Hungary prepares launch of LGBT channel amid EU policy shift

Illustrative image of Rainbow TV channel. Photo: Media1

On April 23, 2026, an application was submitted in Hungary to launch a 24-hour LGBT television channel, Rainbow TV, Media1 reports.

The applicant has already applied to the National Media and Infocommunications Authority for a broadcasting license. The new project is planned as both a television and online channel with round-the-clock content available via broadcast and internet platforms.

The initiative emerged shortly after a ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union, which found provisions of Hungary’s “child protection” law unlawful. That law had restricted the distribution of LGBT-related content, but the court stated that such measures violate human rights and conflict with European legislation.

According to Media1, the owner of the channel has not yet disclosed their identity but said the project will target a broad audience. The programming is expected to include cultural and entertainment shows, arts and music programs, culinary content, as well as talk shows and interviews. A separate segment will focus on the history and life of the LGBT community.

It has also been stated that the content will be structured according to age classifications. The open portion of the broadcast will be available to all viewers, while 18+ material is expected to be restricted through technical measures and made accessible only to adults.

The project’s authors emphasize that they intend to comply with existing regulations and social requirements, including child protection. The initiators are currently awaiting the regulator’s decision on the license and do not rule out that additional details about the launch will be announced in the near future.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that a transgender U.S. congressmember had announced being “ordained” in a Protestant church.

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