Hungary’s economy is at a pivotal moment, and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is optimistic about its future, highlighting transformative changes expected by 2025. Speaking on Kossuth Radio's "Good Morning Hungary!" program, PM Orbán outlined government measures designed to revive economic growth and address key societal challenges.
Discussing Hungary’s economic struggles, PM Orbán attributed the difficulties to the ongoing war in Ukraine and the resulting European Union sanctions. He argued that these sanctions have driven energy prices higher, fueling inflation across the continent.
"The Hungarian economy’s difficulties stem from the war," he noted, underscoring that peace is essential for recovery. Without it, he cautioned, economic vitality cannot return, no matter how promising the statistics appear.
The prime minister stressed the need for a strong international leader to negotiate peace, pointing to Donald Trump’s return as U.S. President as a potential turning point. This optimism is reflected in Hungary’s upcoming "peace budget," which PM Orbán described as laying the groundwork for unprecedented developments in 2025.
According to PM Orbán, the 2025 budget introduces a new era of economic policy with several bold initiatives. These include doubling family tax benefits, implementing wage negotiations to address inflation, and setting ambitious goals such as achieving an average monthly income of one million forints. A centerpiece of the plan is enhanced housing support for young people under 35, offering subsidies of up to 150,000 forints monthly.
Instead of state-led rental housing programs, the government aims to empower private employers to attract young talent with housing benefits. "This creates a competitive edge for companies," PM Orbán explained, adding that the Sándor Demján Program will provide crucial support for small businesses, while a new workers’ loan scheme will assist young employees in starting their careers.
Hungary’s "peace budget" reflects the government’s strategic focus on fostering stability. PM Orbán emphasized that this approach aligns with Hungary’s broader goal of pushing for a peace-focused shift within the EU, challenging the bloc’s current trajectory on sanctions and energy policies. He also criticized Europe’s loss of competitiveness to the United States and Asia, calling for urgent reforms to lower energy costs and reduce bureaucracy.
The prime minister stressed that "a rebellion against Brussels' harmful policies" is necessary, particularly those that burden Hungarian families. He cited French President Emmanuel Macron’s warning that Europe faces an existential crisis if it does not adapt, adding that Hungary’s proposals, such as the Budapest Declaration on Competitiveness, are steps toward revitalizing the continent.
PM Orbán highlighted the importance of Hungary’s national consultations, noting their role in strengthening public unity. By soliciting input on critical issues, the consultations serve as a democratic tool that empowers citizens to shape the country’s future. The prime minister expressed hope that these efforts would foster greater cohesion across Hungarian society.
As Hungary looks ahead to 2025, PM Orbán remains confident in the government’s ability to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities. "The changes we are preparing for are not only extraordinary but truly groundbreaking," he concluded, urging continued focus and unity in the face of ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties.