Protests erupt as Hungary bans LGBTQ+ Pride events
- Thousands protested in Budapest against a law banning LGBTQ+ Pride events that restricts displays of homosexuality to minors.
- The legislation has been compared to Russia’s anti-LGBTQ+ policies and reveals the Hungarian government's increasing authoritarian practices.
- These ongoing protests signify a crucial push by citizens to defend their rights and oppose discrimination as Hungary approaches national elections.
In Hungary, ongoing protests took place in the capital Budapest, where thousands have gathered weekly for the last four weeks. These demonstrations were sparked by new legislation passed by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government, which prohibits events depicting homosexuality for individuals under 18 and is seen as an attack on LGBTQ+ rights. The law, passed in March, has been compared to similar anti-LGBTQ+ policies in Russia and is seen as part of a broader trend of democratic backsliding within the country ahead of upcoming national elections in 2026. Demonstrators have filled central locations such as the Erzsibet Bridge, steadfast in their demand for the repeal of the legislation. Despite police orders to disperse, many are committed to remaining on the bridge, indicating plans to shut down other central access points around the Danube. The atmosphere during the protests has remained peaceful, with no immediate reports of violence. Some participants, including Viktória Vajda, express that the time for compromise with the government has passed, emphasizing the necessity to defend the rights of minorities and fundamental freedoms. In addition to the protests in Budapest, there is evidence of growing dissent outside the capital, with demonstrations taking place in cities like Miskolc. Critics of Orbán’s government point to his administration’s track record of eroding democratic institutions and promoting a narrative of scapegoating sexual minorities. The Prime Minister's party has been lagging in the polls, leading some to argue that the legislation serves to rally his conservative base and distract from issues of corruption and governance. The latest law also raises concerns about governmental overreach, as authorities are permitted to use facial recognition technology to identify attendees of prohibited events, with potential fines reaching upwards of 200,000 forints. Furthermore, Orbán has proposed a constitutional amendment to explicitly affirm the ban on public LGBTQ+ events following renewed pressure from his political base, indicating a possible tightening grip on civil liberties in the nation. This situation embodies a crucial conflict over rights and freedoms as the nation nears national elections, showcasing the heightened tensions between progressive movements and a government increasingly perceived as authoritarian.