7
Jul
2021
Watch
Breaches of EU law and of the rights of LGBTIQ citizens in Hungary as a result of the adopted legal changes in the Hungarian Parliament - The outcome of 22 June hearings under Article 7(1) of the TEU regarding Poland and Hungary (debate)
Mr President, when my niece was born I gave her a picture book called Filola wants a crocodile. In this book, Filola’s mums go out on a mission to find her a crocodile for her birthday. Mums, yes, because I want her to know that having a gay aunt isn’t something to be embarrassed about, but can give you a life full of adventures. In Hungary, from tomorrow onwards, this is a crime, because it’s forbidden to teach children about different sexualities and identities. And I’ve heard the Commission say over and over, ‘this is not in line with European values’. So do something about it. Launch an accelerated infringement procedure, freeze EU funds, make use of all the tools you have. But I’m also calling on the Member States to act because you have been bystanders while bill after bill has diminished the rights of our community and not only in Hungary and Poland. But using our community as a distraction to undermine the rule of law will not change who we are or who we love. Our community is strong and we will continue to fight for our rights together.