Only one day after the legislative initiative was proposed, the Hungarian parliament voted in favour of a nationwide ban on prides. This not only constitutes a further attack on the human rights of LGBTIQ+ people in Hungary, but on the freedom of peaceful assembly and the freedom of expression. The LGBTIQ+ Intergroup condemns these developments in the strongest possible terms
Marc Angel, co-chair of the LGBTIQ+ Intergroup; ‘’I am shocked and deeply concerned by the adoption of this amendment. It is yet another dangerous step towards autocracy in Hungary. Under false pretences, freedom of assembly is blatantly attacked, and the LGBTIQ+ community is cynically held hostage to Orbán’s power struggles. Enough is enough ! The commission must act now ! ‘’
32 members, led by Rapporteur for the rule of law in Hungary Tineke Strik, have called on the commission to take swift action. Following the vote in parliament, the LGBTIQ+ intergroup reiterates their demand for interim measures in regards to the ongoing infringement procedures. Furthermore, 7 members have committed to joining Budapest Pride.
LGBTIQ+ Intergroup co-chair Kim van Sparrentak explains ‘’Orban isn’t protecting anyone but himself, not children, not the rule of law, and definitely not the community that he has scapegoated over the past years. Pride is a protest, and on the 28th of June I am protesting in Budapest’’’
An amendment to the constitution, which would enshrine in the constitution that Hungary will recognize only two genders, male and female, will be voted on in the upcoming weeks. The LGBTIQ+ Intergroup is paying close attention.
