Budapest Protests: Orbán's Crackdown on NGOs Sparks International Concern

Budapest Protests: Orbán's New Law Sparks Concerns Over Democracy A large protest erupted in Budapest on May 20, 2025, against a controversial new bill proposed by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The law aims to restrict foreign funding for non-commercial organizations and media, drawing immediate comparisons to Russia's restrictive laws targeting NGOs. The demonstration, which took place in front of the Parliament building, saw thousands of Hungarians voicing their opposition. "This is not just about money; it's about our freedom," said one protester, echoing the widespread sentiment. Many fear the law will stifle dissent and limit the ability of independent media to operate freely. The video shows a diverse group of people, from young activists to older citizens, united in their concern. The EU has expressed serious reservations about the law, with European Commissioner for Democracy and Rule of Law, Michael McGrath, stating that the legislation represents a serious threat to democratic norms. The EU's potential response, including possible sanctions, is a key concern. The video shows footage of EU officials discussing the situation. The protests highlight a growing tension between the Orbán government and its critics. The long-term implications of this law for Hungarian democracy and its relationship with the EU remain to be seen. The widespread participation in the protest demonstrates the depth of public concern about the erosion of democratic principles.