The EU Court of Justice has ruled that Poland must recognise same-sex marriages conducted abroad, specifically in the case of two Polish citizens married in Germany. The decision establishes that refusing recognition of such marriages violates EU law, particularly the fundamental right of freedom of movement for EU citizens. This ruling is a significant step for the protection of same-sex couples, especially in EU countries that do not currently provide legal recognition or protections, including Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia, Lithuania, and Poland. ILGA-Europe supported the applicants and their legal team in this landmark case, emphasizing the urgency for the European Commission to ensure swift implementation of the judgment across the EU.
In Hungary, Géza Buzás-Hábel, a teacher and organiser of Pécs Pride, faces criminal charges for coordinating the only Pride event outside Budapest. The march, held in October 2024 despite a local ban on Pride events, could result in up to one year of imprisonment and the loss of his teaching rights if he is convicted. This case highlights the broader European challenge of protecting individuals who organise peaceful demonstrations. Human rights advocates call for EU-level intervention, including infringement procedures and interim measures, to prevent criminalisation of peaceful protest.
Meanwhile, Kazakhstan is moving to ban so-called LGBTI “propaganda,” following a vote by the lower chamber of parliament in favour of the legislation. The provisions will now proceed to the Senate and then to the President for signature before becoming law. International solidarity and advocacy are urged to challenge this move, with activists and organisations encouraged to raise concerns with their governments, amplify public awareness, and support media coverage. Local voices in Kazakhstan remain ready to speak out, and global support is seen as critical to resisting discriminatory legislation.
