A group of 17 European Union states has called on Hungary to review a new law that gives the government the power to ban public events by the LGBT+ community, amid growing pressure on the country's populist government for its deviation from democratic norms.
Among the countries that have issued a statement, major EU members France, Germany and Spain have expressed concern that a law passed in April allows for fines to be imposed on those who organise or participate in Pride events and involves the use of facial recognition technology to identify them.
“We are deeply concerned about these developments, which run counter to the fundamental values of human dignity, freedom, equality and respect for human rights” enshrined in EU treaties, they said.
They called on the European Commission, the important executive body responsible for enforcing EU laws, to “promptly and fully use the tools available to ensure the rule of law if these measures are not properly reviewed.”
The declaration was published on social media during a meeting of EU ministers in Brussels to discuss the actions of Hungary's nationalist government, which has passed laws that undermine the rule of law.
“I believe it is time to consider further steps, as continuing these hearings is no longer appropriate,” said Jessica Rosenkranz, Sweden's EU minister, who signed the declaration.
Ms Rosenkranz noted that the 27-member EU is “not just a geographical union, but a union based on values, and in this context we must actively confront countries that do not live up to our common principles.”
Hungary's EU Minister Janos Bocka said the new law had been misinterpreted.
“There is no such thing as a ban on pride in Hungary,” Mr Boka told reporters.
“I hope that after these discussions my colleagues sitting around the table will be able to gain a deeper understanding of Hungarian legislation.”
A constitutional amendment passed in April states that children's rights to moral, physical and spiritual development take precedence over all other rights except the right to life, including the right to peaceful assembly.
Hungary's controversial “child protection” law bans the “depiction or promotion” of homosexuality to people under 18.
EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law, Michael Mack
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
