Protesters to demand resignation of Hungarian politician for anti-Roma remark

Thousands are expected to protest in Budapest, Hungary, demanding the resignation of János Lázár, a high-ranking politician, for making a racist remark against Roma people at a political forum earlier this month. Lázár suggested Roma people should clean trains, using a slur, to address the country's labor shortage, sparking widespread condemnation from Roma organizations, NGOs, and opposition politicians. While Lázár has apologized, he has refused to resign, even appearing with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at a party event. The scandal occurs ten weeks before an election where the ruling Fidesz party faces a challenge from the Tisza party, with some believing the remarks could alienate undecided voters. Roma communities in Hungary experience significant disparities and have long been scapegoated by the government.

Explore how the topics in this article connect to other news stories