LGBTIQ rights in Hungary: debate with Council and Commission

Briefing – Newsletter 5-8 July 2021 – Strasbourg plenary session

MEPs will assess the risk of discrimination faced by LGBTIQ persons in Hungary, and the rule of law and fundamental rights situation in both Poland and Hungary.

On 15 June 2021, the Hungarian Parliament voted almost unanimously (157 votes to 1) in favour of rules that, under the guise of combatting paedophilia, restrict freedom of speech and children’s rights by banning LGBTIQ content from being featured in school educational materials or TV shows for under-18s. In a debate with the Council and the Commission on Wednesday morning, MEPs will assess whether EU laws are being breached, and what action is envisaged to protect the rights of children and LGBTIQ persons. A resolution will be put to the vote on Thursday.

MEPs will also quiz the Council and Commission about the two hearings held by the Council on the rule of law in Hungary and Poland on 22 June, the outcome of which has not been disclosed. Parliament has repeatedly expressed its concerns about the lack of progress in the Article 7 processes in relation to the situation in Hungary and Poland, and about the continued deterioration of EU values.

Debate: Wednesday 7 July

Vote Hungary: Thursday 8 July

Council and Commission statements