This year, Budapest Pride marks its 30th anniversary. For three decades, Hungary’s LGBTQIA+ community has marched through the capital with courage, resilience, and hope. But instead of celebrating this milestone, 2025 brings with it one of the darkest moments in the history of Hungarian queer activism.
In March, the Hungarian Parliament voted in favour of a law that effectively bans Pride marches — making Hungary the only EU country to legally restrict LGBTQIA+ gatherings. This is not just a symbolic gesture: it’s a deliberate attack on queer visibility, freedom of expression, and the right to assembly.
And yet, Budapest Pride will go ahead on June 28. Because the law — as oppressive as it is — doesn’t criminalize participation. According to TASZ, a leading Hungarian civil rights organisation, taking part in the march may be considered a regulatory offence, but not a criminal act. At worst, participants face a fine ranging between €17 and €510. Activists have already announced legal aid and solidarity funds to help those who might be targeted.
What the government hopes is that fear will keep people away. But as TASZ argues, the more of us who show up, the less effective the intimidation becomes. Visibility is protection. Numbers are power.
That’s why this anniversary matters more than ever. Pride in Budapest isn’t just for Hungarians — it’s a frontline in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights in Europe. What happens there sets a precedent. If a Pride march can be banned in an EU capital without a loud international response, what’s stopping others from following?
So maybe this year, instead of just watching from afar, we should go. To stand with the Hungarian LGBTQIA+ community. To say that queer lives — and queer joy — will not be legislated out of existence. And to remind those in power that thirty years of Pride cannot be erased with one law.
Budapest. June 28. Be there!
You may also like
-
Qommunity Festival: Where Queer Joy, Resistance, and Community Collide in Antwerp
Looking for a festival that’s more than just a party? Mark your calendar for June 28th and
-
Celebrate Namur Pride 2025: Join Us for a Grand Opening Show and Solidarity March!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 24th and meet us at Place Maurice Servais for an unforgettable opening show
-
Eurovision Voting System Sparks Debate in Belgium: Calls for Transparency and Investigation
The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the most popular music events in Europe, known
-
“What’s the Big Deal?”: Robert De Niro, Father First
When asked about his daughter Airyn coming out as trans, Robert De Niro had only
-
“Enough with Authoritarianism!”: Tens of Thousands Protest in Hungary Against New Law Threatening NGOs and Media
Tens of thousands of Hungarians took to the streets on Sunday, rallying against a controversial