Hungary Outlaws LGBTQ+ Pride Marches Amid Widespread Outrage

The recent legislation reflects a growing trend of anti-LGBTQ+ measures under Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government, with previously enacted laws targeting the community.

Hungary's government has sparked a wave of protests by passing legislation that bans LGBTQ+ Pride marches, a move that critics say targets the fundamental rights of the community. The ruling right-wing Fidesz party, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, fast-tracked the bill through parliament, citing concerns that such events are “harmful to children.” Orban, who endorsed the legislation, declared, “We won’t let woke ideology endanger our kids,” even though Pride marches have occurred in Hungary for the past three decades.

In a tense environment, opposition lawmakers protested by lighting flares during the voting, while demonstrators blocked Budapest's Margaret Bridge, demonstrating against the law. Human rights organizations have condemned the ban, emphasizing it as a violation of civil liberties. The new law complements earlier measures, including the 2020 removal of legal recognition for transgender individuals and the 2021 prohibition on the depiction of homosexuality to minors.

Under the recently passed law, any assembly that contradicts the 2021 legislation is now prohibited, exposing attendees and organizers to potential fines of up to 500 euros ($545; £420). Additionally, law enforcement may employ facial recognition technology to target potential violators. Changes to Hungary’s right of assembly have altered parameters to comply exclusively with events that respect children's “proper physical, mental, and moral development,” a vague directive critics argue could suppress legitimate protests.

Protesters have denounced the law as oppressive, with chants emphasizing the importance of the right to assembly. EU equality commissioner Hadja Lahbib publicly criticized the legislation, asserting that everyone should be free to love and express themselves. The Budapest Pride organization echoed sentiments of defiance on social media, claiming, “This is not child protection, this is fascism,” and vowed to push ahead with their planned 30th Pride march on June 28.

Orban's government has escalated attacks on dissenters and is expected to propose further conservative measures. Nevertheless, recent polls indicate that rising competition exists from the centre-right party Tisza, which advocates for a more positive relationship with the EU and resonates with a populace dissatisfied with Fidesz's governance.