Budapest: In a move that intensifies Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s crackdown on Hungary’s LGBTQ+ community, Hungarian lawmakers approved a law on Tuesday banning Pride events and authorising the use of facial recognition technology to identify attendees.

The law passed with a significant majority, receiving 136 votes in favour and 27 against. Backed by Orbán’s right-wing populist Fidesz party and their minority coalition partner, the Christian Democrats, the measure was rushed through parliament under an accelerated procedure after being introduced just a day earlier.

The new legislation amends Hungary’s assembly laws, making it an offence to organise or participate in events that contravene the country’s controversial "child protection" laws. These laws prohibit the "depiction or promotion" of homosexuality to individuals under 18.

Under the law, individuals found attending prohibited events may face fines of up to 200,000 Hungarian forints (approximately USD 546). The collected fines are required to be forwarded to “child protection” initiatives, as outlined in the legislation.

Additionally, the law grants authorities the power to use facial recognition technology to identify attendees at banned events, raising significant concerns over privacy and civil liberties.

Critics argue that the law further marginalises Hungary’s LGBTQ+ community and curtails freedom of expression and assembly. The measure is seen as part of Orbán’s broader agenda to promote conservative values and strengthen state control over social issues.