Fact Check: Facial Recognition Software to Target Pride Participants
What We Know
On March 18, 2025, Hungarian lawmakers passed a controversial law that bans Pride events and permits the use of facial recognition software to identify individuals attending these events. This legislation was described as a "full-frontal attack" on the LGBTQ+ community by Amnesty International. The law amends Hungary's assembly regulations, making it an offense to hold or attend events that violate the country's "child protection" legislation, which restricts the depiction or promotion of homosexuality to minors under 18. Violators could face fines of up to 200,000 Hungarian forints (approximately $546) (AP News, The Guardian).
The law was passed with a significant majority, 136 votes in favor and 27 against, and was pushed through parliament in an expedited manner (AP News). Critics, including Budapest Pride organizers, argue that the law is designed to scapegoat the LGBTQ+ community and silence dissent against Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government (AP News, The Guardian).
Analysis
The claim that facial recognition software will be used to target Pride participants is substantiated by the text of the new law, which explicitly allows authorities to utilize such technology for identifying individuals at prohibited events (AP News, The Guardian). This legislative move is unprecedented in the European Union and aligns with Orbán's broader strategy of suppressing minority rights and dissent (Politico).
The reliability of the sources reporting this information is high. Both the Associated Press and The Guardian are reputable news organizations known for their journalistic standards. Amnesty International's condemnation of the law further adds credibility to the claim, as it highlights the potential human rights violations involved (The Guardian).
However, it is essential to note that while the law has been enacted, the actual implementation of facial recognition technology at Pride events remains to be seen. Critics warn that this could set a precedent for broader surveillance measures against other forms of protest and dissent (Politico, AP News).
Conclusion
The claim that Hungary's new law allows for the use of facial recognition software to target Pride participants is True. The law explicitly permits authorities to identify individuals attending banned events, which has raised significant concerns regarding civil liberties and human rights for the LGBTQ+ community in Hungary.
