Speaking at the event held in the Royal Riding Hall, Navracsics said public servants had proven that it is possible to “create a state that serves its citizens, that does not act as an authority speaking from above, but stands among the people and helps them in their everyday lives — a state that provides a refuge for many.”
He acknowledged that it is always troubling when an institution of the state fails to fully meet its responsibilities, but emphasized that such experiences provide opportunities to learn and improve.
The minister praised the performance of Hungary’s district offices, noting that since their establishment 12 years ago, they have become an essential part of citizens’ daily lives. “Rehabilitating the district as an administrative concept was necessary, because it has an enduring place in Hungary’s spatial thinking and governance,” he said.
Navracsics pointed out that while almost every issue is subject to political debate in Hungary, the administrative reform introduced 15 years ago enjoys broad consensus. “In Hungarian politics — where everything is disputed — no one, not even the emerging opposition parties, questions the system of territorial administration or suggests abolishing any part of it,” he said.
He credited this success to the professionalism of those working in public administration. “When citizens walk into a government window office or meet officials at a district or county government office, they encounter excellent professionals,” he said, urging participants to protect the administrative culture they have built.
“Do not let anyone take away, question, or undermine the culture of administration you have created through your work,” the minister said, adding that this shared achievement must be maintained in the years ahead.
State Secretary for Territorial Administration István György reported that in 2024, 16.6 million clients used public administration services, including 13 million who visited government window offices.
He noted that as of September, the government raised the wage budget of the sector by 15 percent, distributed in a differentiated manner, and expressed hope for another pay increase early next year.
György also pointed out that the coming period will be demanding for the administration, as the next parliamentary elections are expected on April 12, requiring logistical support for electoral authorities and local governments.
He added that the EU-supported “virtual government window” project is under development, allowing citizens to interact with clerks via video connection, and that progress continues on creating a digital land registry system.