Italian Teacher in Shackles Sparks Outrage in Hungary

An Italian woman, Ilaria Salis, appeared in a Budapest court with restraints on her hands and feet, accused of taking part in violent assaults against neo-Nazi sympathizers. The images of Salis in shackles have sparked public and political outrage in Italy, leading to the summoning of Hungary’s ambassador. The case highlights concerns over the treatment of detainees and conditions in Hungarian prisons. Italy’s Prime Minister is being urged to intervene, while human rights groups criticize the use of physical restraints in court and the allegedly subpar conditions in Hungarian prisons. The case is also drawing attention from Europe, with European Parliament Committee on Civil Liberties expressing concern over such scenes in an EU state. Salis’s lawyer argues for the possibility of holding her pre-trial detention in Italy, citing EU law. The trial outcome remains uncertain, but the case is raising questions about the judicial system and human rights in Hungary.