Homeless advocates bash new ban on living in public areas in Hungary

BUDAPEST, Hungary — A constitutional amendment that prohibits people from living in public areas took effect Monday in Hungary, but Ferenc Ribeny’s biggest concern is the fate of his dog.

The ban empowers police to issue warnings to anyone living on the streets. Penalties for people who receive four warnings within 90 days include jail time or up to six months in a public works program.

Ribeny, 67, a former restaurant owner, has lived for a year on the streets of Budapest. His companion is Mazli, the terrier he got after his wife’s death seven years ago. Ribeny said he has applied for a job at an animal shelter and inquired about occupying a shipping container that was converted into a home.