Source: cbsnews.com
Image content: The image shows a massive crowd marching across a bridge, carrying a large rainbow flag and many smaller rainbow items. It appears to be a pride parade or celebration, with people packed together and some police vehicles at the edges.
Summary
A record Budapest Pride drew well over 100,000 participants—possibly up to 200,000—in a mass show of solidarity and resistance against Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s tightening restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights, including a new ban on events deemed to promote homosexuality to minors. Despite threats of fines, surveillance, and legal repercussions, marchers were joined by Budapest’s opposition mayor and EU officials, while police maintained a restrained presence and rerouted the march to avoid small far‑right counter‑protests. The event, which organizers say was the city’s largest Pride yet, has escalated a legal and political confrontation between the municipal government and Fidesz authorities, spotlighting Hungary’s broader struggle over civil liberties, democratic norms, and the country’s international standing.
Key Points
- Tens to hundreds of thousands marched despite a government ban and threats of fines, surveillance, and legal action.
- Budapest’s mayor hosted the event, challenging national restrictions and asserting local authority over assembly rules.
- EU officials attended and condemned Hungary’s anti‑LGBTQ+ laws, drawing parallels to Russia and warning of scrutiny.
- Police presence was low‑key but used new surveillance powers; routes were adjusted to avoid small far‑right counter‑protests.
- The clash underscores a wider fight over civil liberties in Hungary ahead of national elections.