Hungary
CSD in Budapest becomes anti-orbán demo
The CSD in Budapest was actually prohibited in Hungary. But tens of thousands ignored this – and in the end no longer demonstrated only for the rights of homosexuals.
A demonstration banned by the police for the rights of sexual minorities (LGBTQ+) in Budapest has developed into a mass protest against the government of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Tens of thousands of people moved through the Hungarian capital on Saturday, including the carrier of rainbow flags and from banners with criticism of Orbán. “None of us are free as long as not everyone is free,” said a banner. “It’s about much more, not just about homosexuality,” said a demonstrator. “This is the last moment to stand up for our rights.”
“We assume that 180,000 to 200,000 people will take part,” said Pride President, Viktoria Radvanyi, the AFP news agency on Saturday. An exact estimate is difficult “because there have never been so many people at Budapest.”
The mayor of Budapest, Gergely Karacony, also spoke of a record participation. “Thank you very much, Viktor Orban, for a more tolerant society,” added the Greens politician ironically on Facebook with a view to the right-wing Hungarian Prime Minister.
Hungary has new law against LGBTQ marches
The Hungarian parliament under the leadership of Orbán’s national conservative Fidesz party passed a law in March that gives the police the basis for the ban on LGBTQ marches. The protection of children had been mentioned as justification. Orbán’s government has repeatedly been accused of violations of human rights, principles of the rule of law and other principles to which Hungary has undertaken as an EU member.
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The police had the demonstrators granted on Saturday and separated the LGBTQ train and smaller counter-demonstrations of right-wing extremists. While Orbán had threatened organizers and participants with legal consequences, the Budapest Mayor Gergely Karacony from the Green Party opposed the ban. He had declared the Pride parade an urban celebration that could take place without permission.
People from 30 countries at the CSD in Budapest
According to the organizers, participants came from 30 countries, including 70 members of the European Parliament. The messages of more than 30 countries had explained their support from the demonstration. EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had asked Hungary to allow the parade.
Note: This text has been updated with information on the number of participants.
Reuters · AFP
tkr
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
