[REVISION HISTORY]

Hungary teachers' salary and policy talks

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-08-26 03:55 UTC → 2026-08-31 07:32 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In late July, Hungary’s Education Ministry announced it would investigate reports that teacher blacklists were still being used despite an official cancellation of the practice. The ministry also faced the Democratic Union of Teachers (PDSZ) over a draft law that offered no new funding for a proposed 2% pay rise, maintained mandatory exam-prep work during strikes, and dropped several union-proposed reforms. By early August, the PDSZ shifted its focus to a broader overhaul of teachers’ compensation. The union released survey results showing educators want a predictable salary structure that rewards experience and qualifications, automatic overtime and substitute-work pay, and inclusion of non-teaching staff in salary reforms. While a 10% raise granted in January was slated for retroactive payment, the union pressed the ministry for further negotiations. By late August, tensions escalated as political figures criticized the government’s stance. Bence Rétvári, a KDNP faction leader, accused Education Minister Judit Lannert of being “cynical” for suggesting teachers should be satisfied with maintaining current salaries, noting that legislative changes effectively canceled previous quality-based pay supplements. Tamás Totyik, president of the Teachers' Union, warned of potential strikes if the government fails to address the compensation of support staff, such as special education assistants, system administrators, and financial specialists. Totyik noted these employees often earn only 7% above the minimum wage despite high workloads. He also raised concerns regarding the right to strike, arguing that regulations requiring specific service levels for children and graduating classes limit the effectiveness of industrial action. While a 25% wage increase for these roles was included in government programs, union leadership reports being told during negotiations that the necessary funding is currently unavailable. By the end of August, the PDSZ issued an ultimatum to Minister Lannert, threatening strikes at the start of the new school year.

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