In a moment that will be etched in the history of Hungary’s LGBTQ+ movement, tens of thousands took to the streets of Budapest on June 28, 2025, for what became the largest Pride march the city has ever witnessed despite the Hungarian government's recent ban on the event and explicit threats of imprisonment for its organizers.
Just weeks before the event, the ruling Fidesz government passed a new law banning all "public events promoting non-traditional sexual orientations and gender identities."This effectively criminalized Pride events across the country, prompting immediate criticism from human rights organizations and EU observers, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calling on Hungary to lift the controversial ban on Budapest Pride. Organizers were warned they could face jail time, as could any public official who offered support."
But freedom cannot be legislated away.
Led by an unshakable belief in equality, the Pride organizers refused to cancel the march. Thousands of volunteers, activists, allies, and community members mobilized in solidarity not only to defend their right to exist, but to celebrate it loudly, proudly, and visibly.
Among the most vocal supporters was Budapest’s mayor, Gergely Karácsony, who took a courageous stand by publicly backing the march, despite facing legal threats himself. “I will not be intimidated by laws that have no place in a democratic society,” Karácsony declared, as he marched hand-in-hand with the community. His presence sent a clear message: Budapest stands for love, freedom, and dignity.
The streets of the capital pulsed with color, courage, and resilience. Banners reading “Love is not a crime,” “We exist,” and “No Pride without protest” lined the parade route. The turnout defied all expectations a bold reminder that even in the shadow of authoritarianism, the human spirit finds a way to shine.
“This is not just about LGBTQ+ rights,” said one participant. “It’s about fighting for the right to be seen, to be heard, and to live freely. Today, Hungary’s queer community showed the world we are not afraid.”
We, as a platform, as a community, and as a team, stand in full solidarity with everyone who took to the streets in Budapest this weekend. We applaud the bravery of the organizers, the resilience of the marchers, and the integrity of leaders like Mayor Karácsony who chose to stand on the right side of history even under threat.
We believe love is love. Always.
And we unconditionally condemn all forms of hate, discrimination, and exclusion whether based on sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or belief. No government should ever be allowed to silence people for who they are or who they love. The criminalization of Pride is not only an attack on the LGBTQ+ community it is an attack on the principles of democracy, equality, and human dignity.
Today, we are reminded that Pride is more than a parade it is a protest, a declaration of existence, and a refusal to be erased.
To the Hungarian LGBTQ+ community: you are not alone.
To the world: let Budapest be a reminder that no matter how repressive the laws, love always finds a way.
Experience the energy of the march through this livestream footage:
Budapest Pride 2025 Live Coverage
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