The Hungarian parliament has approved a package of constitutional amendments that include a ban on LGBTQ+ events and provides a constitutional basis for denying recognition to transgender and intersex identities. The amendment was approved by the parliament with 140 votes in favor and 21 against and also allows the use of facial recognition to track and fine participants.
According to the constitutional amendment, "the rights of children to moral, physical and spiritual development prevail over any other fundamental right except the right to life, including the right to peaceful assembly."
The changes also concern the definition of gender. "A person's sex at birth is a biological characteristic and can be male or female," the approved text states, making it impossible to hold events that are considered contrary to traditional values.
The amendment also allows the use of facial recognition technology to identify and punish protest participants, raising serious concerns about the violation of privacy and civil rights.
Another aspect concerns the protection of sovereignty in the face of alleged foreign interference. The amendment provides for the possibility of suspending the citizenship of Hungarian citizens with dual citizenship if this poses a threat to national security. A maximum period of ten years is set, with the possibility of expulsion for those residing in Hungary.
Changes have also been made to the laws governing the state of emergency, limiting the government's ability to make decisions by decree without the authorization of a two-thirds majority in Parliament.
Under current regulations, the government can declare a state of emergency for 30 days, which can be extended by a two-thirds majority of the National Assembly for up to 180 days.
These measures have caused strong reactions from the opposition and international human rights organizations.
The vote was preceded by protests by opposition MPs and dissidents who attempted to block the entry of majority MPs into Parliament. Protests are also taking place in other parts of the capital. (A2 Televizion)
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