községek

Községek (singular: község) are the basic territorial self-government units in Hungary, functioning as rural municipalities. They cover villages and small settlements and represent the lowest tier of local government, distinct from towns and cities (város).

The legal framework for községek is provided by Hungary’s local self-government laws. Municipalities are categorized as község or város, with the latter status granted by the government. Each község operates within a county (megye) and, in many cases, a district (járás). The status and duties of a község are defined by national law, while local matters are managed by residents through their elected representatives.

Governance and powers. Every község has an elected mayor (polgármester) and a representative body (képviselő-testület). Members are elected for fixed terms, typically four years. The council makes local decisions and budgets, while the mayor handles executive administration. Responsibilities include local urban planning and zoning, maintenance of local roads and public spaces, housing and utilities, waste management, social and cultural services, and support for local institutions such as kindergartens and libraries.

Finances and cooperation. A község finances its activities through a municipal budget funded by local fees, taxes, and transfers from the central government. To achieve economies of scale, many municipalities form joint authorities (községi társulások) to share services such as waste management, water services, or public transport.

Role and status. There are thousands of községek across Hungary, most serving small rural populations. They operate within the county and district framework and may evolve through voluntary mergers or inter-municipal cooperation to address common needs while preserving local representation.