The Hungarian parliament has passed a controversial law banning Pride events, marking another step in Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s right-wing populist government’s crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights. The bill, supported by Orbán’s Fidesz party and its coalition partner, the Christian Democrats, was pushed through in an expedited procedure, passing with 136 votes in favor and 27 against.
During the parliamentary session in Budapest, opposition MPs staged a dramatic protest, setting off smoke bombs that filled the chamber with colorful plumes. In response, Budapest Pride organizers condemned the law, stating that it aims to scapegoat the LGBTQ+ community and silence dissent against the government.
Expansion of Surveillance Powers
The newly passed legislation also grants authorities the power to use facial recognition software to identify participants in LGBTQ+ parades and demonstrations. This provision builds on a 2015 law initially justified by Fidesz as a countermeasure against international crime and terrorism. However, the European Union’s artificial intelligence regulations prohibit the use of such surveillance unless there is an immediate terrorist threat.
Criminalization of Pride Under Child Protection Laws
The law amends Hungary’s Assembly Act, effectively criminalizing the organization and participation in Pride events under the country’s controversial Child Protection Act. This act, widely criticized by international human rights organizations, prohibits the “portrayal or promotion” of homosexuality to minors under 18.
Máté Hegedűs, spokesperson for Budapest Pride, denounced the legislation, stating, “At this point, it’s not about child protection, but about fascism. Pride is a movement that cannot be banned.” The law stipulates that attending a banned event could result in fines of up to 200,000 Hungarian forints (€500), with the collected funds allocated to child protection initiatives.
EU Condemnation and Calls for Action
The European Union swiftly condemned the legislation, calling it a violation of fundamental rights. EU Commissioner for Gender Equality and Humanitarian Aid, Hadja Lahbib, criticized Hungary’s decision, emphasizing that LGBTQ+ rights are non-negotiable.
“The decision to ban this year’s Budapest Pride is not just a ban on a march, but a violation of fundamental freedoms, dignity, and human rights,” Lahbib told Euronews. “Freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are core European values that must be protected. We stand with the LGBTQ+ community in Hungary and beyond. Equality is not up for debate.”
The law’s passage intensifies tensions between Hungary and the European Union, which has repeatedly clashed with Orbán’s government over its stance on LGBTQ+ rights and democratic freedoms. Advocacy groups are expected to challenge the legislation, while protests and international pressure against Hungary’s policies continue to mount.
