There is growing international condemnation of a new Hungarian law that bans any depiction homosexuality to those under 18. Under the new law, the Harry Potter films, Bridget Jones Diary, and episodes of the NBC sitcom "Friends" would have to be aired after 10 pm. Sitcoms like "Modern Family" and films such as "Billy Elliott" and "Philadelphia" would be banned altogether.
Fourteen EU governments including France, Germany, Spain and Ireland have condemned the new law as a "flagrant form of discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression". The UK has also spoken out against it. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen says it will be examined for any breach of EU law.
Hungary's footballers play their final Euro 2020 group game in Munich against Germany on Wednesday evening and Mayor Dieter Reiter had planned to light up the Allianz Arena in rainbow colous as a gesture of solidarity.
Viktor Orban's ultra-conservative government has hit back against the international outcry, insisting the law only aims to protect children. The Hungarian government champions conservative family values, and the new law is the latest thread in a tapestry of laws stigmatizing same-sex relationships. Last year, the government banned most same-sex couples from every adopting children.
An Ipsos public opinion survey earlier this year suggested that 46% of Hungarians accepted same-sex marriage - up from 30% only eight years ago. Hungarian national team goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi spoke out recently in support of more tolerance for "rainbow families". Civil rights groups have also been buoyed by a wave of support, including two sizeable demonstrations against the law, and by the outpouring of international solidarity.
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