Hungary’s parliament is set to vote Monday on constitutional amendments that would further restrict the rights of LGBTQ people and others, as part of what Prime Minister Viktor Orbán calls an “Easter cleanup” targeting his political opponents.
Since returning to power in 2010, Orbán has led a nationalist government that has gradually curtailed the rights of LGBTQ communities, the media, judiciary, and academic institutions. In a speech last month, he referred to critics as “stink bugs” and promised a legislative crackdown this spring.
One of the proposed amendments affirms that individuals can only be recognized as biologically male or female, mirroring similar policies supported by Orbán’s ally, former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Another controversial change would allow the government to “temporarily” revoke citizenship from individuals with dual or multiple nationalities — a move widely seen as targeting figures like Hungarian-American billionaire George Soros, who is often the subject of government-backed conspiracy theories.
The vote is expected to take place shortly after 5:00 p.m. (1500 GMT). Orbán’s Fidesz party and its coalition partner hold a two-thirds majority, making the passage of the amendments likely.
Opposition groups, including the liberal Momentum party, have called for protests and even a blockade of the parliament. Thousands have already demonstrated against recent legislation designed to block this year’s Pride Parade.
In addition to the gender identity restriction, another clause emphasizes that a child’s “proper physical, mental, and moral development” takes precedence over most fundamental rights — except the right to life. Critics say this is aimed at legally justifying the ban on the Pride event.
The provision on citizenship would allow the government to revoke Hungarian citizenship for up to 10 years and expel those affected from the country. However, citizens from other EU countries and certain European nations would be exempt.
More than 30 Hungarian legal scholars have condemned the proposed legislation as a violation of international law and human rights norms.
Analysts warn the changes are yet another step in Hungary’s drift toward authoritarianism. “It’s a form of soft Putinism,” said Szabolcs Pék, lead analyst at the Iránytű Intézet think tank. “People aren’t falling out of windows, but the space for civil society and the opposition is shrinking.”
Observers believe the moves are also politically motivated — aimed at regaining control of the national agenda, rallying conservative voters, and undermining rising opposition ahead of next year’s elections. In particular, they could be a political trap for Peter Magyar, a former Orbán ally whose new TISZA party is gaining momentum. Taking a stand on LGBTQ issues could cost him conservative support, while staying silent may alienate liberal voters.
