Hungarians are primarily concerned about their country’s economic and political situation, while international political uncertainty—including armed conflicts—is also among the most important issues. This is revealed by a new nationally representative survey commissioned by the National Association of Pension and Health Care Funds (ÖPOSZ).
There has been a noticeable shift this year in which factors most influence Hungarians’ sense of security and what concerns them the most.
Inflation, that previously ranked first, has dropped to second place, while concerns about the country’s economic and political situation have moved from third to first place.
Over 40 percent of respondents now include this among their top three concerns. The deteriorating healthcare system, as well as international political uncertainty—including war-related conflicts—are also among the most significant problems.
Unemployment, declining income, rising housing and rental costs, and the weakening of the forint were each seen as serious concerns by only about one-tenth of respondents. However, there are substantial differences between social groups.
Concerns about Hungary’s situation are strongest among men, people over 60, those with higher education, and those in a good financial position.
At the same time, people in their 30s, women, and those with low or middle incomes are still primarily worried about rising prices. Those under 30 are much more affected than average by increasing housing costs, while with advancing age, concerns related to health and poverty in old age become more pronounced.
According to the survey, compared to these concerns, the factors determining people’s sense of security are much more personal in nature. As in last year’s survey, health stands out by a wide margin, with nearly half of respondents mentioning it among the most important factors.
Two factors share second place: strong family and partner relationships, and having a secure job—each cited by 28 percent of respondents among the top three sources of security.
Here too, demographic differences are significant. Health is considerably more important for women, and its importance increases with age. Personal relationships are also more important than average among women, people in their 30s, and those over 60.
Good healthcare, a secure income in old age, owning a home, and Hungary’s economic and political stability were each named by 23 percent of respondents as one of the top three factors contributing to a sense of security.
Related article
Financial Outlook Strengthens among Households, Survey Finds
In January, the most significant positive shift among households was measured in terms of job stability.Continue reading
Via MTI, Featured image: MTI/Balogh Zoltán
