The Hungarian parliament has passed constitutional amendments to outlaw public LGBTQ+ events. Along with that, it has given the state the power to use “facial recognition” tech to ID those who break the law. It will also have the power to strip dual nationals of their citizenship for 10 years. The moves are backed by its authoritarian leader, Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The changes add greater power to a law passed in March that targets LGBTQ+ people. The amendments declare that only two genders exist. The country's constitution now insists that the state must uphold this “natural order.” It also places the “moral, physical, and spiritual” rights of children above all other rights except the right to life. The amendments make the yearly June 28 Pride march in Budapest illegal. Those who take part in it face fines of up to $546. That's roughly a month’s minimum wages. Cameras will also be used to ID people. “The international gender network must take its hands off our children,” said Orban. He insists the changes to the constitution are needed. He says they combat “woke ideology” and “gender madness.” The new law also allows the state to strip dual nationals of their citizenship for 10 years. The state may do so if they take part in groups funded by foreign groups. Critics say Orban is launching his latest anti-LGBTQ+ campaign to shore up support ahead of next year’s election. "It's not just about Pride," David Bedo told the BBC. He's an opposition member of Parliament. "This is only the first step they're taking." Reflect: What might happen when a government targets specific communities with new laws or restrictions? Photo of protesters carrying flags during a demonstration after the Hungarian parliament voted on constitutional amendments targeting the LGBTQ+ community, from Reuters.
