EU Pushes Back Against Hungary's New LGBTQ+ Laws Ahead of Budapest Pride
Seventeen EU countries are calling on Hungary to reverse new laws that effectively ban LGBTQ+ events like Pride marches. Hungary’s recent legislation gives police the authority to block such gatherings under the pretext of protecting children’s rights, and recognizes only two sexes in the constitution. Critics, including France, Germany, and Sweden, say these moves clash with core EU principles of equality and human dignity. “We are highly alarmed by these developments,” they wrote in a joint statement, urging the European Commission to act if Hungary doesn’t back down.
Tensions flared after police in Hungary used the new laws to ban an LGBTQ event, citing a constitutional amendment. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has labeled Pride as harmful to children, claiming organizers “should not even bother” this year. His government insists there is no official ban, but activists and EU officials argue the laws amount to a de facto one. “Freedom of assembly is a fundamental right,” said Commissioner Michael McGrath. Brussels is already withholding billions in EU funds from Hungary over rule-of-law concerns.
Now, pressure is mounting on Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to do more. Some EU diplomats say if Hungary doesn’t budge, it may be time to consider the so-called “nuclear option”—stripping Hungary of its voting rights in the bloc. While there’s not yet enough support to make that happen, frustration is growing. Swedish Europe Minister Jessica Rosencrantz summed it up: “Unless we see a completely new Hungarian approach… I see no point in continuing these hearings.”
