On June 17th, the Hungarian Ministry of Justice, in cooperation with the European Network on Victims’ Rights (ENVR), hosted the Meeting the Consular programme in Budapest. The event welcomed representatives from nearly 20 EU Member States, as well as the United Kingdom and Switzerland, to discuss how to better support foreign victims of crime in Hungary.

Following previous editions held in Spain and Finland, Hungary was the third country to host this important forum dedicated to strengthening support for cross-border victims.

The aim of the event was to facilitate information-sharing between Hungarian victim support institutions and consular services, explore practical approaches to improve access to support, and reinforce mutual understanding. A wide range of Hungarian support services introduced their work and engaged in discussions about real-life experiences concerning cross-border victims.

Representatives had the opportunity to learn more about Hungary’s comprehensive victim support system, including 24/7 assistance via a national hotline, one-stop-shop services for all victims regardless of nationality, and proactive outreach through police referrals — all embedded in a trauma-conscious and internationally cooperative framework.

The open and constructive dialogue clearly demonstrated a shared commitment: no victim should be left without help.

Learn more about the Meeting the consular program here.