Budapest held its first Pride march after the end of Viktor Orban’s 16-year rule, drawing tens of thousands of participants despite scorching summer heat. The event followed Orban’s attempt to ban Pride in 2025 amid broader LGBTQ+ restrictions.
The march took place after Hungary’s April election, which saw pro-EU conservative leader Peter Magyar and his Tisza party defeat Orban’s government and end Orban’s time in power. Organizers and participants said the atmosphere felt more relaxed than during the Orban era.
According to reporting, last year’s Pride had already shown large-scale resistance, with an estimated turnout of up to 200,000 despite a government ban. Under Orban, Hungary introduced laws restricting Pride events and enacted measures that rights groups said curtailed LGBTQ+ freedoms, including limits on LGBTQ-related content involving minors and restrictions affecting adoption and recognition of gender changes.
This year’s Pride went ahead with police authorization and security along the parade route.
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