Despite the Hungarian government's warning of possible legal consequences for attendees, Budapest Pride is set to proceed this Saturday, with organizers and supporters demonstrating resilience against increasing pressure from nationalist politicians and law enforcement.
Budapest Pride March Defies Legal Threats from Orban Administration
Budapest Pride March Defies Legal Threats from Orban Administration
Amidst legal threats and rising opposition, Budapest Pride organizers remain determined to hold the annual celebration, with hopes for a record turnout.
The annual Budapest Pride march is set to take place this Saturday, continuing despite the warnings of legal repercussions issued by Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government against LGBTQ rights activists. The organizers are optimistic about a record number of participants, undeterred by the increased pressure from nationalist conservative politicians and police actions aimed at restricting displays of pro-LGBTQ sentiment.
Police have enforced a ban on activities that align with a newly instituted "child protection" law, which categorizes gatherings perceived to promote homosexuality as illegal. In a statement prior to the march, Orban acknowledged the potential for clashes between law enforcement and participants but emphasized that physical violence is not the expected outcome. "Of course, the police could break up such events, because they have the authority to do so,” he said on state radio, “but Hungary is a civilised country."
Attendees of the Pride celebration face fines up to €500 ($586) and could be identified through police-operated facial recognition technology. Organizers also risk facing prison sentences of up to one year. In a show of solidarity, EU equalities commissioner Hadja Lahbib is in Budapest and plans to join the event alongside numerous Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Lahbib shared a photograph on social media standing with Budapest's liberal mayor Gergely Karacsony in front of a rainbow flag, underscoring the support for LGBTQ rights amidst challenges.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged the Orban government to allow the march to proceed without hindrance. However, Orban has pushed back against European interference, asserting that law enforcement procedures are the prerogative of EU member states. The Budapest Pride march is anticipated to stand as a symbol of resilience and the strength of civil society against oppressive measures.
