Hungary Bans Pride Parades, Sparks Protests and Criticism

Hungary's parliament has passed a controversial law banning LGBTQ+ pride events, citing the protection of children from perceived harmful ideologies. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his Fidesz party have defended the legislation, claiming it is necessary to safeguard children's development, while critics argue it represents a significant rollback of LGBTQ+ rights and is a tool for advancing an anti-LGBTQ+ agenda. Protests erupted in Budapest in response to the law, with opposition politicians lighting smoke flares in the parliament, leading to health concerns among lawmakers. Irish Tánaiste Simon Harris condemned the ban, asserting it violates EU fundamental values, and announced plans to raise the issue with Hungary's foreign minister. The law's passage has sparked outrage among LGBTQ+ activists, who describe it as fascism and a suppression of peaceful protest. This legislative move occurs as Hungary approaches parliamentary elections, intensifying scrutiny of Orbán's government.