Áron Halász, City of Budapest

Meet Áron Halász – Nominated by the City of Budapest

Advancing sustainable mobility through innovation

Áron is the Head of the Active and Micromobility team at the Municipality of Budapest’s Climate and Environment department. With a background in cycling advocacy, media and communications, he brings a holistic and people-centred approach to transport policy.

“Before joining the municipality, I worked in cycling advocacy and organised Hungary’s largest bike parade. I’ve always believed that infrastructure and public awareness must go hand in hand,” he said.

Since officially taking on his current role in April 2025, Áron has helped coordinate the city’s efforts around walking, cycling and micromobility. His team is responsible for aligning new initiatives with Budapest’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan, Vision Zero and Cycling Master Plan, while also advising on public space use and development of proposals.

“We work across departments to ensure transport and public space projects support long-term sustainability goals,”. Áron and his team also lead European-funded pilot projects including the city’s first logistics micro hubs and collaborations on electromobility strategy.

Amid a rapidly changing and uncertain global context, Áron’s team continues to champion sustainable mobility. “We are committed to making progress,” he said.

He also plays a key role in strengthening the outreach of projects, recognising the importance of public perception in shifting travel behaviour.

Building the skills to lead

Áron joined the Emerging Leaders program to strengthen his leadership skills and grow his capacity to manage collaborative, cross-sectoral work. 

During the coming six months, Áron is eager to connect with and learn from his fellow leaders, as he finds group dynamics and knowledge sharing particularly enriching. 

“This program helps me reflect and build upon skills, such as capacity building and knowledge sharing, which are crucial for those who are working in this field and are committed to change.” he said.