Von der Leyen Urges Hungary to Allow Pride Parade

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called on Hungarian authorities to allow the Budapest Pride Parade to proceed, following a ban imposed by the police.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban responded via X, arguing that the Commission should not interfere in member states' law enforcement matters.

Hungarian police banned the planned Saturday march of the LGBTQI+ community, citing a law prioritizing child protection over the right to assembly.

Despite the ban, the mayor of Budapest and the organizers stated that Budapest Pride will take place, as it is considered a municipal event.

Von der Leyen urged Hungarian authorities to allow the event without fear of criminal sanctions. Orban stated that Hungary is a 'civilized country' and there is no violence.

Critics of Orban view the ban as part of a broader crackdown ahead of elections. The Hungarian Minister of Justice informed foreign embassies that Budapest Pride is a 'prohibited gathering'.

Diplomats from several countries expressed their support for the LGBTQI+ community in Hungary and for Budapest Pride.