Hungary's Government Plans to Move Pride Off the Streets
Hungary's annual Budapest Pride should be held in a "closed venue" this year rather than processing along an avenue in central Budapest as previously, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Chief of Staff said on Wednesday, citing child protection. The decision appears to be part of Prime Minister Viktor Orban's restrictions on the activities of the LGBTQ+ community as he prepares for elections in 2026. The move has sparked concerns among Pride participants and rights groups, who argue that the event is a family-friendly celebration.
- This effort by Hungary's government to restrict Pride underscores the ongoing struggle between conservative values and individual freedoms in Eastern Europe.
- Will this move be seen as a precursor to further erosion of LGBTQ+ rights in Hungary, or will it spark renewed protests and resistance from the community?