### Tens of Thousands Protest in Budapest Over Child Abuse Scandal, Demanding Orbán's Resignation In a significant display of public dissent, over 50,000 people gathered in Budapest on December 14, 2025, to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. This mass protest was ignited by shocking allegations of child abuse within state-run juvenile facilities, following the release of a disturbing video that depicted the mistreatment of children in a correctional institution. The protest was organized by Péter Magyar, the leader of the opposition, who has positioned himself as Orbán's main political rival ahead of the upcoming elections. The outcry reflects growing frustration with Orbán's government, which has faced scrutiny over similar issues in the past year [https://lnginnorthernbc.ca/2025/12/15/tens-of-thousands-in-budapest-demanded-orbans-resignation, https://www.firstpost.com/world/thousands-march-in-hungary-demanding-orbans-resignation-over-child-abuse-scandal-13959529.html]. ### Structure of the Protest and Political Implications 1. **Background of the Scandal**: The protests were triggered by a leaked video showing abuse in a juvenile detention center, which has reignited public outrage over the government's handling of child welfare issues [https://www.euronews.com/2025/12/14/tens-of-thousands-protest-in-budapest-over-alleged-child-abuse-in-hungarys-state-run-insti]. 2. **Demonstration Details**: The protests were characterized by a large turnout, with demonstrators carrying soft toys and torches, symbolizing the innocence of the children affected by the abuse [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/soft-toys-torches-and-slogans-why-thousands-are-on-the-streets-in-hungary-seeking-pms-exit-key-points/articleshow/125956879.cms]. 3. **Political Context**: The protests come at a critical time, just four months before parliamentary elections, increasing pressure on Orbán's administration and potentially impacting the political landscape in Hungary [https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/protests-over-children-in-hungary-orban-sparks-1765666519.html]. 4. **Opposition Leadership**: Péter Magyar's leadership of the protests highlights the growing political challenge to Orbán, as he calls for accountability and reform in the wake of the scandal [https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/orbns-rival-leads-protest-alleged-child-abuse-hungarys-128377292]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Protest Attendance**: Reports indicate that more than **50,000** individuals participated in the protests, marking one of the largest demonstrations against Orbán's government in recent years [https://famagusta-gazette.com/thousands-protest-in-budapest-demand-orbans-resignation]. - **Public Sentiment**: The protests reflect a significant shift in public sentiment, with many citizens expressing dissatisfaction with the government's handling of child welfare and human rights issues [https://devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3730151-protests-ignite-over-child-abuse-scandal-in-hungary-orban-under-fire]. ### Conclusion: A Turning Point for Hungarian Politics The recent protests in Budapest signify a pivotal moment in Hungarian politics, as **public outrage over child abuse allegations has united thousands against Prime Minister Viktor Orbán**. The following points summarize the key findings: 1. **Mass Mobilization**: Over 50,000 people protested, demanding Orbán's resignation due to child abuse scandals in state facilities [https://lnginnorthernbc.ca/2025/12/15/tens-of-thousands-in-budapest-demanded-orbans-resignation]. 2. **Political Pressure**: The protests are expected to increase political pressure on Orbán's government, especially with elections approaching [https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/protests-over-children-in-hungary-orban-sparks-1765666519.html]. 3. **Opposition Strength**: Péter Magyar's role in leading the protests positions him as a formidable challenger to Orbán, potentially reshaping the political landscape in Hungary [https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/orbns-rival-leads-protest-alleged-child-abuse-hungarys-128377292]. This situation underscores the critical intersection of social issues and political accountability in Hungary, as citizens demand justice and reform in the face of systemic failures.