BUDAPEST — The internationally renowned World Press Photo exhibition in Hungary’s National Museum finds itself at the center of a heated debate, following a decision by Hungary’s right-wing populist government to bar visitors under the age of 18. This move was prompted by a set of photos that allegedly violate a Hungarian law restricting LGBTQ+ content.
World Renowned Exhibition Under Scrutiny
The prestigious World Press Photo exhibition in Budapest, a beacon for photojournalism enthusiasts, attracts over four million global visitors annually. Its primary aim is to present pivotal global events through the lens of outstanding photojournalists. However, this year, it has faced unexpected challenges on its home turf due to a set of images that focus on the LGBTQ+ community.
The Photos in Question
A series of five poignant photos by Filipino photojournalist Hannah Reyes Morales became the center of contention. These images capture the lives of elderly LGBTQ+ individuals in the Philippines who have been living together and supporting each other for decades.
The portrayal of some of these individuals in drag and makeup led to a complaint by a far-right Hungarian lawmaker, resulting in the cultural ministry’s controversial decision.
International Reactions
Joumana El Zein Khoury, executive director of World Press Photo, expressed deep concern over the Hungarian government’s decision. She highlighted the positive and inclusive nature of Morales’ photo series and expressed shock over the unprecedented censorship in Europe.
Tamas Revesz, a long-standing organizer and former World Press Photo jury member in Hungary, drew attention to other images in the exhibition, such as those depicting the war in Ukraine. He argued that many other photos could be considered far more intense than Morales’ series.
Impact on the Youth
Approximately 50,000 individuals visit the exhibition in Hungary annually, with nearly half being students. The recent decision has effectively deprived thousands of Hungarian youth from witnessing world-class photojournalism, even those images devoid of any LGBTQ+ content.
Hungary’s Growing Restrictive Measures
This latest incident is part of a series of actions by Hungary’s government, under nationalist prime minister Viktor Orbán, to limit the portrayal of homosexuality in various media forms. Although termed a “child protection” law, introduced in 2021, it has faced immense backlash. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, even termed it “a disgrace”, leading to legal challenges from 15 EU countries.
Photographer Reyes Morales defended her work, emphasizing the inspirational nature of her subjects to the LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines.
Despite the global outcry, Hungary’s cultural ministry remains silent, opting not to respond to interview requests.
Closing Thoughts
As the world watches, the debate over freedom of expression and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community in Hungary continues to intensify. The incident at the World Press Photo exhibition serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community worldwide, even in spaces dedicated to free expression and journalism.
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