Hungary, emulating Trump, plans to classify Antifa as a terrorist group, according to Orbán's declaration.
In a recent turn of events, a diplomatic dispute between Rome and Budapest has arisen, stemming from the release of Italian antifascist activist Ilaria Salis. Salis was sentenced to a long prison term in Hungary in 2023 due to her involvement in clashes with right-wing extremists during an incident in Budapest.
The 2023 incident in question involved antifascist activists engaging in assaults against suspected participants in a far-right event. Hungary's Prime Minister, Viktor Orbán, a right-wing populist and a strong ally of US President Donald Trump, has expressed discontent over Salis' release. Orbán stated that antifa had "come to Hungary and beaten peaceful people in the street, some were beaten half to death."
Salis was released to house arrest in May 2024 and later won a seat in the European Parliament, granting her legal immunity. This development has not deterred Hungary from demanding her return to face trial, where prosecutors have sought an 11-year sentence. However, Salis' immunity as a member of the European Parliament prevents her from being returned to Hungary.
The incident in Budapest is a significant event that may have influenced Hungary's decision to designate antifa as a terrorist organization. This move, following the US example, has been a point of contention, with critics arguing that such a designation could curtail freedom of speech and assembly.
It's important to note that the umbrella term Antifa refers to far-left activists and groups that resist fascism, fascists, and neo-Nazis. The designation of antifa as a terrorist organization by Hungary could potentially have far-reaching implications, affecting not just Salis, but other antifascist activists as well.
This diplomatic dispute between Italy and Hungary over Salis' treatment in detention serves as a reminder of the complexities and sensitivities surrounding issues of freedom of speech, assembly, and the fight against extremism. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this dispute will be resolved.
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