Austria: Martha Krumpeck Begins Hunger Strike in Vienna Prison
Vienna, Austria - December 15, 2023
Martha Krumpeck, a 62-year-old Austrian woman, has begun a hunger strike in Vienna's Josefstadt prison to protest her continued detention without trial. Krumpeck was arrested on December 7 and charged with "incitement to hatred" for her social media posts criticizing the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and immigration.
Background:
Krumpeck is a vocal critic of the Austrian government's COVID-19 policies, particularly the mandatory vaccination program. She has also been critical of the government's handling of immigration, accusing it of being too lenient and contributing to social unrest.
Krumpeck's arrest has sparked protests and widespread condemnation from human rights groups. Amnesty International has called for her immediate release, stating that her detention is a violation of her right to freedom of expression.
Hunger Strike:
Krumpeck began her hunger strike on December 14, demanding her immediate release or a fair trial. She has stated that she is prepared to starve herself to death if necessary to defend her rights.
Prison officials have confirmed that Krumpeck is refusing food and water. They are monitoring her health and have warned that she could suffer serious health consequences if she continues her protest.
Response:
The Austrian government has defended Krumpeck's arrest, stating that her social media posts incited hatred and division. However, critics argue that her detention is politically motivated and an attempt to silence dissent.
International human rights organizations and foreign governments have called on Austria to respect Krumpeck's right to freedom of expression and to ensure that she receives a fair trial.
Additional Information:
*- Human Rights Watch: Austria: Release Hunger-Striking Woman Detained for Online Speech
- Amnesty International: Austria: Release woman jailed for online speech
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