World News for Students of English

02-07-2025 07:00

Tens of thousands of people gathered in Budapest to mark the 30th anniversary of Pride despite an official ban from the Hungarian government.

Many attendees, including European politicians and first-time marchers, joined to support LGBTQ+ rights and civil liberties. Greta Thunberg also took part and strongly criticized Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s policies, calling the ban a threat to human rights. Although Pride was banned, far-right groups were allowed to march with police permission. This double standard caused criticism. Opposition leader Péter Magyar didn’t attend, stating he was on holiday with his sons. However, he posted a supportive message online, calling for unity and the protection of all Hungarians.

Analysts believe Orbán used the ban to pressure Magyar to speak about liberal topics, possibly to divide his voter base. Still, Pride became a symbol of resistance. Even with tight police control and threats from the government, the march ended without major incidents. Participants showed courage and called for freedom and equality.

Difficult words: civil liberty (a basic right to be free and treated equally), voter base (the core group of supporters who always vote for a political party), resistance (fighting against control or unfair treatment).

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