The Hungarian Parliament has passed a law prohibiting LGBTQ+ Pride marches, a decision that has drawn both domestic and international reactions. The measure, fast-tracked by the ruling Fidesz party under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, was approved just a day after being submitted.

Orbán defended the law, emphasizing that it aims to protect children, stating: “We will not allow ideologies that threaten our children’s well-being.”

For the past three decades, Pride marches had been held annually in Hungary. The latest restrictions have sparked demonstrations, with opposition lawmakers protesting in Parliament and activists blocking a bridge in central Budapest. Various human rights organizations have also voiced their concerns over the new legislation.

Under the law, gatherings that contradict Hungary’s 2021 regulations on LGBTQ+ representation are now explicitly banned. Violations could result in fines of up to 500 euros, with authorities permitted to use facial recognition technology for enforcement.

The amendment also redefines the right of assembly, allowing only events that “respect children’s physical, mental, and moral development.”

Despite the ban, organizers of Budapest Pride have announced plans to proceed with their scheduled march on June 28.