Mass Protest Against Government's Proposed Transparency Law in Hungary
Thousands gather at Kossuth Square to voice opposition to legislation seen as a threat to civil society.
On June 10, 2023, a significant protest took place at Kossuth Square in Budapest, organized in response to a controversial bill known as the 'Transparency Law,' which critics argue could severely undermine the operations of civil society organizations in Hungary.
The bill, initially proposed by the Fidesz party, aimed to create a registry of organizations that do not solely represent government viewpoints.
This raised concerns that it would financially cripple independent organizations by restricting their funding sources.
During the protest, key figures including political activists and independent journalists delivered speeches criticizing the current government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Robert Puzsér, a prominent figure at the event, declared the start of civil resistance, emphasizing that the primary demand was for the government to resign.
The parliament was slated to vote on the bill, which had stirred public outcry for months.
However, at the protest's climax, it was announced that the proposal would be withdrawn, though many speakers noted that the threat to civil society remained, with the metaphorical 'gun still on the table.'
Numerous activists expressed their belief that continued vigilance and protest were necessary.
Ákos Hadházy, an independent member of parliament, highlighted the ongoing battle against what he termed a 'technical fascist surveillance state,' while urging supporters to maintain the pressure on the government.
Many speeches referenced the historical and cultural significance of resistance in Hungary, drawing parallels to past uprisings and expressing a commitment to democratic values.
The protest also featured performances from local musicians and artists, who contributed to the atmosphere of defiance and determination among the crowd.
As the event concluded peacefully, it became clear that despite the withdrawal of the proposed legislation, the sentiment of anger and dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to civil liberties would continue to fuel public demonstrations.
Activists pledged that the protests would persist, declaring a united front against perceived governmental overreach and advocating for transparency and accountability.
The bill, initially proposed by the Fidesz party, aimed to create a registry of organizations that do not solely represent government viewpoints.
This raised concerns that it would financially cripple independent organizations by restricting their funding sources.
During the protest, key figures including political activists and independent journalists delivered speeches criticizing the current government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Robert Puzsér, a prominent figure at the event, declared the start of civil resistance, emphasizing that the primary demand was for the government to resign.
The parliament was slated to vote on the bill, which had stirred public outcry for months.
However, at the protest's climax, it was announced that the proposal would be withdrawn, though many speakers noted that the threat to civil society remained, with the metaphorical 'gun still on the table.'
Numerous activists expressed their belief that continued vigilance and protest were necessary.
Ákos Hadházy, an independent member of parliament, highlighted the ongoing battle against what he termed a 'technical fascist surveillance state,' while urging supporters to maintain the pressure on the government.
Many speeches referenced the historical and cultural significance of resistance in Hungary, drawing parallels to past uprisings and expressing a commitment to democratic values.
The protest also featured performances from local musicians and artists, who contributed to the atmosphere of defiance and determination among the crowd.
As the event concluded peacefully, it became clear that despite the withdrawal of the proposed legislation, the sentiment of anger and dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to civil liberties would continue to fuel public demonstrations.
Activists pledged that the protests would persist, declaring a united front against perceived governmental overreach and advocating for transparency and accountability.
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