THE GENERAL POLICY FRAMEWORK FOR HUNGARIAN SMART CITY DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The constantly developing technology, the global expansion of infocommunication tools have major impact on urban development. Challenges that have become global, such as transportation problems, growing population, and increasing competition between cities, are changing the way how urban development is organized. Because of these complex challenges, new, innovative solutions are required. Since the Treaty of Lisbon, the EU's development strategies have also given directions for European cities to have a "smart city" vision, which is supported by several development programs and resources. This paper aims to present the strategic and policy framework of Hungarian smart city development, with special regard to the already completed smart city projects in hungary. The research is based on the recommendations of the methodological guide developed by Lechner Knowledge Center, which is the main platform for development of smart cities in Hungary, and on other strategy documents and studies. I explain how Hungarian cities want to become "smart", what kind of smart projects they have already implemented, and what their visions are based on. In the end of my study, I provide lessons and recommendations for future smart city projects.