Hungary Pride to go ahead, defying Orban threat of 'legal consequences'

The upcoming Budapest Pride march is set to proceed despite legal threats from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban aimed at LGBTQ rights activists. Organizers of the event are optimistic about achieving record attendance this year, despite significant pressure from nationalist conservative politicians and local law enforcement to deter any public displays of pro-LGBTQ sentiment. A ban has been issued by police in accordance with a controversial new 'child protection' law that restricts gatherings deemed to promote homosexuality. In a statement made just a day before the event, Orban acknowledged the potential for police intervention but downplayed the likelihood of violent confrontations. He emphasized that while there will be legal repercussions for participants, Hungary is a civilized society where physical harm should not occur, asserting that police have the authority to dissolve the event if necessary. Those who choose to attend risk fines of up to €500, with authorities equipped to identify participants through facial recognition technology. Organizers themselves could face severe penalties, including a potential one-year prison sentence for their involvement in the event.

European Union equalities commissioner Hadja Lahbib, who previously served as Belgium's foreign minister, is in Budapest and plans to join the march alongside numerous Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). On social media, Lahbib shared a photo of herself with Budapest's liberal mayor Gergely Karacsony, standing in front of a rainbow flag that symbolizes gay rights. She described the Pride march as a significant demonstration of civil society's resilience. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also urged Orban’s government to allow the march to proceed without obstruction. However, Orban dismissed her request, advising her to refrain from interfering in the domestic law enforcement matters of EU member states. The situation underscores the ongoing tension between the Hungarian government and advocates for LGBTQ rights, as well as the broader implications for civil liberties within the region.