We all want to live in societies where we are free to be ourselves and to love whom we love, without fear, intimidation or violence. Yet in Hungary, LGBTQI communities are facing increasing attacks on their rights from an authoritarian government that scapegoats marginalised groups and civil society organisations to serve its own political interests.
The latest escalation in the Hungarian government's repressive agenda is its efforts, backed by police, to ban Budapest Pride - a critical march of both celebration and protest.
“As LGBTQI communities in Hungary stand firm and prepare to take to the streets this Saturday, we stand in solidarity with the brave and resilient individuals and local organisations resisting the rollback of their rights, despite threats to their safety and security,” said Micah Grzywnowicz, IPPF EN’s Regional Director.
There has been a strong international response to the crackdown on Pride, with civil society and political decision-makers expressing outrage at Hungary's attacks on LGBTQI people’s rights and freedoms. Many MEPs have vocally opposed the ban, and it is reported that around 70 of them will join the march. In May, 20 EU Member States signed a joint declaration condemning the Hungarian government's actions.
But gestures of solidarity from those in power must be matched by meaningful action. Despite its words of support for the event, and the announced attendance of Equality Commissioner Hadja Lahbib, the European Commission continues to fall short. It has so far failed to use concrete tools that are at its disposal to safeguard the right to peaceful assembly in Hungary.
Micah Grzywnowicz added, “The Commission's inaction sends a very worrying signal about the EU institutions' willingness - or ability - to uphold core EU values of democracy, rule of law, and human rights. By failing to take meaningful action, it emboldens Prime Minister Orban and other autocratic forces, and betrays all those in Hungary and throughout the EU who want to live in free, equal and just societies.”
We will continue marching.
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Photo credit Raketir/Shutterstock
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