A rally in front of the Hungarian parliament in Budapest, Hungary, on April 14, 2025, after legislation outlawing LGBTQ gatherings was passed. (Getty Images)
At least 70 members of the European Parliament are defying Hungary’s ban on LGBTQ events this year. They’ve pledged to attend the upcoming Budapest Pride Parade on June 28. Their aim? To stand in solidarity with Hungary’s LGBTQ+ community and defend democratic values.
A Bold Move Against a Controversial Ban
Earlier this year, Hungary passed a law outlawing LGBTQ gatherings. The law includes the use of facial recognition to track participants. Hungarian authorities claim the law protects children. However, critics say it’s a targeted attack on LGBTQ rights.
Despite the ban, organizers of Budapest Pride are going ahead with plans. They have urged international supporters to join the march. The event is seen as a symbol of resistance and resilience.
European Parliament Members Show Support
Members from at least six European Parliament groups are expected to attend. Kim van Sparrentak, a Dutch MEP from the Greens/European Free Alliance, is one of the leaders behind the move.
“Pride is a protest,” Van Sparrentak said. “If Orbán can ban Pride without consequences, every Pride is one election away from being banned.” She emphasized the importance of visibility and support for Hungary’s LGBTQ+ citizens.
Marc Angel, co-president of the European Parliament’s Intergroup on LGBTI rights, echoed the sentiment. “We must defend the right to assemble. It’s a fundamental European right,” he said. Angel aims to send a message to Hungarian citizens that Europe stands with them.
Growing International Pressure on Hungary
In response to Hungary’s recent legislation, 20 EU nations have voiced serious concerns. In a joint letter, they urged Hungary to roll back its “anti-LGBTIQ+” policies. The countries called on the European Commission to take action if Hungary fails to comply.
The letter came from Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Sweden, and other member states. These countries criticized the law’s use of facial recognition and its threat to free expression, peaceful assembly, and privacy.
EU Tools May Be Activated
Marc Angel suggested that the EU might withhold funding from Hungary. He also mentioned the possibility of launching legal action for not following EU laws.
“We must act. Otherwise, we risk allowing these anti-LGBTQ measures to spread,” Angel stated. The letter emphasized that LGBTQ rights are human rights and must be protected by all EU members.
Pride in Budapest: A Protest and a Message
Budapest Pride organizers remain firm. They’ve called on allies from across Europe to attend the parade. Their goal is to highlight the ongoing struggle for equality in Hungary and across the EU.
Despite threats and legal risks, this year’s Pride is shaping up to be one of the most politically charged events yet. It stands as a message of defiance and unity.
The show of support from EU lawmakers may give Budapest Pride new momentum. With international eyes watching, the event could reignite the broader fight for LGBTQ rights in Europe.
Democracy, Freedom, and LGBTQ Rights Go Hand in Hand
The EU has long claimed to uphold democracy and human rights. The crackdown on LGBTQ gatherings in Hungary tests that commitment.
European lawmakers are now taking a visible stand to ensure those values are not just words, but action.
Their message is clear: LGBTQ rights are not negotiable. And Pride will march on—no matter the barriers
