Global commemorations mark 70th anniversary of 1956 Hungarian Revolution

Global commemorations are being held to mark the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence. Major landmarks worldwide are scheduled to be illuminated in Hungarian national colors, including Niagara Falls in Canada, the CN Tower in Toronto, and the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro.

In Europe, events include light displays on the Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul and in Prague. Various ceremonies, concerts, and conferences are planned across neighboring countries such as Slovakia, Romania, Croatia, Serbia, Ukraine, and Austria. In local contexts, such as Gelence, Romania, students and community members are holding memorial services to honor historical victims.

In Budapest, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled to visit on October 23 to participate in the commemorations and deliver a speech. Prime Minister Péter Magyar has invited various international leaders to the anniversary events, noting that while many have been invited, the Russian President has been excluded.