Hungary Country Report

Hungary is a parliamentary republic bordered by Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia. Hungary is a member of the European Union (EU), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Visegrad Group (V4), and is a Schengen state. The country's post-Communist economy has experienced strong growth since initiating market reforms in 1990 and is increasingly developed, although it is hampered by organized crime and corruption. The government is stable even though there are a number of triggers for political and economic unrest. Demonstrations occur periodically in cities and have the potential to turn violent. Extremist groups have used national holidays to hold rallies. Primary threats to foreign travelers are from petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching. Car thefts and highway robberies also occur. Organized crime gangs are active as Hungary serves as a transit point for illegal drugs from Turkey and Asia to European destinations. Infrastructure is generally well-developed throughout the country.

Hungary does not face any internal or external conflict threat. Street crimes, mainly pick-pocketing, petty bag-snatching, vandalism and stealing from unattended vehicles, are the most commonly reported crimes. Travelers are often targeted around train stations and in the public transportation systems. Violent crime is rare. Socio-economic issues periodically lead to localized public unrest.

There are no particular concerns over air travel.

Road travel is generally safe, although local driving standards pose some concern.

The ports in Hungary are considered efficient.

Utility provision is generally good.

There is a realistic possibility that cyber-criminals may target both organizations and individuals.

Hungary can be affected by flooding and excess rainfall during winter (December - February). This flooding can cause damage to infrastructure and facilities. Heavy snow can lead to travel disruption.

There are no major health concerns in the country. Travel in forested areas brings the risk of exposure to tick-borne diseases. Basic medical care is available in urban areas but may be sparser elsewhere. Most pharmacies are well-supplied, and some are open 24 hours. Tap water is considered safe for drinking unless otherwise specified.

Hungary is a unitary multi-party parliamentary republic. The Prime Minister is the head of government and the President is the head of state. The Prime Minister and the Cabinet form the government and exercise executive power. The unicameral parliament, or the National Assembly, exercises legislative power. Parliamentary elections take place once every four years. Prime Minister Viktor Orban and the Fidesz party have run the state since 2010. The judiciary is nominally independent of the executive and the legislature but is widely regarded as corrupt and ultimately under the influence of the executive.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are rarely required to form the government. Government collapses are uncommon. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across most of the country.