European Parliament maintains immunity of persecuted MEP Ilaria Salis by a single vote
Today, the European Parliament acted in defence of democracy and the rule of law, with a majority voting to maintain the parliamentary immunity of Left MEP Ilaria Salis, activist and political opponent of the Orbán regime in Hungary. After months of pressure and mobilisation, justice has prevailed over authoritarian demands, with the Parliament chooses to reiterate the position of its Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI). 306 voted in favour of retaining her immunity, with 305 against and 17 abstentions.
This is not a celebration. It is a reaffirmation of democracy, of the rule of law, and of the fundamental principle that elected representatives cannot be silenced by authoritarian regimes.
Speaking from the European Parliament in Strasbourg today, Left MEP Ilaria Salis (Sinistra Italiana, Italy) said: “This vote is a victory for democracy, rule of law, and antifascism. This decision shows that resistance works. It proves that when elected representatives, activists, and citizens defend democratic values together, authoritarian forces can be confronted and defeated. The fight is far from over. The threats remain, and keep fighting is essential. All antifascist activists who are targeted for challenging authoritarianism and fascist forces must be defended. Maja must be immediately brought home and tried in Germany. I also reiterate my request to be tried in Italy. Europe must keep defending its values, not only in words, but in action. Siamo Tutti Antifascisti.”
But the fight is far from over. The threats to democracy remain, and vigilance is essential. The Left will continue to stand with Left MEP Ilaria Salis, Maja.T; Hanna; Gino and with all antifascist activists who are targeted for challenging authoritarian and fascist forces. Europe must defend its values, not only in words, but through concrete action.
The Left continues to call for a complete ban on extradition to Hungary or any member states failing to uphold the rule of law, and concrete measures to protect activists from persecution across the EU.
