As Hungary’s government tightens its grip on LGBTQ+ rights, Budapest Mayor Karácsony Gergely takes a stand: Budapest Pride will happen—no matter what.
In a defiant Facebook post, the mayor reaffirmed the city’s commitment to freedom, equality, and love. “That Pride will take place in Budapest this year is as natural as two people in love,” he wrote. His message was clear: Budapest belongs to everyone, regardless of who they are or whom they love.
The Hungarian government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has made repeated attempts to silence LGBTQ+ visibility. Just recently, government officials suggested banning Pride from its usual route on Andrássy Avenue, citing so-called “child protection” concerns. Gergely Gulyás, Orbán’s chief of staff, even claimed that “common sense” justifies cracking down on Pride. Meanwhile, the far-right party Mi Hazánk has proposed legislation to outright ban Pride marches in Hungary.
Despite these threats, Budapest Pride is moving forward. Karácsony refuses to back down, emphasizing that true freedom means equality for all. “There will be a celebration of love, of joy, of freedom,” he declared, ensuring that the city remains a beacon of resistance.
As Hungary drifts further into authoritarian policies, Budapest remains a rare queer-friendly stronghold in the country. But how long can it resist?
One thing is certain: this year’s Budapest Pride will be more than a parade—it will be a protest.
This article was inspired by a story originally published on Humen Online, a leading platform highlighting LGBTQ+ experiences and perspectives in Hungary.
You may also like
-
A Year-End Gathering for LGBT+ Asylum Seekers by Maison Arc-en-Ciel du Luxembourg
To close the year 2025, Maison Arc-en-Ciel de la province de Luxembourg is hosting its final discussion
-
Croatia’s Far-Right Revival: How Nationalist Rhetoric and Historical Revisionism are Threatening Diversity and Democracy in 2025
Croatia, once hailed as a post-war success story of European integration, is facing a new
-
Love on Trial: Japan’s Marriage Equality Battle Continues
Last Friday, the Tokyo High Court upheld Japan’s ban on same-sex marriage, ruling that the
-
Colombia Says Yes to Gender Diversity on ID Cards
In a major step for gender rights, Colombia now allows citizens to choose “trans” or
-
La Nuit Positive: Belgian Artists Unite Against HIV
The line-up for the second edition of La Nuit Positive is confirmed! Colt, Red Sebastian, Leon, Sing
English 
French 
Dutch