An unnamed Hungarian company is reportedly seeking permission to launch a new television and online channel under the name ‘Rainbow TV’, targeting LGBTQ audiences, Hungarian outlet Media1 has reported.
In an article published on Thursday, 23 April, Media1 stated that it had contacted the media entrepreneur who submitted the application to the Hungarian media authority. According to the representative, who preferred to remain anonymous, the channel currently under preparation would broadcast content 24 hours a day, combining the traditional television experience with the flexibility of modern, widely accessible online streaming. The company is currently awaiting a decision from the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH) to ‘ensure the possibility of providing the media service’.
The timing might not be coincidental. Under Hungary’s child protection law, amended in 2021 and 2024, it is prohibited to promote homosexuality and gender transition in media accessible to children.
However, on Tuesday, 21 April, the European Court of Justice (CJEU) ruled that the Hungarian legislation violates EU law by ‘stigmatizing and marginalizing LGBTQ individuals’, breaching core principles such as human dignity and freedom of expression. It also stated that the legislation infringes on the internal market and data protection rules. The Court further found that the law is incompatible with ‘a society in which pluralism prevails’ and cannot be justified by reference to national identity.
The ruling is considered a landmark, as for the first time the Court based its decision directly on Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union—its fundamental values clause—as a standalone legal ground, establishing that systemic violations of minority rights can trigger direct judicial enforcement at the EU level.
Outgoing Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán criticized the ruling, warning of a ‘Brusselian steamroller’ targeting national sovereignty and traditional values. It is now up to the incoming Tisza government, led by Péter Magyar, to decide whether to comply with the ruling or face further punitive measures from the European Commission. As one of its main campaign promises was to secure the release of currently frozen EU funds, it is likely to comply; however, it has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
According to Media1, Rainbow TV’s programme schedule would be curated in accordance with the Media Council’s classification guidelines, with ‘particular attention’ to the ‘protection of children and respect for social norms’, while avoiding ‘divisive ideologies’.
‘Among our unencrypted (freely accessible) content, there will be premium cultural and entertainment programmes available to everyone during the day, including arts and music shows (featuring both classical and modern creators), gastronomic programmes (showcasing flavours and experiences from around the world), as well as talk shows and biographical interviews with inspiring conversations and personal stories, and programmes presenting the history of the LGBTIQ community. Rainbow TV will also include encrypted content: in the case of 18+ material, as a responsible media provider, we will ensure that such content is accessible exclusively to adult subscribers, with appropriate technical safeguards in line with legal requirements,’ the owner of the company said.
The owner of Rainbow TV added that, prior to the launch of the new LGBTQ channel, they would ‘come out into the open’ on Media1 and announce further details in an interview there first.
Related articles:
At a time when public debate is increasingly polarized and superficial, Hungarian Conservative remains committed to depth, intellectual honesty, and independent conservative thought.
Producing high-quality journalism requires resources. Your contribution helps us expand our coverage, reach new audiences, and keep our content accessible.
Please consider supporting our mission.
