Hungary's Parliament Passes Controversial Law Ban on Pride March Amidst Protests
BUDAPEST - Hungary's parliament has ignited significant controversy by passing an amendment that bans the annual LGBT Pride march, arguing that the event could be deemed harmful to children. The ruling right-wing Fidesz party, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban, fast-tracked the amendment through parliament, which was approved with 136 votes in favor, 27 against, and no abstentions.
This new amendment strictly prohibits assemblies that contradict the provisions of the recently enacted Child Protection Act. This law aims to restrict the promotion and display of what it terms as deviations from gender identity corresponding to one's sex at birth, including issues of gender change and homosexuality.
Typically, Hungary's Pride march, a key event of the Budapest Pride Festival, occurs on the first Saturday of July. The amended law does not only target the organizers of such gatherings but also extends to participants, potentially criminalizing those involved in the march.
The passing of the amendment was marked by significant unrest within parliament, as smoke bombs were discharged in protest on March 18. With the new law, those found in violation could face misdemeanor charges and fines of up to 200,000 forints (approximately $540). Moreover, the law permits the use of facial recognition systems to identify participants at any rallies deemed prohibited.
Fidesz deputies defended the law in parliamentary debates, insisting that it serves to protect children's interests and is required to prevent potential abuse. This move follows a statement made by Prime Minister Orban in February, advising organizers of the Pride event not to invest time and resources in arranging this year's parade, deeming it a waste.
Contrary to the ruling party's intentions, the mayor of Budapest, Gergely Karacsony, who opposes Fidesz, declared on Facebook that this year's Pride would go ahead, emphasizing the determination of the community. "It may even be bigger than ever," he asserted, emphasizing that Budapest would safeguard those advocating for their self-esteem, their community, freedom, and the power of love.
The parliamentary session itself was disrupted by protests from deputies belonging to the center-left Momentum party. They filled the chamber with red, white, and green smoke—the colors of the Hungarian flag—played the Soviet anthem, and distributed photomontages depicting Orban and Putin in an embrace, highlighting their criticisms of the ruling government.
Despite the newly imposed restrictions, organizers are undeterred and indicate that they are still committed to holding the march, with plans already underway. The situation reflects growing tensions in Hungary regarding LGBT rights and governmental control over civil liberties, marking a critical point in the ongoing struggle for equality in the nation.
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