Belgium issues travel warning ahead of Budapest Pride amid ban and legal risks
Belgium and other Western countries have updated their travel advisories for Hungary ahead of the Budapest Pride march, warning citizens of legal risks and urging vigilance following the Hungarian government’s ban on the event.
Belgium issues travel warning
The Belgian Foreign Ministry released new travel guidance on Friday for nationals planning to visit Hungary for the Budapest Pride event, scheduled for Saturday. The move follows heightened tensions after Hungarian authorities, citing a new law, officially banned the annual LGBTQ+ march.
According to the Belgian advisory, “Participation in a demonstration that is not allowed by the Hungarian authorities is the responsibility of each individual participant.” The statement warns that attending a banned protest in Hungary could result in fines of up to HUF 200,000 (approximately EUR 500) and possible criminal penalties.
The Hungarian government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has justified the ban with a law passed in March, which claims the “protection of children” must take precedence over the right to assembly. The law also permits police to use facial recognition technology to identify participants at public gatherings.
Safety advice for Belgian nationals
The Belgian Foreign Ministry advised all potential Pride participants to exercise “the necessary vigilance” and to stay informed via the Belgian embassy’s media channels and social media. The advisory specifically recommends:
- Avoiding counter-demonstrations: For personal safety, participants should keep their distance from any possible protests against Pride.
- Following police instructions: In the event of unrest or disturbances, attendees are urged to comply with local police guidance.
- Staying updated: Belgians should monitor embassy communications for the latest developments.
International reaction
Belgium is not alone in updating its travel advice. According to Politico, both the United Kingdom and Canada have also revised their guidance for Hungary, warning that participants in the Pride march could face fines or criminal prosecution under the new law. The use of facial recognition by Hungarian authorities has also raised privacy and human rights concerns among international observers.
Earlier this spring, a coalition of at least 16 EU countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, Finland, Denmark, France, Sweden, and Austria, issued a joint statement condemning Hungary’s ban on Pride and urging the European Commission to take action.
What’s next for Budapest Pride?
Despite the ban, organizers and supporters of Budapest Pride have vowed to continue their fight for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in Hungary. The event, which has drawn thousands in previous years, is now at the centre of a debate over civil liberties, minority rights, and the rule of law in the country.
For those planning to attend or support Budapest Pride, foreign ministries urge caution, awareness of local laws, and strict adherence to safety recommendations. Travellers are encouraged to check their embassy’s latest updates and to exercise caution if participating in public events in Hungary this weekend.
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