Hungarian Research Institute Investigates Former Deputy Director Over Plagiarism and Mismanagement Claims

The Hungarian Research Institute (Magyarságkutató Intézet) has launched an internal investigation into allegations surrounding former deputy director B. Szabó János. The probe follows recent media reports detailing concerns about his academic integrity and professional conduct.

According to Magyar Jelen, B. Szabó's recent public statements, particularly an interview with HVG, have been interpreted not only as professional opinions but also as political maneuvering. The outlet suggests B. Szabó is attempting to reposition himself within the political landscape after the recent elections. His social media activity, including sharing an article critical of the institute's new leadership and a "radical lobby," indicates a potential shift away from his previously government-aligned stance.

Further allegations question the validity of B. Szabó's doctoral degree. Magyar Jelen points to the Debrecen University's doctoral regulations, which prohibit co-authors of dissertation-forming publications from serving on the review committee. Reports suggest B. Szabó had multiple joint publications with Balázs Sudár before his defense, which were not officially listed among the works supporting his dissertation. The outlet questions whether B. Szabó disclosed this relationship to the university's doctoral council and if he incorporated material from their shared works.

Beyond academic concerns, the investigation also addresses claims of plagiarism within B. Szabó's scholarly work. More seriously, rumors suggest that an institute-owned vehicle was sold to an employee at a price below market value, potentially raising suspicions of mismanagement. When contacted, the current director of the Magyarságkutató Intézet, M. Lezsák Gabriella, stated that neither she nor the institute is authorized to comment on the truthfulness of these allegations.

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Neither I nor the Magyarságkutató Intézet are authorized to comment on the veracity of the above statement; in this matter, the decision...