Historic Pride in Pécs
Record-Breaking Pride March in Defiance of Government Ban
The city of Pécs in southern Hungary witnessed an unprecedented Pride March, with an estimated 7,000 to 8,000 people taking to the streets, as reported by Agence France-Presse (AFP). This turnout represents a nearly sevenfold increase from past events, making it the largest Pride gathering ever in the city. Remarkably, the march went ahead despite a ban issued by the Hungarian government and upheld by the Supreme Court on September 15.
Following the overwhelming success of Budapest Pride earlier in the summer—which drew over 200,000 people—the Pécs demonstration sent a clear message to the authorities. Under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s ultra-conservative leadership, Hungary has implemented a series of laws targeting LGBTQI+ individuals. Despite this climate, growing numbers of citizens are stepping up in solidarity and resistance.
A Peaceful Demonstration Under Tense Circumstances
Leading up to the event, organizers were concerned about possible police intervention amid limited international media attention compared to the capital. “There’s almost no global visibility here—which is exactly why I came,” posted Rémy Bonny, executive director of the European human rights group Forbidden Colours. “Hungary has become a Trojan horse for Russia within the EU, using LGBTQ-phobia to undermine democracy,” he added.
Participants acknowledged the significance of their presence. “This is no longer just about LGBTQ rights—it’s about protecting our fundamental freedoms,” said 18-year-old student Vencel Toth in an AFP interview. The march saw support from a wide spectrum of allies. “As a teacher and friend, I feel it’s my duty to be here,” shared Edit Sinko, a 58-year-old psychologist, underscoring the broad base of support behind the movement.
Navigating Legal Barriers with Creative Tactics
In April, the Hungarian government amended its constitution to enshrine anti-LGBTQI+ measures, including a ban on same-sex marriage, refusal to legally recognize transgender individuals, and the criminalization of public content that is seen to “promote” LGBTQ identities. While these laws had existed previously, their constitutional elevation has solidified their impact.
To legally carry out Pride events under such restrictions, organizers have had to find creative workarounds. In June, Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony categorized that city’s Pride as a “cultural festival” to sidestep legal barriers. In Pécs, organizers registered the march as a “protest against the overpopulation of wild animals,” highlighting the absurdity of the legal constraints. This strategy allowed the demonstration to proceed without legal repercussions, human rights lawyer Peter Heindl confirmed.
Growing Momentum in a Traditionally Conservative City
Pécs first began hosting Pride marches in 2021, but until this year, participation remained low, typically around 1,000 people. The massive rise in turnout suggests a cultural and political shift underway. Protesters carried signs stating “Hungary is a dictatorship” and “Pride is punished, pedophiles are rewarded,” highlighting public anger over the government’s perceived hypocrisy and authoritarianism.
A small number of counter-protesters attempted to disrupt the event but were unsuccessful. Ultimately, the march concluded peacefully, offering hope and a blueprint for future LGBTQI+ activism in regions outside the capital.
European Support Grows Amid Rising Authoritarianism
As concerns grow about Hungary’s backslide from democratic norms, the European Commission has taken serious action. Legal proceedings have been initiated against the Orbán administration over its anti-LGBTQI+ laws, and the EU has frozen €18 billion in funds due to ongoing violations of core European principles. The European Court of Justice is currently reviewing the case, with a ruling expected in the near future.
Beyond legal action, symbolic support continues to affirm international backing for Hungary’s LGBTQI+ community. Hadja Lahbib, the European Commissioner for Equality, publicly praised Budapest Pride Chair Viktoria Radvanyi, recently honored in Time magazine’s “100 Next” list. The recognition sends a clear political message: Hungary’s LGBTQI+ movement is gaining strength—and the world is watching.