Hungary plans wage reform to address internal security staff shortages

Hungary's Ministry of Interior is developing a comprehensive wage reform package to address a critical personnel shortage within the internal security sector. Minister Gábor Pósfai stated that the sector is currently missing approximately 12,000 professionals, including 9,000 police officers. The proposed plan, which has been presented to the Internal Affairs Interest Coordination Council, aims to raise the salary base, which has remained unchanged since 2008, and increase various allowances to allow for better differentiation between roles.

The reform also seeks to encourage domestic mobility by reviewing support systems for service housing and rental subsidies. Additionally, preferential location allowances may be applied to regions facing significant staffing shortages. A final decision on the package is expected during the 2027 budget negotiations.

Labor representatives, including Miklós Kucsera and Pál Powell, noted that while there is growing impatience among staff due to unfulfilled campaign promises, there is a positive shift toward more intensive dialogue between the Ministry and unions. While workers had hoped for progress by 2026, they are currently awaiting concrete concepts and figures regarding the 2027 budget.