EU Commissioner Stands Up for LGBTQ Rights in Hungary, Sparks Response
The European Commission has expressed its unwavering support for the LGBTQ community in Hungary and across all Member States. EU Commissioner for the Rule of Law, Michael McGrath, made this statement in Strasbourg on Wednesday amidst a debate in the European Parliament regarding recent legislative changes in Hungary and their impact on fundamental rights.
McGrath emphasized that discrimination has no place in the European Union, specifically addressing the amendment to the assembly law in Hungary that effectively banned the Pride parade in Budapest. He highlighted the importance of defending fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly for all European citizens, regardless of their nationality.
The Commissioner raised concerns about Hungary’s Child Protection Law, which he believes is not in line with EU law and stigmatizes the LGBTQ community. He stated that the European Commission will not hesitate to launch infringement proceedings to ensure that the rule of law and fundamental rights are respected in Hungary.
In response, Fidesz MEPs, including Tamás Deutsch and András László, defended Hungary’s stance, emphasizing the priority of protecting the best interests of children and the right of parents to make decisions regarding their development. They criticized the focus on Hungary in the European Parliament, accusing it of distracting from more pressing issues such as illegal migration, economic decline, and energy prices.
MEP Zsuzsanna Borvendég of the Our Homeland Movement supported Hungary’s efforts to protect families from what she described as attacks from the LGBTQ lobby, urging the government to be more vigilant in this regard.
The debate in the European Parliament reflects ongoing tensions between Hungary and the EU regarding LGBTQ rights and the rule of law. While the European Commission remains committed to upholding fundamental rights, Hungarian officials maintain their position on prioritizing the protection of children and traditional values.
