Who is Ilaria Salis? Why is she in prison in Hungary and what risks does the European candidate for Avs face?

Who is Ilaria Salis and Why is She in Prison?

Ilaria Salis, a 39-year-old teacher from Milan, has been detained in Hungary for over a year on charges of attempted manslaughter.
Despite her claims of innocence, she faces allegations of assaulting two far-right activists in Budapest.
The ongoing trial has stirred controversy, with Salis being brought to court in chains, sparking public outrage and prompting government intervention.

The Trial and Political Aspirations

As the legal proceedings unfold, Salis has once again been subjected to restraints, leading to tense moments, including threats from right-wing extremists towards her legal representatives and friends.
In a surprising turn of events, Salis, a primary school teacher in Monza, has also emerged as a candidate in the upcoming European elections.
She is set to feature on the Green-Left Alliance list in the Northwest constituency.

Salis’s detention stems from her alleged involvement with Hammerbande, a German group targeting neo-fascists.
However, her father vehemently denies these accusations, asserting her commitment to anti-fascist activism.
Despite the adversity, Salis’s potential political foray has garnered attention, with speculations about her candidacy under various party banners.

Risks and Advocacy Efforts

Accused of complicity in attempted manslaughter, Salis faces a potential 11-year prison sentence.
While requesting the lifting of her pre-trial detention, which was denied due to a flight risk assessment, her legal counsel criticized the harsh conditions of her confinement.
The case has spurred action from the Milan City Council, urging Italian authorities to secure Salis’s extradition for trial participation and custody in her home country.

Despite her unexpected prominence following the Budapest incident, Salis’s growing public profile led to considerations of her candidacy in the European elections.
Initially associated with the Democratic Party, the Green-Left Alliance ultimately secured her participation, positioning Salis as the lead candidate in the Northwest region.