EU Intensifies Pressure on Hungary Over LGBTQ+ Pride Ban

The European Union is escalating its response to Hungary’s recent legislation that bans LGBTQ+ Pride events, marking a significant point of contention between Budapest and Brussels. A coalition of 16 EU member states, including France, Germany, and the Netherlands, has issued a joint statement urging the European Commission to take swift and decisive action against Hungary’s new laws. These laws prohibit Pride marches and authorize the use of facial recognition technology to identify and penalize participants, under the pretext of “child protection.” 

Critics argue that these measures are a thinly veiled attempt to suppress LGBTQ+ rights and freedom of assembly. The European Commission is currently assessing whether Hungary’s use of real-time biometric surveillance at Pride events violates the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act, which restricts such practices. If found in breach, Hungary could face significant legal and financial repercussions.

In response, Hungarian officials maintain that the legislation aligns with national constitutional values and EU law. However, the growing chorus of EU member states expressing concern indicates a deepening rift over fundamental rights and the rule of law within the Union. As the situation develops, the EU’s handling of this issue will likely serve as a critical test of its commitment to upholding democratic principles and human rights across member states.