Hungary’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws under EU scrutiny: Civil society and European values on a collision course
- Tenzin Dorjee
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
In the heart of Europe, a legal and moral battle is unfolding over the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in Hungary. Since the enactment of a controversial 2021 law restricting LGBTQ+ content and expression, the country has found itself at odds with fundamental European Union (EU) values and under increasing international scrutiny. This clash underscores a broader tension between national sovereignty and the commitment to shared human rights under the EU framework, particularly in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on reduced inequalities and peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Hungary’s restrictive legislation and EU legal response
In 2021, Hungary implemented legislation that bans the “promotion” of homosexuality and gender transition to minors through schools, media, and publications. This law has been widely condemned for mimicking Russia’s 2013 "gay propaganda" law and for curbing freedom of expression and LGBTQ+ visibility. Educational materials and television content with LGBTQ+ themes were restricted, and books were required to be wrapped and kept away from children’s areas.
The issue reached a critical point in June 2025, when Advocate General Tamara Ćapeta of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) stated that the law violates the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. She argued it infringes on the rights to dignity, family life, and non-discrimination. A final ECJ ruling, expected later this year, could impose financial penalties and force Hungary to amend the legislation.
In parallel, Hungary escalated its position in March 2025 by banning LGBTQ+ Pride events considered “harmful to children” and deploying surveillance technologies to track participants, prompting condemnation from global institutions.
The European Commission initiated infringement proceedings in 2021, joined by the European Parliament and 16 member states. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has also called for a repeal of the law.
Hungarian civil society: A stronghold for rights and resilience
Despite mounting pressure and governmental restrictions, Hungary’s civil society has not retreated. Instead, a coalition of determined organisations continues to champion the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and defend the principles enshrined in European and international law.
Háttér Society, founded in 1995, is Hungary’s largest LGBTQI rights organisation. It provides legal aid, psychological support, research, and education. Háttér's strategic litigation has resulted in significant legal victories, including a Constitutional Court ruling supporting the rights of transgender individuals. The organisation also preserves Hungary’s LGBTQ+ history through the Háttér Archive, the most extensive in Eastern Europe. More at en.hatter.hu.
Labrisz Lesbian Association, active since 1999, focuses on empowering lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women. Through cultural events, oral history projects, and education, Labrisz brings visibility to underrepresented voices. It co-organises Budapest Pride and launched the Secret Years project, documenting the lives of women during the socialist era. Visit labrisz.hu
Hungarian LGBT Alliance, formed in 2009, unites LGBTQ+ groups for collective advocacy. It coordinates national campaigns and supports member organisations in resisting discriminatory policies. See more at lmbtszovetseg.hu
Hungarian Civil Liberties Union (HCLU), a watchdog since 1994, provides legal defence for civil rights, including LGBTQ+ cases. The HCLU is currently challenging surveillance measures used against Pride participants. Their work is outlined at hclu.hu.
Hungarian Helsinki Committee is another key defender of civil liberties, specialising in legal aid and rule-of-law advocacy. It opposes laws curbing LGBTQ+ expression and supports efforts to hold Hungary accountable at European and international levels. Learn more at helsinki.hu.
Global partnerships and advocacy
Hungarian organisations receive support from international partners like Amnesty International, ILGA-Europe, and Human Rights Watch, who bring visibility to Hungary’s human rights situation. These alliances have proven crucial in elevating the issue to EU and UN platforms.
· OHCHR
A pivotal moment for Europe’s human rights architecture
Hungary's legislative path is testing the boundaries of EU governance and its foundational commitment to human rights. The pending ECJ ruling may serve as a landmark in establishing the limits of national authority when core European values are at stake.
As the global community works towards achieving the SDGs—particularly SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions)—this moment presents a call for unity. Sustained action from civil society, institutions, and international partners is essential to safeguarding dignity, equality, and democratic governance in Europe and beyond.
For extended insights on the EU’s commitment to fundamental rights, visit:
