Budapest Mayor Charged Over Banned LGBTQ+ Pride Event
Authorities in Hungary have officially charged Budapest’s liberal mayor, Gergely Karácsony, for his involvement in organizing a prohibited LGBTQ+ Pride event that took place last year. The charges come amid a backdrop of escalating tensions between the local government and the right-wing nationalist administration currently in power.
Why It Matters
This situation underscores the ongoing conflict between progressive values and conservative governance in Hungary. The mayor’s defiance of the government’s directives not only highlights tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights but also raises questions about the freedom of assembly and expression in the country.
Key Developments
- Gergely Karácsony, who has served as Budapest’s mayor since 2019, faces charges related to the June 28 event, which authorities labeled an "unlawful assembly."
- The Pride march, deemed the largest in Hungary’s history, reportedly attracted around 300,000 participants, drawing significant attention and controversy.
- The Budapest Chief Prosecutor’s Office has recommended that Karácsony receive a fine without trial.
- Karácsony has publicly embraced his role in the event, stating, "I am a proud defendant," and asserting that he will continue to fight for freedom despite threats from the government.
Full Report
Charges Filed Against Mayor
The charges against Karácsony stem from his decision to proceed with the Pride march, which the Hungarian government had banned. According to the prosecution, he not only ignored the police prohibition but also actively encouraged public participation in the event.
In response to the charges, Karácsony expressed his commitment to fighting for personal and collective freedoms. He stated, "If anyone thinks they can ban me, deter me, or prevent me and my city from doing so, they are gravely mistaken." His assertion reflects a broader struggle faced by advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in the country.
Government’s Stance
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s ruling party passed a controversial anti-LGBTQ+ law in March 2025, which made organizing Pride events illegal and granted authorities the capability to use facial recognition to monitor participants. The government justifies these measures by claiming that Pride events infringe on children’s rights to moral and spiritual development, a position reiterated in a constitutional amendment last year.
The ruling administration has previously enacted legislation aimed at limiting LGBTQ+ content accessible to minors, prompting criticism from international rights groups and politicians who liken Hungary’s stance to similar oppressive measures seen in Russia.
Context & Previous Events
Prior to these events, the Hungarian government enacted laws that restricted LGBTQ+ representation, including a 2021 law that prohibited content depicting homosexuality to individuals under 18. The increased scrutiny of LGBTQ+ rights and challenges to public gatherings has positioned Hungary in conflict with various European Union standards on human rights and civil liberties.
