Hungary Passes Anti-LGBTQ Law Allowing Anonymous Reporting on Same-Sex Parents: A Major Setback for LGBTQ Rights

 The recent passing of a bill in Hungary that enables citizens to anonymously report same-sex couples who are raising children to authorities has sparked outrage from LGBTQ advocates and human rights organizations around the world. The law, which was approved earlier this week, allows people to report those who contest the “constitutionally recognized role of marriage and the family” and those who contest children’s rights “to an identity appropriate to their sex at birth.”

Hungary's constitution protects the institution of marriage as a formation “between one man and one woman,” and also specifies “the mother is a woman, the father a man.” The passing of this bill is yet another move by Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s government to curb the rights of the country's LGBTQ community and effectively bar adoption for same-sex couples.

The passing of this bill is alarming, as it effectively promotes and institutionalizes discrimination against same-sex couples and their families. It also violates the rights of children who may have been born to same-sex parents or may identify as LGBTQ themselves.

This is not the first time that Hungary has come under fire for its discriminatory laws targeting the LGBTQ community. In 2021, Hungary passed a law that banned the portrayal of homosexuality and transgender issues to minors. This law was met with widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and European Union member states, with many calling for Hungary to be sanctioned for its actions.

In response to Hungary's continued disregard for the rights of the LGBTQ community, the European Commission brought a lawsuit before the European Court of Justice in 2022. A majority of member states have joined the lawsuit on the commission’s side, demonstrating that the international community is taking a firm stance against Hungary's discriminatory laws.

The passing of this bill highlights the need for continued advocacy and activism in support of the LGBTQ community, both within Hungary and around the world. Governments and institutions must work to promote equality and human rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

In conclusion, the passing of the bill in Hungary that enables citizens to anonymously report same-sex couples who are raising children to authorities is a dangerous move that promotes and institutionalizes discrimination against the LGBTQ community. It is important for governments and institutions to take a stand against such discriminatory laws and to promote equality and human rights for all.