In brief
The new law targets LGBTQ+ rights, with growing opposition and condemnation from human rights advocates.
Hungary has officially banned Pride marches organized by the LGBTQ+ community, igniting fierce backlash both domestically and internationally. On Tuesday, Parliament, led by the ruling right-wing Fidesz party under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, rushed the legislation into law after just one day of discussion. Orban defended the ban, claiming it protects children from perceived dangers of "woke ideology", stating, "We won't let woke ideology endanger our kids."Pride marches have been a staple in Hungary for three decades, but this new measure comes amid escalating restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights, including the previous abolishment of transgender legal recognition and a 2021 law limiting the portrayal of homosexuality to minors. Under the new law, any assembly that contradicts existing legislation is prohibited, with potential fines of up to 500 euros imposed on participants and organizers. Authorities can utilize facial recognition technology to identify violators.During the parliamentary voting session, opposition lawmakers protested by lighting flares. Demonstrators also took to the streets, blocking Budapest's Margaret Bridge and chanting for the right to assemble freely. EU equality commissioner Hadja Lahbib decried the ban, emphasizing the importance of allowing everyone to express their identity and assemble peacefully.Critics of the law, including Budapest Pride organizers, labeled the ban as fascist rather than genuinely protective of children. They have announced plans to continue their 30th Pride march on June 28. As Orban's government faces growing scrutiny, a new competitor in the political arena, the Tisza party, is gaining traction ahead of upcoming elections.
