Hungary
On January 28, 2026, Hungarian prosecutors charged Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony for his role in organizing the 2025 Budapest Pride March, which proceeded despite a government ban. This legal action has intensified concerns over LGBTQ+ rights and freedom of assembly in Hungary.
In 2025, the Hungarian government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, enacted legislation banning public events by LGBTQ+ communities, including the annual Budapest Pride. Despite the ban, Mayor Karácsony co-organized the Pride March on June 28, 2025, which attracted between 100,000 and 200,000 participants. The event was held in defiance of the prohibition, with organizers and attendees advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and broader democratic freedoms.
Prosecutors have filed charges against Mayor Karácsony for organizing and leading a public gathering despite a police ban. The prosecution seeks to impose a fine on the mayor without a trial. Karácsony responded by stating he went from a "proud suspect to a proud defendant," emphasizing his commitment to standing up for freedom and expressing his opinions.
This legal action underscores the Hungarian government's ongoing efforts to restrict LGBTQ+ rights and suppress dissent. The 2025 legislation not only banned Pride events but also authorized the use of facial recognition technology to identify participants, raising significant privacy concerns. Critics argue that these measures violate fundamental human rights and democratic principles.
The charges against Mayor Karácsony have drawn international criticism. Human rights organizations and European politicians have condemned the Hungarian government's actions, calling for the protection of freedom of assembly and expression. The European Greens party expressed solidarity with Karácsony, stating that love and freedom cannot be banned or punished.
For more detailed information, refer to the original Al Jazeera report: Hungary charges Budapest mayor for allowing banned pride march
