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Politics of Hungary

Hungary transitioned to a multiparty system in 1989 and enjoyed a fully competitive and democratic political system. Hungary is a parliamentary democracy with the leader of the largest party being prime minister. There is also a president who acts as head of state and is elected by the legislature. The legislative branch is a single-chambered National Assembly, which consists of 199 representatives since the 2014 elections. Elections are held every 4 years.

There are a few political parties in Hungary, which include Fidesz-Hunharian Civic Party, Hungarian Democratic Party, Independent Smallholders' Party, Hungarian Socialist Part, Alliance of Free Democrats, and the Hungarian Justice Party. All of these parties differ over the content of key economic policy issues.

An independent Constitutional Court leads Hungary's judicial branch and was established during the regime change of 1989 by the First Act of Constitution. The Constitutional Court has the responsibility to guarantee that the constitution is adhered to in legal and political affairs. Another important duty is to reconcile the differences between national and international law and prepares its laws to conform to European Union standards.

The Hungarian justice system is divides into three area of jurisdiction (criminal, civil, and administrative law). Hungary has a 3-tier justice system. There are local courts, county courts, and the Supreme Court. The office of public prosecutor is used to investigate criminal activity and represent the public interest.

Hungary has a large centralized tax office known as APEH. APEH monitors the financial activity of citizens and businesses. The income tax on individuals ranges from 25-42 percent for the highest incomes. The general tax rate for businesses is 9 percent.

Politics of Budapest

Budapest is a metropolitan municipality with a mayor-council form of government. It also holds a status of country-level government and holds a capital city territory status.

The central government is responsible for public transport, urban planning, statutory planning, waste management, housing, correctional institutes, municipal taxes, libraries, public safety, and recreational facilities. The Mayor provides enforcement to the city, city services, police and fire protection, enforcement of all city and state laws, and the administration of public property.

Budapest's 23 districts all have their own town hall and an elected council.

The current mayor of Budapest, Gergely Karácsony, has been elected for a 5-year term during the 2019 elections. He defeated previous mayor István Tarlós.

The Budapest General Assembly consists of 33 members, which include 23 mayors of the districts, 9 from the electoral lists of political parties, and the mayor.

There is more than one city hall in Budapest. Each of the city's 23 districts has their own city hall. The center of Budapest hosts the largest and most visited city hall, which attracts tourists due to its brilliant architecture.