Hungary Proposes Constitutional Changes Amid Rising Tensions Over LGBTQ Rights and National Sovereignty
Introduction to the Proposed Constitutional Changes
Hungary’s ruling party, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has introduced a set of proposed constitutional amendments that have sparked significant controversy both domestically and internationally. These changes aim to reshape key aspects of Hungarian law and society, focusing on issues such as LGBTQ rights, dual citizenship, and the protection of children. The amendments, submitted by the governing Fidesz party, reflect Orbán’s increasingly nationalist and conservative agenda, which has been a hallmark of his leadership since he came to power in 2010. The proposed changes come at a time when Orbán is preparing for elections in 2026, with his government facing challenges from a surging opposition and an economy recovering from an inflation crisis.
Targeting LGBTQ Rights and the Annual Pride March
One of the most contentious aspects of the proposed amendments is a potential ban on Hungary’s annual Pride March, a celebration of the LGBTQ community. The amendment emphasizes the protection of children’s physical, mental, and moral development over all other rights. Critics argue that this clause could be used to justify restrictions on LGBTQ events, including the Pride March, by claiming that such gatherings might harm children or undermine their moral well-being. This move aligns with Orbán’s repeated criticism of LGBTQ individuals and his government’s broader efforts to marginalize the LGBTQ community. By targeting the Pride March, Orbán appears to be signaling a further crackdown on LGBTQ rights ahead of the 2026 elections, a strategy that may appeal to his conservative base.
Cracking Down on Dual Citizenship and National Sovereignty
Another key provision in the proposed amendments targets dual citizenship. Under the new rules, Hungarian citizens who also hold citizenship of another country could be expelled if their actions are deemed to threaten Hungary’s national sovereignty, public order, territorial integrity, or security. This measure reflects Orbán’s growing mistrust of foreign influence and his desire to consolidate power. The amendment is widely seen as an attempt to further insulate Hungary from external criticism, particularly from Western countries and organizations that have often clashed with Orbán over issues like press freedom and democratic governance. The expulsion clause could also have implications for Hungarian citizens who are critical of Orbán’s government, as it creates a legal framework for penalizing dissent.
Embracing Conservative Values and Limiting Rights
The proposed amendments also enshrine the recognition of only two sexes, male and female, in the Hungarian constitution. This move is part of a broader push by Orbán’s government to promote traditional values and reject what it sees as the intrusion of liberal ideologies from the West. The constitutional change mirrors similar rhetoric from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has also backed the idea of limiting recognition to two sexes. Additionally, the amendments include a provision guaranteeing the right to cash payments, a policy that has been championed by Hungary’s far-right groups. This measure is ostensibly aimed at addressing public distrust in banks, but it also aligns with Orbán’s efforts to appeal to his populist base by promoting policies that resonate with rural and conservative voters.
Motivations Behind the Proposed Changes
The timing of these proposed amendments is not coincidental. Orbán faces a major challenge in the 2026 elections, with a newly unified opposition posing the strongest threat to his rule in over a decade. By introducing these changes, Orbán is attempting to shore up support among his core voters by championing issues that resonate with them, such as traditional values, national sovereignty, and economic populism. The amendments also serve to further centralize power in Orbán’s hands, allowing him to consolidate control over key areas of Hungarian society and governance. Critics argue that these changes are part of a broader effort to undermine democracy and the rule of law in Hungary, a country that has seen a steady erosion of democratic institutions under Orbán’s leadership.
The Broader Implications of Orbán’s Agenda
The proposed constitutional changes reflect Orbán’s broader vision for Hungary, one that is deeply nationalist, conservative, and increasingly isolated from the rest of Europe. By targeting LGBTQ rights, dual citizenship, and traditional values, Orbán isE position[ing] himself as a defender of Hungarian identity and sovereignty. However, these moves have drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, opposition parties, and international allies who view them as a step backward for democracy and human rights in Hungary. As the country approaches the 2026 elections, the outcome will not only determine the future of Orbán’s rule but also the direction of Hungary’s relationship with the rest of the world. Whether these proposed amendments will be passed and enforced remains to be seen, but they are undeniably a significant milestone in Orbán’s ongoing efforts to reshape Hungary in his image.
