26 Professional Associations Unite Against Hungary’s Short-Term Rentals Ban
Twenty-six professional organizations have come together to voice their opposition against a full-out ban on short-term rentals in the capital, as reported on Turizmus.com.
Recognizing the multifaceted nature of short-term rentals as a housing, social, and tourism issue, the associations have urged the government to consider a compromise rather than implementing a blanket ban on homestays. They emphasized the importance of “sharing economy” accommodations, which have become increasingly popular among travelers seeking an authentic experience and embracing the “be like a local” trend.
The organizations cautioned that a complete ban on short-term rentals would not only be legally questionable but also economically detrimental. They highlighted the potential negative impact on catering establishments, tourism attractions in the capital, and Liszt Ferenc International Airport.
Advocating for a more balanced approach, the signatory organizations have called for a reevaluation of regulations on short-term rentals based on best practices observed in other major European cities, as well as data from surveys and studies.
Among the signatories are prominent entities such as the Hungarian Hotel and Restaurant Association, Hungarian Tourism Association Foundation, Hungarian Spa Association, and National Federation of Rural and Agrotourism (FATOSZ), among others.
The recent referendum held in a central district of the capital in support of a ban on short-term rentals has generated mixed reactions. While Momentum’s mayor has celebrated the 54-46% vote in favor of the ban as a significant victory, concerns have been raised about the potential repercussions on Hungarian families’ livelihoods.
The Hungarian government’s ambiguous stance on the issue, coupled with the influence of hotel chains lobbying for a ban, has added to the uncertainty surrounding the future of short-term rentals in the country. Despite the government’s intentions to protect Hungarian families, the majority of short-term accommodations are owned by local households rather than large corporations, raising questions about the potential impact of a stringent ban on their livelihoods.
As the debate on short-stay accommodations continues, industry stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments and advocating for a balanced approach that safeguards the interests of both tourists and local hosts. Stay updated on the latest news and updates in the tourism sector by following us on Google News!
