Hungary introduced wide family support policies under Viktor Orbán, including tax breaks, interest-free loans and mortgage help for married heterosexual couples in formal jobs. The aim was to encourage people to have children, and the birth rate did rise from 1.25 in 2010 to 1.59 in 2020. By 2025, however, it had dropped to 1.31. Some supporters say the measures still helped and may have prevented a bigger fall. Others, including demographers and social researchers, argue that the effect was temporary or limited. They say many parents cared more about healthcare, childcare and school quality, while inflation reduced the value of the support. The article also points to other countries, such as South Korea, where large spending has not stopped fertility from falling.
Hungary’s family policy gave mixed results
Hungary offered loans, tax cuts and housing help to couples who promised to have children. The birth rate rose for a few years, but later fell again. Many people still say childcare, healthcare and work life matter as much as money.
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