Maja T. has voiced criticism regarding the German government’s handling of her case, despite recent indications of support from Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who had announced his intention to advocate for improved detention conditions. In an interview with “Wochentaz” T. stated she has yet to observe any tangible improvements as a result.
T. maintains that Germany bears a responsibility to act, referencing the Federal Constitutional Court’s ruling declaring her extradition to Hungary as unlawful. She was transferred to Hungarian authorities in June 2024, facing accusations of involvement, alongside others, in a series of attacks targeting right-wing extremists in February 2023. Currently, she is being held in a hospital within a correctional facility in Berettyóújfalu, near the Hungarian-Romanian border, following a 40-day hunger strike.
Beyond criticizing the Hungarian authorities, T. described a perception of pre-judgment, stating, “Regardless of what I do, I am being prejudged”. She affirmed her willingness to engage with the legal proceedings, emphasizing the need for a fair and legally sound process. She expressed concern that the proceedings are politically charged, questioning whether Germany intends to align with the policies of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
Regarding the ongoing trial in Budapest, T. expressed reservations about the judicial process, suggesting the presiding judge appears uninterested in thoroughly investigating her potential involvement in the alleged attacks. She voiced fears that the outcome of the trial has already been predetermined. The possibility of a 24-year prison sentence is causing substantial anxiety, describing it as a sentence that feels “as old as I am.
T. described her recent hunger strike as an act of protest and a plea for assistance, describing a feeling of being “buried alive”. She ended the strike due to the threat of forced feeding by Hungarian medical staff, deeming the resulting powerlessness unbearable for both herself and her family. T. indicated she remains prepared to renew the hunger strike should her fundamental rights continue to be denied.
