Hungary’s parliament has recently enacted a law prohibiting LGBTQ+ Pride events, including the renowned Budapest Pride March that draws thousands annually. This legislation was swiftly advanced through parliament, passed with a 136-27 vote, thanks to the ruling coalition’s supermajority, which also supports constitutional amendments. Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s party, Fidesz, backed the decision alongside their coalition partners, the Christian Democrats.
This law is part of Orban’s government’s ongoing efforts to curtail LGBTQ+ rights. Previous legislation, such as the “child protection law” enacted in 2021, has restricted LGBTQ+ representation in educational materials and television for the under-18 demographic. The government justifies the ban on Pride events by claiming they could negatively affect children, prioritising this stance over the right to assemble freely.
Violations of the new law carry hefty fines of up to 200,000 Hungarian forints (approximately $550 or €500) intended for “child protection.” Authorities are also empowered to utilise facial recognition technology to identify individuals participating in prohibited gatherings.
Following the announcement of the legislation, Budapest Pride organisers vehemently condemned the bill, accusing the ruling party of exploiting the LGBTQ+ community for political gain. They stated, “It’s nothing more than political theater — the ruling party is using the LGBTQ community for its own gain. But we refuse to be anyone’s scapegoat.” They also highlighted the pressing social issues in Hungary, noting the rising hunger rates while the government focuses on stifling human rights protests. Amidst a backdrop of escalating inflation and a cost of living crisis in Hungary, Orban, who has governed since 2010, faces criticism over democratic regression as he approaches upcoming elections in 2026.
Hungary’s parliament has enacted a law banning LGBTQ+ Pride events, including the Budapest Pride March, passed with a 136-27 vote by the ruling coalition. This legislative move continues the government’s pattern of restricting LGBTQ+ rights, aided by the enforcement of heavy fines and surveillance measures. Organisers of Budapest Pride have condemned the law, arguing it distracts from critical social issues facing the nation.
The passage of Hungary’s law banning LGBTQ+ Pride events marks a significant rollback of rights for the LGBTQ+ community under Prime Minister Orban’s government. This decision aligns with previous legislation aimed at restricting LGBTQ+ representation, framed under the guise of child protection. The uproar from Budapest Pride organisers indicates a broader discontent with the government’s focus on stifling rights amidst rising social issues like inflation and hunger. As Hungary approaches elections, these developments will likely factor into the political landscape.
Original Source: www.dw.com
