The European Court of Justice has ruled that Hungary must revoke its legislation prohibiting LGBTQ+ references in media accessible to minors. This decision underscores the court’s stance on upholding European Union laws regarding fundamental rights.
The ruling specifically addresses a 2021 Hungarian law that restricts or bans the portrayal of homosexuality and gender transition in children’s media. This legislation was enacted by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government as part of broader measures to protect children from harmful content.
The court’s chief legal advisor previously stated that Hungary has significantly deviated from the principles of constitutional democracy. He noted that the law promotes the notion that LGBTQ+ identities are inferior to heterosexual and cisgender identities.
“We welcome today’s landmark ruling. This is the first time a court has recognized such a violation of key provisions regarding EU values. The ball is now in Hungary’s court—the government must comply with the ruling,” commented European Commission spokesperson Eva Grinchirova.
The European Commission has indicated that it may impose financial penalties if Hungary fails to implement the court’s decision.
In response to the 2021 law, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the legislation as a disgrace, emphasizing the need for the Commission to ensure the rights of all EU citizens, regardless of their identity or residence.
Despite pressure from the EU, the Hungarian government has maintained its stance. In 2025, it enacted a ban on pride events and permitted police to use biometric cameras to identify organizers and participants, further straining relations with the EU.
“We have clearly stated that, according to the position of the ‘Tisza’ party and millions of Hungarians who support it, everyone can love whom they choose, as long as it does not violate the law or harm others. Hungary wants to be a country where no one is stigmatized for differing views, for loving another person, or for holding beliefs that differ from the majority,” said Péter Mándy after his election victory, expressing support for pride as an exercise of the right to assembly.
The European Court of Justice has mandated Hungary to repeal its restrictive LGBTQ+ media laws, emphasizing the importance of EU fundamental rights. The ruling follows Hungary's continued enforcement of controversial legislation despite EU criticism.