Opinion

Let’s talk less about UEFA – and more about Hungary’s new anti-LGBT law

Where discrimination leads, corruption often follows. We need a combined strategy to tackle both

By Ellie McDonald and Matt Jenkins

Let’s talk less about UEFA – and more about Hungary’s new anti-LGBT law — Somebody runs on the pitch waving an LGBT+ flag during the national anthems at the Germany vs Hungary game, 23 June | Peter Schatz / Alamy Stock Photo

Published: July 01, 2021, 12:00 am

UEFA’s decision to block the illumination of the Allianz Arena in rainbow colours during Germany’s Euro 2020 match against Hungary brought homophobic laws and policies into the spotlight – for a few days at least. As a symbolic gesture of solidarity, the rainbow-festooned response was heartening.

Yet as the sound and fury subside – along with more than a pinch of commercial and political opportunism – discrimination against LGBTQI+ people continues to be a year-round reality for millions around the world.

Laws like those in Hungary and Russia that serve as a tool for outright discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation are sadly not uncommon. There are currently 67 UN Member States who criminalise consensual same-sex conduct.

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