Hungary’s parliament approved a new constitutional amendment on Monday that bans LGBTQ+ public events, including Pride marches. Backed by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his ruling Fidesz party, the measure passed with 140 votes in favor and 21 against. The vote triggered strong criticism from human rights organizations and European Union officials, who say the law undermines democracy and basic freedoms.
The new rule builds on previous legislation that already limited LGBTQ+ gatherings. It now gives law enforcement the power to identify participants through facial recognition technology and pursue legal action.
Government Cites Child Protection and National Security
The Hungarian government said the amendment aims to protect children’s moral and mental development. Officials also redefined gender strictly as male or female in legal terms, removing recognition for transgender and non-binary individuals.
In addition to restricting LGBTQ+ events, the law introduces a provision to revoke Hungarian citizenship for up to ten years. This applies to dual nationals who are considered security risks and who hold a second citizenship from outside the European Union or European Economic Area.
Prime Minister Orbán defended the law, saying it targets what he called “shadow networks” of foreign influence. “Hungary must protect its values and its people,” Orbán stated during a press conference following the vote.
Human Rights Groups Speak Out Against the Law
Several civil society groups strongly opposed the amendment. Amnesty International, the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, and the Háttér Society said the law restricts not just LGBTQ+ people, but anyone who dares to speak out against the government.
“The real aim here is to silence criticism,” said a spokesperson for the Hungarian Civil Liberties Union. “This isn’t just about LGBTQ+ rights. It’s about controlling public space and shutting down opposition.”
The groups argue that peaceful assembly is a fundamental right in any democratic society. They are urging the European Commission to launch legal action, saying the law violates key EU treaties.
Opposition and Protest in Parliament
The move sparked outrage among opposition lawmakers. Members of the liberal Momentum party chained themselves together outside the parliament building in a symbolic protest. Police later removed them, but not before the action drew attention on social media and local news outlets.
“This law copies the worst of Russia’s anti-LGBTQ+ measures,” said a Momentum MP. “It’s a dark day for democracy in Hungary.”
Despite the ban, organizers of Budapest Pride said they still plan to hold their annual march on June 28. In a public statement, they called the law “repression, not protection,” and urged supporters to stand together peacefully.
International Community Responds with Concern
More than 20 foreign embassies, including those of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, issued a joint statement voicing their concern. They called on Hungary to uphold human rights and protect freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
EU Equality Commissioner Hadja Lahbib also responded, saying, “Every person in the European Union has the right to love who they love and express who they are. Silencing these voices goes against the spirit of the EU.”
Lahbib reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and said she expects member states to act if Hungary continues down this path.
Rights organizations have already contacted EU institutions, asking for immediate legal steps. They argue that Hungary’s amendment breaks EU laws that guarantee freedom of speech, equality, and civil rights.
Legal experts believe the European Commission could trigger Article 7 proceedings, which could result in sanctions or the suspension of Hungary’s voting rights in the EU Council.
However, such steps require broad support from other EU member states, which may take time.