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Budapest, 28 June 2025 – In a historic demonstration of resistance, 100,000 to 200,000 people—the largest turnout in its 30-year history—marched through Hungary’s capital today, proudly defying a government ban on Budapest Pride imposed by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s administration.
The Ban and Legal Threats
In March, Hungary passed a controversial “child protection” law to constitutionally ban Pride, deeming it harmful to minors. Breaching the ban carries fines up to €500, while organizers could face up to a year in prison—supported by facial recognition monitoring before and during the event.
Municipal Pushback
Budapest’s Mayor Gergely Karácsony declared the parade a municipal “Freedom Day” event, asserting it was exempt from the permit requirement and safe under city council authority. This move allowed the march to proceed despite police labelling it illegal.
European Solidarity
More than 70 MEPs, along with EU Equality Commissioner Hadja Lahbib, and senior figures from Renew Europe, Greens, and Socialists, joined the streets alongside prominent mayoral representatives from across Europe. Ireland’s Maria Walsh emphasized, “It’s not about one party… It’s about one human being showing up for another.” EU leaders have called this a stand for democratic values in Hungary.
A Defiant Atmosphere
Marchers carried rainbow flags and banners proclaiming “Freedom and love can’t be banned” and “None of us are free until everyone is free.” Many were first-time participants, motivated by solidarity with LGBTQ+ rights and broader democratic values. As one marcher put it: “This is about assembly, standing up for each other and not allowing the government to oppress us.” Counter-protesters, concentrated across the Danube, had no direct impact thanks to strong policing.
Political Stakes
- Orbán condemned the event as “disgusting and shameful,” claiming it was orchestrated by the EU and “puppet” opposition politicians.
- The EU Commission has launched infringement proceedings against Hungary, citing breaches of basic democratic and human rights standards.
- Opinion polls suggest growing dissatisfaction with Orbán’s governance, as the Pride turnout dealt a major blow to his image just ahead of the 2026 elections.
Takeaway
Budapest Pride 2025 transcended LGBTQ+ celebration—it became a powerful act of civic defiance, rallying citizens and international allies to uphold assembly rights amid a rising authoritarian wave. With threats of legal retaliation looming, today’s peaceful, massive turnout suggests a swelling undercurrent of democratic resilience in Hungary.
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