On Tuesday, Hungary’s National Assembly voted to ban pride marches in the country, citing child protection as the primary justification for the law. This legislation implements fines on both organizers and attendees of pride events, with a maximum penalty of 200,000 forints (approximately $550). The allocation of the fine proceeds is designated for child protection purposes, and substitution of the fine with community service is not permitted, as outlined in the bill submission by the ruling party.
The parliamentary process for passing the bill was expedited through an exceptional procedure, allowing the assembly to bypass a typical debate. In accordance with Hungary’s Rules of Procedure, this expedited process can only be utilized up to four times per semester.
In response, a protest emerged outside the National Assembly, effectively blocking entry to the building, following a demonstration within the parliament where opposition party members utilized colored smoke to signify their dissent (protest report). Notably, the bill aligns with a broader anti-LGBT policy trend within Hungary, reminiscent of the 2021 prohibition on the “promotion of homosexuality” to minors (referenced law).
Amnesty International has criticized this new measure as an attack on the rights of the LGBTI community. The organization’s Hungary Director, Dávid Vig, stated that the law contradicts Hungary’s obligations to uphold non-discrimination and the freedom of expression and assembly (Amnesty International’s statement).
Despite the legal constraints, Budapest Pride organizers have expressed their determination to proceed with the march. Budapest’s mayor, Gergely Karacsony, has pledged via Facebook to defend the right to protest (mayoral statement).
The international community, including over 30 countries, has previously urged Hungary to enhance its stance towards LGBTI rights, highlighting discomfort with Hungary’s ongoing policy direction (international response detailed here).