Hungary’s parliament has passed a new constitutional amendment that bans public LGBTQ+ gatherings. The move has sparked widespread criticism from human rights groups, political leaders, and LGBTQ+ activists across Europe and beyond.
The amendment was pushed through by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his ruling Fidesz party, with 140 votes in favor and only 21 against. Critics say this change threatens basic human freedoms, including the right to free speech and peaceful assembly.
Government Claims It Protects Children
The Hungarian government says the amendment is part of a broader effort to protect children. Officials argue that public LGBTQ+ events could harm the “physical, mental, and moral development” of minors. The law now officially recognizes only two sexes and does not allow for non-binary or transgender identities.
The new measure builds on an earlier law passed in 2021 that limited how LGBTQ+ topics could be shown in schools and the media. That law drew criticism for being vague and overly broad. With this new amendment, the rules are now part of the country’s highest legal framework, making them much harder to challenge.
In addition, the amendment allows law enforcement to use facial recognition technology to identify people attending LGBTQ+ events. Those identified may face fines or even criminal charges.
Citizenship Loss for Dual Nationals
The amendment also introduces a rule that could affect dual nationals. Those with a second passport from outside the EU or European Economic Area (EEA) could lose their Hungarian citizenship for up to ten years. The rule applies to people deemed to be a threat to the nation’s sovereignty.
Prime Minister Orbán recently accused foreign-funded organizations, journalists, and political activists of trying to undermine the country. He promised to fight what he called a “shadow army” of foreign influence. Many believe this law is part of that larger campaign.
Protests and Pushback in Hungary
Not everyone in Hungary supports the new law. Opposition politicians and civil rights activists tried to block the vote. Members of the Momentum party even tried to physically block the entrance to parliament. Some were removed by police.
Despite the new ban, organizers of Budapest Pride say they still plan to hold their annual march on June 28. In a public statement, they said: “This is not child protection—it’s fascism.”
Human rights groups in Hungary, such as the Hungarian Helsinki Committee and the Háttér Society, say the law is meant to scare people. They warn it is not just about LGBTQ+ rights. “This is about silencing dissent,” said one activist. “It affects everyone.”
Condemnation From Europe and Beyond
European leaders have voiced concern. Twenty-two embassies in Hungary, including those from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, issued a joint statement. They said the law goes against democratic values and limits freedom of speech and peaceful protest.
Hadja Lahbib, the EU’s Commissioner for Equality, also criticized the move. In a statement, she said, “Everyone should be able to be who they are, live and love freely. Peaceful assembly is a basic right.”
Activists are now asking the European Commission to act. They argue the amendment violates key EU laws and values. If no action is taken, it could set a dangerous example for other countries.
According to Amnesty International, this could be the first time in modern EU history that a country has banned all LGBTQ+ public events. “This law goes too far,” said a spokesperson. “It is a threat to all basic rights.”
Global Backlash Growing
Human rights groups across the world are calling for international pressure on Hungary. They are urging leaders to take a stand and defend the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.
“This is not just about Hungary,” said a spokesperson for Human Rights Watch. “This is about the kind of Europe we want to live in.”
International LGBTQ+ organizations have also announced solidarity marches and vigils. Events are already planned in Berlin, London, and New York. These events aim to show support for Hungarian activists and keep the issue in the global spotlight.
A Turning Point for Hungary
Many now see this law as a turning point. Hungary has already faced criticism for its strict immigration policies, control over the media, and changes to its judiciary. This latest move adds to growing fears about the country’s direction under Orbán.
Legal experts say the constitutional nature of the amendment makes it very hard to reverse. It will likely take a major political shift or international legal pressure to change it.
Still, activists say they will not give up. “We will continue to march, to speak out, and to live our truth,” said one Budapest Pride organizer.