Justice Minister Claims Success in Resolving Prison Overcrowding Issue
Hungary Successfully Addresses Prison Overcrowding Issue and Protects Human Rights
Hungary has made significant progress in addressing the issue of prison overcrowding, according to the Minister of Justice, Judit Varga. Speaking at the 16th Hungarian Lawyers’ Meeting in Balatonalmádi, Varga highlighted the increase in prison capacity and the change in the compensation system as contributing factors to the elimination of “prison overcrowding cases” in recent periods.
Varga emphasized that both lawmakers and law enforcers in Hungary are committed to upholding human rights. Hungary joined the European Convention on Human Rights 30 years ago, demonstrating its dedication to protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. Notably, Hungary abolished the death penalty in 1991, even before its accession to the Convention.
While Hungary is committed to implementing the provisions of the convention, Varga acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead. One challenge is reducing the number of cases brought before the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. Additionally, the different interpretations of the law by domestic and international legal organizations pose another challenge.
As an example of the latter challenge, Varga cited the Hungarian legislation on the right to vote for people with intellectual disabilities. While the Strasbourg Court agreed with the legislation, the UN called for the law to guarantee the right to vote for all. Similar discrepancies have also arisen in relation to transit zones, where the European Court of Human Rights and the Court of Justice of the European Union have issued conflicting rulings on whether staying in a transit zone constitutes detention.
To ensure legal unity, Varga proposed that different courts coordinate with each other. This coordination would help avoid conflicting interpretations of the law and provide clarity for both domestic and international legal matters.
In a related development, the Hungarian Parliament passed legislation in 2020 aimed at preventing profiteering from lawsuits filed by convicted criminals, lawyers, and human rights NGOs. Before the introduction of this law, courts had ruled against the Hungarian state in cases brought by prisoners, resulting in significant financial compensation payouts. The new law not only curtails the profits gained by law firms involved in such actions but also prioritizes compensation for victims over that of perpetrators.
The reforms implemented by Hungary demonstrate its commitment to the protection of human rights and the elimination of prison overcrowding. As the country continues to navigate legal challenges and work towards legal unity, it underscores its dedication to upholding human rights principles and ensuring justice for all.
