Budapest Pride March to Proceed Despite Official Ban
Organizers and volunteers in Budapest are rallying to make this year’s Pride march the largest in Hungary’s history, even as authorities enforce a ban with fines and surveillance measures. The government’s crackdown, which came into effect earlier this year, aims to prohibit the event, yet city officials and supporters remain steadfast.
Legal Obstacles Fuel Determination
Following the government's introduction of new laws banning Pride marches and allowing fines of up to 500 euros along with facial recognition to identify participants, many saw this move as a catalyst for greater solidarity. “This legal wrangling only made many feel compelled to express their support,” said Csanad Sebesy, a 25-year-old engineering student volunteering at the event. He emphasized that over 250 people have signed up to assist despite the risks.
Organizers and the Budapest city council attempted to use a legal loophole, declaring the march a municipal event that doesn't require police authorization. However, police still issued a formal ban. Gergely Karacsony, Budapest’s mayor, dismissed the police decision as invalid and affirmed the event will move forward.
Volunteers Embrace Risks with Resolve
Many first-time volunteers are joining, motivated by a desire to stand with the LGBTQ+ community amid mounting pressure. Emma Elefanti, a 26-year-old student, expressed her determination: “I don’t care about being fined. It’s not a meaningful deterrent. I’ll gladly participate to support the community.”
Lawyer Marta Aleva echoed this sentiment, saying, “Even if it’s hot and uncomfortable, we have to be there. I don’t give a damn about the ban.”
Legal Support and International Solidarity
Human rights organizations, including the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, have committed to offering legal assistance to any attendees penalized for participating. The event is also drawing attention beyond Hungary’s borders, with messages of support displayed at Pride celebrations across Europe.
European Parliament members, alongside the European Equalities Commissioner and ministers from various EU countries, plan to attend, bringing both visibility and safety guidance to participants.
Government’s Cultural Pushback and Psychological Impact
Under Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s administration, LGBTQ+ rights have seen steady rollbacks, framed by rhetoric on protecting children. The government's banning of the march also brings a chilling threat of up to one year in prison for anyone continuing preparations, creating immense psychological pressure for organizers.
Nevertheless, Viktoria Radvanyi, head of the organizing foundation, expressed confidence that this year’s event will exceed previous attendance records, potentially surpassing 35,000 participants. She warned this struggle is crucial not only for Hungary but for Eastern Europe, cautioning that failing to resist could pave the way for similar oppressive laws in the region.
Authorities Offer Alternative Venues, but Public Parade Set to Go On
In lieu of a public march, the government proposed moving the event to restricted locations like Kincsem Park racecourse or Puskas Stadium. However, activists argue such restrictions erode the spirit of Pride and predict the public demonstration will proceed regardless.
As Sebesy put it, “They can't change moral standards with regulations. Society has grown more accepting. I feel absolutely comfortable in Hungary as a gay man.”
