The draft bill just published by the Ministry for National Economy aims to reduce the rights of employees. Employers would, among other changes, find it easier to lay off pregnant women and parents on maternity leave. A prominent right-wing commentator argues that curbing the rights of employees will not strengthen the nation. READ MORE
There is little sympathy in the media for the Fidesz MP who boasted that towns and villages which want to succeed in their applications for public funds should be on good terms with him. READ MORE
It is high time for mainstream parties to pull themselves together and face the gravity of the racial conflicts in rural Hungary – both right and left-wing commentators conclude from the election of a far right candidate as mayor of Gyöngyöspata, in Northern Hungary.
Changes to the law which require work in return for welfare payments, are sharply criticised by left-leaning commentators. They suggest that the requirement is inhumane, and predict that the planned public work programme will prove costly and inefficient. A right-wing pundit writes that Hungary has no choice but to abolish unconditional benefits, because of the economic crisis. But a liberal journalist also welcomes public incentives which promote self-reliance. READ MORE
The presidium of Fidesz have unveiled their plan for electoral reform, prompting sharply opposed views in the press. Left wing analysts believe the reform is an attempt by the governing conservative party to ensure it will rule over Hungary forever, while a pro-government commentator believes it could constitute the basis for free and fair elections. READ MORE
The end of Hungary’s EU presidency, PM Viktor Orbán’s presentation of its achievements, and the demand from the European Parliament for Hungary to revise the new constitution provoke mixed reactions in the Hungarian press. READ MORE
Regardless of their political affiliations, commentators appreciate the diplomatic performance of Hungary during the six months of the EU presidency, but this professional success story does not silence the usual controversies over the government’s democratic legitimacy. READ MORE
Thousands protested on Thursday (June 16) against the government’s planned changes to the early retirement system. Right-wing commentators detect political motives behind the protests, while left-wing media interpret the demonstrations as a plea for democracy and the rule of law. Both sides appear to assume that a reasonable compromise is not an option. READ MORE
The owner of Klub Radio is confident that his left-wing news and current affairs station will survive. As well as raising money from supporters, the station is gathering grass-roots support for its efforts to keep its frequency.
One of the biggest stars in Hungarian football, Balázs Dzsudzsák signed for Anzhi Makhachkala on Thursday. Although the Dagestan club plays in the Russian Premier League, most commentators believe that this was a bad decision from the (now former) PSV Eindhoven player. READ MORE