Budapest now stands as the European city with the most established rights protections. (Elena Buscemi)
Breaking the Barrier: Milan Stands with Budapest Amidst Oppression in Orbán's Hungary
The city of Milan is making a bold stand, joining the fight for civil rights and European values in Budapest, as the government of Viktor Orbán relentlessly opposes the Pride event. Elena Buscemi, President of the Milan City Council, is in Hungary for a three-day visit, representing Milan at the Pride.
Standing United in the Face of Adversity
On the eve of the parade in Budapest, what's the atmosphere like? According to Buscemi, "Not good. There's still no massive deployment of law enforcement, but organizers fear pressure or sabotage. The route of the parade hasn't been communicated yet." However, another point that struck her was the city still being adorned with posters from a recent referendum opposing Ukraine's entry into Europe, a testament to the strength of Russian propaganda in Hungary.
A Struggle for freedoms, Rights, and Europe's Values
Buscemi emphasizes Milan's participation in Budapest as a symbolic moment, a continuous fight for the protection of civil rights and European values. In these days, Budapest represents the European capital of rights, demands of the LGBTQIA+ communities, and a denunciation of every form of discrimination, advocating for inclusion, freedom, and democracy.
The Absence of Solidarity
Unfortunately, the Italian government, under the leadership of Giorgia Meloni, has been largely silent regarding the ban on the Pride event imposed by Orbán. When asked about this, Buscemi expresses concern, stating, "It's very serious that Meloni, as our country's representative, was one of the few Europeans not to express herself against the law that bans the manifestation in Hungary."
Risks and Threats
Participants in the Pride event risk fines and identification through facial recognition. While it's uncertain if these measures will be enforced during the parade, the potential consequences for those who march for rights in the future cannot be overlooked. Buscemi finds the actions of the Budapest Mayor courageous in the face of these threats.
A Question of Responsibility
Buscemi questions Italy's complicity in this compression of freedoms, emphasizing the need for strong voices from those who should condemn such stances and policies. She points out that some forces supporting Meloni's government are particularly close to Orbán, raising concerns about the influence of sovereignist right-wing trends in international politics.
Is Hungary Still Part of Europe's Democratic and Liberal Project?
While Hungary previously championed democratic and liberal values, the current political climate represents a stark departure. Buscemi laments that many other countries should be taking a stand against such repressive policies but are instead allowing Hungary to drift away, weakening Europe from within. She acknowledges the role of Russian propaganda in this shift, pushing Europe towards sovereignist positions or stances that are detrimental to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Despite the Italian government's silence, led by Giorgia Meloni, Milan stands as a beacon of solidarity, taking a firm stance against the oppressive policies in Orbán's Hungary. The average Italian may question their government's responsibility in this matter, as the struggle for freedom, rights, and European values becomes increasingly entwined with the politics of general-news.
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