On a recent Tuesday, protests erupted across Budapest, with demonstrators blocking four major bridges to voice their opposition against restrictions on assembly rights and the prohibition of the Pride parade.

The protests were organized by independent MP Ákos Hadházy and the Momentum party, marking the third consecutive week of demonstrations on this issue.

Hadházy stated that protests would continue until the amendments to the assembly law are withdrawn, declaring plans for a 24-hour protest next week as part of the ongoing resistance.

Actor Tamás Lengyel expressed concerns that the ban on Pride was merely the beginning of a systematic marginalization of those who do not conform to societal norms.

Theologian Rita Perintfalvi criticized Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, suggesting that he could have been a figure of great potential but has instead resorted to authoritarianism.

Following speeches, a sizable crowd spilled onto the Szabadság Bridge, Petőfi Bridge, and Margit Bridge.

The rallies began around 5 PM at the Erzsébet Bridge, and by late evening, the protests had drawn police attention.

As night fell, traffic resumed on Szabadság Bridge shortly after 11 PM, although many protesters remained on the sidewalks.

The police established a heavy presence on the Szabadság and Margit Bridges, closely monitoring the demonstrators.

Reports indicated that interactions became tense, particularly as protesters began to chant demands and express discontent with police orders.

Some protesters claimed that police had vacated the bridges temporarily, allowing performers to entertain the crowd.

Hadházy made appeals for calm, encouraging protesters gathered at Erzsébet Bridge to leave peacefully, citing his concerns over escalating tensions.

However, this advice was met with some resistance, as demonstrators insisted on their right to remain and protest.

Diverse voices from the stage included activists, journalists, and culture figures, all framing their opposition within the broader historical context of rights and freedoms in Hungary.

While police initially attempted to disperse groups on the Margit and Szabadság Bridges, they later retreated, creating confusion among the protesters about the next steps.

At various points throughout the evening, tensions flared between modest groups of demonstrators and nearby motorists, resulting in confrontations as traffic was intermittently delayed.

The atmosphere of the protests reflected a growing frustration within segments of Hungarian society regarding recent legislative actions perceived as repressive.

Throughout the night, leaders within the Momentum party affirmed their commitment to continuing civil disobedience and planned further actions, including significant protest events aimed at garnering greater public attendance and visibility for their cause.

As the protests unfolded, a mix of determination and celebration marked the participants’ tenacity and solidarity in opposing the perceived erosion of democratic rights in Hungary.