Thousands Protest Hungary Bill Restricting Media, NGOs

Around 10,000 Hungarians gathered in Budapest to protest a controversial bill introduced by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government that would allow authorities to blacklist, monitor, penalize, and potentially ban media outlets and non-governmental organizations receiving foreign funding, which the government claims threaten national sovereignty. The legislation, often compared to Russia's “foreign agent” law, is expected to pass due to the ruling Fidesz party's parliamentary majority and is viewed by critics as a severe attack on free speech, independent media, and civil society, particularly during a critical pre-election period. Protesters and opposition figures warned that the bill represents an authoritarian move to silence dissent and restrict the rights of vulnerable groups, with some likening it to measures used by Vladimir Putin's regime to suppress rivals. The demonstrations are part of a broader wave of anti-government protests opposing Orbán's increasingly repressive policies, including recent anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Organizers and speakers at the protest emphasized the importance of defending free expression and public life against government censorship efforts. Plans for further protests have been announced, signaling continued resistance to the government's crackdown on independent voices.