The new law bans Pride events and allows authorities to use facial recognition software to identify attenders and potentially fine them. Image credit: Shutterstock.
MPs in Hungary have voted to ban Pride and allow facial recognition to identify and potentially fine anyone who attends Pride events.
MU members who may be affected can contact their Regional Office for advice on their rights at work.
The MU stands in solidarity with LGBTQ+ communities globally
Differing attitudes and legal frameworks mean that LGBTQ+ musicians aren’t always safe when touring and can face high levels of discrimination and violence.
Some musicians are forced to hide parts of their identity to protect themselves, which can negatively impact their mental health and their careers.
The Musicians Census: LGBTQ+ Musicians Insight Report details the experiences of LGBTQ+ musicians in the UK, revealing:
- 37% of LGBTQ+ musicians travelled internationally for work in the past year
- Over a third (37%) have experienced or witnessed discrimination based on sexuality whilst working as a musician
- Over half of trans respondents experienced discrimination based on their gender identity and 39% of musicians who identify their gender in another way have experienced discrimination based on their gender identity.
All countries should be safe for all people
The current backlash against global LGBTQ+ communities impacts us all. Regressive crackdowns are often exported, emboldening anti-LGBTQ+ movements everywhere.
We call on the UK Government to intensify efforts to end abuses of LGBT+ people internationally and ensure that LGBT+ musicians can tour music work safely.
MU members will be discussing this issue at the next LGBT+ Members Network meeting this month, and raising this issue at TUC LGBT+ Workers’ Conference in July 2025.
You can find more information about building more inclusive working environments for LGBT+ musicians in our 12 recommendations for the government and the music industry.