Concerns are mounting within Hungary’s LGBT+ community as the country prepares to take on the EU presidency, with activists expressing fear and calling for greater support from the European Union amidst ongoing challenges to LGBT+ rights.
As Hungary prepares to assume the presidency of the European Union for six months starting July 1, 2024, members of its LGBT+ community have expressed feelings of fear and disenfranchisement. Boldizsar Nagy, an editor from Zagyvarekas, and Monika Magashazi, a trans woman and activist, have voiced significant concerns over Hungary’s current stance on LGBT+ rights under Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Nagy, who edited the anthology “A Fairytale for Everyone,” faced backlash shortly after its publication, including a public book shredding by far-right politician Dora Duro. Following this, Orban’s administration passed the “Child Protection Act” in 2021, banning LGBT+ content for minors, intensifying the community’s challenges.
Magashazi, who struggles with daily forced “coming out” situations due to identity documentation laws, has joined Nagy in calling for greater support from the EU. Both are advocating in Brussels, hoping their voices can influence change during Hungary’s upcoming EU presidency.
The European Union has previously taken action, referring Hungary to the European Court of Justice and suspending certain funds in response to these policies. With Hungary’s new role as a co-legislator of the EU, the concerns of its LGBT+ community remain a critical issue.
