Hungary Enacts Controversial Ban on LGBTQ+ Pride Marches

Hungary's government has instituted a law prohibiting LGBTQ+ Pride marches, prompting backlash from local activists and human rights organizations, while Prime Minister Orban argues it protects children from "woke ideology."

Hungary has enacted a contentious new law that bars LGBTQ+ Pride marches, a move that has incited significant protests both within the country and internationally. The parliamentary vote occurred swiftly following the bill's introduction, supported by the ruling right-wing Fidesz party led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who claimed the law shields children from harmful ideologies.

The nation has a longstanding tradition of Pride events, with celebrations occurring for over 30 years. On the day of the vote, opposition lawmakers voiced their dissent by lighting flares, while demonstrators strategically blocked Budapest’s Margaret Bridge in protest. Additionally, various human rights groups have denounced the law, framing it as part of a broader assault on LGBTQ+ rights.

This new legislation builds upon previous actions by Orban's administration, which has also revoked legal recognition for transgender people in 2020 and limited the exposure of minors to LGBTQ+ themes since 2021. The ban now imposes fines of up to 500 euros on anyone violating the restrictive assembly rules tied to the earlier law, including both march organizers and participants. Notably, law enforcement's use of facial recognition technology to identify offenders has raised further concerns.

Protesters in Budapest chanted for the fundamental right to assembly, resisting police efforts to disperse them. EU equality commissioner Hadja Lahbib expressed her disapproval of the legislation, emphasizing that everyone should be free to express their identity and love openly within the EU.

Organizers of Budapest Pride expressed outrage via social media, labeling the ban "fascism" and affirming their commitment to proceed with the planned Pride march on June 28, marking the 30th anniversary of the event. As Orban's government steps up its conservative agenda and public criticism rises, the political landscape in Hungary may shift, with a new centre-right party, Tisza, gaining traction ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections in 2024.