Hungary Government Proposes Bill to Ban Budapest Pride Event, Continuing Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Rights

Hungary’s ruling coalition has submitted a controversial bill to parliament, which seeks to ban the popular Budapest Pride event. This move is part of the government’s broader crackdown on the LGBTQ+ community, which it frames as part of its “child protection” agenda. The bill, introduced on Monday, is expected to pass easily due to the coalition’s strong two-thirds majority in the Hungarian parliament.

If passed, the new law would make it an offense to organize or attend events that violate Hungary’s “child protection” legislation, which restricts the “depiction or promotion” of homosexuality to minors under the age of 18. Those found participating in such events could face fines of up to 200,000 Hungarian forints (approximately £420), with the funds being directed toward “child protection” programs.

The proposed legislation has drawn sharp criticism from Pride organizers, who view it as an attack on fundamental freedoms of speech and assembly. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government, which has already passed a series of restrictive laws targeting the LGBTQ+ community, portrays itself as a defender of traditional family values and Christian civilization, claiming that its policies are necessary to shield children from what it describes as “sexual propaganda.”

What Does the Proposed Bill Entail?

The bill effectively targets public events such as Budapest Pride, which has become a significant celebration of LGBTQ+ rights in Hungary. The event, which draws thousands of participants each year, will be restricted under the new bill if it is found to promote or depict LGBTQ+ issues to minors. This follows the implementation of Hungary’s controversial “child protection” law in 2021, which already prohibits LGBTQ+ content in television, films, advertisements, and literature accessible to minors.

The law also bans discussions of LGBTQ+ issues in school education programs and forbids the public portrayal of gender identity that deviates from one’s sex at birth. Orbán and his government argue that these policies are essential for protecting children from what they call “gender madness” and sexual content deemed inappropriate for minors.

Hungary’s Ongoing Opposition to LGBTQ+ Rights

The proposed bill is the latest in a series of actions that have drawn condemnation from human rights groups and other European leaders. The government has consistently positioned itself as a defender of traditional Christian values and has publicly stated its opposition to the normalization of LGBTQ+ rights in Hungarian society.

In February, Orbán hinted at government efforts to ban Budapest Pride, which this year celebrates its 30th anniversary. The Pride event has been a platform for advocating equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community, marking a significant moment in Hungary’s LGBTQ+ history. However, under the new bill, the celebration would be deemed illegal if it violates the “child protection” laws.

This move continues the Hungarian government’s pattern of restricting LGBTQ+ rights, despite growing international criticism. Orbán’s administration argues that it is fulfilling its duty to protect children and uphold family values.