Hungary has introduced new legislation banning LGBT+ rallies and marches that might be attended by children. The move could impact iconic tourist attractions like Budapest Pride. The Foreign Office said: "Hungary passed legislation that could be used as a legal basis to ban future rallies and marches that depict or promote LGBT+ identities to minors."
The implementation of this law could see participants in these "unsanctioned events" identified by authorities using facial recognition technology. Should you find yourself involved in such events, fines loom as a possibility, with penalties reaching up to 200,000 Hungarian Forints, about £420.
This comes as a particular concern given the timing of the annual Budapest Pride march in June.
The Foreign Office advised: "If you are planning to attend Budapest Pride, you should follow local media and the British Embassy's social media for updates."
It is noted that, while same-sex relationships retain legality in Hungary, the capital city of Budapest maintains a reputation for being "generally tolerant and open".
This recent legislative change was passed through the Hungarian Parliament despite international concerns. It prompted reaction from European Union equality officials, including the EU commissioner for equality, Hadja Lahbib, who said: "The right to gather peacefully is a fundamental right to be championed across the European Union."
Michael O'Flaherty from the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights expressed his deep concern and called on the president to veto the law. The legislation sparked a series of protests, including a Gray Pride march that gained significant attention online.
Thousands of demonstrators dressed in monochrome outfits took to the streets with satirical signs. Despite the ban, Budapest Pride is reportedly still set to take place.
The city's mayor, Gergely Karacsony, suggested that this year's celebration "could be bigger than ever", as reported by Reuters. He further stated: "Budapest is the city of freedom, there will be Pride."
