A complaint against a facility director should no longer be referred back to that same director—this is one of the changes announced following the investigation into the Bicske children’s home. Children and staff members would be able to report instances of abuse or other serious problems directly, even anonymously.
On October 8, Zoltán Tanács wrote that the Tisza administration had ordered a comprehensive investigation in May, the results of which have now been made public. In his assessment, the case goes beyond what happened at a single children’s home: it also reveals how children could have remained unprotected for many years despite multiple prior reports and proceedings.
## External investigation in serious cases
Under the announced rules, an independent external investigation would be mandatory in serious cases or those involving a manager. The operator could inspect institutions without prior notice.
A separate set of procedures would be established for handling reports of sexual abuse. An individual investigation would be launched into any child welfare worker against whom at least three reports have been filed.
Tanács wrote that in the Bicske case, both children and staff spoke out, investigations were launched, police proceedings were underway, and the ombudsman also made serious findings. In his view, the report shows how the children involved could have remained unprotected despite all this.
## Help promised to former victims
The statement also announces a 1-billion-forint Child Protection Reparation Fund. The fund would start on January 1, 2027, and would help people who suffered abuse as children.
Those affected could receive psychological, medical, and rehabilitation care, as well as legal assistance. The plans also include assistance with housing and education, as well as support for returning to work.
Pre-registration for the fund is already possible at jovatetel@szcsm.gov.hu.
Source: Zoltán Tanács
