Hungary removes anti-LGBTQ provisions from Orbán-era law

The Hungarian parliament has voted to remove anti-LGBTQ provisions from a 2021 child protection law enacted during Viktor Orbán’s administration. The amendment passed with a 139-51 margin. While the law retains protections against material deemed to seriously impair a child’s physical, intellectual, emotional, or moral development, it eliminates bans on the “portrayal” or “promotion” of sexual and gender diversity.

Under the previous Fidesz-led government, the term “promotion” was broadly interpreted, leading to restrictions on school curricula, news reporting, and advertising. It also impacted bookstores, which faced potential fines for displaying inclusive literature. The reversal follows the landslide victory of Prime Minister Péter Magyar, which ended 16 years of rule by the Fidesz party.

Advocates for sexual minorities report a significant shift in the media landscape, noting that representatives are now being invited to participate in public broadcasts with a more positive tone, whereas they were previously excluded or treated with hostility.