Hungary Proposes Constitutional Changes Targeting LGBTQ Rights and Dual Citizens

Hungary's governing Fidesz party, headed by nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, has recently proposed significant amendments to the country's constitution. These proposed changes could substantially impact the rights of LGBTQ communities and individuals holding dual citizenship.

One notable amendment seeks to prioritize the protection of children's physical, mental, and moral development above all other rights. Critics argue this is a veiled way to potentially ban the annual LGBTQ Pride March. If authorities interpret this march as negatively influencing children's development, they could legally restrict or ban the event, effectively limiting LGBTQ citizens' rights to free assembly. The Hungarian government is reportedly focusing on restricting the Pride March in advance of elections scheduled for next year.

Another proposed constitutional amendment would allow for the expulsion of Hungarian citizens who also hold citizenship in another country, should they be considered a threat to Hungary's national sovereignty, territorial integrity, public order, or security. This amendment would grant the government increased power over dual citizens who engage in activities deemed harmful to national interests.

Additionally, the constitutional changes seek to define gender explicitly, recognizing only two biological sexes—male and female. This aligns closely with the views expressed previously by former U.S. President Donald Trump, underscoring Prime Minister Orban's alignment with conservative social policies.

Furthermore, Hungary's constitutional reforms propose the formal establishment of a right to cash payments, reflecting longstanding mistrust towards banks advocated by Hungarian far-right politicians and activists. The implication is a deeper skepticism of financial institutions, likely intended to appeal to citizens wary of banking systems.

Prime Minister Orban, who has led Hungary since 2010, is facing upcoming elections in 2026 amidst challenges such as emerging political threats, economic uncertainty, and a newly strengthened opposition party increasing its resistance to his administration. His recent statements and proposed constitutional measures align closely with his long-established conservative and nationalist rhetoric, signaling a determination to maintain authority and appeal to core conservative voters leading up to and during the upcoming election cycle.