In April 2024, the streets of Budapest became the stage for a significant protest against the current practices within psychiatry. Organized by the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), demonstrators marched through the city to the Budapest Congress and Exhibition Center, coinciding with the European Psychiatric Association (EPA) Congress. The protest aimed to highlight what the CCHR considers abusive and harmful psychiatric methods, calling for substantial reforms within the field.

The EPA Congress theme, "Mental Health: Open and Inclusive," was criticized for not adequately responding to recent directives from international bodies like the UN and the World Health Organization. These directives have urged an end to abusive psychiatric practices, a topic that protesters felt was neglected by the EPA.

Led by CCHR Hungary, the protest remained peaceful but resonant, emphasizing the need for change in psychiatric practices. Following the march, CCHR Hungary unveiled an exhibit titled “Psychiatry: An Industry of Death.” This exhibition, which has been displayed in various cities across the United States and Europe, uses historical records, videos, and other evidence collected over more than fifty years to critique the field of psychiatry.

The exhibit focuses on the repercussions of certain psychiatric methods, such as brain operations and electroconvulsive therapy, and their influence on society, including on prominent artists and historical events. János Dobos, the head of CCHR Hungary, highlighted the importance of the display: "This material underscores the impact of psychiatry and the often harmful effects it has on individuals and society as a whole. It is essential for us to question these practices and advocate for treatment alternatives."

Due to its intense content, the exhibition warns visitors about its nature and restricts entry to those over 16 unless accompanied by an adult. Its primary goal is to educate the public on the current challenges in psychiatry and promote a reevaluation of how mental health issues are addressed and treated.

Founded in 1969 by psychiatrist Thomas Szasz and the Church of Scientology, CCHR has been a vocal critic of many psychiatric practices. The organization aims to safeguard individual rights and enhance mental health services globally through advocacy and education.

The protest and exhibition in Budapest have sparked further discussion on the role of psychiatry in contemporary healthcare and the ethical implications of its methods. As debates continue, CCHR remains committed to advocating for what it views as necessary changes to protect individuals' rights and improve mental health care.

Members of the Church of Scientology, which was founded by L. Ron Hubbard, actively promote rights in the realm of mental health, inspired by Hubbard’s teachings. They advocate for the recognition and protection of all individuals' rights in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of holistic approaches to mental health care. This commitment is part of their broader goal to make human rights a tangible reality in all areas of life, including mental health.

This recent demonstration in Budapest is a reminder of the ongoing debates and challenges within the field of psychiatry and the broader implications for global mental health practices.