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Hungary’s parliament has officially passed a constitutional amendment that prohibits public LGBTQ+ events, such as Pride marches and gatherings. The law, which was backed by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his ruling Fidesz party, passed with 140 votes in favor and 21 against. Human rights organizations have strongly condemned the amendment, describing it as a significant step toward undermining freedoms and suppressing dissent.

The new legislation strengthens previous bans on LGBTQ+ events and introduces additional restrictions, including the use of facial recognition technology to identify participants. Those involved in public LGBTQ+ events could face fines or legal consequences.

Government Defends Amendment as Child Protection Measure

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government justifies the amendment by stating that it aims to protect children’s physical and moral well-being. One of the key elements of the law is the legal definition of only two sexes—male and female—denying official recognition to non-binary and transgender individuals.

Furthermore, the amendment introduces provisions allowing the government to revoke the citizenship of dual nationals for up to ten years if they are deemed a threat to national security. However, this measure only applies to individuals who hold a second citizenship outside of the European Union or European Economic Area.

In recent statements, Orbán has accused foreign-funded organizations, journalists, and political figures of attempting to interfere with Hungarian politics. He has vowed to dismantle what he describes as a “shadow army” working against Hungary’s national interests.

Widespread Opposition at Home and Abroad

The amendment has faced significant opposition both within Hungary and internationally. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, and Háttér Society, have warned that the law extends far beyond targeting LGBTQ+ rights. These groups argue that it represents a broader effort to intimidate critics and consolidate government control.

In Hungary, opposition lawmakers and citizens have protested the amendment, with demonstrations becoming tense. Members of the Momentum party attempted to block access to parliament, and some protesters were forcibly removed by police. The party compared the law to anti-LGBTQ+ measures enacted in Russia.

Despite the legal challenges, organizers of Budapest Pride have vowed to continue with their annual march, scheduled for June 28. “This isn’t child protection—it’s authoritarianism,” said a statement from the group, reinforcing their determination to resist the amendment.

European Union Expresses Concern and Criticism

The new legislation has drawn strong condemnation from across Europe. Embassies from 22 countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and France, issued a joint statement criticizing the amendment’s impact on free speech and public assembly. These nations expressed concern that the law threatens basic freedoms and undermines democratic values.

EU Equality Commissioner Hadja Lahbib voiced solidarity with Hungary’s LGBTQ+ community, stating that everyone should be able to love and live openly. She also emphasized that the right to peaceful assembly is a fundamental European value that must be protected.

Advocacy groups are urging the European Commission to take legal action against Hungary, arguing that the amendment violates European Union law. These groups warn that the law sets a dangerous precedent for further restrictions on civil liberties throughout the EU.

“This isn’t just about LGBTQ+ rights,” said the Hungarian Civil Liberties Union. “It’s about silencing dissent and shrinking the space for anyone who dares to speak out.”

The Road Ahead for LGBTQ+ Rights in Hungary

As the legal battles unfold, it remains to be seen how this controversial amendment will impact LGBTQ+ rights and freedoms in Hungary. The European Union has made it clear that it will continue to monitor the situation, and advocacy groups are calling for continued resistance against what they view as an authoritarian shift.

While Hungary’s government insists that the amendment is necessary for the protection of children and national security, critics argue that it could lead to the erosion of basic human rights. As Budapest Pride and other civil society organizations prepare for future protests, the eyes of the international community are firmly focused on Hungary.