Description

The concept of a Hungarian World Expo was first considered in 1981, originally intended for an agricultural expo set for 1990. However, plans shifted, aiming for an exhibition in 1995, coinciding with Austria's interest in hosting a World Expo. The prospect of a joint expo between a capitalist and a socialist nation seemed unlikely initially. Yet, following the fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989–1990, Austria withdrew its interest due to public opposition, confirmed by a referendum where 70% of Viennese residents voted against hosting.

Despite Austria's withdrawal, Hungary persisted with the idea, opting to host the expo independently in 1996 under the theme "Communication for a Better World." After considering 19 potential locations, Lágymányos and the opposite bank of the Danube in Pest were chosen as the venue. However, after the 1994 elections, the new government, along with the Budapest City Council, decided to cancel the expo during a government meeting on July 28, 1994.

The cancellation was attributed to financial concerns, inadequate promotion, and low international interest, with only 27 countries confirming participation out of 58 expressing interest. The initial budget of HUF 117 billion had more than doubled, with attempts to cover the difference through entrepreneurial sources and investments failing. Consequently, on November 8, 1994, the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) revoked Hungary's hosting rights, leaving the applicant countries without a venue.

Engravers: Gábor Gáti, József Török