Hungary's Parliament Approves Controversial Amendments Affecting Dual Nationals and LGBTQ+ Rights

Hungary's parliament has passed amendments that limit LGBTQ+ rights and empower the government to suspend citizenship of dual nationals deemed a security threat. The controversial legislation has sparked significant public protest and criticism, framing it as part of a broader shift toward illiberal governance.

Hungary's parliament has voted to approve a set of constitutional amendments that significantly restrict the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and dual nationals, prompting widespread protests and concerns regarding the trajectory of democratic values in the nation. The government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party, argues that the measures are necessary to protect the "physical and moral development" of children, which they claim is threatened by public LGBTQ+ gatherings.

The amendment received support from 140 legislators while 21 voted against. The government intends to enhance its ability to temporarily revoke citizenship from dual nationals perceived as threats to national security or sovereignty. This provision has triggered speculation about targeting controversial figures such as Hungarian-American philanthropist George Soros, who has frequently been criticized by Orban.

This vote follows a recent law banning LGBTQ+ pride events under claims of protecting children, which Orban championed by stating, “We won't let woke ideology endanger our kids.” Opposition leaders like David Bedo from the Momentum party have characterized this legislative trend as a significant threat to democratic principles in Hungary, warning that this is just the beginning of a broader campaign against opposition and liberal values.

The government's spokesperson, Zoltan Kovacs, has defended the amendments as essential constitutional safeguards against cultural ideologies perceived to undermine child welfare, particularly in relation to events such as Pride parades. There is a growing sentiment among some factions in Hungary that the government's stance aims to reshape the national identity in a more conservative, Christian-oriented direction.

Despite Fidesz's long-standing hold on power since 2010, the political landscape is showing signs of change, with the newly emerging centre-right party Tisza gaining momentum ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections. This shift has occurred in light of dissatisfaction among constituents regarding Fidesz's governance, particularly following the departure of former Fidesz politician Peter Magyar. The government appears intent on challenging Magyar to take a stance on LGBTQ+ issues, aiming to corner him politically by forcing a decision that could alienate more conservative supporters.