Controversial 'Kneecap' Invited to Perform in Budapest: 'Hate Speech Has No Place at Sziget,' Says Bóka
- 14 Jul 2025 10:35 AM
"Incitement to violence or hatred against a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group or its members in public is not covered by freedom of expression," he said, adding that acts of this sort "are subject to strict sanctions under current criminal law". In Hungary, anti-Semitism is met with zero tolerance, he noted.
Hungary is home to the European Union's third largest Jewish community, and Budapest is home to its vast majority, he further noted, adding that he trusted that the festival's organisers shared in the "values and objectives" of the Hungarian government when it came to protecting the Jewish community.
Kneecap are currently set to play in Budapest on Monday 11 August. Sziget's website writes the following about them:
"Kneecap is a global sensation, revolutionizing Irish culture, music, language, and cinema. Hailing from Belfast, Móglaí Bap, Mo Chara, and DJ Próvaí are tearing through conventions with their electrifying hip-hop, blending fierce intelligence with raw energy.
Their breakthrough album Fine Art (2024), produced by Toddla T, is a wild ride through Belfast and London, featuring guest appearances from Lankum’s Radie Peat, Fontaines DC’s Grian Chatten, and others.
Critically acclaimed, Fine Art has propelled Kneecap to massive stages across Europe and the US, with standout performances at Glastonbury, Shangri-La, and a sold-out US tour.
The band’s self-titled film, starring the members alongside Michael Fassbender, was a hit, winning multiple awards including at the Sundance Film Festival and the Galway Film Fleadh. It’s now Ireland's entry for Best International Feature at the 2025 Academy Awards.
In 2025, Kneecap will tour with Fontaines D.C. and perform in Australia and New Zealand, all while working on new music with Toddla T. Their revolutionary sound, unifying message, and unforgettable live shows have sparked a global movement, proving Kneecap is here to stay."
Source: MTI – Hungary’s national news agency since 1881. While MTI articles are usually factual, some may contain political bias, and readers should be aware that such content does not reflect the position of XpatLoop, which is neutral and independent.
Since the goal of XpatLoop is to keep readers well briefed, right across the spectrum of opinions, MTI items are shared to ensure readers are aware of all narratives within the local media.
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