Hungary's Shocking New Legislation

Hungary, Europe's most right-wing country and a top spot for filming, is making headlines for its shocking new ban on LGBTQ+ public events. The Hungarian parliament recently passed an amendment to the constitution that enshrines a law forbidding any event that violates the nation’s so-called ‘child protection’ legislation, which prohibits the depiction or promotion of homosexuality to anyone under 18.

Big Brother Tactics in Enforcement

To enforce this draconian ban, the Hungarian government plans to deploy facial recognition technology to identify attendees at LGBTQ+ events like the famed Budapest Pride, with fines reaching up to 200,000 forints (approximately $546) for offenders.

A History of Hostility

This isn’t Hungary’s first foray into anti-LGBTQ+ legislation; back in 2021, a similar law prohibited content promoting homosexuality and gender change. While the earlier law faced backlash from networks like HBO and A+E Networks, it didn’t significantly deter major Hollywood productions from flocking to the country, which offers a generous 30% production incentive.

Hollywood Shrugs Off Backlash

Interestingly, the response from Hollywood this time around has been alarmingly muted. As the film industry cautiously navigates the political landscape shaped by the conservative Trump era, many seem to have lost their appetite for taking a stand against such blatant discrimination.

An independent studio chief candidly notes, 'It won’t be an issue. Georgia and North Carolina have similar conservative laws and productions continue to thrive there. Media companies have already capitulated to the Trump administration; there’s little incentive for them to suddenly rediscover their moral compass over Hungary.'

Hollywood Projects Keep Coming

Despite the political climate, Hungary still attracts high-profile productions. Upcoming films include the Cold War thriller 'Billion Dollar Spy' starring Russell Crowe, 'Dune 3' featuring Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, and '3 Body Problem' for Netflix. Recent months have seen an influx of international projects shoot in the country, casting doubt on the film industry’s commitments to social issues.

Industry Voices on LGBTQ+ Safety

When asked about the implications of these laws for LGBTQ+ crew and actors, Hungary’s film commissioner, Csaba Kael, insists that the new constitutional amendment is solely about child protection and states that there are no restrictions for film crews working in Hungary. He dismissed concerns from the LGBTQ+ community, asserting that 'they have no reason to be concerned.'

Political Motivation Behind the Laws?

Critics argue that these measures are more about rallying Viktor Orbán's right-wing base ahead of elections than actual child protection, stirring a troubling sentiment within both Hungary and the global community. As Hollywood continues to capitalize on Hungary's production benefits, many are left questioning the price of profit in light of fundamental human rights infringements.