Hungary Pride goes ahead, defying Orban threat of 'legal consequences'

Tens of thousands have gathered for the LGBTQ march in Budapest, despite a police ban and warning from PM Viktor Orban.

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Organisers of the march hope for a record attendance, despite mounting pressure from nationalist conservative politicians and police to stop any display of pro-LGBTQ material.

The police issued a ban in line with a new "child protection" law restricting gatherings considered to be promoting homosexuality. One woman said she was attending because she wants a country of "diversity" for her children.

Orban downplayed the possibility of violent clashes between police and participants, but warned of potential legal repercussions for attendees.

"Of course, the police could break up such events, because they have the authority to do so, but Hungary is a civilised country, a civic society. We don't hurt each other," he told state radio on Friday.