Protesters block Budapest bridges over LGBTQ+ event ban

Protesters blocked traffic on several bridges in central Budapest on Tuesday, opposing a new law that effectively bans LGBTQ+ Pride events and limits the right to assembly.

The demonstration, the second in a week, follows the ruling Fidesz party's fast-tracking of the legislation using its parliamentary majority. The law criminalises gatherings that violate Hungary’s "child protection" regulations, with authorities now able to use facial recognition to track attendees.

Several opposition parties have condemned the law, but the recently formed centre-right Tisza Party has described the issue as a distraction.