Hungary: Momentum Party plans march in Budapest May 1

Event

The recently formed Momentum Party is scheduled to hold a protest march in Budapest on Monday, May 1. According to the United States Embassy in Budapest, the march will be held from 18:00 to 22:00 (local time). Participants will gather at Szabadság tér before marching to Hősök tere in District 14. Expect increased security measures and localized traffic disruptions around the protest.

Context

Supporters of the Momentum Party are demonstrating in support of the Central European University (CEU). They are also denouncing a piece of legislation that would regulate NGOs that receive foreign funding.

Significant protests have been taking place since April 2 against the closure of the CEU. Although no notable incidents of violence have been reported to date, the risk of clashes is relatively high. The biggest demonstrations in the country since 2014 took place in Budapest on April 9; 50,000 to 80,000 individuals reportedly took part.

The bill passed by the government stipulates that without a relevant inter-state agreement, no foreign higher education institution is allowed to operate in Hungary. The bill is seen by protesters (both Hungarians and foreigners) as an attack on independent educational institutions. The Constitutional Court is expected to decide on the constitutional validity of the law.

Advice

Individuals in Budapest are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution and to keep abreast of the situation.