The Hungarian government has announced measures to restrict the annual Budapest Pride parade, a tradition that has been ongoing for nearly three decades. The government's chief of staff, Gergely Gulyas, stated that the parade should not 'dominate public spaces' due to what they claim are 'child protection' concerns.
Gulyas revealed plans to amend the country's constitution, including redefining gender as 'biologically male or female' and emphasizing a child's right to physical, mental, and moral development above all else. He suggested that this year's Pride event should be held in a 'closed venue' rather than its usual route through central Budapest.
This move is part of a broader trend in Hungary, where the government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, has been criticized for undermining LGBTQ+ rights under the guise of child safety. In recent years, Hungary has banned same-sex adoption and restricted the distribution of content related to gender change or homosexuality to minors.
The European Commission has condemned these actions, citing violations of EU rules and principles such as human dignity and freedom of expression. Hungary has been referred to the EU's Court of Justice for its discriminatory policies based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Despite government opposition, Budapest Pride organizers are determined to proceed with this year's march, themed 'We are home.' They view the attacks on the LGBTQ+ community as political maneuvers and stress the importance of standing up for the rights of all Hungarians to protest and express themselves.
The Mayor of Budapest, Gergely Karácsony, has expressed his unwavering support for Pride, calling it a natural and essential expression of love and diversity. He plans to meet with Pride organizers to discuss the event, which has taken on added significance in light of the government's recent campaign against it.
While the Hungarian government continues its efforts to curtail LGBTQ+ rights, the resilience of the Pride movement remains strong, with organizers vowing to uphold the tradition of peaceful protest and advocacy for equality.
