Paris prosecutors recommend extradition of Syrian activist to Hungary

The Paris Prosecutor's Office has recommended the immediate extradition of Zaid Altayeb, a 23-year-old Syrian national, to Hungary. Altayeb, who holds refugee status in France, is wanted in connection with violent clashes that occurred in Budapest in February 2023 during a demonstration known as the ‘Day of Shame’. Hungarian authorities allege he played a role in attacks against individuals identified as far-right.

During a recent hearing regarding the European Arrest Warrant, prosecutors argued there are sufficient guarantees regarding the independence of the Hungarian judiciary to proceed with the request. However, Altayeb’s lawyer, Laurent Pasquet-Marinacce, contested this position, describing his client as a ‘methodically constructed ideal criminal’ and expressing concerns over the risk of unfair proceedings in Hungary.

The Paris appellate court's investigation chamber is expected to issue a final decision on the extradition on November 25.