Hungarian PM Orban Decries Pride Demonstration as Disrespectful to National Norms

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban strongly condemned the Pride march held on Saturday, describing it as “repulsive and shameful.” He accused the European Union of orchestrating the event through opposition politicians, turning what should have been a local demonstration into a politically charged protest against his government, according to local reports.

The march in Budapest, which drew an estimated 100,000 participants despite police bans and threats of fines, became one of the largest displays of opposition to Orban in recent years. Many viewed the event as an unnecessary provocation that disregarded public order and respect for the country’s values.

In a private online gathering with his supporters, Orban alleged that opposition leaders, directed by “Brussels,” encouraged their followers to flood the streets, turning the march into a political stunt. He warned that such figures must never be allowed to lead the country, emphasizing the need to protect Hungary’s future.

Though no concrete evidence was presented, the event was organized by Budapest’s municipal government, led by Mayor Gergely Karacsony, who has long been accused by Orban’s administration of being under EU influence. The European Commission declined to comment on Orban’s statements.

Orban specifically criticized the inappropriate content of the march, including a drag queen performance, men wearing high heels, and pamphlets promoting hormone therapies, calling these displays offensive and unsuitable for public consumption.

The march was banned based on a law passed in March designed to protect children from exposure to such events, underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding youth from harmful influences.

Critics argue that this ban is part of a broader political strategy ahead of next year’s national elections, but supporters see it as a necessary measure to uphold traditional values in the face of growing social pressures.

Orban also accused the European Commission president of treating Hungary like a subordinate state, comparing her call to allow the march to commands issued from Moscow during the communist era.

Under Orban’s Christian-conservative government, restrictions on LGBTQ+ activities have increased over the past decade, justified by the need to prioritize t