Safari Club International Names Zoltán Kovács as 2025 International Legislator of the Year
Washington, D.C. — Safari Club International (SCI) is honored to select Hungarian Secretary of State for International Communication Zoltán Kovács as its 2025 International Legislator of the Year awardee. A devoted hunter and advocate for the global hunting community, Kovács has been a steadfast supporter of hunting rights and conservation throughout his distinguished political career.
Kovács, who has long been affiliated with Hungary’s leading political party, FIDESZ, has served in numerous high-profile roles, including Hungary’s Secretary of State for Government Communication, Secretary of State for Social Inclusion, and Hungary’s international spokesperson. His leadership during Hungary’s recent presidency of the European Union was instrumental in ensuring that hunting remained a priority in political discussions. Kovács played a pivotal role in advancing pro-hunting legislation and protecting the interests of hunters across Europe.
From 2020 to 2022, Kovács served as commissioner of FeHoVa, the largest Carpathian hunting fair. In 2021, he was the governmental commissioner for the World Hunting and Nature Expo, successfully showcasing the importance of hunting on the global stage. His work has highlighted the critical role that sustainable hunting plays in conservation, rural economies, and cultural traditions.
“Mr. Kovács is a passionate defender of hunting rights, and his achievements in the international arena have been a tremendous asset to our community,” said SCI CEO W. Laird Hamberlin. “His expertise, leadership, and dedication to the hunting cause are an inspiration, and we look forward to his continued contributions to promoting responsible, sustainable-use hunting practices worldwide.”
“Mr. Kovács has demonstrated unwavering support for the global hunting community, and we are thrilled to recognize his efforts as our 2025 International Legislator of the Year,” said SCI President John McLaurin. “His leadership and dedication to promoting hunting as a vital part of our cultural heritage and conservation efforts make him an exemplary advocate for SCI’s global mission.”
A historian by training, Kovács holds advanced degrees from Lajos Kossuth University and Central European University. He also has a background in academia as a professor at several Hungarian universities. A committed family man, he is married with two children. His efforts to protect hunting traditions extend from his passion for the outdoors to the broader European and global political stage.
Background:
For over 50 years, Safari Club International (SCI) has been the leader in defending the freedom to hunt and promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI is unique in the scope of our ability to defend and advance our freedom to hunt. SCI is the only hunting rights organization with a Washington, D.C.-based national and international advocacy team and an all-species focus. SCI also mobilizes more than 150 chapters and affiliate networks representing millions of hunters around the world.