At the Pride Parade in Budapest, also the Slovenian minister
Ljubljana/Budapest – The pride parade in Budapest on Saturday, which was banned by the Hungarian authorities, was also attended by the Slovenian Minister for Solidarity and Future Simon Maljevac. According to a statement from the Left party, Maljevac’s participation signifies a gesture of solidarity with the Hungarian LGBTIQ+ community, after Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government prohibited the event in March with a law.
“At a time when right-wing populism attacks the rights of women, minorities, and all those who dare to be different, it is crucial that we remain loud, present, and visible. Even where they would prefer to silence us. An open society is not defended by silence, but by solidarity and courage,” Minister Maljevac stated.
The Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned citizens on Friday that Hungarian authorities consider participation in the parade illegal. They also pointed out the increased security risk due to the announced demonstrations against the parade.
Support for the pride parade was expressed in a joint statement by 33 countries, including most EU member states, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. To the LGBTIQ+ community in Hungary and elsewhere, von der Leyen stated, among other things, that she will always be their ally. (June 26, 27, and 28)
