Thousands of students and other opponents of Prime Minister Viktor Orban's administration took part in an anti-government "freedom march" in Budapest on March 15 calling for educational reforms and a change in the Central European country's political culture. The protests coincided with a national holiday commemorating the 175th anniversary of Hungary's unsuccessful 1848 uprising against Habsburg rule.
'Freedom March' In Hungary Calls For Educational Reforms And Political Change
Protesters carry a large Hungarian flag as they take part in an anti-government demonstration in Budapest on March 15.
Organized by teachers' unions and student groups, the peaceful "freedom march" called for educational reforms and a change of direction for Hungary's political future.
Organized by teachers' unions and student groups, the peaceful "freedom march" called for educational reforms and a change of direction for Hungary's political future.
The March 15 demonstration took place on a national holiday commemorating the 175th anniversary of Hungary's failed 1848 rebellion against Habsburg rule.
Teachers' unions and student groups have spent months pushing for Hungary's government to provide salary raises and better working conditions for educators.
Marchers chanted slogans such as "No teachers, no future" and "Striking is a basic right." The groups have also demanded the repeal of legislation that limits teachers' right to strike.
An elderly man (left) tries to block a demonstrator from protesting with a placard.
Women get creative with their face paintings as they participate in the demonstration.
A young woman holds a torch during the march.
While others shouted slogans against the right-wing government led by Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
The Fisherman's Bastion at Buda Castle is illuminated with Hungary's national colors to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the outbreak of the 1848 revolution and war of independence against Habsburg rule in Budapest.