Hungary implements education reforms amid calls for principal selection autonomy

New legislative amendments regarding public education in Hungary entered into force on August 20, aiming to increase the organizational and professional autonomy of educational institutions. The changes include restoring the decision-making rights of teaching staff regarding organizational and operational rules, pedagogical programs, and annual work plans. Additionally, the amendments address the collective rights of employees in education and remove certain restrictions on the right to strike, while ensuring that such actions do not infringe upon the fundamental rights of students.

Parallel to these legislative shifts, a petition addressed to Judit Lannert has been launched by educators. The petition demands that the selection of state school principals be decided by the school's own teaching staff rather than through the district administration system. Proponents argue that teachers possess the most intimate knowledge of an institution's daily operations and professional needs, and that principal legitimacy depends on the professional trust of the faculty to prevent long-term conflict and maintain educational quality.