Press release, 20.04.2026.

Zsolt Spéder’s Inaugural Academic Lecture – When Life Courses Emerge Behind the Numbers

Zsolt Spéder, Scientific Advisor at the HCSO Institute for Quantitative Population and Economic Research, delivered his inaugural academic lecture to a full audience. At the ceremonial event held on 9 April 2026 in the headquarters of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, the leading figure of Hungarian demographic research presented his latest findings under the title “Fertility in Hungary: Ideas, Intentions and Births.” The lecture was not only a distinguished scientific occasion, but also a significant milestone in his professional career: on 7 May 2025, the Assembly of Academicians elected him Corresponding Member of the Academy’s Section IX (Section of Economics and Law).

The renowned sociologist and demographer has long been closely intertwined with Hungary’s scientific community. He currently serves as Scientific Advisor at the HCSO Institute for Quantitative Population and Economic Research—after having led the HCSO Demographic Research Institute for more than two decades—and is a Professor at the University of Pécs, where he founded and heads the Doctoral School of Demography and Sociology. His research focuses on fertility processes, though never in a purely statistical sense. His analyses explore childbearing intentions and their realisation, the effects of family policy measures, partnership dynamics, and the evolving role of fathers. His work offers deeper insight into how some of society’s most personal decisions take shape.

The Hungarian Central Statistical Office extends its warm congratulations on this prestigious recognition and wishes Zsolt Spéder continued success in his research career.

Hungarian Central Statistical Office
H-1024 Budapest, Keleti Károly utca 5–7. Phone number: (+36-1) 345-6000
Postal address: H-1525 Budapest, P.O.Box 51
www.ksh.hu