Italian activist Ilaria Salis, who had been arrested in Hungary, was recently granted immunity after being elected as a Member of the European Parliament. However, the plenary session of the European Parliament will soon decide on the possible suspension of her immunity. Following her release from house arrest in Hungary, Salis held her first press conference as an MEP, expressing her determination to advocate for social issues affecting various groups, including prisoners, immigrants, and young people facing challenges like precarious employment and education. She did not comment on the upcoming vote of approval for the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, citing the need for more information to form an informed opinion.
Addressing questions about her ongoing legal case, Salis explained that she had spent over a year in Hungarian prison on charges of attacking far-right militants in Budapest. Although she is now free due to parliamentary immunity, she still faces the potential of up to eleven years in prison. The Hungarian authorities could request a waiver of her immunity, which would then need approval from the European Parliament. Salis is hopeful that the European Parliament will defend fundamental rights, the presumption of innocence, the principle of proportionality, and the rule of law in her case. She emphasized her desire for fair treatment before the law, rather than avoiding criminal proceedings altogether.
In response to Salis’ newfound immunity, members of the Fidesz parliamentary delegation, the party of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, issued a statement criticizing her presence in the European Parliament. They argued that the Parliament should not serve as a sanctuary for criminals, casting doubt on Salis’ legitimacy as an elected representative. Despite these criticisms, Salis remains committed to serving as an MEP and advocating for the issues she is passionate about. Her case highlights the complex intersection of politics and justice within the European Union, as well as the ongoing debates surrounding immigration, human rights, and the rule of law.
The upcoming decision on Salis’ immunity by the European Parliament will be a crucial moment in her legal saga, determining whether she will face further legal proceedings in Hungary. The potential revocation of her immunity raises questions about the protection of MEPs from legal action and the balance between accountability and political representation. Salis continues to emphasize the importance of upholding fundamental rights and the rule of law in her case, calling for a fair and just legal process. This case not only sheds light on the challenges faced by activists and politicians in Europe but also underscores the broader implications of immunity for elected officials in the European Union.
As Salis navigates the complexities of her legal situation and political career, she remains focused on her mission to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and advocate for social justice. Her commitment to addressing issues such as prison reform, immigration policy, and youth empowerment reflects a dedication to tackling systemic inequalities and promoting human rights. The outcome of the European Parliament’s decision on her immunity is likely to have far-reaching consequences for both her personal future and the broader discussions around justice, democracy, and the rule of law in the European Union. Salis’ case serves as a compelling example of the intersection between activism and legislative power, highlighting the challenges and opportunities inherent in the pursuit of social change within the political arena.
