EU nations poised to voice apprehension regarding Hungary’s laws aimed at LGBTQ+ individuals, draft reveals.

Over a dozen European nations are anticipated to release a statement expressing they are “deeply concerned” regarding Hungarian laws aimed at LGBTQ+ individuals, based on a draft reviewed by Reuters on Monday.

In March, Hungary’s parliament enacted a law to prohibit the yearly Pride march and permitted police to utilize facial recognition cameras for identifying attendees. It also sanctioned amendments in April that enshrine in the constitution Hungary’s recognition of only two genders, male and female.

“We are highly alarmed by these developments which run contrary to the fundamental values of human dignity, freedom, equality and respect for human rights,” the signatories, which include countries such as the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Finland and Sweden, wrote.

The announcement arrives before a routine meeting set for Tuesday in which European Union ministers will address the potential significant violation by Hungary of the union’s principles.

The administration of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, in power since 2010, has consistently confronted the EU and its member states regarding democratic norms, minority rights, and foreign policy issues. Detractors have alleged that Orban is eroding rule of law principles, a claim the Hungarian government has dismissed.

The governing Fidesz party has claimed that the Pride march may pose risks to children, asserting that their protection would take precedence over the right to gather. In the preliminary statement, signatories urged Hungary to modify the actions.

They also asked the European Commission “to expeditiously make full use of the rule of law toolbox at its disposal in case these measures are not revised accordingly”.