At a time when Hungary faces a growing housing crisis—marked by rising rents, precarious livelihoods and the dilapidated condition of much of its social housing—the national debate rarely turns to systemic solutions. Kecskemét, however, is seeking to change this with a multi-year programme backed by the European Union.

Hungarian and Slovak water authorities face the same challenges, which makes close cooperation indispensable—particularly since Hungary is a downstream country, with much of its rivers’ catchment areas lying abroad.

Although the city’s economic challenges remain profound and complex, the success of the Southern Technology Park shows that renewal is possible—provided that development efforts are pursued with long-term vision.

Femtonics, founded in Hungary and still wholly Hungarian-owned, successfully concluded its latest development programme, launched in February 2022, with more than HUF 393 million in non-repayable support from the EU’s Cohesion Fund under the Széchenyi Plan Plus scheme.

As part of the current phase, the earth-lined roadside ditches—many of which had become clogged and ineffective—will be reconstructed with durable, modern linings capable of withstanding greater stress.

Rural tourism has become a strategic priority, aimed at boosting local economies, supporting communities, and fostering regional cohesion. Investments have been broad in scope: upgrading infrastructure, modernising thermal baths, supporting ecotourism and active leisure, and refurbishing cultural landmarks.