Fact Check: "Budapest Pride Parade attracted over 100,000 participants, defying government ban."
What We Know
On June 28, 2025, the Budapest Pride Parade took place despite a government ban, with reports indicating that around 100,000 participants joined the event. This marked the largest LGBTQ+ Pride event in Hungary's history, as stated by various sources including the Associated Press and The New York Times. The event was organized in defiance of a law passed by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government, which aimed to restrict public gatherings that "depict or promote" homosexuality, particularly to minors under 18. This law had been criticized as part of a broader crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights in Hungary.
The march began at Budapest City Hall and proceeded through the city center, crossing the Erzsébet Bridge. Participants included not only members of the LGBTQ+ community but also numerous allies and supporters, who expressed their dissent against the government's stance on LGBTQ+ rights and broader democratic freedoms. The event was characterized by a festive atmosphere, with music, dancing, and the display of rainbow flags, despite the potential for police intervention and fines for attendees, which could reach up to 200,000 Hungarian forints (approximately $586) as per the new law (NPR).
Analysis
The claim that the Budapest Pride Parade attracted over 100,000 participants is supported by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press and The New York Times both report similar figures, emphasizing that the turnout significantly exceeded previous years, which typically saw only a few thousand participants. This increase in attendance is attributed to the government's ban, which galvanized public support and participation.
The sources used in this fact-check are reputable news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The Associated Press is a well-established news agency with a long history of reporting, while The New York Times is recognized globally for its in-depth news coverage. Both outlets have reported on the political context surrounding the event, including the implications of the government's actions on civil rights and public assembly.
However, it is important to note that the Hungarian government, led by Orbán, has a history of controlling media narratives, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ issues. This could lead to biased reporting from pro-government outlets, which may downplay the significance of the event or focus on negative aspects, such as traffic disruptions caused by the parade (Reuters). Nonetheless, the overwhelming turnout reported by independent and international media suggests a strong public response against the government's restrictions.
Conclusion
The claim that the Budapest Pride Parade attracted over 100,000 participants, defying a government ban, is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms the significant turnout and the event's role as a protest against government policies restricting LGBTQ+ rights. The large participation reflects a broader societal pushback against the government's attempts to limit freedoms and rights, particularly for marginalized communities.
Sources
- Around 100000 march in Budapest Pride event in defiance ... NPR
- Budapest Pride Parade Was Bigger Than Ever, Despite ... The New York Times
- Huge crowds pack Budapest as banned Pride swells into ... Reuters
