Criticism mounts as controversial Hungarian law targeting LGBT community heads to EU Court of Justice

Hungary’s controversial Child Protection Law, criticized for being anti-LGBT, faces its first hearing at the EU’s Court of Justice. The law, aiming to protect children from sex offenders, also restricts depictions of homosexuality and gender reassignment in media for those under 18. Critics say it violates children’s rights and contributes to a climate of fear. The European Parliament condemned the law and Hungary faced infringement proceedings, leading to a referral to the Court of Justice. Despite a failed referendum, Hungary defended the law, citing public support. The law’s model was inspired by a similar Russian legislation, deemed unlawful by the European Court of Human Rights. Fifteen EU countries have joined the lawsuit against Hungary. Eurochild, a children’s rights organization, insists that the law risks harming the children it claims to protect and highlights the importance of healthy development and freedom of expression for children. The law sparked debates over democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights within the EU. The hearing will determine if Hungary’s law complies with EU law and fundamental rights. The outcome of this legal battle at the EU level will be closely followed by both supporters and critics of the controversial Hungarian Child Protection Act.

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