Protest Demands Tax Reform and Regulation (Illustration)

Key demands from the protestors include raising the VAT exemption threshold to 18 million forints, a limit approved by the European Union previously, as well as rejecting the current inflation-tracking tax system. They have also sought an active role in discussions regarding urban transportation regulations, likening their involvement to that of other essential services like police and emergency responders.

While the demonstration saw participation from numerous taxi drivers, it is noteworthy that the National Taxi Association chose not to participate. Their stance favours resolving issues at the negotiation table rather than public demonstrations, as shared by their spokesperson, Metál Zoltán. Despite this, they express support for certain propositions from the demonstrators, especially those concerning VAT adjustments.

The protest concluded with organisers pledging to continue their advocacy efforts unless their calls for dialogue and reforms are answered. By keeping these issues in the public eye, the Taxi Drivers' Advocacy Organisation hopes to stimulate action from relevant authorities, ensuring that future regulations are fair and beneficial for both the profession and its clientele.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Taxi Strike in Budapest on Wednesday | Magyar Narancs (Magyar Narancs)
Taxi Demonstration to Hit Budapest Streets Wednesday Afternoon – Here Are the Details (Infostart)
Taxi Drivers Plan Protest in Budapest (Index.hu)
Taxi Drivers to Strike in Budapest Tomorrow, City Could Be Paralyzed (Blikk.hu)

Four Cases of HMPV Detected in Hungary

2025-01-13T09:51:35+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Négy embernél találták meg a HMP-vírust Magyarországon. Ez a vírus influenzaszerű tüneteket okoz, mint köhögés és megfázás. A fertőzés nem súlyos, de figyelni kell rá. A gyógyulás általában öt-hat napig tart . A vírus hideg időben gyakoribb, de nincs nagy veszély fenyegetés .

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

The HMP virus has been found in four people in Hungary. This virus causes flu-like symptoms, such as coughing and a cold. The infection is not severe, but it requires attention. Recovery typically takes five to six days. The virus is more common in cold weather, but it does not pose a major threat.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What symptoms does the HMP virus cause?

The HMP virus causes flu-like symptoms such as coughing and cold.

Question 2: How long does recovery from the HMP virus usually take?

Recovery usually takes five to six days.

Exercise: Vocabulary

talál - find

tünet (n.) - symptoms

fertőzés (n.) - infection

gyógyulás (n.) - recovery

tart - last

fenyegetés (n.) - threat

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▌13/01/2025

The Hungarian National Public Health Centre has reported that four individuals in Hungary have tested positive for the human metapneumovirus (HMPV). This announcement follows the regular surveillance of respiratory infections by the health authorities.

According to recent analyses, the detection of the virus is not unprecedented as HMPV has been present in the region over the past decades. The virus causes mild symptoms similar to a common cold, such as coughs and runny noses, though in severe cases, it can lead to conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.

Between the 40th week of 2024 and the 1st week of 2025, over 3,000 respiratory samples were examined, with the HMPV being identified in four cases. This number represents a 0.4% positivity rate, a reminder that while HMPV has been detected, it remains relatively uncommon compared to the much-discussed COVID-19.

Four Cases of HMPV Detected in Hungary (Illustration)

Virologist Kemenesi Gábor emphasized that there is no pandemic threat similar to COVID-19, although vigilance remains important as the virus continues to spread, with instances reported last year. Rusvai Miklós, another virologist, reassured that recovery from the virus generally occurs within five to six days, provided affected individuals rest adequately and maintain hydration and a stable, warm environment.

Dr. Békássy Szabolcs, a general practitioner, noted on a local discussion program that HMPV has been recurring in Hungary, appearing in weekly health reports. He underscored the need for awareness even as the virus is typically managed as one would handle a common respiratory illness.

Given that HMPV infection is common worldwide and most people encounter it during childhood, there is substantial collective immunity among populations. However, the virus thrives in colder climates where it manifests seasonally, similar to influenza, whereas in warmer regions, its prevalence is consistently lower.

Overall, health professionals advise the public to stay informed but not overly alarmed, as the virus remains less pathogenic compared to other global viral threats experienced recently.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Budapest Brand Faces Mass Layoffs Amid Funding Cuts

2025-01-11T11:17:24+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Budapest márka 31 alkalmazottat elbocsát és Faix Csaba igazgató távozik, mert a város csökkentette a finanszírozást. Ez a lépés jelentősen érinti a turizmus és kulturális események szervezését. Néhány rendezvényt lemondanak, de a Budapest Kártya marad. Vita van arról, hogy a pénzügyi forrásokat mire használják a városban.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

The Budapest brand is laying off 31 employees and its director, Csaba Faix, is leaving as the city has reduced funding. This decision significantly impacts the organisation of tourism and cultural events. Some events are being cancelled, but the Budapest Card remains. There is a debate about how the financial resources are being utilised in the city.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: How many employees are being laid off from the Budapest brand?

31 employees are being laid off.

Question 2: What is the reason for the director Faix Csaba leaving his position?

He is leaving because the city reduced the brand's funding.

Exercise: Vocabulary

márka (f.) - brand

elbocsát - dismiss

csökkent - reduce

lépés (m.) - step

érint - affect

rendezvény (n.) - event

Read the full story

▌10/01/2025

In a significant organisational shake-up, the Budapest Brand, the city's acclaimed marketing company, has announced the dismissal of 31 employees and the imminent departure of its CEO Faix Csaba. This move, spurred by funding cuts, marks a crucial blow to the company that has been pivotal in handling Budapest's tourism, cultural, and city marketing initiatives.

The layoffs come as a direct consequence of the Budapest City Council's decision to withdraw financial support from the company. Initially spearheaded by prominent figure Vitézy Dávid, the budgetary amendment saw widespread backing among councillors, which has led to a near-total halt in the company's marketing activities.

Among the affected programmes are city-defining events such as the Budapesti Tavaszi Fesztivál and celebrations for the city's 150th anniversary, including the Budapest Nagyregény and the iconic Lánchíd Festival. Despite these accolades, the extensive budget cuts have necessitated the cancellation or temporary suspension of most of the company's event planning operations.

Budapest Brand Faces Mass Layoffs Amid Funding Cuts (Illustration)

While the company retains some of its functions, particularly those associated with the Budapest Card, a large-scale restructuring looms. Faix Csaba, who stepped into his role in 2020, will stay on temporarily to oversee the completion of ongoing projects and the execution of the redundancy process. His impending departure leaves an uncertain future for the brand, with discussions of potential consolidation into other city departments already underway.

The financial squeeze has rekindled debates about city priorities with Vitézy pointing out that recent years have seen more spending on marketing rather than infrastructure repairs, such as roads and tram lines. He maintains that the reallocation of the funds is a citywide necessity. This sentiment was echoed by the mayor, Karácsony Gergely, who suggested the budget reduction was a collective fiscal compromise.

In contrast, Faix lamented the budgetary decisions in a heartfelt social media post, underscoring the importance of cultural events as communal binding agents, not merely as financial liabilities. He noted the brand's achievements across its tenure, highlighted by numerous awards for marketing campaigns, and expressed gratitude for his team’s dedication.

The unfolding of these events has attracted considerable public and political attention, with both media and stakeholders keenly observing how the city will negotiate the integration of former brand employees within its municipal ecosystem. While the budget cuts have solidified, the discussion on the city's fiscal strategy remains active, pointing towards ongoing adjustments in Budapest's cultural and marketing spheres.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hungarian Hospitals Enforce Mask Mandates Amid Rising Illnesses

2025-01-08T12:57:48+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Sok kórház Magyarországon maszkviselést és látogatási korlátozásokat vezetett be a légúti betegségek terjedésének megakadályozására . Például a Borsod Megyei Kórházban és a Kanizsai Dorottya Kórházban is szükséges a maszk a látogatóknak. Az intézmények célja a betegek és a személyzet védelme. Dr. Békássy hangsúlyozza ezek fontosságát.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Several hospitals in Hungary have implemented mask-wearing and visit restrictions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. At institutions like Borsod County Hospital and Kanizsai Dorottya Hospital, visitors are required to wear masks. The goal of these measures is to protect patients and staff. Dr. Békássy emphasises their importance.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What are the two types of rules implemented in Hungarian hospitals?

Mask wearing and visitor restrictions.

Question 2: Who emphasizes the importance of the new measures?

Dr. Békássy.

Exercise: Vocabulary

maszkviselés (n.) - mask wearing

korlátozás (f.) - restrictions

légút - respiratory

terjedés (n.) - spread

megakadályozás (n.) - prevention

intézmény (n.) - institutions

Read the full story

▌08/01/2025

In response to a surge in respiratory illnesses across Hungary, numerous hospitals have introduced mask mandates and placed restrictions on visitors. The measures are aimed at mitigating the spread of these illnesses and ensuring the safety of both patients and staff.

The Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Central Hospital and University Teaching Hospital announced on Tuesday that from Wednesday onwards, all visitors and employees will be required to wear masks inside the hospital's facilities. This regulation also extends to outpatients and visitors. However, exemptions apply to children under six and individuals with disabilities.

Similarly, the Kanizsai Dorottya Hospital in Nagykanizsa has implemented visitor restrictions on certain wards, including the obstetrics and gynaecology, newborn, chronic internal medicine, and adult hospice wards. Here, only one adult guardian is permitted to visit a patient at any given time, and they must wear a mask during their visit.

Hungarian Hospitals Enforce Mask Mandates Amid Rising Illnesses (Illustration)

The Bethesda Children's Hospital affiliated with the Hungarian Reformed Church has also taken action by limiting visits. The hospital's guidelines allow only one healthy family member to accompany a child patient, without the option to rotate visitors. The staff urges all individuals accompanying outpatient children to wear masks as a preventative measure.

These precautionary measures have been reinforced at the Semmelweis University Clinical Centre and other hospitals in major cities such as Győr, Vác, and Debrecen. The increasing incidence of respiratory infections since the start of the new year has prompted these restrictions.

Dr. Szabolcs Békássy, a family doctor, emphasized the importance of these measures and encouraged citizens to remain vigilant. According to him, widespread adherence to these new guidelines could significantly curtail the current wave of respiratory illnesses impacting the healthcare system.

Info: 'Hungarian Learner News' is a service from 'Let's Learn Hungarian', a language school dedicated to teaching Hungarian. We offer a variety of courses, including an Hungarian language course, that can be taken online to suit different learning needs.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hospitals Implement Visitor Restrictions and Mandatory Mask-Wearing (24.hu)
Several Hospitals Implement Visitor Restrictions and Mandatory Mask-Wearing | Hungarian Orange (Magyar Narancs)
Northeast Hungary Faces Tightened Restrictions: Masks Now Mandatory in Hospitals in Borsod. (Index.hu)
Hospitals Facing Intensifying Pandemic Crisis (Infostart)

Hungarian PM Orbán Vacationing in India Stirs Attention

2025-01-07T08:46:48+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Viktor Orbán, Magyarország miniszterelnöke Indiába utazott családjával. Kerala államában, Kochi városában tartózkodik . Orbán nemcsak pihenni jött, hanem érdeklődik Vasco da Gama és India gazdasága iránt. Az utat közösségi médián fedezték fel. Kellemes időtöltésként és kultúra iránti érdeklődésként jellemezte a látogatást.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Viktor Orbán, the Prime Minister of Hungary, travelled to India with his family. They are staying in the city of Kochi, in the state of Kerala. Orbán is not only there for leisure but also shows interest in Vasco da Gama and the Indian economy. The trip was discovered through social media. He described the visit as a pleasant pastime and an interest in culture.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is Viktor Orbán traveling with in India?

He is traveling with his family.

Question 2: What city is Viktor Orbán visiting in Kerala?

He is visiting the city of Kochi.

Exercise: Vocabulary

miniszterelnök (m.) - prime minister

tartózkodik - stay

érdeklődik - be interested

gazdaság (f.) - economy

közösségi - social

időtöltés (n.) - pastime

Read the full story

▌07/01/2025

The Hungarian Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, is currently vacationing in the Kerala state of India with his family. Accompanied by his wife Anikó Lévai, two daughters, and a group of associates, Orbán’s trip has been a subject of curiosity both in Hungary and abroad.

The journey, initially unreported by official channels, came to light after social media posts revealed the Prime Minister posing with local businessmen and tuk-tuk drivers. His stay at the Fragrant Nature Hotel in the city of Kochi further caught public attention when it was shared online.

Orbán subsequently gave an exclusive interview to the Hungarian newspaper Blikk, offering insights into the motivation behind the visit. He cited both personal and professional reasons, mentioning his fascination with historical figure Vasco da Gama, who died in Kochi, and recognizing India’s burgeoning economy as future potential for Hungary.

The timing of the vacation follows Hungary’s completion of the EU presidency, after which Orbán began his break on January 2. He remarked that he anticipated a quieter period until the incoming US President Donald Trump assumed office.

Hungarian PM Orbán Vacationing in India Stirs Attention (Illustration)

Amidst speculative reports alleging health-related reasons for the trip, Orbán assured the media of his good health with a clear message stating, "I'm in perfect health. Don't hope otherwise!"

Joining the Prime Minister is Krishna Kumar, the head of an Ayurvedic healing centre in Hungary. Kumar, known for his expertise in traditional Indian medicine, has been identified as part of the travel party, although Orbán emphasized that Kumar is primarily present as an acquaintance.

Orbán's visit to Kerala has intensified interest among local and international media, partly due to the association with Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing practice, which Kumar is known to promote in Hungary through his business.

The trip’s lack of prior public disclosure has sparked debate, with some considering the private nature of the vacation unconventional for a public figure of his stature. Nonetheless, the Prime Minister maintains that the trip is a simple family holiday.

For those interested in global cultural exchanges and economic ties, such visits underscore how personal interests can align with broader international relations, spotlighting potential future collaborations between Hungary and India.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Passenger Train Delayed Due to Driver's Work Regulations

2025-01-04T09:14:38+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Egy vonat késése történt október 4-én Bicskén, mert a mozdonyvezető munkája lejárt . Az utasok nem technikai hiba vagy forgalom miatt vártak, hanem mert új mozdonyvezető kellett. Sok utas átszállt egy másik vonatra. Ez a helyzet a biztonsági szabályok miatt történt, amelyek védik a dolgozókat és az utasokat.

Listen to this text (00:18)

Translation

On October 4th, there was a train delay in Bicske because the train driver's working hours had ended. The passengers were not waiting due to a technical fault or heavy traffic, but because a new train driver was required. Many passengers transferred to another train. This situation occurred due to safety regulations designed to protect both workers and passengers.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Why was the train delayed?

The train was delayed because the driver's work time ended, and they needed a new train driver.

Question 2: What did many passengers do because of the delay?

Many passengers changed to another train.

Exercise: Vocabulary

késés (f.) - delay

mozdonyvezető (m.) - train driver

lejár - expired

biztonság - safety

forgalom (m.) - traffic

szabály (f.) - rules

Read the full story

▌03/01/2025

A Hungarian train travelling from Tatáról to Budapest was delayed for over an hour at Bicske station on October 4th due to the completion of the driver's scheduled work hours. The unexpected stop impacted many passengers, who were informed that the train's halt was neither due to a technical issue nor a traffic disruption, but rather because the train driver's shift had concluded.

According to reports, the conductor on board communicated to the passengers that the train would remain stationary until a replacement driver arrived. This announcement followed the departure of the original driver, who was obligated by regulatory constraints to discontinue his service after reaching the maximum permitted working hours. Many travellers opted to transfer to a later service, which continued its journey to Budapest ten minutes ahead of the immobilized train.

Passenger Train Delayed Due to Driver's Work Regulations (Illustration)

The Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) confirmed the incident, explaining that under strict safety regulations, the train operator could not extend his time at the controls beyond the standard limit. MÁV emphasised their efforts to arrange a substitute driver as swiftly as possible to resume the service and minimize delays.

This situation highlights the challenges faced by transport services in balancing operational efficiency with stringent labour regulations designed to ensure the safety of railway personnel and passengers alike. While the regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue and promote safety, such incidents can result in significant inconvenience to passengers.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Controversy Over New Year Speeches in Hungary

2025-01-02T16:02:44+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Ebben az évben Magyarországon a szokásos újévi beszédet a közösségi médiában tartották. Magyar Péter felszólított a politikai változásra és korai választásra. A kormányt bírálta , Orbán Viktort korábbi tetteire emlékeztette . Az állami tévé könnyed műsort sugárzott híres emberekkel, akik szeretetről és reményről beszéltek.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

This year, in Hungary, the customary New Year speech was delivered on social media. Peter Magyar called for political change and early elections. He criticised the government and reminded Viktor Orbán of his past actions. The state television broadcast a light-hearted programme featuring famous individuals who spoke about love and hope.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who called for political change and early elections in Hungary?

Magyar Péter called for political change and early elections.

Question 2: What was broadcasted on state TV in Hungary during the New Year?

State TV broadcasted a light-hearted show with famous people talking about love and hope.

Exercise: Vocabulary

szokásos - usual

felszólít - urge

változás (n.) - change

bírál - criticise

emlékeztet - remind

sugároz - broadcast

Read the full story

▌02/01/2025

This year, the traditional New Year's speech in Hungary took an unexpected turn. With the country's president, Sulyok Tamás, opting to deliver his address on December 26 instead of at the year's end, the opportunity arose for other voices to fill the television airwaves. However, Magyar Péter, leader of the Tisza Party, had his offer to step in declined by state television.

Intent on voicing his message, Magyar turned to social media, broadcasting live on Facebook as the New Year dawned. His speech addressed Hungary's ongoing economic, constitutional, and moral crises, urging an immediate political change. He called for an early parliamentary election, challenging Prime Minister Orbán Viktor to face the electorate earlier than planned.

Controversy Over New Year Speeches in Hungary (Illustration)

Magyar's assertive address was filled with critiques of the current government, accusing it of mismanaging the country and fostering division among its citizens. His remarks reflected a significant portion of public sentiment, especially against the backdrop of recent political scandals. He drew historical parallels, reminding viewers of Orbán's own calls for early elections during times of crisis over a decade ago.

Amidst the political tensions, Hungarian television featured a significantly lighter program on New Year's Eve. Six prominent figures shared their reflections and messages of hope for the coming year. These included messages from opera singer Miklósa Erika, who emphasized love and unity, and athlete Ekler Luca, who highlighted her sporting achievements and looked forward to future successes.

While Magyar Péter continues to rally support via digital platforms, his exclusion from the national broadcast indicates tensions between emerging political movements and established media outlets. As Hungary moves forward into 2025, the call for political transformation remains a pressing topic for many citizens.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

25 Years Since Budapest Sports Hall Fire

2024-12-18T15:06:07+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Budapesti Sportcsarnok egy híres helyszín volt, ahol sok sportesemény és koncert történt. 25 éve, 1999. december 15-én egy karácsonyi vásáron kigyulladt egy gyertya, és leégett az épület. A tűzoltók gyorsan érkeztek, de a sportcsarnok megsemmisült . Ma egy dokumentumfilm emlékezik erre az eseményre .

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

The Budapest Sports Hall was a renowned venue where numerous sporting events and concerts took place. Twenty-five years ago, on December 15, 1999, a candle ignited at a Christmas market, resulting in the building burning down. Firefighters arrived swiftly, but the sports hall was destroyed. Today, a documentary commemorates this event.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What event caused the fire at the Budapest Sports Hall 25 years ago?

A Christmas market caused the fire because a candle was lit.

Question 2: What happened to the Budapest Sports Hall after the fire?

The Budapest Sports Hall was destroyed after the fire.

Exercise: Vocabulary

helyszín (n.) - location

kigyullad - ignite

leég - burned down

tűzoltó (m.) - firefighters

megsemmisül - destroyed

esemény (n.) - event

Read the full story

▌18/12/2024

The Budapest Sports Hall, once a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and sporting events, was devastated by a fire 25 years ago. This significant location hosted thousands of spectators, internationally renowned musicians like Tina Turner and Aerosmith, and numerous sporting events, including women's handball world championships and athletic events where records were set.

The fire, ignited by an unattended candle at a Christmas fair on December 15, 1999, marked a shocking turn of events for the then-popular venue, known simply as the BS to locals. Witnesses and reports highlight the rapid escalation of the blaze during the early morning hours, leaving the structure irreparably damaged despite prompt evacuation of people inside.

25 Years Since Budapest Sports Hall Fire (Illustration)

Firefighters responded quickly to the alarm raised by a passerby, as the fire alarm system within the building was not connected to the fire department. This crucial delay meant that by the time the firefighting units arrived, the flames had already taken a significant toll on the building's structure, leading to its eventual demolition.

A 25th anniversary documentary produced by the Budapest Fire Department revisits the incident using archival footage and interviews with key figures involved at the time. The film captures the emotional and logistical challenges faced by the fire response teams and the reporters who were among the first to relay the devastating news to the public.

This anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of both the cultural importance of the Budapest Sports Hall and the swift, devastating impact such a tragedy can have on a city’s historical landmarks.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Where were you when the Budapest Sports Hall burned down in 1999? (444.hu)
25th Anniversary of the Budapest Sports Arena Fire (Blikk.hu)

ADHD Medication Shortage Eased in Hungary

2024-12-16T16:20:43+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Magyarországon már jobban elérhetőek az ADHD-s gyerekek gyógyszerei. Korábban hiány volt, de a hatóságok segítségével a készlet javul . A gyógyszertárak most kapnak folyékony formákat, és visszahozzák a Bitinex tablettákat is. Alternatív gyógyszerként Atomoxetine kapszulák is elérhetőek Amerikából.

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

In Hungary, medications for children with ADHD are now more accessible. Previously, there was a shortage, but with the authorities' assistance, the supply is improving. Pharmacies are now receiving liquid forms, and Bitinex tablets are available again. As an alternative medication, Atomoxetine capsules from America are also accessible.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What forms of ADHD medication are available in Hungary now?

Liquid forms and Bitinex tablets are now available.

Question 2: Where is the alternative medication Atomoxetine imported from?

Atomoxetine capsules are imported from America.

Exercise: Vocabulary

elérhető - available

hiány (m.) - shortage

hatóság (f.) - authority

segítség (n.) - aid

javul - improve

folyékony - liquid

Read the full story

▌15/12/2024

The availability of critical medication for children with severe forms of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) has improved in Hungary following a period of shortage caused by global manufacturing issues, according to the country's National Public Health and Pharmaceutical Centre.

Families faced significant challenges during the school start period because the necessary medication became scarce. Csakurdáné Harmati Zsuzsanna, head of the centre's Special Pharmaceutical Authority Department, discussed the issue on InfoRádió. She indicated that thanks to coordinated efforts by relevant authorities, the situation has been alleviated and medication supply is improving.

ADHD Medication Shortage Eased in Hungary (Illustration)

Currently, pharmacies have access to the liquid form of the medication. Furthermore, limited quantities of 40-milligram tablets of Bitinex, which were previously recalled in August due to specification issues, have been reintroduced onto the market. Additionally, an alternative medication, Atomoxetine capsules, was procured from the United States, providing an intermediate solution while longer-term fixes are developed.

The department head explained that the ADHD medication shortage was a part of a larger, international issue affecting Europe and beyond, showcasing one of the downsides of globalisation where regional problems can impact wider areas. Despite having attained sufficient medication to bridge current needs, Zsuzsanna acknowledged it won't last indefinitely, and authorities are maintaining contact with wholesalers to ensure continuing supplies.

Efforts are ongoing to broaden distribution carefully and equitably across pharmacies, distributing medications in smaller increments to avoid stockpiling and ensure that as many patients as possible can access the treatments they require.

Info: 'Hungarian Learner News' is a service from 'Let's Learn Hungarian', a language school dedicated to the teaching of Hungarian. We offer various types of online courses designed for those who wish to learn to speak Hungarian.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

ADHD Medications Available Again (Infostart)
Domestic News: ADHD Medications, Previously in Short Supply, Are Available Again (HVG.hu)
Previously Unavailable Medicine Now Back in Stock in Hungary (Index.hu)

Controversy Over Óbuda Árpád High School Management Change

2024-12-14T10:33:22+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Óbudai Árpád Gimnázium tanárai úgy döntöttek , hogy az iskola a Nemzeti Közszolgálati Egyetemből irányított lesz. A szavazáson a tanárok többsége támogatta ezt. Azonban néhány szülő aggodalmát fejezte ki a gyors döntés miatt, és békés tiltakozást szerveztek. Az egyetem nyitott párbeszédet ígér minden érintettel.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

The teachers at Óbudai Árpád High School have decided that the school will be managed under the governance of the National University of Public Service. The majority of teachers supported this decision in the vote. However, some parents expressed concern over the swift decision and organised a peaceful protest. The university has promised open dialogue with all concerned parties.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who supported the management change at Óbuda Árpád High School?

The majority of the teachers supported the management change.

Question 2: What did some parents do in response to the quick decision about the management change?

Some parents organized a peaceful protest.

Exercise: Vocabulary

dönt - decide

támogat - support

aggodalom (n.) - concern

békés - peaceful

tiltakozás (n.) - protest

párbeszéd (n.) - dialogue

Read the full story

▌14/12/2024

The recent decision by staff members of the Óbuda Árpád High School in Hungary to support a transition of their institution into the hands of the National University of Public Service (NUPS) has ignited debate. In a secret ballot held on December 12, a majority of 62 percent from those who participated supported the change. However, the decision did not come without its share of controversy and concerns.

Despite backing from the school's teaching staff, the shift faced criticism from the parent community, which staged a peaceful protest in the form of a human chain around the school. Parents expressed dissatisfaction with the rapid timeline given for the decision, which, according to them, did not allow enough time for thorough consideration and understanding of the implications. They also expressed apprehensions about potential tuition fees and the impact this shift might have on the school's entry process and quality of education.

Controversy Over Óbuda Árpád High School Management Change (Illustration)

The National University of Public Service framed the move as a strategic alignment aimed at bolstering their teacher training program by offering a hands-on practice environment. They acknowledged the school's high pedagogical standards and committed to maintaining and building on these values. The university emphasized the mutual benefits of this arrangement and promised to engage all stakeholders—teachers, students, and parents—in open dialogue as they navigate this transition.

Critics, however, raised concerns regarding the potential for political influence, noting the university's ties to the state and its governance under the Prime Minister's Office. Such developments led some parents to speculate whether the political affiliations of the overseeing body's leadership might affect the school's ideological stance.

While the institutional changeover is set to proceed, stakeholders emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions and collaborative efforts to address the community's reservations and assure the continued high standards of the school.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

The faculty of Óbuda Árpád High School voted for a change in administration (Index.hu)
Árpád High School Changes Operator (Infostart)

Orbán and Trump Discuss Future Relations and Peace Talks

2024-12-11T14:04:24+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Viktor Orbán miniszterelnök találkozott Donald Trumppal Floridában. Beszélgettek jövőbeli együttműködésről , de nem hivatalosan , mert Trump még nem elnök. Más hírességek is ott voltak. Orbán reméli , Trump hivatali ideje pozitív változásokat hoz. Beszélgettek a béke fontosságáról is, különösképpen az ukrán konfliktusról.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán met with Donald Trump in Florida. They discussed future cooperation, but informally, as Trump is not currently president. Other celebrities were also present. Orbán hopes that Trump's term in office will bring positive changes. They also talked about the importance of peace, especially concerning the Ukrainian conflict.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did Viktor Orbán meet Donald Trump?

Viktor Orbán met Donald Trump in Florida.

Question 2: What specific topic did Orbán and Trump talk about regarding peace?

Orbán and Trump talked about the importance of peace, specifically regarding the Ukrainian conflict.

Exercise: Vocabulary

miniszterelnök (m.) - prime minister

együttműködés (f.) - cooperation

hivatalos - officially

híresség (f.) - celebrities

remél - hopes

fontosság (f.) - importance

Read the full story

▌11/12/2024

In a brief yet significant visit to the United States, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán met with Donald Trump, the anticipated returning American president, at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. The meeting, which took place last Monday, was attended by notable figures including tech magnate Elon Musk and future National Security Advisor Michael Waltz. During this gathering, Orbán and Trump engaged in discussions about possible future collaborations once Trump officially assumes office.

Despite the presence of high-profile individuals, Orbán clarified that the meeting did not involve any formal negotiations. "There were no negotiations because the president is not yet in office. Discussions will occur once he is officially installed," Orbán explained to a reporter from RTL as he left the event. He stressed that existing American legal frameworks restrict the commencement of official diplomatic negotiations at this stage, but informal conversations are permissible.

Orbán and Trump Discuss Future Relations and Peace Talks (Illustration)

Within the discussions, the leaders congratulated each other and touched upon the subject of peace, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. "When two men sit down to talk in Europe or America today, it is almost inevitable that the topics of peace and conflict will arise," Orbán remarked.

Orbán expressed his anticipation for January 20th when Trump is expected to begin his term, stating his hope that his tenure would bring about beneficial effects both regionally and globally. Although details on specific agreements remain undisclosed, the meeting underscored a commitment to dialogue and a shared interest in addressing international issues like the Ukrainian conflict.

Info: "Hungarian Learner News" is a service from "Let's Learn Hungarian", a language school that provides various types of online Hungarian courses. Through our service, you can access valuable resources like Hungarian lessons designed to enhance your learning experience and proficiency in the language.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Orbán Meets with Trump and Musk in Florida (The Budapest Times)
Viktor Orbán Reveals Details of His Conversation with Donald Trump (Index.hu)

More Than 10 Tonnes Donated to Budapest's MikulásGyár

2024-12-09T11:26:45+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesten MikulásGyár adománygyűjtő esemény van. Az emberek sok ételt, játékot és higiéniai terméket adományoznak. Idősek különösen aktívan segítenek. December 21-ig tart az esemény. Szervezők hálásak a támogatásért , és remélik, hogy tovább nő az adományok száma, mert sok gyerek szorul segítségre.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

In Budapest, there is a charitable event called MikulásGyár. People are donating lots of food, toys, and hygiene products. Elderly individuals are particularly active in helping. The event runs until the 21st of December. The organisers are grateful for the support and hope the number of donations will continue to increase, as many children are in need of assistance.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What types of items do people donate at the event in Budapest?

People donate food, toys, and hygiene products.

Question 2: Until what date does the event take place?

The event takes place until December 21.

Exercise: Vocabulary

adománygyűjtő - fundraising

higiéniai - hygienic

idős - elderly

szervező(m.) - organisers

támogatás(f.) - support

szorul - need

Read the full story

▌08/12/2024

In an impressive display of community solidarity, more than 10 tonnes of donations have been received at Budapest's MikulásGyár charitable event. Launched less than a week ago, the campaign has already seen a high turnout of generous contributors, indicating a strong support for the cause this year.

The event, which will run until December 21st, primarily seeks donations of non-perishable food items, hygiene products, toys, and sweets. According to statements from MikulásGyár, senior citizens have been particularly active in contributing. Their life experiences have seemingly fostered a greater empathy towards those in need, making them key supporters of the charity.

More Than 10 Tonnes Donated to Budapest's MikulásGyár (Illustration)

Originally, the future of MikulásGyár was uncertain, as the main organiser, Endre Zsolnai, had initially decided against holding the twentieth annual event. He expressed concerns about limited media attention and societal support for the charity, suggesting that Hungarian society might not appreciate its efforts as much as hoped.

Despite these apprehensions, the decision was reversed, and the event is being held once again. Zsolnai emphasised the crucial need for the charity, particularly for impoverished children who rely heavily on donations. This year's initiative may mark the final chapter for MikulásGyár, as Zsolnai hints that future events might not follow.

The campaign continues to attract contributions from various segments of society, notably from families with young children and a remarkable number of retirees. Their collective efforts represent a beacon of hope and empathy in challenging times. As the end date approaches, organisers express gratitude and call for further support to continue assisting those in dire need.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hungary Defeats Poland in European Women's Handball Championship

2024-12-07T10:57:41+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A magyar női kézilabda válogatott 31-21-es győzelmet aratott Lengyelország ellen Debrecenben. Ez volt az ötödik egymás utáni győzelmük a versenyen . Kácsor Gréta rosszul érezte magát a himnuszok alatt, de nem játszott. A meccs elején hibák voltak, de később a magyar csapat jól teljesített . Petra Vámos nyolc gólt szerzett .

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

The Hungarian women's handball team secured a 31-21 victory over Poland in Debrecen. This marked their fifth consecutive win in the tournament. Gréta Kácsor felt unwell during the national anthems and did not play. There were mistakes at the start of the match, but the Hungarian team performed well as the game progressed. Petra Vámos scored eight goals.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did the handball match between Hungary and Poland take place?

The match took place in Debrecen.

Question 2: Who scored the most goals for Hungary in the match?

Petra Vámos scored the most goals for Hungary, with eight goals.

Exercise: Vocabulary

győzelem (n.) - victory

verseny (n.) - competition

ellen - against

hiba (n.) - mistake

teljesít - perform

szerez - acquire

Read the full story

▌07/12/2024

The Hungarian women's handball team claimed a resounding victory against Poland in the European Women's Handball Championship, further solidifying their unbeaten streak. In a match held in Debrecen, Hungary emerged victorious with a convincing scoreline of 31-21. This performance marked the Hungarian team's fifth consecutive win in the tournament, a feat reminiscent of their 2004 triumph, which also began with a similar undefeated run.

The match, however, was not without its dramatic moments. Hungarian player Gréta Kácsor was taken ill during the national anthems when she experienced a sudden drop in blood sugar, accompanied by headaches. Although she recovered enough to sit on the bench at the start of the game, she did not take part in the match.

The initial phase of the match was peppered with errors from both sides. It was not until the fifth minute that a goal broke the deadlock, courtesy of Hungary's Petra Vámos, who overcame an early suspension. Despite the shaky start, the Hungarian team found its rhythm, capitalizing on Poland's mistakes, particularly during their seven-on-six counterstrategy, which resulted in several empty-net goals for Hungary.

Hungary Defeats Poland in European Women's Handball Championship (Illustration)

Approaching the midway point of the first half, the Hungarian team had established a solid 8-4 lead. The match dynamic saw frequent penalties, with five players receiving two-minute suspensions within fifteen minutes, resulting in neither team playing at full strength for significant stretches. Nevertheless, sustained support from the fans bolstered the Hungarian side, allowing them to extend their lead to eight goals by halftime.

The second half began with Hungary in full control, bolstered by the exceptional goalkeeping of Blanka Böde-Bíró, whose nine saves were instrumental in extending Hungary's advantage to ten goals just minutes into the half. Even as both teams continued to make errors, Hungary's ability to reorganize and execute effectively allowed them to withstand a Polish comeback attempt and ultimately secure a ten-goal margin at the final whistle.

Petra Vámos earned accolades as the match's standout performer, scoring eight goals. This victory keeps Hungary in the hunt for a top-two finish in their group, which would secure them a place in the semi-finals set to take place in Vienna. The team will next face Romania, followed by a crucial match against globally-recognized France.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hungarian Universities: New Rankings Reveal Top Performers

2024-12-04T15:35:25+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Az Eötvös Loránd Tudományegyetem (ELTE) a legjobb helyen áll a HVG Diploma 2025 rangsorban, sok diák első választása . Az átlagos pontszámok alapján a Corvinus Egyetem vezet. A Budapesti Műszaki és Gazdaságtudományi Egyetem és a Semmelweis Egyetem a második és harmadik helyen vannak. A lista bemutatja Magyarország legjobbjait.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) tops the HVG Diploma 2025 ranking and is a popular choice among students. Based on average scores, Corvinus University leads. The Budapest University of Technology and Economics and Semmelweis University are in second and third places, respectively. The list highlights the best institutions in Hungary.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Which university is ranked best in the HVG Diploma 2025 ranking?

Eötvös Loránd Tudományegyetem (ELTE) is ranked best.

Question 2: What is the average point leader among the universities?

The Corvinus University leads based on average points.

Exercise: Vocabulary

hely (n.) - place

választás (n.) - choice

átlagos - average

alapján - based on

gazdaságtudomány (n.) - economics

bemutat - introduce

Read the full story

▌01/12/2024

According to the latest HVG Diploma 2025 Student Excellence Rankings, Hungary's universities have been evaluated based on various metrics to identify institutions with the most outstanding students. The rankings consider factors such as the number of first-choice applicants in full-time programmes, average admission scores, and the proportion of students with language proficiency certifications or who have achieved notable achievements in high school competitions.

The Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) has maintained its position at the top of the list, securing the most first-choice applicants, with 9,331 students choosing it as their preferred institution. ELTE also leads in the number of students excelling in prestigious high school competitions, reinforcing its reputation for attracting talented individuals. However, in terms of average admission scores, ELTE stands at fourth place, after positions were dominated by Corvinus University, which leads with an average score of 460 out of 500.

The rankings show some consistency, as the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) and Semmelweis University occupy the second and third positions, respectively. BME boasts 4,372 first-choice applicants, while Semmelweis University attracted 2,417 applicants, showing a strong preference among students for these leading institutions.

Hungarian Universities: New Rankings Reveal Top Performers (Illustration)

Further down the list, two significant ties emerged: between the University of Debrecen and the University of Szeged, both securing the fifth position, and between the Óbuda University and University of Pécs at the ninth spot. Notably, this year's rankings marked the entry of Óbuda University into the top ten for the first time, achieving a notable ascent.

The rundown of Hungary’s top ten universities is further joined by the Pázmány Péter Catholic University (PPKE) and the Budapest Business School (BGE), each acknowledged for their robust academic environments and competitive entrance criteria.

While ELTE continues to be a popular choice and a strong performer in high school competition achievements, Corvinus University's superior average admission scores underscore the multifaceted nature of excellence evaluated by these rankings. The results also highlight shifts within the top echelons, especially with significant improvements or drops compared to the previous year, providing insights into the evolving landscape of higher education in Hungary.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Renowned Budapest University Falls Out of Top Ten in Student Excellence Rankings (Index.hu)
Top List: The Country's 10 Best Universities Revealed (24.hu)
Here is the university ranking list (Infostart)
These Are the Top Universities According to Student Excellence Rankings (Blikk.hu)

Romania Election Sees Rise of Extremist Parties

2024-12-02T10:50:51+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A romániai parlamenti választásokon a Szociáldemokrata Párt (PSD) nyert, 22,74%-kal. Az RMDSZ, a romániai magyarokat képviselő párt, 6,5%-ot kapott, ami növekedés . Magyar jövője fontos. Az új parlamentbe hét párt jutott be, köztük szélsőségesek is, ami politikai változásokat okozhat és kérdéseket vet fel.

Listen to this text (00:24)

Translation

In the Romanian parliamentary elections, the Social Democratic Party (PSD) emerged victorious with 22.74% of the vote. The Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (RMDSZ), a party representing the Hungarian community in Romania, secured 6.5%, reflecting an increase. The future of Hungary is significant. Seven parties, including extremists, entered the new parliament, which may lead to political changes and raises questions.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Which party won the Romanian parliamentary elections?

The Social Democratic Party (PSD) won the Romanian parliamentary elections.

Question 2: What percentage of votes did the party representing Romanian Hungarians receive?

The party representing Romanian Hungarians, RMDSZ, received 6.5% of the votes.

Exercise: Vocabulary

választás (n.) - elections

képviselő (m.) - representative

növekedés (n.) - growth

jut - to reach

szélsőséges (m.) - extremists

kérdés (n.) - questions

Read the full story

▌02/12/2024

In a significant political development, the recent parliamentary elections in Romania resulted in the victory of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), securing 22.74% of the votes, as reported with over 99% of ballots counted. Despite the win, forming a stable government remains uncertain due to a notable drop in support for the current ruling parties and the impressive gains made by multiple extremist parties.

Three extremist groups successfully entered parliament, reflecting a shift in the country's political landscape. The Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), a party known for its anti-Hungarian rhetoric, emerged as a significant force, securing 18.14% of the votes. Additionally, Calin Georgescu, a notable figure known for winning the first round of the presidential elections, collaborated with the Party of Tomorrows (POT), which achieved 6.24%. The controversial SOS Romania, led by Diana Sosoaca, known for her extreme statements, also managed to gain a foothold, winning 7.58%.

The election also saw the National Liberal Party (PNL) capturing 14.43% and the Union to Save Romania (USR) obtaining 12.03% of votes. Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (RMDSZ) improved its position, concluding with 6.5% of the vote, a notable increase compared to previous results. This rise is attributed to widespread support from the Hungarian community in Transylvania, who actively participated in the election amidst concerns of growing extremism.

Romania Election Sees Rise of Extremist Parties (Illustration)

Peter Szijjártó, Hungary's Foreign Minister, commended the RMDSZ's performance, emphasising the significance of the party's role in ensuring that decisions are made inclusively regarding the Hungarian minority in Romania. He noted that the RMDSZ's success is pivotal for future Hungarian-Romanian relations.

Kelemen Hunor, the head of RMDSZ, expressed gratitude to the Hungarian community voters in Transylvania for their resilience and solidarity. Speaking in Cluj Napoca, he highlighted the active participation of the community, especially the older generations who remember past adversities, as a strong response to the rise of extremist threats.

These elections saw a restructuring in the Romanian parliament with seven parties securing representation, an increase from the previous five, marking the introduction of POT and SOS Romania as new parliamentary entities. This diversification indicates a notable change in voter alignment, with many turning away from mainstream parties.

The results of Romania's parliamentary elections reflect a politically dynamic environment, raising questions about the future direction of governance in the country, especially in the context of increasing extremism and its impact on minority communities.

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BME Considers New Operational Model with State Companies

2024-11-30T11:21:07+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Budapesti Műszaki és Gazdaságtudományi Egyetem (BME) új működési modellről tárgyal december 9-én. Az egyetem továbbra is állami lesz, de állami cégek is részt vehetnek az irányításban . A cél , hogy a pénzügyi helyzet javuljon . A modellváltás nem érinti az egyetem épületeit vagy nemzetközi programokban való részvételét.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

The Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) is discussing a new operational model on December 9th. The university will remain state-owned, but state companies may also participate in its management. The goal is to improve the financial situation. The model change will not affect the university's buildings or its participation in international programmes.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What date is BME discussing the new operational model?

BME is discussing the new operational model on December 9th.

Question 2: Will the new operational model affect the university's buildings or international programs?

No, the new operational model will not affect the university's buildings or international programs.

Exercise: Vocabulary

működés (f.) - operation

tárgyal - negotiate

részt (n.) - part

irányítás (f.) - management

cél (n.) - goal

javul - improve

Read the full story

▌30/11/2024

The Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) is set to deliberate a significant shift in its operational framework. This development marks a new phase for one of the last four state-run Hungarian universities that have resisted such changes in higher education structuring. On 9 December, the Senate of BME will vote on establishing a delegation authorised to thoroughly negotiate and implement the proposed model change.

The proposed transformation is not a move towards a foundation-based model, which several other universities in Hungary have adopted, but rather a shift where state-owned companies might play a pivotal role in the university's management. Charaf Hassan, the newly appointed rector of BME, detailed this potential change during a recent university forum. He explained that while the university would remain under state operation, businesses capable of enhancing BME’s financial and market interactions could share governance responsibilities. The shift aims to establish a partnership with substantial local firms that can provide additional funding, thereby strengthening the university’s economic ties.

The model modification includes an increase in basic state funding complemented by a new performance-based funding structure. Importantly, this aligns with the university’s objectives of maintaining high educational standards, enhancing its autonomy, and offering competitive compensation for staff.

BME Considers New Operational Model with State Companies (Illustration)

Despite the model shift, the BME will retain control over its infrastructure and real estate assets, although the terms of these assets’ management may be subject to alteration and reinforcement. The proposed change is designed to prevent the university from being excluded from international programs like Erasmus and the Horizon 2020, a risk faced by other institutions that adopted a foundation model.

Previous attempts at resisting such transformations have come at a cost for BME, with reports earlier this year suggesting potential downsizing due to financial constraints. Nonetheless, the university administration and staff union have engaged in discussions with the ministry, optimistically seeking resolutions.

At the upcoming Senate meeting, Rector Hassan is anticipated to seek approval to further develop and implement this proposed model change. He has assured that negotiations will include input from university leaders and student representatives through various committees, emphasising a collaborative approach towards navigating this pivotal institutional decision.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

BME to Vote on Model Transition in December (Blikk.hu)
BME Changes Its Model but Won't Become a Foundation University (Infostart)
Model Change 2.0: State Company May Become New Operator of BME (24.hu)

Budapest Considers Night Closure of Subway Underpasses

2024-11-27T07:24:14+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesten éjjel bezárhatják a fontos aluljárókat . Vitézy Dávid, közlekedéstervező , javasolta ezt a biztonság növelése érdekében. Példa erre a Blaha Lujza tér, ahol sok gyalogos az átkelőket használja. Az aluljárók zárása a közbiztonságot szolgálná. A döntés még várat magára, amíg a városi tanács tárgyalja a javaslatot.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

In Budapest, important underpasses might be closed at night. Transport planner Dávid Vitézy proposed this to enhance safety. An example is Blaha Lujza Square, where many pedestrians use the crossings. Closing the underpasses would serve public security. A decision is still pending as the city council discusses the proposal.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who proposed the idea to close the underpasses at night in Budapest?

Vitézy Dávid, a transportation planner, proposed the idea.

Question 2: What is the purpose of closing the underpasses at night?

The purpose is to increase safety.

Exercise: Vocabulary

aluljáró (n.) - underpass

közbiztonság (n.) - public safety

közlekedéstervező (m.) - transport planner

növelés (n.) - increase

biztonság (n.) - safety

tárgyal - to discuss

Read the full story

▌27/11/2024

The potential night-time closure of main subway underpasses in Budapest has been a significant topic of discussion amidst city planners and officials. The proposal, initially brought to mainstream attention by advocacy from Vitézy Dávid, a prominent figure in transport planning, aims to address rising security concerns within these urban spaces.

Speaking on a televised programme, Vitézy articulated a longstanding belief that certain underpasses should be sealed off at night to enhance urban safety, particularly in areas where pedestrian pathways exist above ground. Citing the example of Blaha Lujza Square, Vitézy noted that those not entering the metro typically utilise the zebra crossings, leaving the more isolated areas of the underpass as hotspots for undesirable activities, including drug-related incidents as reported in the underpass at Kálvin Square.

Budapest Considers Night Closure of Subway Underpasses (Illustration)

This plan echoes sentiments from previous city administrations, such as that of 2018's mayor István Tarlós, who also advocated for closing underpasses at night, positing it as a measure to increase public safety.

Concurrently, the newly formed Budapest General Assembly has been occupied with other pressing administrative concerns, such as appointing deputy mayors and reorganising parking regulation systems. One notable proposal suggests a push towards digital-only payments for street parking by eliminating cash-based machines, further involving technology in city infrastructure.

The proposal for underpass closures at night aligns with the broader agenda to improve urban management, yet the move awaits further deliberations among representatives, with a final decision still pending. While the General Assembly has yet to reach a consensus on many administrative appointments, both the underpass closures and parking reforms demonstrate Budapest’s ongoing efforts to integrate more strategic, safety-conscious alterations into its urban landscape.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hungarian Motorway Pass Prices to Rise from December 2023

2024-11-25T11:12:22+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A 2025-ös magyar autópálya-matricák árusítása 2023. december 1-jén kezdődik . Az éves matrica ára 59,210 forint lesz. Ha valaki nem fizet időben, a büntetés 26,640 forint. Sok autós nem tudja, hogy az éves matrica segít elkerülni a büntetést. Fontos tudni , hogyan kezeljük a matricákat helyesen.

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

The sale of Hungarian motorway vignettes for 2025 begins on 1st December 2023. The annual vignette will cost 59,210 forints. If someone fails to pay on time, the fine is 26,640 forints. Many drivers do not realise that having an annual vignette helps avoid fines. It is important to know how to manage vignettes correctly.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When will the sale of Hungarian motorway passes for 2025 begin?

December 1, 2023.

Question 2: What is the penalty for not paying for the motorway pass on time?

The penalty is 26,640 forint.

Exercise: Vocabulary

árusítás (f.) - sale

kezdődik - begin

büntetés (f.) - penalty

tud - know

segít - help

elkerül - avoid

Read the full story

▌25/11/2024

The sale of the 2025 Hungarian motorway passes will commence on 1 December 2023, and it is set against a backdrop of rising costs. As announced by Voxinfo Kft., an official partner of Hungary’s National Mobile Payment Company, both the cost of motorway passes and related fines are expected to increase next year.

The new annual pass will be priced at 59,210 Hungarian forints. This rise comes alongside an increase in the standard penalty fee, which will grow to 26,640 forints for not paying within 60 days. If the fine remains unpaid after this period, it will escalate substantially to 91,780 forints, focusing primarily on private vehicle owners.

Recent data revealed by Hungary's National Toll Payment Services Ltd. indicates a growing concern over non-compliance, with roughly one million fines issued last year to motorists without a valid pass. Additionally, about 1.5 million cases were outsourced to international debt recovery firms.

Hungarian Motorway Pass Prices to Rise from December 2023 (Illustration)

To address these issues, Autópályamatrica.hu conducted an online survey in November, aimed at uncovering the reasons behind improper management of motorway passes. Among more than a thousand respondents, over 40% reported receiving notice of unauthorised road use months later, often leading to elevated penalties. Particularly among those who didn't purchase their passes online, there was a notable difficulty in proving their compliance, often resulting in fines due to lack of evidence.

Many drivers accrued penalties despite believing their passes were valid, or failed to realise their expiration, continuing to use motorways illegally multiple times before being notified.

Interestingly, 70% of individuals surveyed were unaware that purchasing an annual nationwide pass could exempt them from fines, and those who were aware often misunderstood the process. Unlike a straightforward automatic waiver, motorists must specifically request a credit through the National Toll Payment Services.

This development underscores the importance of informed compliance with the motorway pass system to avoid fines, particularly as prices rise and the enforcement process remains stringent.

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Hungary Considers Changes to Supreme Prosecutor Appointment

2024-11-20T13:08:38+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Magyar Igazságügyi Bizottság módosítást javasolt az alkotmányban . A változtatás megváltoztathatja a legfőbb ügyész kiválasztását . Nem lesz kötelező , hogy az új ügyész csak a jelenlegi ügyészek közül kerüljön ki. A javaslat szerint a Parlament választja az ügyészt elnöki javaslatra és kétharmados szavazással. A változások 2025-ben léphetnek életbe.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

The Hungarian Judicial Committee has proposed an amendment to the constitution. This change could alter the process of selecting the Chief Prosecutor. It will no longer be mandatory for the new prosecutor to be chosen from the current prosecutors. According to the proposal, Parliament will elect the prosecutor based on a presidential recommendation and with a two-thirds majority vote. These changes may come into effect in 2025.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who proposed the changes to the constitution regarding the Supreme Prosecutor selection?

The Magyar Igazságügyi Bizottság proposed the changes.

Question 2: When might the changes to the Supreme Prosecutor appointment take effect?

The changes might take effect in 2025.

Exercise: Vocabulary

javasol - suggest

alkotmány (n.) - constitution

kötelező - mandatory

kiválasztás (n.) - selection

elnöki - presidential

javaslat (n.) - proposal

Read the full story

▌20/11/2024

In an unexpected move, Hungary’s Judicial Committee recently discussed an amendment to the country's constitution that could significantly alter the selection criteria for the role of Supreme Prosecutor. The proposed changes would no longer mandate the appointee to be chosen exclusively from current prosecutors, aligning Hungary with practices observed in various European countries.

This amendment, scheduled for legislative debate, was introduced by Imre Vejkey, the head of the Judicial Committee. According to the proposal, the Supreme Prosecutor would continue to be appointed by Parliament upon the recommendation of the President, requiring a two-thirds majority for confirmation. However, the candidate would no longer need to come from within the ranks of existing prosecutors.

The rationale behind the amendment reflects both national and international precedents. Historically, out of the three individuals who have held the Supreme Prosecutor position in Hungary since the end of communism, two were initially from outside the prosecutorial service. Currently, many European countries, including the Netherlands and Sweden, do not require their top prosecutor to have a prosecutorial background.

Hungary Considers Changes to Supreme Prosecutor Appointment (Illustration)

The proposed constitutional change is poised to impact the tenure of current Supreme Prosecutor, Péter Polt, whose term is set to end in December 2028, unless an earlier replacement occurs. The amendment might facilitate selecting a successor from outside the current prosecutorial ranks, a move seemingly supported by Hungary’s ruling political parties.

Besides this significant shift concerning the Supreme Prosecutor's appointment, the proposed constitutional changes also extend to the criteria for appointing Constitutional Court judges. The amendment seeks to relax previous restrictions, eliminating the requirement for judicial candidates to work in positions necessitating a law degree. This change could broaden the pool of eligible candidates, though it has sparked varied opinions regarding its potential impact on judicial independence and effectiveness.

The proposed amendments are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2025, contingent upon approval during upcoming parliamentary discussions. The timing aligns with the expiration of terms for two Constitutional Court judges, potentially influencing the selection process for their replacements.

The introduction of this amendment is the latest in a series of constitutional changes in Hungary, underscoring ongoing legal and political dynamics within the country. Observers are keenly watching how these developments might affect the balance of power within Hungary’s judicial system and its alignment with broader European legal standards.

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Hungary to Distribute Moderna Covid Vaccines via GPs

2024-11-20T13:08:29+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Idén a magyarok háziorvosoktól kaphatják meg a frissített Covid-19 oltást. A Moderna szállítja az oltóanyagokat. Az oltások ára alacsonyabb , mint tavaly . Felnőttek és 6 hónapos-11 éves gyerekek kaphatnak oltást. A vakcinák várhatóan november végén érkeznek meg.

Listen to this text (00:17)

Translation

This year, Hungarians can receive the updated Covid-19 vaccine from their general practitioners. The vaccines are supplied by Moderna. The price of the vaccines is lower than last year. Both adults and children aged 6 months to 11 years can get vaccinated. The vaccines are expected to arrive by the end of November.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who will supply the vaccines to Hungary?

Moderna will supply the vaccines.

Question 2: When are the vaccines expected to arrive in Hungary?

The vaccines are expected to arrive at the end of November.

Exercise: Vocabulary

háziorvos (m.) - general practitioner

frissít - update

szállít - deliver

alacsony - lower

tavaly - last year

érkezik - arrive

Read the full story

▌20/11/2024

This year, residents of Hungary will be able to receive their updated Covid-19 vaccines through general practitioners rather than designated vaccination centres. This development was announced by Cecília Müller, the national chief medical officer, during a joint conference of the Hungarian Hospital Association and the Medicina Forum.

While exact dates for the vaccine's availability have not been specified, preparations are already underway, and the transportation of the doses is expected to commence shortly. These vaccines will be supplied by Moderna, following the conclusion of a public procurement tender to replace expired vaccine stocks. Moderna was the sole bidder, leading to its selection as the supplier.

Hungary to Distribute Moderna Covid Vaccines via GPs (Illustration)

The tender process, which began on October 10, set a deadline for offers by November 11. It involved three separate categories: individuals over 16 years old, children aged 6 months to 11 years, and those aged 12 to 16 years. Moderna bid successfully to supply 250,000 doses for the over-16 age group and 800 doses for the 6 months to 11 years category. However, there will be a lack of new doses for the 12 to 16-year-olds as Moderna did not bid for this group.

Financially, the Moderna vaccines will cost 4,601,250,000 HUF for the adult doses, with an additional charge of 10,634,000 HUF for the children's vaccines. This translates to a per-dose price of 18,405 HUF for adults and 13,292.5 HUF for children. Notably, this year's vaccines are more affordable than last year's units, which cost 21,700 HUF each.

The National Public Health and Pharmaceutical Centre has projected that the vaccines will arrive by the end of November, allowing for further distribution across the country through the designated general practitioner network.

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Nacsa Lőrinc Appointed as New State Secretary

2024-11-16T10:56:01+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Nacsa Lőrinc új államtitkár a Magyar Miniszterelnöki Hivatalban. Nacsa feladata a nemzetpolitika és a magyar diaszpóra képviselete . Potápi Árpád János munkáját folytatja. Nacsa KDNP politikus , és sok tapasztalata van. Korábban miniszteri biztos volt. A pártok új pályázókat állítanak az időközi választásra.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

Lőrinc Nacsa is the new State Secretary in the Hungarian Prime Minister's Office. His responsibilities include representing national policy and the Hungarian diaspora. He continues the work of Árpád János Potápi. Nacsa is a KDNP politician with substantial experience, having previously served as ministerial commissioner. The parties are nominating new candidates for the by-election.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What is one of Nacsa Lőrinc's responsibilities as the new state secretary?

One of Nacsa Lőrinc's responsibilities is representing the Hungarian diaspora and national policy.

Question 2: Who did Nacsa Lőrinc replace in his new role?

Nacsa Lőrinc is continuing the work of Potápi Árpád János.

Exercise: Vocabulary

államtitkár (m.) - state secretary

miniszterelnöki - ministerial

képviselet (f.) - representation

politikus (m.) - politician

tapasztalat (f.) - experience

pályázó (m.) - applicant

Read the full story

▌16/11/2024

Nacsa Lőrinc has been appointed as the new State Secretary for National Policy within the Hungarian Prime Minister's Cabinet Office. This announcement, made official by President Tamás Sulyok, comes after the untimely passing of Potápi Árpád János, whose legacy Nacsa has been tasked with continuing.

The appointment was proposed by Deputy Prime Minister Zsolt Semjén, who is also the chair of the Christian Democratic People's Party (KDNP), underscoring a deep-rooted affiliation between Nacsa and the party. Nacsa, formerly the deputy group leader of the KDNP, will focus on representing Hungarians living beyond the country's borders, a key aspect of Hungary's national policy, and promoting national cohesion.

Nacsa Lőrinc Appointed as New State Secretary (Illustration)

This transition in leadership at the Prime Minister's Cabinet Office is seen as a continuation of Potápi Árpád János's mission, reinforcing a sense of unity among the Hungarian diaspora. An interim election will soon take place to fill his parliamentary seat, with various political parties, including the MSZP, entering candidates.

Nacsa brings with him extensive political experience. Joining the Youth Christian Democratic Alliance in 2009 and serving as its leader since 2015, his political career advanced significantly. By 2018, he became the KDNP’s parliamentary spokesperson and has been part of both the Foreign Affairs and Welfare committees.

His recent duties as a ministerial commissioner for the National Religious Tourism Action Plan, starting in 2023, add to his portfolio of responsibilities. As he embraces his new role, expectations are high for him to enhance connections and foster unity within and beyond Hungary's borders.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Successor to Árpád Potápi at the Prime Minister's Office Announced (Index.hu)
New State Secretary for National Policy Appointed (Infostart)

Hungary Removes Allergy-Inducing Foods from School Menus

2024-11-13T16:27:38+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A magyar iskolákban új szabályok lesznek az étkezésekre. 2024. február 9-től nem adnak mogyorót, dióféléket és szezámmagot tartalmazó ételeket. Ez az allergiás gyerekek biztonsága érdekében történt. Ezen kívül a szabályok korlátozzák a zsíros húsokat és az édes italokat, hogy egészségesebb legyen az étkezés.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

From 9th February 2024, new rules will be implemented in Hungarian schools regarding meals. Foods containing peanuts, nuts, and sesame seeds will no longer be served, aiming to ensure the safety of children with allergies. Additionally, the rules will limit fatty meats and sugary drinks to promote healthier eating habits.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When will the new food rules in Hungarian schools start?

The new food rules will start on February 9, 2024.

Question 2: Why were foods containing nuts and sesame seeds removed from the menus?

They were removed for the safety of children with allergies.

Exercise: Vocabulary

szabály (n.) - rule

tartalmaz - contain

allergiás - allergic

biztonság (n.) - safety

érdeke (n.) - in order to

korlátoz - limit

Read the full story

▌13/11/2024

A recent amendment to the 2014 EMMI regulation, announced in the Magyar Közlöny, will see the elimination of several allergenic ingredients from Hungarian public catering services, including school canteens. Starting 9 February, food items containing peanuts, tree nuts, and sesame seeds will no longer be served in state-run educational institutions.

This decision aims to enhance safety for approximately 40,000 children in Hungary who suffer from food allergies. Of these, about 20,000 face potentially life-threatening anaphylactic reactions, particularly to peanuts, which may occur even from minimal contact. Many experts have advocated for this change, arguing these common allergens can be replaced with alternative ingredients on school menus.

Hungary Removes Allergy-Inducing Foods from School Menus (Illustration)

Remarkably, since September 2022, one of Hungary's largest catering companies, the HunGast Group, had already begun the process of removing these allergens from their offerings, anticipating this regulatory change.

In addition to allergen removal, the regulation also imposes restrictions on other dietary elements. Children aged 1 to 3 years will no longer receive meat products with more than 23% fat content. Additionally, sugary drinks and beverages containing sweeteners are banned, limiting children to fruit juices in compliance with the Magyar Élelmiszerkönyv.

The move has been welcomed by the Anafilaxiás Allergiásokért Egyesület (AAE), whose spokesperson, Janklovics Natasa, highlighted the increased safety for both diagnosed and undiagnosed allergic cases. Moreover, this decision is expected to alleviate anxiety among educators, as the risk of severe allergic reactions in educational settings becomes significantly reduced.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hungary Faces Dense Fog Across Multiple Regions

2024-11-11T09:44:59+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Vasárnaptól Magyarország nyugati, déli részén sűrű köd várható , ami helyenként esőt is hozhat. Néhány megyében figyelmeztetés van, mert a látási viszonyok rosszak. Északon fagy volt, a legalacsonyabb hőmérséklet Zabarban mínusz 8,4 fok. Máshol napos idő lesz, az időjárás ősszel kellemes 7-12 fokkal.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

From Sunday, dense fog is expected in the western and southern parts of Hungary, which may bring rain in some areas. Warnings have been issued in a few counties due to poor visibility. In the north, there was frost, with the lowest temperature recorded at minus 8.4 degrees Celsius in Zabar. Elsewhere, the weather will be sunny, with a pleasant autumn temperature range of 7 to 12 degrees Celsius.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: In which parts of Hungary is heavy fog expected?

Heavy fog is expected in the western and southern parts of Hungary.

Question 2: What is the lowest temperature mentioned in the summary?

The lowest temperature mentioned is minus 8.4 degrees in Zabar.

Exercise: Vocabulary

sűrű - dense

várható - expected

figyelmeztetés(n.) - warning

viszony(m.) - conditions

fagy(n.) - frost

hőmérséklet(n.) - temperature

Read the full story

▌10/11/2024

Hungary is currently experiencing a period of dense fog across various regions, particularly affecting western, southern Transdanubia, and parts of the Great Hungarian Plain. This meteorological phenomenon has prompted official warnings, with a first-degree alert issued for several counties due to visibility dropping to a few hundred metres.

The fog is expected to persist from Sunday across these regions, turning into low-level stratiform clouds once it lifts. In some areas, light drizzle or mist may occur, especially in the western parts of the Transdanubia and the southern Great Hungarian Plain. Meanwhile, other parts of Hungary can expect clear and sunny weather, staying dry with mild temperatures.

As reported, Sunday morning saw varied temperatures across the country, with frost affecting the north and northeast. The lowest temperature, minus 8.4 degrees Celsius, was recorded in Zabar, a location well-known for its frigid climate. Despite this frosty start, most areas are experiencing calm autumn weather, with temperatures ranging between 7 and 12 degrees Celsius in the daytime, although cooler in areas with prolonged fog.

Hungary Faces Dense Fog Across Multiple Regions (Illustration)

The fog and accompanying poor visibility have led to warnings for specific regions such as Vas and Zala counties, which experience notably dense fog conditions. However, on sunnier and less foggy days, temperatures are expected to be milder than the long-term averages, bringing a pleasant autumn ambiance.

Looking ahead, similar weather patterns are forecast for the coming days, including the persistence of fog and low clouds. By Tuesday, the warning is set to cover almost the entire country. Residents are advised to be cautious of reduced visibility conditions, which might continue to impact travel and outdoor activities.

The absence of significant wind or atmospheric fronts further aids the stagnation of foggy conditions. Although generally agreed upon by meteorological sources, the forecasts encourage people to remain informed about local weather updates and heed any advisories issued.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Fog, Frost, and Sunshine (Infostart)
Weather Alert Issued for Several Counties (24.hu)
Freezing Temperatures Hit Saturday Morning, Dropping to as Low as 8°C Below Zero (Index.hu)

Austrian Chancellor Meets with Hungarian Tisza Party Leader

2024-11-09T12:44:52+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Karl Nehammer, osztrák kancellár , Budapesten találkozott Magyar Péterrel, a Tisza Párt vezetőjével. Beszéltek Ausztria és Magyarország kapcsolatainak erősítéséről , valamint az EU migrációs szabályairól és az orosz-ukrán konfliktusról . Magyar Péter a francia elnökkel, Macronnal is találkozott, ahol Liszt-zeneművet és Tokaji bort ajándékozott.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Karl Nehammer, the Austrian chancellor, met with Péter Magyar, the leader of the Tisza Party, in Budapest. They discussed strengthening relations between Austria and Hungary, as well as EU migration policies and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Péter Magyar also met with the French President, Macron, where he presented a Liszt musical piece and Tokaji wine as gifts.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who did Karl Nehammer meet with in Budapest?

Karl Nehammer met with Magyar Péter, the leader of the Tisza Party, in Budapest.

Question 2: What topics did Nehammer and Magyar discuss during their meeting?

They discussed strengthening relations between Austria and Hungary, EU migration rules, and the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

Exercise: Vocabulary

kancellár (m.) - chancellor

kapcsolat (n.) - relationship

erősítés (n.) - strengthening

migráció - migration

szabály (n.) - rule

konfliktus (n.) - conflict

Read the full story

▌09/11/2024

Karl Nehammer, the Austrian Chancellor, recently met with Péter Magyar, leader of Hungary's Tisza Party, during a gathering in a Budapest restaurant. This meeting coincided with the European Political Community summit held in the city. According to Nehammer, such meetings align with the People’s Party tradition of connecting with like-minded political groups during official visits to other EU member states. The chancellor notably described the Tisza Party as a "strong party," emphasizing its rising influence in Hungary's political landscape.

The discussions between Nehammer and Magyar primarily focused on strengthening relations between Austria and Hungary, as well as enhancing bilateral political, economic, and cultural cooperation. They also touched upon key European issues such as the necessity for stringent EU regulations against illegal migration and the unified diplomatic efforts needed to resolve the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict. Magyar expressed agreement on these points, underscoring the Tisza Party's position within the European People’s Party faction in the European Parliament, which also includes Nehammer's Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP).

Austrian Chancellor Meets with Hungarian Tisza Party Leader (Illustration)

The political dynamics in Hungary are notably fluid, with the Tisza Party having gained significant momentum recently. Once second to the ruling Fidesz, the Tisza Party has reportedly overtaken it in public opinion polls, with some showing a lead of seven percentage points.

Apart from meeting with the Austrian chancellor, Péter Magyar also engaged in discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron. During their meeting, Magyar presented Macron with original sheet music by Franz Liszt and a bottle of 25-year-old Tokaji Aszú wine, reflecting the cultural ties between their nations.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Traffic Disruptions Expected in Budapest for EU Summit

2024-11-06T10:37:31+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesten, Magyarország fővárosában, forgalmi nehézségek várhatók november elején az Európai Politikai Közösség csúcstalálkozója miatt. Sok világszintű vezető érkezik, így szigorú forgalomkorlátozások lesznek. November 5. és 8. között több kerületet érint, az M3 autópálya is korlátozottan használható lesz. Érdemes előre tervezni a közlekedést.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

In Budapest, the capital of Hungary, traffic difficulties are expected in early November due to the European Political Community summit. Many world leaders will arrive, so strict traffic restrictions will be in place. From 5th to 8th November, several districts will be affected, and the M3 motorway will be partially accessible. It is advisable to plan your travel in advance.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When are traffic disruptions expected in Budapest due to the EU Summit?

Traffic disruptions are expected from November 5 to 8.

Question 2: Why are traffic restrictions being implemented in Budapest?

Traffic restrictions are being implemented because many world leaders are attending the EU Summit.

Exercise: Vocabulary

forgalom - traffic

nehézség - difficulty

várható - expected

közösség - community

csúcstalálkozó - summit

korlátozott - restricted

Read the full story

▌06/11/2024

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is set to experience significant traffic disruptions in early November due to the forthcoming European Political Community Summit. The event will take place on November 7th, attracting more than forty world leaders, including notable figures such as the British Prime Minister and the Turkish President. These high-profile visits necessitate comprehensive traffic management measures in the city.

Extensive traffic restrictions and parking bans have been announced by Hungarian authorities. These are designed to facilitate the safe movement of delegations and ensure security. The affected areas include several key districts in Budapest, primarily impacting both vehicles and pedestrians. From as early as November 5th, residents and visitors will encounter limitations in districts V, VI, VII, XIV, and XV, with additional restrictions in other parts of the city up until November 8th.

Parking will be prohibited in major locations and roads, including the prominent Andrássy Avenue, Heroes' Square, and around the Széchenyi Baths. Temporary closures will also extend to various service roads and highways leading into the city. According to the police, key routes like the M3 motorway and the vicinity around Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport will experience phased restrictions.

Traffic Disruptions Expected in Budapest for EU Summit (Illustration)

For those navigating the city, authorities recommend avoiding travel in heavily congested areas when possible. Public transit users might face delays and detours, as transport services adapt to the altered road conditions.

The summit, bringing together representatives from across Europe and beyond, highlights Budapest’s role as a significant venue for international diplomacy. While the traffic measures are necessary for security and logistics, they will inevitably inconvenience daily commuters and residents. Visitors are advised to plan their journeys in advance and stay updated on the latest announcements from local authorities to minimize disruption.

This event underscores the continuing importance of Budapest as a hub for political and diplomatic affairs, despite the logistical challenges it presents. Citizens and guests in the city are encouraged to exercise patience and accommodate the temporary disturbances for the successful hosting of the international event.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Software Failure Causes Delay in Hungarian Medical Services

2024-11-02T14:12:05+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Magyarországon problémák vannak a miniHIS orvosi szoftverrel. Az orvosok nem tudják használni, ezért mindent kézzel kell írniuk. Ez sok időt vesz igénybe, és nő a betegek várakozási ideje. Jelenleg a technikai csapat dolgozik a javításon, de még nem hasznosult a megoldás .

Listen to this text (00:16)

Translation

In Hungary, there are issues with the miniHIS medical software. Doctors are unable to use it, so they have to write everything by hand. This takes a lot of time and increases patient waiting times. Currently, the technical team is working on a fix, but the solution has not yet been implemented.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What problem are the doctors facing with the miniHIS software in Hungary?

Doctors cannot use the miniHIS software, so they have to write everything by hand.

Question 2: What is being done to fix the problems with the miniHIS software?

The technical team is working on the solution, but it is not fixed yet.

Exercise: Vocabulary

probléma (f.) - problem

orvosi - medical

várakozás (f.) - waiting

jelenleg - currently

hasznosul - become useful

megoldás (f.) - solution

Read the full story

▌02/11/2024

The breakdown of a vital medical software system, miniHIS, has resulted in significant delays at medical duty points across Hungary. From Thursday evening, doctors have been unable to use the software, essential for handling medical records. This problem has been corroborated by multiple medical professionals, although not all have experienced the disruption.

The issue became particularly pressing due to the timing of a three-day national holiday, during which time the helpdesk for resolving such IT issues was unreachable. A paediatrician expressed concerns about the impact on medical services, stating, "It's very hard to work like this. We have to write everything by hand, and the number of children waiting for treatment is piling up. It takes twice as long to provide care, and we can't update the records into the Electronic Health Service Space (EESZT)."

Software Failure Causes Delay in Hungarian Medical Services (Illustration)

Attempts to contact the organisations responsible for the operation and support of the system, such as the National Ambulance Service and the Health Informatics Service and Development Centre, have so far been unsuccessful, with responses indicating only that technical staff are working on the issue.

As the situation evolves, the strain on medical staff and the extended wait times for patients highlight a pressing need for a resolution. Further updates are awaited as authorities work towards restoring full system functionality.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

24.hu: Medical On-Call Software Failure Forces Doctors to Use Handwritten Records (Index.hu)
Medical Software Outage Forces Doctors to Use Paper Documentation (24.hu)
Medical On-Call System miniHIS Collapsed (Blikk.hu)

Budapest Student Organisations Secure Support Amid Political Debate

2024-10-30T16:14:11+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesti diákok és a Tisza Párt közösen dolgoznak egy javaslaton , amit a városi tanács elé visznek. A csomag tartalmaz mentálhigiénés programokat és olcsóbb kulturális hozzáférést. Bár a bizottságok először elutasították, a párt vezetője most támogatást ígér. Fontos a diákok jóléte és képviselete ebben a folyamatban.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

Students in Budapest are collaborating with the Tisza Party on a proposal to present to the city council. The package includes mental health programmes and cheaper access to cultural events. Although initially rejected by the committees, the party leader now promises support. The wellbeing and representation of students are important in this process.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What kind of support have Budapest student organisations secured?

The Budapest student organisations have secured some form of support, though the specific type is not detailed in the headline.

Question 2: Are there any political aspects involved in the situation with the Budapest student organisations?

Yes, there is a political debate involved in the situation with the Budapest student organisations.

Exercise: Vocabulary

javaslat(n.) - proposal

tanács(n.) - council

csomag(n.) - package

mentálhigiénés - mental health

bizottság(n.) - committees

képviselet(n.) - representation

Read the full story

▌30/10/2024

Amidst intense debate, the Budapest Student Organisations have secured a commitment from the Tisza Party to support a modified student proposal package in the upcoming city council vote. This comes after a tumultuous discussion where the city's committees initially rejected the "Our Budapest Programme" backed by several student groups, including the ADOM Student Movement, Fridays for Future Hungary, and the Unified Student Front.

The proposed package, primarily devised by student bodies, includes initiatives such as improved mental health programmes, enhanced student representation, and subsidised access to cultural venues. Despite its rejection by key city council committees on Monday, the Tisza Party engaged with student group representatives to integrate their suggestions. The Tisza Party leader, Peter Magyar, announced via social media that they would propose amendments to include broader consultations with all Budapest schools, aiming for a consensus by the end of 2024.

Budapest Student Organisations Secure Support Amid Political Debate (Illustration)

The rejection of the initial student-backed proposal has sparked a political clash. Critics like Vitézy Dávid argue the programme was poorly prepared without adequate consultation or financial evaluation, leaving stakeholders uncertain about its feasibility. Meanwhile, there are accusations that the city's administration led by Mayor Gergely Karácsony might have been using the proposal for political leverage.

On the other hand, student representatives express concerns that the political infighting could overshadow critical elements of the proposal, particularly those addressing student welfare and representation. Student leader Noel Perlaki-Borsos highlighted the urgency of focusing on solutions rather than political games.

The unfolding situation underscores the complexities of urban governance, where broad political entities seek to balance constituent interests with practical implementations. As Budapest's city council prepares for a conclusive vote, the ability of student organisations and political parties to bridge differences and focus on meaningful policy outcomes remains a focal point of local governance discourse.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Keszthely Hospital Maternity Ward Closure Sparks Debate

2024-10-28T10:48:33+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Keszthely Kórház bezárja a szülészeti osztályt november 4-től. Ez a döntés aggodalmat okozott. Az ellátásokat más kórházakba helyezik át. A polgármester szerint ez nem elfogadható . További beszélgetések folynak a városi és kórházi vezetők között a jövőbeli tervekről. A cél a magas szintű ellátás biztosítása .

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

The Keszthely Hospital is closing its maternity ward from 4th November. This decision has raised concerns. Maternity services will be transferred to other hospitals. According to the mayor, this is unacceptable. Further discussions are ongoing between the town and hospital leaders about future plans. The aim is to ensure a high standard of care.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: When will the maternity ward in Keszthely Hospital close?

The maternity ward will close on November 4th.

Question 2: What are city and hospital leaders discussing about the future plans?

They are discussing how to ensure high-quality care.

Exercise: Vocabulary

bezár - close

aggodalom (n.) - concern

ellátás (n.) - care

elfogadható - acceptable

vezető (n.) - leader

biztosítás (n.) - provision

Read the full story

▌27/10/2024

The Keszthely Hospital in Western Hungary has announced the closure of its maternity ward, effective from November 4, a decision that has generated significant local and national discussion. According to the hospital's statement, the closure is part of a broader strategy focused on the centralisation of healthcare services, aiming to enhance patient safety by reallocating birthing services to nearby hospitals with higher service levels.

The hospital maintains that outpatient obstetric and gynaecological services, along with prenatal care, will remain unaffected, continuing to operate as usual. The move aligns with an increasing trend amongst patients opting for higher-level facilities for obstetric and gynaecological services, seemingly favouring advanced medical interventions available at larger, better-equipped institutions.

Keszthely Hospital Maternity Ward Closure Sparks Debate (Illustration)

Tóth Gergely, the independent mayor of Keszthely, expressed discontent, stating the decision was unacceptable. In a social media post, he indicated that both he and the city council were committed to maintaining all hospital departments at full capacity and ensuring the service quality does not decline. Gergely criticises the lack of communication, revealing that he learned of the closure through Facebook.

Further discussions have occurred between local authorities, the hospital's management, and the region's parliamentary representative, Bálint Nagy. Despite Nagy's previous assurances that the hospital's operations were stable, the announcement has left local officials demanding detailed explanations about the implications of this decision, asserting their insistence on maintaining local access to comprehensive medical services.

This decision forms part of a national strategy to reform health services through specialisation and regional consolidation, a step officials argue is necessary to utilise resources efficiently and ensure high-standard healthcare provision in more complex cases. However, the immediate impact on local access to maternity services is causing anxiety and frustration within the community, reflecting wider debates about healthcare centralisation and accessibility in Hungary.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Maternity Ward Closure at Keszthely Hospital (Blikk.hu)
Keszthely Maternity Ward Closes Down (Index.hu)
Domestic News: Closure of the Maternity Unit in Keszthely (HVG.hu)

Budapest Mulls Potential Olympic Bid Amid Discussions

2024-10-25T06:42:51+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapest polgármestere , Gergely Karácsony javasolta , hogy a város tárgyalásokat kezdjen a MOB-bal és a MPB-vel az olimpiai játékok rendezéséről. Fontos felmérni az esemény hatásait a városra, de nincs szükség új sportlétesítményekre. A lakosság véleménye központi szerepet kapna, ezért népszavazást javasolnak.

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

The Mayor of Budapest, Gergely Karácsony, proposed that the city start discussions with the Hungarian Olympic Committee and the Hungarian Paralympic Committee about hosting the Olympic Games. It is important to assess the event's impact on the city, but there is no need for new sports facilities. The opinion of the public would play a central role, therefore a referendum is suggested.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who proposed that Budapest start discussions about hosting the Olympics?

Gergely Karácsony, the mayor of Budapest, proposed it.

Question 2: What is suggested to ensure that people’s opinions are considered regarding the Olympic bid?

A referendum is suggested to make sure the people's opinions are considered.

Exercise: Vocabulary

polgármester (m.) - mayor

javasol - suggest

tárgyalás (n.) - negotiation

felmér - assess

hatás (n.) - effect

népszavazás (n.) - referendum

Read the full story

▌25/10/2024

In a significant move, Budapest's Mayor Gergely Karácsony has proposed that the city's council begin discussions with the Hungarian Olympic Committee (MOB) and the Hungarian Paralympic Committee (MPB) about potentially hosting a future Olympic Games. In making this proposal, the Mayor stressed the importance of assessing the impact such an event would have on the city's infrastructure, public spaces, and housing crisis rather than focusing on constructing new sports facilities.

The initiative came after the MOB and MPB extended a request to the city's leadership for a collaborative exploration of the possibility of hosting the Olympics. The committees clarified that this is not an official bid, nor does it involve any obligation to pursue the hosting rights for the games. Instead, it is a preliminary step in understanding the feasibility and potential impact of hosting such an event in Budapest.

Karácsony indicated that while Budapest does not need additional large-scale sports facilities, the benefits of urban development and investment associated with the Olympics could provide significant advantages. However, he emphasized that any decision to pursue an Olympic bid should involve the voice of Budapest's residents, suggesting that a referendum be held to gauge public opinion on the matter.

Budapest Mulls Potential Olympic Bid Amid Discussions (Illustration)

At the core of these discussions is the question of whether the Olympic Games could be hosted in a way that aligns with principles of sustainability while offering clear benefits to Budapest and Hungary. The MOB anticipates that by 2026 a public report could be prepared, evaluating these aspects comprehensively.

The idea of hosting an Olympics has been a longstanding dream of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has expressed his desire to see the Games held in Hungary in previous statements. However, past initiatives aimed at securing an Olympic bid met with opposition from local groups, notably the Momentum party, which previously campaigned against such plans, arguing that the decision should be made through a national referendum.

With potential decisions by the International Olympic Committee concerning the hosting of the 2036, 2040, and 2044 Games, the prospect of a Budapest Olympics remains distant, especially with plans already in motion from countries like India. Moreover, the IOC's consideration of continental rotation for hosting adds another layer of complexity.

As discussions progress, the focus remains on understanding how a possible Olympic bid could coexist with Budapest's urban development strategies, ensuring that the interests of the city’s residents are prioritized while exploring this international opportunity.

Info: 'Hungarian Learner News' is a service from 'Let's Learn Hungarian', a language school focusing on teaching Hungarian. We offer various types of Hungarian lessons online, designed to accommodate different learning needs and schedules.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Orban and Macron Discuss European Migration Concerns

2024-10-23T07:29:02+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Orbán Viktor magyar miniszterelnök találkozott Emmanuel Macron francia elnökkel Párizsban. Beszélgetésük témája az európai migrációs helyzet volt. Orbán hangsúlyozta , hogy a jelenlegi szabályokat meg kell változtatni . Aggódik a nyugati vezetők döntései miatt, és új szabályokat szeretne a bevándorlás kezelésére.

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán of Hungary met with President Emmanuel Macron of France in Paris. Their discussion focused on the European migration situation. Orbán emphasised the need to change the current rules. He is concerned about the decisions of Western leaders and desires new regulations for handling immigration.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who did Orbán Viktor meet with in Paris?

Orbán Viktor met with Emmanuel Macron.

Question 2: What did Orbán want to change regarding migration?

Orbán wanted to change the current rules for handling migration.

Exercise: Vocabulary

találkozni - to meet

téma (f.) - topic

hangsúlyozni - to emphasize

jelenlegi - current

változtatni - to change

vezető (m.) - leader

Read the full story

▌23/10/2024

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán engaged in a high-profile meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Tuesday evening. The motive behind this diplomatic visit was to address pressing issues related to the European migration situation, a topic that has garnered significant attention across the continent.

Following a series of meetings in Révkomárom with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, Orbán travelled to Paris at the invitation of Macron. Discussions were centred around the challenges faced by European countries due to irregular migration, a subject that continues to stir heated debates among EU member states.

According to reports from the Hungarian government, Orbán expressed concerns over the actions of Western leaders in response to migration. He suggested that leaders were in a state of panic, leading to decisions he deemed inappropriate, such as reinstating border checks within the Schengen Area, which is designed to allow passport-free travel across much of the EU.

Orban and Macron Discuss European Migration Concerns (Illustration)

Orbán further emphasized what he described as a "rebellious atmosphere" within the European Union, suggesting that some leaders, including Poland's Prime Minister and Germany's Chancellor, were already manifesting their dissent. He warned that more member states might follow suit, potentially disrupting not only the migration-focused agreements but also broader EU cooperation.

The Hungarian Prime Minister reiterated his stance on the European Union's migration policies, calling for a complete overhaul of existing frameworks. He argued that the current migration pact should be discarded in favour of new, more effective regulations to manage the situation.

The meeting with Macron underscores the varying perspectives and challenges EU leaders face as they attempt to forge a collective response to migration while maintaining national interests and ensuring regional stability.

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Headline: Macron Invites Orbán for a Working Dinner on Tuesday Evening (HVG.hu)
Viktor Orbán Held Talks with a Fidesz Ally in Paris (Index.hu)

Hungarian Astronauts Train for Upcoming Space Mission

2024-10-21T08:40:28+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Kapu Tibor és Cserényi Gyula magyar űrhajós jelöltek az Axiom Space Ax-4 küldetésre készülnek. Tibor az űrbe megy kísérleteket végezni az ISS-en, Cserényi tartalék . Az indulás 2025 tavaszán várható. Edzéseket végeznek Houstonban, a NASA-nál. Tibor ételeket kóstol, és űrbeli kihívásokra készül, pl. súlytalanság .

Listen to this text (00:23)

Translation

Hungarian astronaut candidates Kapu Tibor and Cserényi Gyula are preparing for the Axiom Space Ax-4 mission. Tibor will travel to space to conduct experiments on the ISS, while Cserényi serves as a backup. The launch is expected in the spring of 2025. They undergo training in Houston, at NASA. Tibor tastes foods and prepares for space challenges, such as weightlessness.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is going to space for the Ax-4 mission?

Kapu Tibor is going to space for the Ax-4 mission.

Question 2: Where are the Hungarian astronauts training for the mission?

The Hungarian astronauts are training in Houston, at NASA.

Exercise: Vocabulary

űrhajós(m.) - astronaut

jelölt(m.) - candidate

küldetés(f.) - mission

kísérlet(n.) - experiment

tartalék(n.) - reserve

súlytalanság(f.) - weightlessness

Read the full story

▌21/10/2024

Hungarian astronaut candidates, Kapu Tibor and Cserényi Gyula, are currently undergoing rigorous preparation for their role in the forthcoming Axiom Space Ax-4 mission. This significant mission will mark the first time a Hungarian astronaut has ventured into space since Farkas Bertalan's historic flight nearly 44 years ago.

The duo's training commenced in August at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, where they are being trained with the assistance of NASA, Axiom, and SpaceX. Hungary's "Hungarian to Orbit" (Hunor) program aims to send Kapu Tibor into orbit to carry out research on the International Space Station (ISS). Meanwhile, Cserényi Gyula, although remaining on the ground as a reserve, is intricately involved in supporting from Earth.

The Ax-4 mission is scheduled for spring 2025, with Kapu Tibor and his team traveling aboard the SpaceX Falcon-9 rocket. The mission will see the astronauts spend approximately 14 days on the ISS, during which Tibor is expected to perform various research tasks.

Hungarian Astronauts Train for Upcoming Space Mission (Illustration)

The astronauts' current training involves adapting to the challenges of space life, such as weightlessness, sanitation, food preparation, and general day-to-day tasks that are substantially more complicated in space. One aspect emphasized during their training is the ability to handle mundane tasks like vacuuming, which requires special procedures in a zero-gravity environment to avoid potential risks, such as obstructions in air filters.

As part of their preparations, the astronauts were required to sample a wide array of space food — tasting as many as 70 distinct dishes, something that Kapu Tibor described as an "initial hurdle" during training. This culinary task is essential to ensure astronauts are well adapted to their upcoming diet on the space station.

Joining Kapu Tibor on this mission will be Peggy Whitson from the United States, Shubhanshu Shukla from India, and Slawosz Uznanski from Poland. Whitson, a veteran astronaut, will command the mission, leveraging her extensive experience, including over 675 days spent in space across multiple missions.

The extensive training program is designed to prepare Kapu Tibor comprehensively, both physically and mentally, for his research duties aboard the ISS. Simultaneously, Cserényi Gyula is receiving a similar education to enable effective support from the ground, ensuring that any issue that arises can be managed effectively from both the ISS and Earth.

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Nobel Laureate Katalin Karikó Reflects on Life Changes

2024-10-19T07:04:33+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Katalin Karikó Nobel-díjas kutató sokat utazik, amióta elnyerte az elismerést . Stockholmba utazott a díjátadóra , és részt vett egy fogadáson Karl XVI. Gustaf svéd király társaságában . Kedves személyes emlékekkel beszélt ruhaválasztásáról. Karikó sok meghívást kap, de a fárasztó utazás miatt sokat vissza kell utasítania.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

Since being awarded the Nobel Prize, Katalin Karikó, the acclaimed researcher, has been travelling frequently. She travelled to Stockholm for the award ceremony and attended a reception with King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden. She fondly recounted personal memories about her choice of attire. Karikó receives many invitations; however, due to the tiring nature of travel, she has to decline many of them.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where did Katalin Karikó travel to for the award ceremony?

Katalin Karikó traveled to Stockholm for the award ceremony.

Question 2: Why does Katalin Karikó decline many invitations?

Katalin Karikó declines many invitations because traveling is tiring.

Exercise: Vocabulary

Nobel-díjas - Nobel laureate

elismerés(n.) - recognition

díjátadó(n.) - award ceremony

társaság(n.) - company

meghívás(n.) - invitation

vissza - back

Read the full story

▌17/10/2024

Katalin Karikó, the esteemed Hungarian researcher, recently shared insights into how her life has evolved following her receipt of the Nobel Prize. Karikó was awarded this illustrious honour last December in Stockholm, Sweden. She recalls her journey to the Swedish capital, where fellow passengers, including the pilot, were aware of her significant destination, leading to numerous congratulations.

Upon the day following her award ceremony, Karikó was invited to a reception hosted by King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden. Contrary to her expectations of an intimate audience, she found herself among 150 guests. Seated between the Swedish King and Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Karikó partook in discussions that ranged from the King's visits to Hungary, notably for hunting, to the Prime Minister seeking her advice on his upcoming trip to Hungary.

Karikó recounted the importance of personal touches in her wardrobe choice for the Nobel events, mentioning assistance from designer Csézy and her fondness for clothes knitted by her mother. Such personal items, like her beloved blue-and-white striped sweater, evoke cherished memories and played a part in her Nobel lecture presentation.

Nobel Laureate Katalin Karikó Reflects on Life Changes (Illustration)

An unexpected outcome of this prestigious accolade has been her increased travel commitments. Over the past four years, Karikó has traversed the globe extensively and confessed to feeling fatigued by the constant journeys marked by missed connections and long transit times. Despite receiving numerous invitations for engagements, she has had to decline many due to scheduling constraints. "Other awards don't come as often post-Nobel," she noted.

In a candid reflection on her personal life, Karikó mentioned the unwavering support and companionship of her husband, with whom she has been married for nearly 44 years. Their shared routines, including morning swims and evening meals, strengthen their bond despite her busy travel schedule.

Amidst the acclaim, however, public understanding of Karikó's work remains varied. An episode from the Hungarian reality show "Nyerő Páros" highlighted this gap in awareness. Participants struggled to identify Karikó during a guessing game, with some mistaking her for a fashion designer. Such moments underscore the contrast between scientific recognition and broader public knowledge.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Train Delayed in Hungary Due to Driver Shift Regulations

2024-10-16T09:17:26+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Október 4-én a MÁV 4921-es vonata Bicskén megállt, mert a vezető munkaideje lejárt. Az utasok ezért késtek egy órát Budapestre. A MÁV magyarázta , hogy a vezető cseréje szükséges a szabályok betartása miatt. Ez fontos az utasok és munkatársak biztonsága érdekében. Az utasoknak türelmet kérnek.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

On October 4th, the MÁV train 4921 stopped in Bicske because the driver's work hours had ended. As a result, passengers were delayed by an hour in reaching Budapest. MÁV explained that changing the driver was necessary to comply with regulations. This measure is important for the safety of passengers and staff. Passengers are asked for their patience.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Why did the train stop in Bicske?

The train stopped in Bicske because the driver's work time ended and they needed to change drivers according to regulations.

Question 2: How long were the passengers delayed in getting to Budapest?

The passengers were delayed by one hour.

Exercise: Vocabulary

vezető (m.) - leader

munkaidő (n.) - working hours

magyaráz - explain

csere (n.) - exchange

szabály (n.) - rules

türelem (n.) - patience

Read the full story

▌16/10/2024

An unexpected delay left passengers stranded for over an hour in Bicske, Hungary, when a train stopped due to the expiration of the driver's shift. The MÁV, Hungary's national railway company, clarified the reason behind the interruption, emphasising compliance with strict operational regulations.

On the evening of 4th October, passengers aboard the MÁV 4921 service from Tata to Budapest experienced a prolonged halt in Bicske. According to reports from local sources, the issue was neither a technical fault nor a traffic disruption, but rather, it was due to the train driver's working hours which legally could not be extended beyond their set limit.

A statement from the MÁV explained that the driver had nearly reached the maximum allowed duty time of 10 hours, necessitating the cessation of the journey until a replacement could arrive. While the train remained stationary, the conductor informed travellers of the situation, leading many to opt for a subsequent service to continue their journey to Budapest, which eventually delayed their arrival by an hour.

Train Delayed in Hungary Due to Driver Shift Regulations (Illustration)

The railway company further elaborated that the driver's handover was delayed by external factors, namely a previous incident involving a collision near Tatabánya, which had caused widespread disruptions in the region's rail traffic. MÁV assured the public that they had tried to expedite the arrival of a substitute driver, who could ensure compliance with the regulatory framework governing train operations.

MÁV has made it clear that contrary to some reports, at no point did the initial driver abandon the train. Instead, they maintained basic services on board, such as electricity, to ensure lighting, heating, and the functioning of the doors, while awaiting their colleague's arrival.

This event has sparked a broader discussion about the balance between operational regulations and passenger convenience. However, MÁV stands by its decision, citing the necessity to uphold safety standards and legal obligations as paramount.

The railway operator is seeking the understanding of passengers, highlighting that such regulations are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of both staff and the public on Hungary's railways.

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Train Delayed Over an Hour in Bicske Due to Engineer's Shift Ending | Magyar Narancs (Magyar Narancs)
MÁV Explains Why the Train Was Stopped Near Bicske (24.hu)
MÁV Train Engineer Exits Locomotive While in Motion (Blikk.hu)

Bear Spotted in Hungarian Village Near Slovak Border

2024-10-15T05:08:19+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Bajóton, Magyarországon egy medvét láttak a faluban. Az önkormányzat kéri a lakosokat, hogy legyenek óvatosak, és kerüljék az erdei sétákat. A medve valószínűleg Szlovákiából jött. A hatóságok dolgoznak a megoldáson. Friss információk lesznek a faluközösség számára. Legyenek figyelmesek és vigyázzanak magukra.

Listen to this text (00:21)

Translation

In Bajóton, Hungary, a bear has been sighted in the village. The local council is asking residents to be cautious and avoid walking in the woods. The bear likely came from Slovakia. Authorities are working on a solution. Updates will be provided to the village community. Please stay alert and take care of yourselves.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Where was the bear spotted?

In a village in Hungary near the Slovak border.

Question 2: What does the local government advise the residents to do?

The local government advises residents to be cautious and avoid walking in the forest.

Exercise: Vocabulary

önkormányzat (f.) - municipality

lát - see

kerül - avoid

hatóság (f.) - authorities

megoldás (f.) - solution

figyelmes - attentive

Read the full story

▌15/10/2024

The residents of Bajót, a small village in Hungary near the Slovak border, have been urged to exercise caution following the sighting of a bear in the area. According to announcements made by the local council on Monday, the bear was seen roaming near Péliföldszentkereszt, one of the village's sections, close to a forest and a creek. It is believed that the bear wandered over from Slovakia.

In response to the sighting, the council has advised locals to temporarily suspend outdoor activities such as hiking and mushroom picking until the situation is resolved. "Please proceed with the utmost caution when walking in the forest," the statement emphasized. The relevant authorities have been informed and appropriate actions have been initiated. The community has been assured of updates on any new developments.

Bear Spotted in Hungarian Village Near Slovak Border (Illustration)

The warning comes in the wake of an incident early in October at Liptószentmiklós, Slovakia, where a bear attacked and fatally injured a man foraging for mushrooms. Such attacks are not uncommon in that region; earlier this year, multiple individuals—including a young girl and an elderly man—were injured in bear encounters, though they did not require hospital treatment. Following these attacks, measures were taken to eliminate the threat.

Moreover, the Slovak government proposed a constitutional amendment in April to allow the culling of bears that stray within 500 metres of inhabited areas. This suggestion, however, was met with strong criticism from environmental groups, who argued it could endanger wildlife across the entire Tátra region and labelled the proposal as overly drastic.

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Budapest Parking Reform: Civil Groups Propose Fee Increases

2024-10-13T15:17:55+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesten hét szervezet új parkolási szabályzatot javasol. A javaslat célja a forgalom csökkentése és több hely teremtése gyalogosoknak és bicikliseknek. Drágább parkolás lenne nem helyieknek. Javasolják a környezetszennyező autók kedvezményeinek megszüntetését is. Ezek a változtatások zöldebb városi környezetet teremtenének.

Listen to this text (00:22)

Translation

In Budapest, seven organisations have proposed a new parking regulation. The aim of the proposal is to reduce traffic and create more space for pedestrians and cyclists. Parking would be more expensive for non-locals. They also suggest eliminating incentives for environmentally harmful vehicles. These changes would create a greener urban environment.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What is one goal of the proposed parking regulation changes in Budapest?

One goal is to reduce traffic and create more space for pedestrians and cyclists.

Question 2: What is suggested to happen to parking fees for non-locals under the new proposal?

Parking fees for non-locals would become more expensive.

Exercise: Vocabulary

szervezet (n.) - organisation

javaslat (n.) - proposal

teremtés (n.) - creation

környezet (n.) - environment

kedvezmény (n.) - benefit

megszüntetés (n.) - abolition

Read the full story

▌13/10/2024

In Budapest, a coalition of seven civil organisations has put forward a proposal to significantly reform parking regulations across Hungary's capital. This initiative was detailed in a recently distributed 15-point document intended for review at the October 4 meeting of the Budapest General Assembly. The core aim of the proposal is to address the city's traffic congestion and improve the availability of parking spaces, thereby fostering more space for walking and cycling.

The organisations, including the Levegő Munkacsoport and the Közlekedő Tömeg Egyesület, have argued that existing parking practices inadequately reflect the true value of public space occupied by vehicles. They suggest that current parking fees do not cover the economic cost of using these communal areas, promoting a high reliance on private cars and underutilising alternative transport modes like cycling.

A pivotal recommendation of the proposal involves doubling the parking fees for non-local residents, while local residents could see a phased increase in their parking costs. The coalition also proposes eliminating all residential discounts for environmentally harmful automobiles. Additionally, stringent parking restrictions would be applied to protected areas, prohibiting entry for certain high-emission vehicles.

Budapest Parking Reform: Civil Groups Propose Fee Increases (Illustration)

The plan includes a transition from procedure fees to redemption fees for parking permits, with a new structure for residential discounts based on the number of cars owned per household. There is also a consideration to progressively diminish these privileges to encourage off-street parking solutions.

Proponents argue that transition to market-driven parking pricing could help reallocate street space away from cars and make way for greener urban environments. This transformation, they believe, will improve air quality and overall urban liveability. Discussions with various districts have already begun to ensure these changes align with broader urban development goals.

The suggested changes have sparked debate about their implications on traffic patterns and access to parking spaces, especially in districts currently free from parking fees. By implementing such measures, the civil associations are advocating for a cultural shift in the recognition of street space as a valuable resource, aiming for a net positive impact on Budapest's quality of life.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Key Milestone Reached in Budapest-Belgrade Railway Project

2024-10-10T18:15:01+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

2024. október 9-én Kiskőrösön ünnepelték a Budapest-Belgrád vasútvonal fontos fejlesztését . Ez a projekt újása 150 km hosszú vágányokat tartalmaz Budapest és Magyarország déli határai között. A beruházás értéke körülbelül 800 millió euró. Az eseményen Szijjártó Péter miniszter is ott volt, és optimista volt a projekt jövője kapcsán.

Listen to this text (00:25)

Translation

On 9th October 2024, a significant development of the Budapest-Belgrade railway line was celebrated in Kiskőrös. This project includes the construction of 150 km of new tracks between Budapest and Hungary's southern borders. The investment is valued at approximately €800 million. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó attended the event and expressed optimism about the future of the project.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What is the purpose of the celebration in Kiskőrös on October 9, 2024?

They celebrated an important development in the Budapest-Belgrade railway project.

Question 2: How long are the new tracks in the Budapest-Belgrade railway project?

The new tracks are 150 km long.

Exercise: Vocabulary

ünnepel - celebrate

fejlesztés (f.) - development

projekt (n.) - project

tartalmaz - contain

beruházás (f.) - investment

optimista - optimistic

Read the full story

▌10/10/2024

On October 9, 2024, a significant development was celebrated in Kiskőrös, Hungary, marking a crucial milestone in the modernisation and expansion of the Budapest-Belgrade railway line. This advancement comes as the last piece of track for the open-section railway construction outside Budapest was installed. The event was attended by key figures including Peter Szijjártó, the Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Lőrinc Mészáros, owner of the V-Híd Zrt., the company responsible for the construction.

This phase of the railway construction is regarded as a pivotal achievement, with the completion of 150 kilometres of dual-track railway stretching from Budapest to the southern borders of Hungary. This undertaking forms part of a larger investment, valued at approximately EUR 800 million. Speaking at the event, Szijjártó expressed optimism that the Hungarian section of the project will be completed by the end of next year, enhancing transportation between Hungary and Serbia.

Key Milestone Reached in Budapest-Belgrade Railway Project (Illustration)

V-Híd Zrt., a significant player in the project, has grown exponentially over the years from a mid-sized company to a corporation employing over 1,200 people, primarily engineers and machine operators. During the event, they showcased advanced railway construction machinery, including the Plasser & Theurer's SMD 80, which is anticipated to greatly enhance the efficiency of railway maintenance by reducing required time by 40%.

However, the project has not been without controversy. Mészáros's company has been involved in prior tensions with the government, particularly with Minister János Lázár, who previously accused the company of coercive tactics regarding night and weekend work on another major infrastructure project.

Despite these challenges, the development of the Budapest-Belgrade railway is seen by the Hungarian government not only as an infrastructural triumph but also as a strategic opportunity amid the global tumult, emphasizing the importance of East-West collaboration.

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Demonstration at Hungarian Public Media Headquarters

2024-10-07T05:11:27+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Szombaton sok ember gyűlt össze Budapesten a MTVA előtt. A tüntetést Magyar Péter szervezte , aki a Tisza Párt vezetője. A tiltakozás célja a kormányzati propaganda elleni fellépés és kiegyensúlyozottabb média hírek igénye. Több ismert ember részt vett, például Nagy Ervin színész. A tüntetés békésen zajlott.

Listen to this text (00:19)

Translation

On Saturday, a large number of people gathered in front of MTVA in Budapest. The protest was organised by Peter Magyar, the leader of the Tisza Party. The aim of the protest was to oppose governmental propaganda and to demand more balanced media reporting. Several well-known figures took part, including actor Ervin Nagy. The protest proceeded peacefully.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who organized the demonstration in Budapest?

The demonstration was organized by Magyar Péter, the leader of the Tisza Party.

Question 2: What was the reason for the protest at the Hungarian Public Media Headquarters?

The protest was against government propaganda and aimed to demand more balanced media news.

Exercise: Vocabulary

tüntetés (f.) - demonstration

szervez - organise

tiltakozás (f.) - protest

propaganda (f.) - propaganda

kiegyensúlyozott - more balanced

békés - peacefully

Read the full story

▌06/10/2024

On Saturday afternoon, thousands gathered outside the headquarters of Hungary's public media organisation, MTVA, on Kunigunda Street, in a protest orchestrated by Magyar Péter, leader of the opposition Tisza Party. The demonstration aimed to address concerns over alleged government propaganda and demand more balanced media coverage.

The protest, which brought together citizens and several notable figures, was sparked by claims that the Hungarian public media—comprising national television, radio, and news agencies—serves more as a conduit for government promotion rather than fulfilling its role as a public service medium.

Nagy Ervin, a renowned actor and one of the early speakers, critiqued the exclusion of dissenting voices, claiming there is no place for a whole nation on a blacklist. He expressed disappointment at the scarcity of courageous artists willing to stand against this reality.

Other speakers echoed similar sentiments. Tóth Imre, known as "Bruti" in the comedy circuit, recounted an encounter during a European Parliament debate hosted by MTVA, highlighting perceptions of those within the media as "news fabricators".

Reports from the scene noted a large video screen displaying live segments of M1, Hungary's primary news channel, although attendees expressed scepticism about the likelihood of the channel covering the protest within their broadcasts. However, moments from the protest were indeed featured in their 15:30 news bulletin.

Demonstration at Hungarian Public Media Headquarters (Illustration)

Prominent cultural figures and activists took the stage, with Nagy Bandó András lamenting what he sees as signs of political regression. Similar views were communicated through video messages from Hungarian supporters abroad, underscoring the global plea for freedom of speech.

The demonstration also stood as a platform for Magyar Péter to present a list of 16 demands aimed at transforming MTVA into a genuinely independent media body. These include leadership changes within the media's governing bodies and a cessation of programs primarily supported by foreign state sponsors, notably those in Russian and Chinese.

However, in a counter-statement, the public media establishment disclosed that they had extended invitations for Magyar and other opposition members to participate in their programming multiple times, suggesting the protest leader seldom took up these offers.

The protest culminated in a symbolic call for "media detox", urging supporters to avoid state-influenced channels and seek balanced reporting. Despite the passionate rhetoric, the crowd largely remained peaceful throughout.

With the promise of continued action, Magyar Péter announced plans for another demonstration on October 23rd, the anniversary of Hungary's 1956 revolution, at the famous Bem Statue, a significant site of historical protest.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Budapest Assembly Approves New BKK Security Plan

2024-10-07T05:11:18+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Budapesti Közgyűlés új intézkedéseket hozott a város biztonsága érdekében. Elfogadták Vitézy Dávid javaslatát a BKK szabályozó testület létrehozására és együttműködnek civil szervezetekkel a korrupció ellen. A javaslatok közé tartozott a 24 órás járőrözés a közterületeken is, hogy növeljék a lakosok biztonságérzetét.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

The Budapest General Assembly has implemented new measures to enhance the city's safety. They have adopted Vitézy Dávid's proposal to establish a regulatory body for the Budapest Transport Company (BKK) and are collaborating with civil organisations to combat corruption. The proposals included 24-hour patrolling in public areas to increase residents' sense of security.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who proposed the creation of a regulatory board for BKK?

Vitézy Dávid proposed the creation of a regulatory board for BKK.

Question 2: What is one of the measures included in the new security plan?

One of the measures is 24-hour patrolling of public areas.

Exercise: Vocabulary

közgyűlés (f.) - assembly

intézkedés (f.) - measures

elfogad - accepted

javaslat (f.) - proposal

testület (f.) - board

járőrözés (f.) - patrolling

Read the full story

▌05/10/2024

The Budapest Assembly recently settled on significant measures directed at enhancing the city's safety, particularly in public spaces. Among the key decisions was the approval of a proposal set forth by Vitézy Dávid, which championed the creation of a BKK regulatory body. This decision aligns with one of Vitézy’s major election campaign promises.

Despite varying opinions, the proposal successfully incoporated amendments by Mayor Gergely Karácsony. The approval means the local government will actively collaborate with anti-corruption civil organisations and experts to draft transparency regulations applicable to the municipal office and its companies. However, it faced criticism from opposition parties who were sceptical about the involvement of specific NGOs and suggested a more independent oversight model.

Budapest Assembly Approves New BKK Security Plan (Illustration)

Another focal point of the assembly's agenda included discussions on maintaining public order in Budapest. An unlisted proposal by Szentkirályi Alexandra emphasized the need for 24-hour patrols in subways, parks, and public transportation to boost residents' perception of safety. Key suggestions from Fidesz included reviving pre-2019 levels of cooperation between municipal enforcement and the police, indicating a keen interest in ensuring comprehensive city-wide security.

In addition, the Democratic Coalition (DK) advocated for the regulation of the plethora of state-licensed tobacco shops in Budapest, highlighting them as public nuisance points. This proposal suggests returning the power to regulate these businesses to local governments to address security concerns more effectively.

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Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Bomb Disposal Operation in Budapest Disrupts Traffic

2024-10-05T12:46:56+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

Budapesten egy második világháborús bomba került elő, ami miatt biztonsági intézkedést és evakuációt rendeltek el. A bomba hatástalanítására szombat reggel kerül sor. Az érintett területen közlekedési útvonalak és tömegközlekedési járatok megváltoznak. A Rákóczi híd és déli vasúthíd is lezárásra kerül. Kérjük, figyelje a közlekedési híreket.

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Translation

A World War II bomb has been discovered in Budapest, leading to safety measures and evacuation orders. The bomb is scheduled to be defused on Saturday morning. Transport routes and public transport services in the affected area will change. The Rákóczi Bridge and the southern railway bridge will also be closed. Please monitor the traffic news.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Why were safety measures and evacuations ordered in Budapest?

Safety measures and evacuations were ordered because a World War II bomb was found.

Question 2: What should people do to stay informed about the traffic changes?

People should follow the transportation news to stay informed about the traffic changes.

Exercise: Vocabulary

hatástalanítás (f.) - defusing

érint - concern

útvonal (m.) - route

lezárás (f.) - closure

rendel - order

figyel - watch

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▌05/10/2024

A World War II bomb was discovered in Budapest's Ferencváros district, prompting a major safety operation and significant disruption to local traffic. The bomb, identified as a one-tonne American-made aerial bomb, was found by construction workers during the excavation work on the railway embankment that crosses Soroksári Road.

The Hungarian Armed Forces' Explosive Ordnance Disposal and River Guard Regiment plans to neutralise the bomb on-site to ensure safety before its removal. The defusal is scheduled for Saturday morning, and the operation is expected to impact the area substantially.

In response to this, the Budapest Police Headquarters has announced a temporary evacuation and closure of a 600-metre radius around the site. From 10:00 AM to approximately 5:00 PM, residents, business owners, and anyone within the designated zone must vacate the premises. Entry and presence in the affected area will be strictly prohibited during this period.

Bomb Disposal Operation in Budapest Disrupts Traffic (Illustration)

The closures will affect traffic significantly, including the complete shutdown of the Rákóczi Bridge and the Southern connecting Railway Bridge. However, not all roads will be affected; Vágóhíd Street and parts of Mester and Külső-Mester Streets will still be open for traffic.

Public transportation services will also face alterations. Train services on several lines, including the Budapest–Győr–Hegyeshalom and the Budapest–Pusztaszabolcs–Pécs lines, will have adjusted routes, terminating at Budapest-Kelenföld station instead of their usual stops. Following the restrictions, alternative routes have been arranged by the Budapest Transport Centre (BKK) to accommodate travellers.

The bomb disposal operation will also disrupt some bus routes. Volánbusz services around the Rákóczi Bridge and Soroksári Road will be rerouted, and the H6 HÉV line will face interruptions, running only to Kén Street and not serving the Közvágóhíd station during the restricted hours. Passengers are advised to use different bus services and the M3 metro line for onward journeys.

Authorities predict that normal operations for trains and buses will likely resume by the evening, once the bomb has been successfully defused and the police lift the area’s closure. Residents and travellers in the Ferencváros district and surrounding areas are encouraged to plan their day accordingly, considering the traffic and commuting changes established for safety and efficiency.

Info: 'Hungarian Learner News' is a service from 'Let's Learn Hungarian', our language school dedicated to teaching Hungarian. We offer a variety of online courses designed to help you how to learn Hungarian fast through flexible and comprehensive learning tools.

Advanced: Reports from Hungary

Hungarian Medical Chamber Establishes Karsai Memorial Award

2024-09-30T13:03:35+00:00

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The news in Hungarian

A Magyar Orvosi Kamara egy emlékdíjat alapít Karsai Dániel emlékére. Karsai alkotmányjogász volt, aki a betegek életvégi méltóságáért dolgozott. Az emlékdíj segít azoknak, akik e téren tevékenykednek. Karsai betegsége ALS volt, és sokat vitázott az aktív eutanázia lehetőségéről Magyarországon. A díj folytatja munkáját.

Listen to this text (00:20)

Translation

The Hungarian Medical Chamber has established a memorial award in honour of Dániel Karsai. Karsai was a constitutional lawyer who advocated for patients' end-of-life dignity. The award supports those involved in this field. Karsai suffered from ALS and frequently debated the possibility of active euthanasia in Hungary. The award continues his work.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who was Karsai Dániel and what did he advocate for?

Karsai Dániel was a constitutional lawyer who advocated for the dignity of patients at the end of life.

Question 2: What illness did Karsai Dániel suffer from?

Karsai Dániel suffered from ALS.

Exercise: Vocabulary

emlékdíj (n.) - memorial award

alkotmányjogász (m.) - constitutional lawyer

méltóság (f.) - dignity

ALS (n.) - ALS

vitázik - debate

eutanázia (f.) - euthanasia

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▌30/09/2024

The Hungarian Medical Chamber has announced the establishment of a memorial award to honour the legacy of Karsai Dániel, a constitutional lawyer who passed away at the age of 47. This decision was publicised on the organisation's official Facebook page. The award aims to support individuals and organisations advocating for end-of-life dignity.

Karsai Dániel was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2022, a progressive neurodegenerative disease leading to complete paralysis. Despite battling this incurable condition, Karsai became a public figure in the debate surrounding the legalisation of active euthanasia in Hungary. He argued for the right to end-of-life choices, bringing his case to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), although he did not live to see the outcome.

Hungarian Medical Chamber Establishes Karsai Memorial Award (Illustration)

Throughout his life, Karsai played an integral role in Hungarian judicial and medical discussions. A year before his passing, he stepped forward at the Hungarian Medical Chamber's Agora event, sparking a widespread societal debate on life-ending decisions. The chamber's tribute through this award seeks to continue Karsai's advocacy for the dignified treatment of terminal patients, recognising the significant impact he had in this area.

His passing was publicly announced by his brother, who shared the news via social media. The Hungarian Medical Chamber’s initiative to honour Karsai highlights the continued relevance and importance of the issues he championed, ensuring that his efforts inspire future dialogues and actions in the realm of end-of-life care.

Info: 'Hungarian Learner News' is a service from 'Let's Learn Hungarian', a language school dedicated to teaching Hungarian online. At our school, we offer a range of courses, including Hungarian language classes, designed to cater to various learning needs and levels.