Budapest Defies Orbán: Massive Pride Protest Erupts Despite Ban

By: Paul Goldberg, Senior Editor | JRL CHARTS – LGBT Politics Europe

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY — (June 28, 2025) — Tens of thousands flooded the streets of Budapest in a powerful act of defiance against Hungary’s Pride ban, in what became the largest LGBTQ+ rights protest in the country’s history.

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Heeding the call of progressive Budapest mayor Gergely Karácsony, crowds turned out to mark the 30th anniversary of Budapest Pride—even after the Orbán government declared the event illegal under newly enforced anti-LGBTQ+ laws. With signs mocking Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and rainbow flags flying high, the peaceful march wound through the city with record-breaking attendance.

Organizers estimate nearly 200,000 participants, far surpassing initial projections. “We’ve never seen this many people,” said Pride president Viktória Radványi. “This is history.”

The march came in direct response to the Fidesz party’s ban on any LGBTQ+ “promotion” to minors, a move critics say is designed to scapegoat the queer community ahead of a contentious election year. Participants, including families with children, senior citizens, and international dignitaries from over 30 countries, rallied not just for LGBTQ+ rights—but for democracy itself.

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The march came in direct response to the Fidesz party’s ban on any LGBTQ+ “promotion” to minors, a move critics say is designed to scapegoat the queer community ahead of a contentious election year. Participants, including families with children, senior citizens, and international dignitaries from over 30 countries, rallied not just for LGBTQ+ rights—but for democracy itself.

The protest sent a clear message: Hungary’s LGBTQ+ community and their allies will not be erased—no matter the government’s attempts to silence them.

As Hungary moves toward national elections, JRL CHARTS will continue spotlighting the LGBTQ+ resistance movements rising across Europe.