Under the pretext of child protection, these legislative amendments allow fines to be imposed on participants and organisers of events, such as the annual Pride celebrations. The amendments also allow for facial recognition software to be used at such events, and for banning such events. We are concerned by the implications of these measures on freedom of expression, the right to peaceful assembly, and the right to privacy.

We are highly alarmed by these developments which run contrary to the fundamental values of human dignity, freedom, equality and respect for human rights, as laid down in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union.

Respecting and protecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all people, including LGBTIQ+ persons, is inherent in being part of the European family. This is our responsibility and shared commitment of the member states and the European institutions.

We therefore call upon Hungary to revise these measures, to ensure the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all its citizens are respected and protected, thus complying with its international obligations.

We share the concern expressed by the European Commission in this regard and call on the Commission to expeditiously make full use of the rule of law toolbox at its disposal in case these measures are not revised accordingly.