Sat Jun 28 10:02:50 UTC 2025: **Thousands Defy Ban to March for Pride in Budapest, Sparking EU Condemnation**

Budapest, Hungary – Thousands of people are expected to participate in Budapest Pride march today, defying a government ban and highlighting growing resistance against anti-LGBTQ laws across the European Union. The demonstration comes after Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government amended laws and the constitution earlier this year to prohibit the annual event, citing the need to protect traditional family values and children.

Despite the ban, organizers anticipate a record turnout of over 35,000 people, who will gather near Budapest’s city hall this afternoon. Numerous ministers from EU countries and European politicians are expected to attend in a show of solidarity.

“We’re not just standing up for ourselves… If this law isn’t overturned, Eastern Europe could face a wave of similar measures,” said Pride organizer Viktoria Radvanyi.

The march has drawn strong condemnation from the EU, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calling on Hungarian authorities to reverse the ban. Thirty-three countries have also voiced support for the demonstration.

While Prime Minister Orban has stated that police will not forcibly stop the march, participants face the risk of fines up to 500 euros. The government has also implemented measures like facial recognition technology to identify attendees.

Budapest Mayor Gergely Karacsony, however, has insisted that no reprisals will be taken against participants as the march is co-organized by the city hall and considered a municipal event not requiring police approval. Karacsony emphasized that the police’s sole responsibility is to ensure the safety of those attending.

Counterprotests by far-right groups are also expected along the march route. The Hungarian government has cautioned EU diplomats against participating, warning of potential legal consequences.

Since Orban’s return to power in 2010, Hungary has steadily rolled back LGBTQ rights, including restricting adoption for same-sex couples and banning the “display and promotion” of homosexuality to minors.

Political analysts suggest that Orban is attempting to “polarize society” ahead of next year’s elections, as recent polls indicate his party is losing ground to the opposition.

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