Embassies Unite in Condemnation of Hungary's LGBTQ+ Pride Ban

A coalition of 22 embassies, excluding the U.S., has condemned Hungary's new law banning the LGBTQ+ Pride march, highlighting concerns over freedom of assembly. The law, passed by the ruling Fidesz party, allows police to use facial recognition during events. Human rights advocates criticize the move as regressive.

A coalition of 22 embassies, including those of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, has expressed grave concern over a new Hungarian law that bans the Pride march, highlighting restrictions on the freedom of assembly and expression. The legislation, passed by the ruling Fidesz party, aims to prevent potential 'harm to children,' according to the government.

The embassies' joint statement, conspicuously absent of the United States, emphasizes a commitment to the European Convention on Human Rights, advocating for the preservation of fundamental freedoms irrespective of sexual orientation and gender identity. Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban, known for his hard-line approach and alignment with former U.S. President Donald Trump, has recently increased rhetoric against the LGBTQ+ community while also targeting independent media.

Human rights groups, including Michael O'Flaherty of the Council of Europe, have voiced strong opposition to the law, which sanctions the use of facial recognition technology by police on event attendees. Despite the ban, Pride organizers vow to proceed with the march scheduled for June 28, contesting the perceived erosion of democratic freedoms in Hungary.

(With inputs from agencies.)