EU Commission President von der Leyen Records a Video Message
In a valiant move to safeguard the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen boldly steps up her game. Rather than resorting to litigation, she refrains from imposing strict sanctions on the Orbán government, which relentlessly tramples human rights by banning the Budapest Pride. Instead, von der Leyen, standing tall as the EU's most powerful woman, shares a heartfelt message on social media, pleading for the Pride parade to be allowed to take place, and pledging her unwavering support with the words: "To the LGBTIQ+ community in Hungary and beyond: I stand with you." Impressive, isn't it? What bravery!
For far too long, the Hungarian administration has been stripping away the rights of the queer community. With laws prohibiting Pride parades and extensive public surveillance, it's evident that they are blatantly violating EU laws and the European Charter of Fundamental Rights.
It's only right that von der Leyen is now taking firm action, finally walking the talk. Unfortunately, Orbán retaliates, admonishing von der Leyen to mind her own business. Well, what's a girl to do? The power dynamics are what they are.
But here's an idea: von der Leyen could pair her video with a triumphant Hungarian anthem, penned by a Hungarian artist, to silence Orbán for certain. I'll find the perfect tune - for the rights of the queer community!
Now, let's talk about what else von der Leyen could do. She could push for EU legal action, urging the European Commission to open infringement procedures against Hungary for breaching EU laws that protect fundamental rights, including LGBTQ+ rights[4]. This includes demanding interim measures against Hungary’s anti-LGBTQ legislation that bans pride marches like Budapest Pride.
Another option would be to rally other EU leaders to collectively demand that Hungary lifts its ban on LGBTQ+ events and respects freedom of assembly. This could involve coordinated diplomatic demarches, travel advisories warning against Hungarian government repression, and public statements condemning Hungary's actions[2][3].
The EU, under her leadership, could also offer practical support for those attending or organizing the banned Pride march. This could involve facilitating safe passage, offering legal aid, and providing security measures[1][5].
Lastly, a stirring Hungarian soundtrack, created as a rallying cry for the LGBTQ+ community, could serve as a potent cultural and emotional catalyst by raising awareness, amplifying visibility, motivating activists, and attracting media attention[1][2][3][4][5]. Such a unique initiative would further spotlight the plight and resistance of Hungary’s LGBTQ+ population, making a lasting impression both inside and beyond Hungary’s borders.
- Von Der Leyen could utilize social media not only for her heartfelt message but also to share updates about policy-and-legislation efforts, such as urging the European Commission to open infringement procedures against Hungary for breaching EU laws that protect LGBTQ+ rights.
- To amplify her support for the LGBTQ+ community and assert her position on the issue, von Der Leyen might consider using entertainment, combining her video message with a powerful Hungarian anthem, penned by a Hungarian artist, to stir emotions and draw attention to the cause.
- In addition to legal action and music, von Der Leyen might collaborate with other EU leaders to issue general-news statements and enact strategies like coordinated diplomatic demarches or public statements condemning Hungary's actions against the LGBTQ+ community, as well as providing practical support for those attending or organizing banned Pride marches.