Hungary's foreign minister warns of looming water crisis and outlines new management plan

During the 53rd International Hydrogeologists Congress in Budapest, Foreign Minister Anita Orbán warned that Hungary's water security hinges on how it manages its strategic underground reservoirs, which supply almost 95% of the nation's drinking water. Severe droughts and an unprecedented drop in the Danube's level at Paks jeopardised the cooling of nuclear reactors, prompting an energy emergency declaration. The government responded by approving an 11-point Sustainable Water Management Action Plan that sets implementation deadlines, defines water-retention zones, and integrates natural water-storage measures.

Orbán emphasized the importance of active water diplomacy with upstream neighbours and adherence to the UN Water Convention within EU and UN frameworks. She also noted that scientific research will guide policy, with congress findings feeding into the December UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi. The goal, she said, is to ensure long-term water availability for households and the economy.